bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parenting Stress and Child Behavior Problems among Latino and non-Latino Families of Autistic Children: Exploring Day-to-Day Temporal Relations
Authors: Benjamin Laurel R. , Krantz Megan L. , Fenning Rachel M. , Neece Cameron L.
Published: September 2024

Behavior problems are common among young autistic children and are related to elevated parenting stress levels among their caregivers. However, previous studies of this population have rarely examined relations between child behavior problems and parenting stress at a daily level and, to date, have not examined how these relations may differ for Latino families. Using a day-to-day, within-person design, this study bidirectionally examined these temporal relations among 70 families of autistic children (ages 3–5 years, 74.3% male, 49% Latino parents) who participated in a 14-day daily-diary study. Parent-reported child behavior problem severity and parenting stress were measured daily. Constructs were partitioned into their between- and within-person components and analyzed using time-lagged MLM models. At the between-person level, greater reported child behavior problem severity, relative to the group average, was positively associated with next-day parenting stress and vice versa. This relationship was moderated by Latino ethnicity, such that the positive relationship between reported child behavior problem severity and next-day parenting stress was weaker for Latino (versus non-Latino) families. These bidirectional relationships differed at the within-person level, such that, unexpectedly, greater-than-usual parenting stress, compared to parents’ own average, was negatively associated with next-day child behavior severity. Findings underscore the value of using daily diary methodology to decompose between- and within-person effects, and reveal potential intervention targets to improve parent and child functioning, particularly among minoritized families of autistic children.
X-ray structures, thermal stabilities and kinetics of guest desolvation of complexes of three fluorenone-derived host compounds with the polar aprotic guest solvent, tetramethylurea
Authors: McFarlane Duncan W. , Barton Benita , Caira Mino R.
Published: September 2024

The wheel-and-axle host compounds 9,9′-(1,4-phenylene)bis(fluoren-9-ol) (H1), 9,9′-(ethyne-1,2-diyl)bis(fluoren-9-ol) (H2) and 9,9′-(biphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(fluoren-9-ol) (H3) each formed complexes with tetramethylurea (TMU), a polar aprotic organic solvent, with host: guest ratios of 1:2. Single crystal X-ray diffraction revealed that these complexes crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/c, their analyses being performed in P21/c for H1⋅2(TMU) and in the alternative setting P21/n for both H2·2(TMU) and H3·2(TMU). Furthermore, these inclusion compounds are stabilized by both classical and non-classical hydrogen bonds between the host and guest molecules. Hirshfeld surface analyses demonstrated that the percentage of interatomic (host)H···O(guest) interactions ranged between 7.8 and 10.3%, while thermal analyses showed that the relative thermal stabilities of these complexes were high, with the onset temperatures for the guest release event, Ton, being 83.1 (H1·2(TMU)), 81.1 (H2·2(TMU)) and 90.3 °C (H3·2(TMU)). Moreover, the calculated mass loss percentages, after heating each complex in a controlled manner to release the guest species, correlated closely with those expected for these 1:2 host: guest inclusion complexes. Finally, determination of the activation energies for complex desolvation yielded 148.7 ± 5.4, 128.6 ± 10.8 and 149.4 ± 0.8 kJ·mol‒1 for H1·2(TMU), H2·2(TMU) and H3·2(TMU) respectively. A single guest desolvation mechanism was at work in the first and last of these complexes, while this mechanism in H2·2(TMU) changed during this process. The H1·2(TMU) inclusion complex has been reported previously, and the results obtained in that work are also compared with those from the present investigation.
Enhancing the luminescent properties of strontium phosphate glass via controlled crystallization and rare earth dopants
Authors: Marzouk M. A. , Ali I. S.
Published: September 2024

The study focused on investigating the photoluminescence behavior of pure strontium phosphate glasses with a composition of 62.5% P2O5 and 37.5% SrO. Then it was extended to investigate the effects of adding rare earth elements (Pr3+, Sm3+, Eu3+, Dy3+) and the crystallization process on improving luminescent properties of the parent glass. Various spectroscopic measurements, including XRD, SEM & EDAX, and FTIR, were conducted to examine the relationship between structural changes and their impact on luminescent performance. The optical measurements showed a characteristic enhancement resulting from the addition of RE3+-dopants and the crystallization process. The crystallization of glasses yielded a single phase from Sr(PO3)2 with an extended emission peak at 671 nm and heightened intensity compared to the glassy sample. The development of efficient and stable luminescent glasses via crystallization and dopant type can lead to advancements in applications such as glowing devices, optical detectors, and photonics innovations.
Physical health mindsets and information avoidance
Authors: O’Brien Abigail G. , Foust Jeremy L. , Taber Jennifer M.
Published: September 2024

