bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observer-based preview control for T-S fuzzy systems
Authors: Li Li , Ye Hui , Meng Xiaohua
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Considering the unmeasurable states of the systems and the previewed reference signal, a novel fuzzy observer-based preview controller, which is a mixed controller of the fuzzy observer-based controller, fuzzy integrator and preview controller, is considered to address the tracking control problem.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ an augmentation technique to construct an augmented error system for uncertain T-S fuzzy discrete-time systems with time-varying uncertainties. Additionally, the authors obtain the corresponding linear matrix inequality (LMI) conditions for designing the preview controller.

Findings

This paper discusses the preview tracking problem for nonlinear systems. First, considering the unmeasurable states of the systems and the previewed reference signal, a novel fuzzy observer-based preview controller, which is a mixed controller of the fuzzy observer-based controller, fuzzy integrator, and preview controller, is considered to address the tracking control problem. Then, using the fuzzy Lyapunov functional with the linear matrix inequality (LMI) technique, new sufficient conditions for the asymptotic stability of the augmented system are derived by applying the LMI technique. The preview controller and fuzzy observer can be designed in one step. Finally, a numerical example is used to illustrate the effectiveness of the results.

Originality/value

An augmented error system is successfully constructed by the state augmentation approach. A novel preview controller is designed to address the tracking control problem. The preview controller and fuzzy observer can be designed in one step.
Effect of ball–material ratio on Cu-Bi mixed powder and self-lubricating material properties
Authors: Liu Cong , Yin Yanguo , Li Rongrong
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effects of ball–material ratio on the properties of mixed powders and Cu-Bi self-lubricating alloy materials.

Design/methodology/approach

Cu-Bi mixed powder was ball milled at different ball–material ratios, and the preparation of Cu-Bi alloy materials was achieved through powder metallurgy technology. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy were conducted to study the microstructure and phase composition of the mixed powder. The apparent density and flow characteristics of mixed powders were investigated using a Hall flowmeter. Tests on the crushing strength, impact toughness and tribological properties of self-lubricating alloy materials were conducted using a universal electronic testing machine, 300 J pendulum impact testing machine and M200 ring-block tribometer, respectively.

Findings

With the increase in ball–material ratio, the spherical copper matrix particles in the mixed powder became lamellar, the mechanical properties of the material gradually reduced, the friction coefficient of the material first decreased and then stabilized and the wear rate decreased initially and then increased. The increase in the ball–material ratio resulted in the fine network distribution of the Bi phase in the copper alloy matrix, which benefitted its enrichment on the worn surface for the formation a lubricating film and improvement of the material’s tribological performance. However, a large ball–material ratio can excessively weaken the mechanical properties of the material and reduce its wear resistance.

Originality/value

The effects of ball–material ratio on Cu-Bi mixed powder and material properties were clarified. This work provides a reference for the mechanical alloying process and its engineering applications.
Facilitating the role of quantity surveyors through integration of cyber-physical systems
Authors: Weerasooriya Dilan , Ranadewa K.A.T.O , Perera B.A.K.S
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) enable the synergistic integration of virtual models with the physical environment. This integration is gaining recognition for its potential to enhance construction project information management, thereby contributing to improved cost management in construction. Similarly, quantity surveyor (QS) plays a key role in construction projects by estimating and monitoring construction costs. Consequently, this research aims to explore redefining the role of QSs by integrating CPS.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted an interpretivism stance to collect and analyse data. Two rounds of 21 and 19 semi-structured interviews were conducted, with experts selected through heterogeneous purposive sampling. Code-based content analysis was used to analyse the data using NVivo12. MS Visio data visualisation tool was used to present the findings.

Findings

It is empirically proven the potential of CPS to facilitate nine key roles of QSs in all stages of the RIBA plan of work through the identification of 15 CPS applications and technologies. Nine key roles of QSs that CPS can facilitate were identified as preliminary estimation, measurement and quantification, contract administration, preparation of BOQ, interim valuation and payments, tender and contract documentation, cost planning, cost control and procurement advice. The study explored how adopting CPS technologies can transform traditional quantity surveying practices and enhance their value within the construction industry.

Originality/value

The findings add to the body of knowledge by redefining the role of QS through the integration of CPS for the first time and then by highlighting the usages of CPS in the construction industry rather than limiting it to a specific sector of the construction industry, as previous studies have done. This research uncovers several other research arenas on CPS as being the very first research to evaluate CPS to facilitate key roles of QSs. The findings can enhance the awareness and the practical implementation of CPS by intervening to form more partnerships among application developers and industry leaders.
Measuring corporate citizenship and public image: evidence from scale development and validation
Authors: Gulati Twinkle , Diwan Saloni Pawan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to measure the absolute impact of corporate citizenship actions on the operable elements of the public image by developing an adequate and parsimonious instrument.