Health mindsets refer to beliefs about the malleability (growth mindset) versus stability (fixed mindset) of physical health and have gained traction as a predictor of health beliefs and behaviors. Across two studies, we tested whether health mindsets were associated with avoiding personalized health risk information. In Study 2, we also tested whether conceptually-related constructs of internal and chance health locus of control, health self-efficacy, fatalism, and genetic determinism were associated with information avoidance. Health mindsets were manipulated in Study 1 (college students, n = 284; 79.58% female; Mage = 19.74) and measured in Study 2 (participants recruited through MTurk, n = 735; 42.04% female; Mage = 35.78). In both studies, participants viewed a prediabetes infographic and were informed they could learn their prediabetes risk by completing an online risk calculator. Behavioral obligation was also manipulated in both studies to test whether an additional behavioral requirement associated with learning one’s risk would exacerbate any negative impact of health mindsets on avoidance rates. All participants then indicated their interest in learning their prediabetes risk (avoidance intentions) and decided whether to complete the online risk calculator (avoidance behavior). In Study 1, there was no impact of health mindsets, behavioral obligation, or their interaction on avoidance intentions or behavior. Study 2 similarly did not provide consistent evidence for an association of health mindsets, behavioral obligation, or their interaction with avoidance intentions or behavior. However, in Study 2, internal health locus of control was consistently associated with both intentions and behavior. Health information avoidance may be a barrier to prevention and early detection of disease. To encourage individuals to learn potentially important health information, public health interventions might seek to increase people’s beliefs that their own actions play a role in their health outcomes. Interventions may also seek to increase people’s knowledge about and skills regarding improving their health outcomes, which may influence health locus of control beliefs.
A Review of the Applicability of Non-destructive Testing for the Determination of the Fire Performance of Reused Structural Timber
Authors: Uldry Aline , Husted Bjarne P. , Pope Ian , Ottosen Lisbeth M.
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a review of the possible methods for testing the fire performance properties of reused timber through non-destructive techniques, focusing on structural elements. Evaluating the fire performance of old wooden specimen is necessary to facilitate reuse, in the support of the transition to a circular economy. The use of non-destructive methods minimizes damages to the pieces during the evaluation process. Three angles are reviewed: (1) The properties of wood influencing fire performance, (2) the change of wood properties over time, and (3) the known non-destructive tests. Some properties of wood are known to influence the fire performance, e.g., the density. Of these, there is no evidence of irreversible changes due to the passage of time only. The many different non- and semi- destructive techniques that can be applied to wood seldom relate to these properties, but rather to mechanical properties or geometry. Additionally, accurate measurements are often difficult, while some are only done in laboratories. This review concludes that currently there is no known non-destructive method that permits to estimate the fire performance of a reused timber element compared to a new one. There is a gap of knowledge on the evolution of the fire properties of timber during the use phase of the building, and there are no established methods to test for these properties without destroying a significant portion of the element. Development of non-destructive test methodologies to assess fire properties of timber will expand the market for reused timber to include load carrying timber.
People do not always want more: Effects of gains and satisfaction on goal orientation in different age groups
Authors: Gong Xianmin , Freund Alexandra M.
Published: September 2024

Past research suggests age-related differences in goal orientation: Whereas younger adults are more likely to orient their goals towards gains and growth, older adults have a stronger orientation towards maintenance and loss avoidance. Three online studies with US participants on MTurk examined the role of gains, losses, and satisfaction for these age-related differences in goal orientation. Studies 1 (N = 179, 20–82 years, 49.2% female) and 2 (N = 241, 18–73 years, 53.1% female) showed that goal orientation was mainly associated with perceived gains and satisfaction with the current state but not with losses: the subjectively experienced accumulation of gains was positively associated with gain, maintenance, and loss-avoidance orientation; higher satisfaction with the status quo was associated with a stronger maintenance orientation and a weaker gain orientation. Subjectively experienced and expected losses were unrelated to goal orientation. Study 3 (N = 611, 18–83 years, 46.7% female) confirmed the causal effect of satisfaction with the current state on gain orientation (but not on maintenance or loss-avoidance orientation) by experimentally manipulating satisfaction with a given status quo. When higher (versus lower) satisfaction was induced, participants were less oriented towards striving for gains. The results suggest that, across age groups, perceived accumulation of gains and satisfaction with the current state impact goal orientation more strongly than losses. This research promotes our understanding of the antecedents of age-related differences in goal orientation and motivational development across adulthood.
Combined parameter and shape optimization of electric machines with isogeometric analysis
Authors: Wiesheu Michael , Komann Theodor , Merkel Melina , Schöps Sebastian , Ulbrich Stefan , Cortes Garcia Idoia
Published: September 2024

In structural optimization, both parameters and shape are relevant for the model performance. Yet, conventional optimization techniques usually consider either parameters or the shape separately. This work addresses this problem by proposing a simple yet powerful approach to combine parameter and shape optimization in a framework using Isogeometric Analysis (IGA).The optimization employs sensitivity analysis by determining the gradients of an objective function with respect to parameters and control points that represent the geometry. The gradients with respect to the control points are calculated in an analytical way using the adjoint method, which enables straightforward shape optimization by altering these control points. Given that a change in a single geometry parameter corresponds to modifications in multiple control points, the chain rule is employed to obtain the gradient with respect to the parameters in an efficient semi-analytical way.The presented method is exemplarily applied to nonlinear 2D magnetostatic simulations featuring a permanent magnet synchronous motor and compared to designs, which were optimized using parameter and shape optimization separately. It is numerically shown that the permanent magnet mass can be reduced and the torque ripple can be eliminated almost completely by simultaneously adjusting rotor parameters and shape. The approach allows for novel designs to be created with the potential to reduce the optimization time substantially.
The proposal and application of a 2-Dimensional Fuzzy Monte Carlo Frontier analysis for estimating Islamic bank efficiency
Authors: Tan Yong , Azad Md Abul Kalam , Araújo de Medeiros Antônio Mamede , Wanke Peter Fernandes
Published: September 2024

The current study proposes a novel 2-Dimensional Fuzzy Monte-Carlo Frontier Analysis to estimate and compare the level of efficiency for a sample of 49 Islamic Banks across 25 countries worldwide over the period 2013–2021. Additionally, in the second stage, we propose a bootstrapped robust regression approach to comprehensively examine the determinants of efficiency. Our results show that there is heterogeneity in the level of efficiency within the Islamic banking sector. Furthermore, we find that the Islamic banks in the sample experienced an improvement in efficiency over the examined period. Finally, we find that bank size, bank liquidity (measured by the ratio between net loans and gross loans), and bank risk (proxied by the ratio between loan loss reserves and gross loans) have a significant and positive impact on Islamic bank efficiency. Policy implications based on our findings are provided.
Quasi-likelihood analysis for Student-Lévy regression
Authors: Masuda Hiroki , Mercuri Lorenzo , Uehara Yuma
Published: September 2024

We consider the quasi-likelihood analysis for a linear regression model driven by a Student-t Lévy process with constant scale and arbitrary degrees of freedom. The model is observed at high frequency over an extending period, under which we can quantify how the sampling frequency affects estimation accuracy. In that setting, joint estimation of trend, scale, and degrees of freedom is a non-trivial problem. The bottleneck is that the Student-t distribution is not closed under convolution, making it difficult to estimate all the parameters fully based on the high-frequency time scale. To efficiently deal with the intricate nature from both theoretical and computational points of view, we propose a two-step quasi-likelihood analysis: first, we make use of the Cauchy quasi-likelihood for estimating the regression-coefficient vector and the scale parameter; then, we construct the sequence of the unit-period cumulative residuals to estimate the remaining degrees of freedom. In particular, using full data in the first step causes a problem stemming from the small-time Cauchy approximation, showing the need for data thinning.
Natural gradient hybrid variational inference with application to deep mixed models
Authors: Zhang Weiben , Smith Michael , Maneesoonthorn Worapree , Loaiza-Maya Rubén
Published: September 2024

Stochastic models with global parameters and latent variables are common, and for which variational inference (VI) is popular. However, existing methods are often either slow or inaccurate in high dimensions. We suggest a fast and accurate VI method for this case that employs a well-defined natural gradient variational optimization that targets the joint posterior of the global parameters and latent variables. It is a hybrid method, where at each step the global parameters are updated using the natural gradient and the latent variables are generated from their conditional posterior. A fast to compute expression for the Tikhonov damped Fisher information matrix is used, along with the re-parameterization trick, to provide a stable natural gradient. We apply the approach to deep mixed models, which are an emerging class of Bayesian neural networks with random output layer coefficients to allow for heterogeneity. A range of simulations show that using the natural gradient is substantially more efficient than using the ordinary gradient, and that the approach is faster and more accurate than two cutting-edge natural gradient VI methods. In a financial application we show that accounting for industry level heterogeneity using the deep mixed model improves the accuracy of asset pricing models. MATLAB code to implement the method and replicate the results can be found at https://github.com/WeibenZhang07/NG-HVI
Away from Home: The Ethics of Hostile Affective Scaffolding
Authors: Archer Alfred , Robb Catherine
Published: September 2024