Design/methodology/approach

Both qualitative and quantitative approaches are used, where initially a literature review is systematized, then related statements are created, examined and confirmed. Altogether, 296 responses have been tested at discrete points, allowing for a temporal split-up of observations, where the first 148 forms have been used for exploratory factor analysis and the remaining 148 for confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

The results of exploratory factor analysis revealed that the proposed instrument contains 13 items under three components: corporate citizenship and public affiliation; corporate citizenship and public allegiance; and corporate citizenship and public accomplishment. Subsequently, confirmatory factor analysis findings attest to the completeness, robustness and fitness of the same.

Research limitations/implications

This experiment would serve as an inducement that would bridge the theoretical and empirical gap between corporate citizenship and public image by imparting an extensive perspective.

Originality/value

Perhaps on account of the lack of an inclusive instrument, the holistic view of corporate citizenship has secured quite less empirical attention so far, particularly from the perception of that group of stakeholders who manifest wholeness. This study, thus by making a ground-breaking methodological endeavor with the conceptually established construct of public image, would abet in shaping a new class of “wholistic”, i.e. whole and holistic corporations.
Exploring the Third Type of Agency Problem: An Empirical Study of the Impact of Debt Suspension Programmes on SMEs’ Resource Allocations
Authors: Savio Riccardo , Castellaneta Franceso , Vismara Silvio , Zattoni Alessandro
Published: January 2024

This study explores the third type of agency problem concerning the tension between shareholders and stakeholders. It does so by analysing whether small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) eligible for a temporary debt suspension programme favour the short‐term interests of their shareholders or stakeholders, or the firm's long‐term competitiveness. Using information from an Italian debt moratorium programme aimed at alleviating the financial pressure on SMEs during the financial crisis, we built a rich database of 37,465 limited liability companies eligible for the programme between 2006 and 2015. We then used a difference‐in‐differences model to analyse the data. Our findings indicate that the debt suspension programme, designed to help eligible firms survive temporary financial constraints, did promote their long‐term competitiveness. However, it also produced some undesirable consequences, such as benefiting shareholders in the short term at the expense of other key stakeholders.
Is White Evangelical Antistructural Theology Related to Poor Health Outcomes?
Authors: KINDIG DAVID A. , ARIFFIN YASMIN MOHD , OLSON‐WILLIAMS HANNAH
Published: January 2024

Policy Points

White evangelical theology has an “antistructural” component.

Counties with a high percentage of White evangelicals have higher mortality rates and more persons with fair/poor health. The potential influence of antistructural components in evangelical theology on decision making and resource allocation and, ultimately, the length and quality of life of community members presents a point of intervention for religious leaders and policymakers to improve population health.

Context

Structural factors are important determinants of health. Because antistructuralism has been identified as a tenet of White evangelical theology, we explored if there is an association of the percentage of White evangelicals in a US county with two county health outcomes: premature mortality and percentage of fair/poor health.

Methods

Regression analysis was performed with data from 2022 County Health Rankings and the American Value Atlas from the Public Religion Research Institute.

Findings

Every percent of evangelicals in a county is associated with 4.01 more premature deaths per 100,000 population and 0.13% fair/poor health. After controlling for income, education, political ideology, and county school funding adequacy (a proxy for antistructuralism), the associations remain positive and significant.

Conclusions

We hope these findings could inform dialogue and critical analysis among individuals of evangelical faith, particularly fundamental and Pentecostal subsets, regarding a belief system that is inclusive of individual dimensions and health‐promoting structural policies like school funding, Medicaid expansion, and antipoverty programs. These findings also demonstrate the importance of considering cultural factors like religion and political ideology in population health outcomes research.
Real‐world survival outcomes of immunotherapy for advanced non‐small cell lung cancer: A single‐center retrospective review
Authors: Punchhi Gopika , Hussein Abdulkadir , Kulkarni Swati
Published: January 2024

Background

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Clinical trials have demonstrated that first‐line immunotherapy alone or in combination with chemotherapy improves overall survival. However, reports of survival outcomes in real‐world settings are limited. We assessed survival in advanced NSCLC patients treated with immunotherapy alone or in combination with chemotherapy in first‐ or second‐line at the Windsor Regional Cancer Program (WRCP) and compared it to existing literature.

Methods

We included patients diagnosed with stage IV NSCLC from January 2015 to December 2020 and treated with first‐line chemoimmunotherapy (ChemoImmuno1), chemotherapy followed by immunotherapy (Chemo1), or immunotherapy followed by chemotherapy (Immno1) in our survival analysis. Patients with oncogene‐addicted mutations were excluded.