During live sporting events, fans often create intense atmospheres in stadiums, expressing support for their own local players and discouragement for the opposition. Crowd hostility directed at opposition players surprisingly elicits contrasting reactions across different sports. Tennis players, for example, have reported that hostile crowds are hurtful and disrespectful, whereas footballers often praise and encourage such hostility. What explains this tension? Why are hostile atmospheres considered wrong for some athletes, and not for others? We argue that creating hostile atmospheres for opposition players functions as a form of hostile affective scaffolding, as it scaffolds affective states in such a way that harms the interests of the opposition athletes, while promoting the interests of fans. These hostile atmospheres wrong the scaffolded insofar they constitute a form of recognition disrespect, and to the extent that they violate the formal rules and conventional norms internal to the sporting practices. Although the focus is on the sporting context, our analysis reveals significant implications for a more nuanced understanding of what hostile scaffolding is, and how we should understand its normativity. The existing literature views hostile scaffolding as constituted by a setback to the overall interests of the scaffolded, and that the wrong-making feature of this scaffolding is necessarily explained by harm. Instead, we argue that hostile scaffolding should be understood as hostile relative to a set of interests that an agent has, not just their overall interests, and that the wrong-making features of hostile scaffolding are not limited to harms.
Stool and blood metabolomics in the metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ponce-de-Leon Mariana , Wang-Sattler Rui , Peters Annette , Rathmann Wolfgang , Grallert Harald , Artati Anna , Prehn Cornelia , Adamski Jerzy , Meisinger Christa , Linseisen Jakob
Published: September 2024

Introduction/objectives

Changes in the stool metabolome have been poorly studied in the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Moreover, few studies have explored the relationship of stool metabolites with circulating metabolites. Here, we investigated the associations between stool and blood metabolites, the MetS and systemic inflammation.

Methods

We analyzed data from 1,370 participants of the KORA FF4 study (Germany). Metabolites were measured by Metabolon, Inc. (untargeted) in stool, and using the AbsoluteIDQ® p180 kit (targeted) in blood. Multiple linear regression models, adjusted for dietary pattern, age, sex, physical activity, smoking status and alcohol intake, were used to estimate the associations of metabolites with the MetS, its components and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels. Partial correlation and Multi-Omics Factor Analysis (MOFA) were used to investigate the relationship between stool and blood metabolites.

Results

The MetS was significantly associated with 170 stool and 82 blood metabolites. The MetS components with the highest number of associations were triglyceride levels (stool) and HDL levels (blood). Additionally, 107 and 27 MetS-associated metabolites (in stool and blood, respectively) showed significant associations with hsCRP levels. We found low partial correlation coefficients between stool and blood metabolites. MOFA did not detect shared variation across the two datasets.

Conclusions

The MetS, particularly dyslipidemia, is associated with multiple stool and blood metabolites that are also associated with systemic inflammation. Further studies are necessary to validate our findings and to characterize metabolic alterations in the MetS. Although our analyses point to weak correlations between stool and blood metabolites, additional studies using integrative approaches are warranted.
Navigating common pitfalls in metabolite identification and metabolomics bioinformatics
Authors: Novoa-del-Toro Elva María , Witting Michael
Published: September 2024

Background

Metabolomics, the systematic analysis of small molecules in a given biological system, emerged as a powerful tool for different research questions. Newer, better, and faster methods have increased the coverage of metabolites that can be detected and identified in a shorter amount of time, generating highly dense datasets. While technology for metabolomics is still advancing, another rapidly growing field is metabolomics data analysis including metabolite identification. Within the next years, there will be a high demand for bioinformaticians and data scientists capable of analyzing metabolomics data as well as chemists capable of using in-silico tools for metabolite identification. However, metabolomics is often not included in bioinformatics curricula, nor does analytical chemistry address the challenges associated with advanced in-silico tools.

Aim of review

In this educational review, we briefly summarize some key concepts and pitfalls we have encountered in a collaboration between a bioinformatician (originally not trained for metabolomics) and an analytical chemist. We identified that many misunderstandings arise from differences in knowledge about metabolite annotation and identification, and the proper use of bioinformatics approaches for these tasks. We hope that this article helps other bioinformaticians (as well as other scientists) entering the field of metabolomics bioinformatics, especially for metabolite identification, to quickly learn the necessary concepts for a successful collaboration with analytical chemists.

Key scientific concepts of review

We summarize important concepts related to LC-MS/MS based non-targeted metabolomics and compare them with other data types bioinformaticians are potentially familiar with. Drawing these parallels will help foster the learning of key aspects of metabolomics.
GC–MS metabolomics of French lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L. var capitata) leaves exposed to bisphenol A via the hydroponic media
Authors: Cabrera-Peralta Jerónimo , Peña-Alvarez Araceli
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Bisphenol A (BPA), an organic compound used to produce polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, has become a ubiquitous contaminant due to its high-volume production and constant release to the environment. Plant metabolomics can trace the stress effects induced by environmental contaminants to the variation of specific metabolites, making it an alternative way to study pollutants toxicity to plants. Nevertheless, there is an important knowledge gap in metabolomics applications in this area.

Objective

Evaluate the influence of BPA in French lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L. var capitata) leaves metabolic profile by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) using a hydroponic system.

Methods

Lettuces were cultivated in the laboratory to minimize biological variation and were analyzed 55 days after sowing (considered the plant’s adult stage). Hexanoic and methanolic extracts with and without derivatization were prepared for each sample and analyzed by GC–MS.

Results

The highest number of metabolites was obtained from the hexanoic extract, followed by the derivatized methanolic extract. Although no physical differences were observed between control and contaminated lettuce leaves, the multivariate analysis determined a statistically significant difference between their metabolic profiles. Pathway analysis of the most affected metabolites showed that galactose metabolism, starch and fructose metabolism and steroid biosynthesis were significantly affected by BPA exposure.

Conclusions

The preparation of different extracts from the same sample permitted the determination of metabolites with different physicochemical properties. BPA alters the leaves energy and membrane metabolism, plant growth could be affected at higher concentrations and exposition times.
Assessment of oxidative stress biomarkers in Palaemon varians exposed to deep eutectic systems
Authors: Garralaga Mª Pilar , Ferreira Ines , Lomba Laura , Pires Elisabet , Gracia-Barberán Sara , Duarte Ana Rita C. , Diniz Mário
Published: September 2024

In recent years, there has been extensive research within the scientific community on deep eutectic systems due to their remarkable versatility in solubilizing diverse substances and serving as effective solvents in catalytic processes. While initially regarded as non-toxic, a comprehensive toxicological assessment is essential to comprehend their behavior within organisms. In this study, seven distinct systems, composed of N,N,N-triethyl-N-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)ammonium chloride (N00Cl) and glycerol-derived ethers with alkyl chains of varying lengths (100, 200, 3F00, 300, 3i00, and 400), in a 1:2 molar ratio were investigated for their aquatic toxicity in shrimp (Palaemon varians). The assessment involved analyzing oxidative stress biomarkers such as glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and lipoperoxidation (MDA content). Results show an odd–even effect for LC50 values being N00Cl-300, the system showing higher values. Regarding oxidative stress, an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant capacity in the organisms has been observed, suggesting significant toxicity to shrimps due to the changes in oxidative stress biomarkers at high concentrations. However, at 100 mg/l all systems can be considered environmentally safe, and no negative impacts are expected on aquatic ecosystems.
Moss spores: overlooked airborne bioparticles in an urban environment
Authors: Ščevková Jana , Tropeková Mária , Dušička Jozef , Štefániková Natália , Žilka Matúš , Zahradníková Eva , Kováč Jozef , Mišíková Katarína
Published: September 2024

Moss spores are present in aerobiological samples, but their low representation, lack of known allergenic properties, and difficult identification have led to their being overlooked by aerobiologists so far. The data about their presence in the atmosphere and the factors that influence them are, however, important from the biodiversity conservation point of view, since they give us information about their ability to spread to new habitats. In this pilot study, we analysed their presence in the atmosphere of Bratislava city, Slovakia (2018–2023), using Burkard volumetric sampler, and determined the most significant factors influencing its temporal distribution. The size category of 13–18 µm was the most represented in the samples. Environmental factors influenced the daily spore concentrations and the characteristics of the whole spore season. The start of the Main Spore Season (MSS) depended mainly on the temperatures in November–January, initiating earlier growth of sporophytes in the following year, while the intensity of the MSS was influenced by high humidity in April, stimulating the formation of spores in sporangia. The daily concentration of airborne moss spores was mostly influenced by the actual temperature and wind speed, promoting the release and dispersal of spores, and precipitation lowering their levels due to the “wash-out” effect, although no intradiurnal pattern was observed. More data from other locations is needed to determine the role of atmospheric spore transport for the conservation of moss species facing anthropogenic climatic change.
An idiographic Approach to Measuring Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Kaine Geoff , Stronge Dean
Published: September 2024

While aggregate, national measures of wellbeing may be useful for developing national policies and making international comparisons, they are less helpful when it comes to the more prosaic matter of developing policies at the project or programme level. This is because wellbeing is multi-dimensional and variable in terms of the relative importance of domains, the attributes and indicators used to evaluate domains, and the relative importance of those attributes and indicators. Consequently, people’s preferences regarding the trade-offs that must be made between domains, and between attributes within domains, are exceptionally diverse. We use an idiographic approach, Judgement Analysis, to quantify people’s preferences regarding trade-offs within, and between, well-being domains using green space, water quality, cultural identity, social connectedness. We show that Judgement Analysis has the potential at the programme or project scale to usefully quantify differences in the relative importance people place on well-being domains and to quantifying differences in the relative importance of the cues they use to evaluate well-being with respect to a domain. Our results make explicit the extensive diversity in people’s perspectives on well-being that is often hidden in the popular nomothetic approaches to measuring well-being.
Ordered-Phase Equilibria in the Eutectoid Region of Bulk Fe-Pd
Authors: Savovici A. , Jensen W. , Soffa W. A. , Floro J. A.
Published: September 2024

This report is the first analysis of the coexistence and microstructure of the equilibrium phases in the Fe-Pd L10 + L12 eutectoid region. Coexistence of L10 + L12 is observed at higher temperatures (650 $$^\circ {\text{C}}$$