Results

There were 160 patients of which 41.5% were female. Mean age was 68 years. Median overall survival from time of diagnosis was 474 days (95% CI: 249, 949) with an estimated 5‐year survival of 11.1% (95% CI: 4.5, 21.3). Median OS in ChemoImmuno1 was 9.6 months, in Chemo1 was 19.2 months from time of diagnosis and 10.5 months from time of initiation of immunotherapy, and in Immuno1 was 18.4 months, respectively. Estimated survival at three years from time of diagnosis for ChemoImmuno1 was 17.6% and for Immuno1 was 17.9%. For Chemo1, from diagnosis it was 20.1% and from second‐line therapy it was 15.4%. Survival outcomes were comparable to clinical trials and other studies.

Conclusion

Real‐world survival outcomes of immunotherapy for advanced NSCLC are comparable to the existing literature in this single center study.
Dose response relationship between lithium serum levels during pregnancy and birth outcomes
Authors: Schrijver Lisanne , Kamperman Astrid M. , Bijma Hilmar , van Kamp Inge L. , Wesseloo Richard , Hoogendijk Witte J. G. , Bergink Veerle , Poels Eline M. P.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Lithium use during pregnancy reduces the risk of mood episodes in the perinatal period for women with bipolar disorder. Some previous studies found deleterious effects of intrauterine lithium exposure on birth outcomes, yet little is known about a dose response relationship. The current study investigated the influence of maternal lithium serum levels on birth outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective observational cohort study included women with a bipolar spectrum disorder who were referred to a specialized psychiatric and obstetric outpatient clinic from 2003 to 2019 and used lithium during the entire pregnancy. For 101 pregnancies at least one lithium level during pregnancy was available. A weighted average lithium level was calculated for the entire pregnancy, as well as for each trimester. Detailed information on maternal, obstetric and neonatal outcomes were retrieved from the medical records. Linear and logistic regression models were used to investigate the association between weighted average lithium level and pregnancy duration, birth weight percentiles, preterm birth and large for gestational age births (LGA). In subsequent exploratory analyses, we studied the role of thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) as a mediator in the found associations.

Results

The weighted average lithium serum level during pregnancy was negatively associated with pregnancy duration and positively with preterm birth, but not with birth weight percentile or LGA. In exploratory analyses, TSH and T4 did not mediate the association between average lithium serum level and pregnancy duration.

Conclusion

The results of this cohort study during pregnancy indicate a dose response relationship between maternal lithium serum levels and pregnancy duration.
Study on the clinical value of Vitamin D in recurrent spontaneous abortion
Authors: Du Wenqi , Ye Chao , Lin Yunjun , Zhai Hongbo , Xia Jianmei
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study explores the possible pathogenesis of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) caused by vitamin D (VD), provides evidence‐based bases for prevention and treatment of RSA, improves female reproductive health.

Methods

This study randomly selected 305 patients without spontaneous abortion (SA0), 216 patients with a spontaneous abortion (SA1) and 200 patients with RSA from 1421 women of childbearing age who visited the RSA specialty clinic of Hangzhou First People's Hospital from January 2021 to June 2023 to conduct a prospective clinical study. Then, we collected the data of clinical diagnosis and treatment, conducted intervention and follow‐up, and finally executed statistical analysis.

Results

(1) RSA patients were significantly older than the other two groups. (2) The rates of VD deficiency in SA1 and RSA patients were significantly higher than those in SA0. (3) When BMI < 20  or > 24 kg/m2, there were abnormal increase in VD and increased number of spontaneous abortions. (4) The bilateral S/D of the VD‐sufficient, VD‐insufficient and VD‐deficient groups gradually increased with statistical significance (p ≤ .018). (5) Among the 65 cases undergoing embryo chromosome examinations, chromosomal abnormalities accounted for 55.38% and 69.05% in RSA patients. (6) Among 186 patients with abnormal ACA, there was a certain negative correlation between ACA and VD, which was stronger among RSA patients. Moreover, ACA significantly decreased (p < .001) after effectively supplementing VD, and the miscarriage rate of re‐pregnancy also decreased.

Conclusion

The rate of VD deficiency is higher in RSA patients. VD deficiency may be related to the age of women of childbearing age and too low or high BMI, and may cause abnormal plasma antiphospholipid antibodies, increased uterine artery resistance and abnormal chromosomal division during fertilization, leading to spontaneous abortion and even RSA. The improvement of VD deficiency may reduce the risk of RSA occurrence.
A novel response model and target selection method with applications to marketing
Authors: Cai Y.
Published: January 2024

Response models used in marketing are not always constructed for later marketing optimisation, which often results in unsatisfactory results in target selection for future marketing activities. To solve this problem, we develop a new binary response model and a new marketing target selection method. The proposed model can predict multiple propensity scores per customer through customer‐specific propensity score distributions, which is not possible with existing response models, filling a gap in the literature. The target selection method can determine the best propensity scores from those predicted by the proposed model and use them to select customers for further marketing activities. Our simulation results and application to real marketing data confirm that the performance of the proposed model in target selection is significantly better than that of the existing models, including some popular machine learning methods, which indicate that our method can be very useful in practice.
Muscle fibre mitochondrial [Ca2+] dynamics during Ca2+ waves in RYR1 gain‐of‐function mouse
Authors: Gaglianone Rhayanna B. , Launikonis Bradley S.
Published: January 2024

Aim

A fraction of the Ca2+ released from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) enters mitochondria to transiently increase its [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]mito). This transient [Ca2+]mito increase may be important in the resynthesis of ATP and other processes. The resynthesis of ATP in the mitochondria generates heat that can lead to hypermetabolic reactions in muscle with ryanodine receptor 1 (RyR1) variants during the cyclic releasing of SR Ca2+ in the presence of a RyR1 agonist. We aimed to analyse whether the mitochondria of RYR1 variant muscle handles Ca2+ differently from healthy muscle.

Methods

We used confocal microscopy to track mitochondrial and cytoplasmic Ca2+ with fluorescent dyes simultaneously during caffeine‐induced Ca2+ waves in extensor digitorum longus muscle fibres from healthy mice and mice heterozygous (HET) for a malignant hyperthermia‐causative RYR1 variant.

Results

Mitochondrial Ca2+‐transient peaks trailed the peak of cytoplasmic Ca2+ transients by many seconds with [Ca2+]mito not increasing by more than 250 nM. A strong linear relationship between cytoplasmic Ca2+ and [Ca2+]mito amplitudes was observed in HET RYR1 KI fibres but not wild type (WT).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that [Ca2+]mito change within the nM range during SR Ca2+ release. HET fibre mitochondria are more sensitive to SR Ca2+ release flux than WT. This may indicate post‐translation modification differences of the mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter between the genotypes.
Near‐infrared spectroscopy as a novel method of ex vivo bladder cancer tissue characterisation
Authors: Yim Arthur , Alberto Matthew , Sharma Varun , Green Alexander , Mclean Aaron , du Plessis Justin , Wong Lih‐Ming , Wood Bayden , Ischia Joseph , Raman Jaishankar , Bolton Damien
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy in differentiating between benign and malignant bladder pathologies ex vivo immediately after resection, including the grade and stage of malignancy.

Patients and Methods

A total of 355 spectra were measured on 71 bladder specimens from patients undergoing transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) between April and August 2022. Scan time was 5 s, undertaken using a portable NIR spectrometer within 10 min from excision. Specimens were then sent for routine histopathological correlation. Machine learning models were applied to the spectral dataset to construct diagnostic algorithms; these were then tested for their ability to predict the histological diagnosis of each sample using its NIR spectrum.

Results

A two‐group algorithm comparing low‐ vs high‐grade urothelial cancer demonstrated 97% sensitivity, 99% specificity, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.997. A three‐group algorithm predicting stages Ta vs T1 vs T2 achieved 97% sensitivity, 92% specificity, and the AUC was 0.996.

Conclusions

This first study evaluating the diagnostic potential of NIR spectroscopy in urothelial cancer shows that it can be accurately used to assess tissue in an ex vivo setting immediately after TURBT. This offers point‐of‐care assessment of bladder pathology, with potential to influence the extent of resection, reducing both the need for re‐resection where invasive disease may be suspected, and also the potential for complications where extent of diagnostic resection can be limited. Further studies utilising fibre‐optic probes offer the potential for in vivo assessment.
Dental caries and associated factors among Turkish children and adults: Findings from the 3rd National Oral Health Survey
Authors: Orhan Ayse Isil , Alkan Afra , Orhan Kaan , Tezel Adnan , Karaoglanoglu Serpil , Oztas Dilek
Published: January 2024

Background

Information on the current status of oral health and related risk factors is lacking in Turkiye. This study aimed to evaluate dental caries and associated factors among the Turkish population using the findings of the third national oral health survey.

Methods

This cross‐sectional epidemiological survey was carried out between March and September in 2018 including five index ages and age groups (5‐, 12‐, 15‐year‐olds, 35–44 and 65–74 age groups). A multistage cluster sampling design was used to obtain a national representative sample of these age groups. Participants were interviewed face‐to‐face using a structured questionnaire, and oral examinations were performed based on the methods and criteria suggested by the World Health Organization. The adjusted prevalence ratio for dental caries was estimated considering sociodemographic and behavioural characteristics by using log‐binomial and robust Poisson regression analysis in R and SAS software.

Results

After data cleaning, a total of 11 091 participants remained. The prevalence of dental caries was 76.5% (95% confidence interval: 75.4%–77.7%) and determined to be associated with age, dental visit, and pain or discomfort history during the previous year among the Turkish population. Prevalence was also associated with the mother's education level among 5‐, 12‐ and 15‐year‐olds. For the 35–44 age group, individuals living in urban areas had lower dental caries than those living in rural areas. For 65–74 age group, none of the factors were significantly associated with dental caries.