∘

C

), resulting in L10 polytwin plates with internal boundaries that are decorated by L12. For higher Pd content, the L10 plates are embedded in an extended L12 matrix, but the L12 wetting layers still persist. For aging at low temperatures (525 $$^\circ {\text{C}}$$

∘

C

), L1’ + L12 coexistence is observed, but the microstructure is essentially similar, except that L10 is replaced by L1’. The two-phase region is found to be much narrower than reported in published phase diagrams, of order 0.6 to 1 at pct in extent. There may be a further re-entrant narrowing below the L1’ formation temperature. This work establishes L1’ as a phase distinguishable from both L10 and L12, but does not yet prove that L1’ is an equilibrium phase. The preferred formation of L1’ at lower temperatures may relate both to stability conferred by overall ferrimagnetic interactions, and perhaps by kinetics, where L1’ should have a reduced nucleation barrier from A1 relative to L10.
Therapeutic Applications of Engineered Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Enhanced Angiogenesis in Cardiac and Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Hegde Madhavi , Singh Abhishek Kumar , Kannan Suresh , Kolkundkar Udaykumar , Seetharam Raviraja N.
Published: September 2024

Ischemic diseases are characterized by obstruction of blood flow to the respective organs, of which ischemia of the heart and brain are the most prominent manifestations with shared pathophysiological mechanisms and risk factors. While most revascularization therapies aim to restore blood flow, this can be challenging due to the limited therapeutic window available for treatment approaches. For a very long time, mesenchymal stromal cells have been used to treat cerebral and cardiac ischemia. However, their application is restricted either by inefficient mode of delivery or the low cell survival rates following implantation into the ischemic microenvironment. Nonetheless, several studies are currently focusing on using of mesenchymal stromal cells engineered to overexpress therapeutic genes as a cell-based gene therapy to restore angiogenesis. This review delves into the utilization of MSCs for angiogenesis and the applications of engineered MSCs for the treatment of cardiac and cerebral ischemia. Moreover, the safety issues related to the genetic modification of MSCs have also been discussed.

Graphical Abstract
Person-specific emotional dynamics: a story of a traumatic loss
Authors: Raz Inon , Bar-Kalifa Eran , Gilead Michael
Published: September 2024

The impact of traumatic loss on an individuals’ mental health is a critical area of study. While most research has focused on general grief patterns, the unique trajectories of trauma survivors have been understudied. This research utilizes a high-resolution dataset from a single individual over several years, including a period of unexpected tragedy. Using person-specific dynamic modeling and network analysis, the study examines the psychological processes related to traumatic loss. The results reveal a complex distress trajectory and emotional variability with increasing resilience over time. Findings suggest that traumatic loss can induce strongly interconnected emotional networks, typically linked to vulnerability to psychological disorders. Yet, a heightened correlation within a network representing both positive and negative aspects could indicate the emergence of adaptive coping strategies. The study emphasizes that analyzing emotional inertia and variability separately provides a holistic clinical perspective and deepens the understanding of diverse psychological states and affective dynamics. This research underlines the benefits of investigating individual experiences and stresses the need for idiographic approaches in trauma and grief studies. Future research utilizing high-resolution data from multiple individuals may provide a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse trajectories of grief and inform the future of personalized intervention and care.
The effects of irrigation on the survival of Clostridium sporogenes in the phyllosphere and soil environments of lettuce
Authors: Fourie Johannes Cornelius Jacobus , Van Wyk Deidre , Bezuidenhout Cornelius Carlos , Mienie Charlotte , Adeleke Rasheed
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to address the gap in knowledge regarding the fate of foodborne pathogens within agro-ecosystems. It specifically focused on the surrogate microorganism Clostridium sporogenes, which was introduced into lettuce-producing environments via surface and spray irrigation methods, respectively. The concentration of C. sporogenes in the rhizosphere, phyllosphere, and non-rhizosphere soil was quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) over a 42-day trial. The surface irrigation method exhibited a more noticeable contamination effect on the soil environments, compared to the phyllosphere. The results indicated a noticeable increase in C. sporogenes concentrations during the initial 22 days, with a 10.4-fold rise (0.39–4.05 log copy numbers/g soil) in the rhizosphere and 1.9-fold increase (2.97–5.59 log copy numbers/g soil) in the non-rhizosphere. However, concentrations in both soil environments subsequently decreased, falling below the initial inoculum concentration by the end of the trial. In contrast, the spray irrigation method resulted in most of the contamination being localised on the lettuce phyllosphere, with a high C. sporogenes concentration of 9.09 log copy numbers/g leaves on day 0. This concentration exponentially decreased to a minimal 0.019 log copy numbers/g leaves by day 32. Although concentrations in both soil environments decreased over time, trace concentrations of C. sporogenes were detectable at the end of the trial, posing a potential hazard to the microbiological safety of postharvest produce. These findings shed light on the dynamics of C. sporogenes in agro-ecosystems and underscore the importance of irrigation practices that ensure the safety of those who consume fresh produce.
Community perceptions and socio-economic implications of conservation corridors and networks in the Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa
Authors: Dalziel Alexandra , Evans Mary
Published: September 2024

Social facets linked to conservation corridors and ecological networks have received relatively limited academic attention. This study explores the perspectives of researchers, NGO representatives, and landowners, as well as the community’s ideas of conservation efforts and corridor potential in the Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa. Surveys and interviews were conducted with communities, regional stakeholders, and landowners. The findings revealed that the community participants strongly support corridor implementation. The results indicate that this support is driven by the anticipated socio-economic benefits in the form of jobs. However, the employment opportunities might not align with the resident's expectations. The study identifies several challenges to corridor establishment, including infrastructure and financial constraints. Moreover, the findings revealed a lack of supportive legislation and highlighted concerns over protected area's accessibility. The study contributes to the global academic discourse by emphasizing the importance of community engagement before corridor and network implementation. It also addresses the complex trade-offs inherent in such projects, regardless of location. The methodological approach employed in this research transcends its regional context and offers actionable insights applicable worldwide.
Career transitions in teacher education: ‘Stories’ from three teacher educators
Authors: Fitzgerald Ange , Cooper Rebecca , Carpendale Jared , Mansfield Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Career transitions are often studied from the perspective of changing from one career to the next. Missing from this definition, however, is that transitions can take place within a career. In the case of teacher education and academia, these transitions are often seen as well laid out with an accepted view of ‘success’ and those taking an alternate path being viewed as ‘less successful’. In this self-study, three teacher educators at different stages of their careers were guided by the question: What are the barriers and enablers faced by teacher educators in relation to career transitions? The objective of this paper was to reconsider the notion of career transitions and trajectory. Situated within a small-scale research paradigm underpinned by interpretivism, this self-study presents an analysis of the ‘stories’ of three teacher educators and their lived experiences of career transitions within the academy. A descriptive case study approach was used to guide data collection over four phases to generate data using a narrative inquiry approach using timelines, individual portraits, collective stories and additional insights from a critical friend. The notion of critical friend was employed in two ways: the participants acted as critical friends for each other, and the fourth author challenged thinking and offered new perspectives. This self-study offers insights about the characteristics which have enabled and challenged the three teacher educators and may resonate with others, contributing to our understanding of conditions which can be created to support the intra-academy career transitions and professional development of teacher educators.
Factors of Bullying Victimization Among Students on the Autism Spectrum: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wang Rundong , Susumu Yokota
Published: September 2024

Studies have increasingly suggested that autistic students face a heightened risk of bullying. Understanding the underlying factors for high rates of bullying victimization among autistic students is crucial for intervention, but the complexity of bullying and the heterogeneity of ASD (autism spectrum disorder) traits have made it challenging to explain these factors. Hence, this study systematically reviewed and summarized findings in this area, providing recommendations for intervention. It synthesized 34 studies investigating the predictive variable of bullying victimization among autistic students. Our review observed the role of schools, parents, and peers and of individual variables with respect to autistic traits and behavioral difficulties. We then proposed prevention and intervention strategies against bullying victimization toward autistic students.
Lower spaces of multiplicative lattices
Authors: Goswami Amartya
Published: September 2024

We consider some distinguished classes of elements of a multiplicative lattice endowed with coarse lower topologies, and call them lower spaces. The primary objective of this paper is to study the topological properties of these lower spaces, including lower separation axioms and compactness. We characterize lower spaces that exhibit sobriety. Introducing the concept of strongly disconnected spaces, we establish a correlation between strongly disconnected lower spaces and the presence of nontrivial idempotent elements in the corresponding multiplicative lattices. Additionally, we provide a sufficient condition for a lower space to be connected. We prove that the lower space of proper elements is a spectral space; we further explore continuous maps between lower spaces.
Photo-Energized MoS2/CNT Cathode for High-Performance Li–CO2 Batteries in a Wide-Temperature Range
Authors: Hu Tingsong , Lian Wenyi , Hu Kang , Li Qiuju , Cui Xueliang , Yao Tengyu , Shen Laifa
Published: September 2024