Conclusion

A high prevalence of dental caries was observed in Turkish children and adults. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen current preventive oral health programs. Regular disease surveillance should be maintained. National oral health targets should be formulated in accordance with Turkiye's needs, resources and structure.
Managing the apparently blind child presenting in the first year of life: A review
Authors: Leahy Kate E. , Lo‐Cao Edward , Jamieson Robyn V. , Grigg John R.
Published: January 2024

Severe vision impairment and blindness in childhood have a significant health burden on the child, family and society. This review article seeks to provide a structured framework for managing the apparently blind child presenting in the first year of life, starting from a comprehensive history and examination. Different investigation modalities and the increasingly important role of genetics will also be described, in addition to common causes of severe vision impairment. Crucially, a systematic approach to the blind infant is key to correct diagnoses and timely management. Incorrect diagnoses can be costly to all involved, however it is important to note that diagnoses can change with ongoing follow‐up and investigations. Furthermore, the modern age of ophthalmology requires a multi‐disciplinary approach and close collaboration with specialists including paediatricians, neurologists and geneticists, in addition to rehabilitation and low vision services, to ensure the best care for these vulnerable infants.
Enhancing diversity for logical table‐to‐text generation with mixture of experts
Authors: Wu Jie , Hou Mengshu
Published: January 2024

Logical table‐to‐text generation is a task within the realm of natural language generation (NLG) that aims to generate coherent and logically faithful sentences based on tables. Unlike conventional NLG tasks, this task demands not only surface‐level fluency but also a high degree of logic‐level fidelity in the generated outputs. Current table‐to‐text systems grapple with various quality issues, such as repetitive generation, insufficient reasoning and limited complexity. Therefore, we introduce LogicMoE, a dedicated Mixture‐of‐Experts (MoE) model tailored for logical table‐to‐text generation. The primary objective of LogicMoE is to enrich the diversity of generated sentences from both semantic and logical perspectives. In particular, each expert within the model serves as a specialized generator responsible for generating sentences of a specific logical type. Additionally, we propose and employ novel evaluation metrics to comprehensively assess the diversity of generated outputs. Our experimental results showcase LogicMoE's superiority with absolute improvements of 0.8 and 2.2 in BLEU‐3 over the strong baselines on LogicNLG and Logic2Text datasets, respectively, driving the state‐of‐the‐art performance to a new level. Furthermore, we highlight its inherent advantages in terms of diversity and controllability, signifying its potential to spearhead advancements in logical table‐to‐text generation applications.
Fatigue performance analysis of stainless steel cruciform joint with angular misalignment
Authors: Ren Zhikuan , Liu Xiaogang , Zhao Xiaoqing , Chang Haosong , Yue Qingrui
Published: January 2024

Welding distortion causes the change of stress distribution of load‐carrying cruciform stainless steel welded joints, and the weld with angle less than 90° between steel plates became the fatigue performance control weld because of stress magnification. The effect of angular misalignment on fatigue performance of stainless steel cruciform welded joint was experimentally and numerically studied. The fatigue damage evolution equations, under different stress amplitudes, were derived using relative deformation increment as damage variable based on continuum damage mechanics to explain the process of damage transformation from micro to macro crack and finally rapid fracture. The hot spot stress magnification factor was positively correlated with the welding distortion angle and exhibited two discernible stages of rise and fall with increasing nominal stress taking the proportional limit as boundary. A proposed formula considering both misalignment angle and applied stress aimed to enhance accuracy in fatigue performance evaluation compared to current methods.
Global dominance of lianas over trees is driven by forest disturbance, climate and topography
Authors: Ngute Alain Senghor K. , Schoeman David S. , Pfeifer Marion , van der Heijden Geertje M. F. , Phillips Oliver L. , van Breugel Michiel , Campbell Mason J. , Chandler Chris J. , Enquist Brian J. , Gallagher Rachael V. , Gehring Christoph , Hall Jefferson S. , Laurance Susan , Laurance William F. , Letcher Susan G. , Liu Wenyao , Sullivan Martin J. P. , Wright S. Joseph , Yuan Chunming , Marshall Andrew R.
Published: January 2024

Growing evidence suggests that liana competition with trees is threatening the global carbon sink by slowing the recovery of forests following disturbance. A recent theory based on local and regional evidence further proposes that the competitive success of lianas over trees is driven by interactions between forest disturbance and climate. We present the first global assessment of liana–tree relative performance in response to forest disturbance and climate drivers. Using an unprecedented dataset, we analysed 651 vegetation samples representing 26,538 lianas and 82,802 trees from 556 unique locations worldwide, derived from 83 publications. Results show that lianas perform better relative to trees (increasing liana‐to‐tree ratio) when forests are disturbed, under warmer temperatures and lower precipitation and towards the tropical lowlands. We also found that lianas can be a critical factor hindering forest recovery in disturbed forests experiencing liana‐favourable climates, as chronosequence data show that high competitive success of lianas over trees can persist for decades following disturbances, especially when the annual mean temperature exceeds 27.8°C, precipitation is less than 1614 mm and climatic water deficit is more than 829 mm. These findings reveal that degraded tropical forests with environmental conditions favouring lianas are disproportionately more vulnerable to liana dominance and thus can potentially stall succession, with important implications for the global carbon sink, and hence should be the highest priority to consider for restoration management.
Global reductions in manual agricultural work capacity due to climate change
Authors: Nelson Gerald C. , Vanos Jennifer , Havenith George , Jay Ollie , Ebi Kristie L. , Hijmans Robert J.
Published: January 2024