Li–CO2 batteries are considered promising energy storage systems in extreme environments such as Mars; however, severe performance degradation will occur at a subzero temperature owning to the sluggish reaction kinetics. Herein, a photo-energized strategy adopting sustainable solar energy in wide working temperature range Li–CO2 battery was achieved with a binder-free MoS2/carbon nanotube (CNT) photo-electrode as cathode. The unique layered structure and excellent photoelectric properties of MoS2 facilitate the abundant generation and rapid transfer of photo-excited carriers, which accelerate the CO2 reduction and Li2CO3 decomposition upon illumination. The illuminated battery at room temperature exhibited high discharge voltage of 2.95 V and mitigated charge voltage of 3.27 V, attaining superior energy efficiency of 90.2% and excellent cycling stability of over 120 cycles. Even at an extremely low temperature of − 30 °C, the battery with same electrolyte can still deliver a small polarization of 0.45 V by the photoelectric and photothermal synergistic mechanism of MoS2/CNT cathode. This work demonstrates the promising potential of the photo-energized wide working temperature range Li–CO2 battery in addressing the obstacle of charge overpotential and energy efficiency.
Enhancing Deep Learning-Based City-Wide Traffic Prediction Pipelines Through Complexity Analysis
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Martin Henry , Raubal Martin
Published: September 2024

Deep learning models can effectively capture the non-linear spatiotemporal dynamics of city-wide traffic forecasting. Evidence of varying deep learning model performance between different cities, different prediction horizons, different scales, specific city regions, and during particular hours of the day abounds in the literature on deep learning-based traffic prediction, yet a unified metric to quantify the complexity of different prediction tasks does not exist. This paper proposes two metrics—model complexity (MC) and intrinsic complexity (IC). While MC quantifies the effective complexity of deep learning models for city-wide traffic prediction tasks, the IC quantifies the underlying complexity of the prediction task. Being an effective complexity metric, MC depends on the model and the data. The IC depends only on the data and is invariant to the model being used. Both metrics are validated through systematic experimentation using traffic volume data from three cities. Finally, we demonstrate how these metrics can improve the workflows for deep learning-based data-driven traffic prediction pipelines and deployment by reducing the hyperparameter search scope and comparing the effectiveness of different design pathways.
Comparison of Product Features and Clinical Trial Designs for the DTx Products with the Indication of Insomnia Authorized by Regulatory Authorities
Authors: Hosono Takashi , Niwa Yuki , Kondoh Masuo
Published: September 2024

Background

Digital therapeutics (DTx) have attracted attention as the substitutes or add-ons to conventional pharmacotherapy and the number of DTx products authorized with the regulatory reviews of the clinical evidence is increasing. Insomnia is one of the major targets of the DTx due to the benefit from cognitive behavioral interventions and several products have been launched in the market with regulatory reviews. However, common features of the products and the clinical evidence required by each regulatory agency have not been investigated.

Methods

In this study, we identified the DTx products with the primary indication of insomnia authorized with regulatory reviews of clinical evidence by literature and website searches, and investigated the common features of the products and of the study designs for the pivotal clinical trials.

Results

The total of 6 DTx products were identified. The components of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) were identified as common features of the products. All the pivotal clinical trials were randomized, parallel-group, blind studies against insomnia patients. No products have been authorized in multiple countries regardless of the similarity of the features of the products and of the study designs for the pivotal clinical trials.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that the components of CBT-I and gold standard design in pivotal clinical trials were adopted in all the DTx products for insomnia authorized with reviews of clinical evidence. At the same time, our findings suggest the needs of internationally harmonized regulatory review and authorization system to facilitate the early patient access to the promising DTx products.
Bacteria and RNA virus inactivation with a high-irradiance UV-A source
Authors: Spunde Karina , Rudevica Zhanna , Korotkaja Ksenija , Skudra Atis , Gudermanis Rolands , Zajakina Anna , Revalde Gita
Published: September 2024

Disinfection with LED lamps is a promising ecological and economical substitute for mercury lamps. However, the optimal time/dose relationship needs to be established. Pathogen inactivation by UV-A primarily relies on induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and subsequent oxidative damage. While effective against bacteria and enveloped viruses, non-enveloped viruses are less sensitive. In this study, we explored the disinfection properties of 10 W UV-A LED, emitting in the 365–375 nm range. UV-A at high values of irradiance (~ 0.46 W/cm2) can potentially induce ROS formation and direct photochemical damage of the pathogen nucleic acids, thus improving the disinfection. The UV-A inactivation was evaluated for the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli), non-enveloped RNA bacteriophage MS2, and enveloped mammalian RNA virus—Semliki Forest virus (SFV). The 4 log10 reduction doses for E. coli and SFV were 268 and 241 J/cm2, respectively. Furthermore, in irradiated E. coli, ROS production positively correlated with the inactivation rate. In the case of MS2 bacteriophage, the 2.5 log10 inactivation was achieved by 679 J/cm2 within 30 min of irradiation. The results demonstrate significant disinfection efficiency of non-enveloped virus MS2 using high-irradiance UV-A. This suggests a potential strategy for improving the inactivation of UV-A-unsusceptible pathogens, particularly non-enveloped viruses. Additionally, the direct UV-A irradiation of self-replicating viral RNA from SFV led to a significant loss of viral gene expression in cells transfected with the irradiated RNA. Therefore, the virus inactivation mechanism of high-irradiance UV-A LED can be partially determined by the direct damage of viral RNA.

Graphical abstract