Manual outdoor work is essential in many agricultural systems. Climate change will make such work more stressful in many regions due to heat exposure. The physical work capacity metric (PWC) is a physiologically based approach that estimates an individual's work capacity relative to an environment without any heat stress. We computed PWC under recent past and potential future climate conditions. Daily values were computed from five earth system models for three emission scenarios (SSP1‐2.6, SSP3‐7.0, and SSP5‐8.5) and three time periods: 1991–2010 (recent past), 2041–2060 (mid‐century) and 2081–2100 (end‐century). Average daily PWC values were aggregated for the entire year, the growing season, and the warmest 90‐day period of the year. Under recent past climate conditions, the growing season PWC was below 0.86 (86% of full work capacity) on half the current global cropland. With end‐century/SSP5‐8.5 thermal conditions this value was reduced to 0.7, with most affected crop‐growing regions in Southeast and South Asia, West and Central Africa, and northern South America. Average growing season PWC could falls below 0.4 in some important food production regions such as the Indo‐Gangetic plains in Pakistan and India. End‐century PWC reductions were substantially greater than mid‐century reductions. This paper assesses two potential adaptions—reducing direct solar radiation impacts with shade or working at night and reducing the need for hard physical labor with increased mechanization. Removing the effect of direct solar radiation impacts improved PWC values by 0.05 to 0.10 in the hottest periods and regions. Adding mechanization to increase horsepower (HP) per hectare to levels similar to those in some higher income countries would require a 22% increase in global HP availability with Sub‐Saharan Africa needing the most. There may be scope for shifting to less labor‐intensive crops or those with labor peaks in cooler periods or shift work to early morning.
Population and Morphological Change: A Study of Building Type Replacements in the Osaka‐Kobe City‐Region in Japan
Authors: Perez Joan , Fusco Giovanni , Sadahiro Yukio
Published: January 2024

As cities adapt to new needs and challenges, their forms change in close relation to population dynamics. This article focuses on the link between population dynamics and the evolution of building hull types. The case study is the Osaka‐Kobe city‐region in Japan, a country globally witnessing an intense population decline. Morphometric indicators are coupled with a tree‐like classificatory model in order to label buildings into consistent classes between two different periods (2003–2004 and 2013–2014). The building class distributions and their evolutions are studied in conjunction with population censuses. Urban adaptation processes are particularly accounted for through the study of the replacement of building types. Results show that, among other things, townhouses in traditional neighborhoods are gradually being replaced by small‐size collective complexes. In far outlying areas, people are still eager to move and live in detached single‐family homes despite a global context of population decline. Finally, central places are increasingly filled by narrow almost‐adjoining towers. Relations between building types and population dynamics, detailed through maps and statistics, show that peoples are increasingly concentrating in central locations associated with specific building types, while some other peripheral locations are concerned by both a disappearance of specific building types and a population decline.
Circ‐ZNF236 mediates stem cells from apical papilla differentiation by regulating LGR4‐induced autophagy
Authors: Xiao Ya , Chen Luyao , Xu Yunlong , Yu Ruiyang , Lu Jiamin , Ke Yue , Guo Rong , Gu Tingjie , Yu Haowen , Fang Yuxin , Li Zehan , Yu Jinhua
Published: January 2024

Aim

Human stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) are an appealing stem cell source for tissue regeneration engineering. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are known to exert pivotal regulatory functions in various cell differentiation processes, including osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells. However, few studies have shown the potential mechanism of circRNAs in the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs. Herein, we identified a novel circRNA, circ‐ZNF236 (hsa_circ_0000857) and found that it was remarkably upregulated during the SCAPs committed differentiation. Thus, in this study, we showed the significance of circ‐ZNF236 in the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs and its underlying regulatory mechanisms.

Methodology

The circular structure of circ‐ZNF236 was identified via Sanger sequencing, amplification of convergent and divergent primers. The proliferation of SCAPs was detected by CCK‐8, flow cytometry analysis and EdU incorporation assay. Western blotting, qRT‐PCR, Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Alizarin red staining (ARS) were performed to explore the regulatory effect of circ‐ZNF236/miR‐218‐5p/LGR4 axis in the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs in vitro. Fluorescence in situ hybridization, as well as dual‐luciferase reporting assays, revealed that circ‐ZNF236 binds to miR‐218‐5p. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and mRFP‐GFP‐LC3 lentivirus were performed to detect the activation of autophagy.

Results

Circ‐ZNF236 was identified as a highly stable circRNA with a covalent closed loop structure. Circ‐ZNF236 had no detectable influence on cell proliferation but positively regulated SCAPs odonto/osteogenic differentiation. Furthermore, circ‐ZNF236 was confirmed as a sponge of miR‐218‐5p in SCAPs, while miR‐218‐5p targets LGR4 mRNA at its 3′‐UTR. Subsequent rescue experiments revealed that circ‐ZNF236 regulates odonto/osteogenic differentiation by miR‐218‐5p/LGR4 in SCAPs. Importantly, circ‐ZNF236 activated autophagy, and the activation of autophagy strengthened the committed differentiation capability of SCAPs. Subsequently, in vivo experiments showed that SCAPs overexpressing circ‐ZNF236 promoted bone formation in a rat skull defect model.

Conclusions

Circ‐ZNF236 could activate autophagy through increasing LGR4 expression, thus positively regulating SCAPs odonto/osteogenic differentiation. Our findings suggested that circ‐ZNF236 might represent a novel therapeutic target to prompt the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs.
Comparative analysis of mortality in patients admitted with an infection with influenza A/B virus, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, metapneumovirus or SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Boon Hanneke , Meinders Arend‐Jan , van Hannen Erik Jan , Tersmette Matthijs , Schaftenaar Erik
Published: January 2024

Background

While influenza virus and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) are recognised as a cause of severe illness and mortality, clinical interest for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infections is still limited.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective database study comparing baseline characteristics and 30‐day mortality in a large cohort of adult patients admitted for an overnight stay or longer with an influenza virus (A/B), rhinovirus, hMPV, RSV or SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. For non‐SARS‐CoV‐2 viruses, data were included for the period July 2017–February 2020. For SARS‐CoV‐2, data between March 2020 and March 2022 were included.

Results

Covariate‐adjusted 30‐day mortality following RSV, hMPV or rhinovirus infections was substantial (crude mortality 8–10%) and comparable with mortality following hospitalisation with an influenza A virus infection. Mortality following a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was consistently higher than for any other respiratory virus, at any point in time (crude mortality 14–25%). Odds of mortality for SARS‐CoV‐2 compared with influenza A declined from 4.9 to 1.7 over the course of the pandemic. Patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection had less comorbidity than patients with other respiratory virus infections and were more often male. In this cohort, age was related to mortality following hospitalisation, while an association with comorbidity was not apparent.

Conclusions

With the exception of SARS‐CoV‐2 infections, we find the clinical outcome of common respiratory virus infections requiring hospitalisation more similar than often assumed. The observed mortality from SARS‐CoV‐2 was significantly higher, but the difference with other respiratory viruses became less distinct over time.
Investigating the impact of temporary nurses on permanent nurses' commitment via perceptions of illegitimate tasks: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Gahrmann Caroline , Klumb Petra Liselotte
Published: January 2024

Aims

To explore illegitimate tasks as a potential mechanism that links permanent nurses' perceived exposure to temporary nurses to lower levels of affective organizational commitment.

Design

A time‐lagged cross‐sectional survey study.

Methods

Survey data from N = 239 permanent nurses in the German‐speaking part of Switzerland were analysed via Structural Equation Models.

Results

The study revealed a negative relationship between permanent nurses' perceived exposure to temporary nurses and their level of organizational commitment that was mediated by perceptions of unreasonable and unnecessary tasks.

Conclusion

Healthcare institutions increasingly depend on temporary nurses to fill staffing vacancies. Our data suggest that the deployment of temporary nurses may have adverse effects on permanent nurses' affective organizational commitment via perceptions of illegitimate tasks.

Impact

Our quantitative survey study provides a novel, theory‐driven understanding of how perceived exposure to temporary nurses may impact work‐related attitudes of permanent nurses.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Our findings suggest that the clinical community should limit permanent nurses' exposure to temporary nursing staff to protect their commitment. If this is not possible, we encourage strategies to counteract associated feelings of illegitimacy, for example, by showing appreciation for permanent nurses' willingness to take over responsibility for temporary nurses.

Reporting Method

The study adheres to the STROBE reporting guidelines for cross‐sectional studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Function of juvenile plumage in the northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis): aggressive mimicry hypothesis
Authors: Špička Jan , Veselý Petr , Fuchs Roman
Published: January 2024

Multiple raptors show juvenile plumage that is substantially different from that of their parents. Here, we test the prediction that the colouration of the juvenile northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis resembling the colouration of the common buzzard Buteo buteo acts as a form of aggressive mimicry. The goshawk specialises in hunting larger birds and mammals up to the size of geese or hares, while the buzzard preys mostly on small rodents. Larger birds may thus consider juvenile goshawks as less dangerous raptors, and the juvenile goshawk may thus gain an advantage when hunting. We used the Eurasian magpie Pica pica, a common prey of the goshawk, to test this prediction. We compared the behavioural responses of magpie parents defending their freshly fledged young towards mounts of an adult goshawk, juvenile goshawk, and buzzard. To be able to assess whether this behaviour differs from responses to a nest predator and a harmless bird we also presented a common raven Corvus corax and common pheasant Phasianus colchicus as baseline stimuli. Both juvenile and adult goshawks elicited antipredatory behaviour, but magpies took more risks facing juvenile goshawks. Additionally, the intensity of antipredatory behaviour towards the juvenile goshawk was also higher than towards the buzzard. We thus conclude that magpies do distinguish between juvenile and adult goshawks, as well as they do distinguish juvenile goshawks from buzzards. They are able to assess the threat particular raptors represent and respond accordingly. Analysis of spectral reflectance of stuffed specimens of these three raptors suggests there are differences, which can be used for the appropriate recognition. In conclusion, we cannot confirm the hypothesis of aggressive mimicry in juvenile goshawks that interact with magpies.
Long‐term outcomes of cardioneuroablation with and without extra‐cardiac vagal stimulation confirmation in severe cardioinhibitory neurocardiogenic syncope
Authors: Pachon‐M Jose Carlos , Pachon‐M Enrique I. , Pachon Carlos T. C. , Santillana‐P Tomas G. , Lobo Tasso J. , Pachon‐M Juan C. , Higuti Christian , Zerpa‐A Juan C. , Pachon Maria Zelia C. , Ortencio Felipe A. , Osorio Thiago G. , Peixoto Luis A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Cardioneuroablation (CNA) is a novel therapeutic approach for functional bradyarrhythmias, specifically neurocardiogenic syncope or atrial fibrillation, achieved through endocardial radiofrequency catheter ablation of vagal innervation, obviating the need for pacemaker implantation. Originating in the nineties, the first series of CNA procedures was published in 2005. Extra‐cardiac vagal stimulation (ECVS) is employed as a direct method for stepwise denervation control during CNA.

Objective

This study aimed to compare the long‐term follow‐up outcomes of patients with severe cardioinhibitory syncope undergoing CNA with and without denervation confirmation via ECVS.

Method

A cohort of 48 patients, predominantly female (56.3%), suffering from recurrent syncope (5.1 ± 2.5 episodes annually) that remained unresponsive to clinical and pharmacological interventions, underwent CNA, divided into two groups: ECVS and NoECVS, consisting of 34 and 14 cases, respectively. ECVS procedures were conducted with and without atrial pacing.

Results

Demographic characteristics, left atrial size, and ejection fraction displayed no statistically significant differences between the groups. Follow‐up duration was comparable, with 29.1 ± 15 months for the ECVS group and 31.9 ± 20 months for the NoECVS group (p = .24). Notably, syncope recurrence was significantly lower in the ECVS group (two cases vs. four cases, Log Rank p = .04). Moreover, the Hazard ratio revealed a fivefold higher risk of syncope recurrence in the NoECVS group.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that concluding CNA with denervation confirmation via ECVS yields a higher success rate and a substantially reduced risk of syncope recurrence compared to procedures without ECVS confirmation.
Drugs, delirium, and ethics at the end of life
Authors: Thomas Columba , Alici Yesne , Breitbart William , Bruera Eduardo , Blackler Liz , Sulmasy Daniel P.
Published: January 2024

For older persons with delirium at the end of life, treatment involves complex trade‐offs and highly value‐sensitive decisions. The principles of beneficence, nonmaleficence, respect for autonomy, and justice establish important parameters but lack the structure necessary to guide clinicians in the optimal management of these patients. We propose a set of ethical rules to guide therapeutics—the canons of therapy—as a toolset to help clinicians deliberate about the competing concerns involved in the management of older patients with delirium at the end of life. These canons are standards of judgment that reflect how many experienced clinicians already intuitively practice, but which are helpful to articulate and apply as basic building blocks for a relatively neglected but emerging ethics of therapy. The canons of therapy most pertinent to the care of patients with delirium at the end of life are as follows: (1) restoration, which counsels that the goal of all treatment is to restore the patient, as much as possible, to homeostatic equilibrium; (2) means‐end proportionality, which holds that every treatment should be well‐fitted to the intended goal or end; (3) discretion, which counsels that an awareness of the limits of medical knowledge and practice should guide all treatment decisions; and (4) parsimony, which maintains that only as much therapeutic force as is necessary should be used to achieve the therapeutic goal. Carefully weighed and applied, these canons of therapy may provide the ethical structure needed to help clinicians optimally navigate complex cases.