bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fractional Sobolev spaces on Riemannian manifolds
Authors: Caselli Michele , Florit-Simon Enric , Serra Joaquim
Published: June 2024

This article studies the canonical Hilbert energy $$H^{s/2}(M)$$

H

s
/
2

(
M
)

on a Riemannian manifold for $$s\in (0,2)$$

s
∈
(
0
,
2
)

, with particular focus on the case of closed manifolds. Several equivalent definitions for this energy and the fractional Laplacian on a manifold are given, and they are shown to be identical up to explicit multiplicative constants. Moreover, the precise behavior of the kernel associated with the singular integral definition of the fractional Laplacian is obtained through an in-depth study of the heat kernel on a Riemannian manifold. Furthermore, a monotonicity formula for stationary points of functionals of the type $${\mathcal {E}}(v)=[v]^2_{H^{s/2}(M)}+\int _M F(v) \, dV$$

E

(
v
)

=

[
v
]

H

s
/
2

(
M
)

2

+

∫
M

F

(
v
)

d
V

, with $$F\ge 0$$

F
≥
0

, is given, which includes in particular the case of nonlocal s-minimal surfaces. Finally, we prove some estimates for the Caffarelli–Silvestre extension problem, which are of general interest. This work is motivated by Caselli et al. (Yau’s conjecture for nonlocal minimal surfaces, arxiv preprint, 2023), which defines nonlocal minimal surfaces on closed Riemannian manifolds and shows the existence of infinitely many of them for any metric on the manifold, ultimately proving the nonlocal version of a conjecture of Yau (Ann Math Stud 102:669–706, 1982). Indeed, the definitions and results in the present work serve as an essential technical toolbox for the results in Caselli et al. (Yau’s conjecture for nonlocal minimal surfaces, arxiv preprint, 2023).
Characteristics and preventability of medication-related admissions for acute kidney injury and dehydration in elderly patients
Authors: Coppes Tristan , Hazen Ankie C. M. , Zwart Dorien L. M. , Koster Ellen S. , van Gelder Teun , Bouvy Marcel L.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Patients with impaired renal function using medication that affects glomerular filtration rate are at increased risk of developing acute kidney injury (AKI) leading to hospital admissions. The risk increases during periods of dehydration due to diarrhoea, vomiting or fever (so-called “sick days”), or high environmental temperatures (heat wave). This study aims to gain insight into the characteristics and preventability of medication-related admissions for AKI and dehydration in elderly patients.

Methods

Retrospective case series study in patients aged ≥ 65 years with admission for acute kidney injury, dehydration or electrolyte imbalance related to dehydration that was defined as medication-related. General practitioner’s (GP) patient records including medication history and hospital discharge letters were available. For each admission, patient and admission characteristics were collected to review the patient journey. A case-by-case assessment of preventability of hospital admissions was performed.

Results

In total, 75 admissions were included. Most prevalent comorbidities were hypertension, diabetes, and known impaired renal function. Diuretics and RAS-inhibitors were the most prevalent medication combination. Eighty percent of patients experienced non-acute onset of symptoms and 60% had contacted their GP within 2 weeks prior to admission. Around 40% (n = 29) of admissions were considered potentially preventable if pharmacotherapy had been timely and adequately adjusted.

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of patients admitted with AKI or dehydration experience non-acute onset of symptoms and had contacted their GP within 2 weeks prior to admission. Timely adjusting of medication in these patients could have potentially prevented a considerable number of admissions.
Shaping the Microbial Landscape: Parasitoid-Driven Modifications of Bactrocera dorsalis Microbiota
Authors: Gwokyalya Rehemah , Herren Jeremy K. , Weldon Christopher W. , Ndlela Shepard , Gichuhi Joseph , Ongeso Nehemiah , Wairimu Anne W. , Ekesi Sunday , Mohamed Samira A.
Published: June 2024

Koinobiont endoparasitoids regulate the physiology of their hosts through altering host immuno-metabolic responses, processes which function in tandem to shape the composition of the microbiota of these hosts. Here, we employed 16S rRNA and ITS amplicon sequencing to investigate whether parasitization by the parasitoid wasps, Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Ashmaed) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and Psyttalia cosyrae (Wilkinson) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), induces gut dysbiosis and differentially alter the gut microbial (bacteria and fungi) communities of an important horticultural pest, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae). We further investigated the composition of bacterial communities of adult D. longicaudata and P. cosyrae to ascertain whether the adult parasitoids and parasitized host larvae share microbial taxa through transmission. We demonstrated that parasitism by D. longicaudata induced significant gut perturbations, resulting in the colonization and increased relative abundance of pathogenic gut bacteria. Some pathogenic bacteria like Stenotrophomonas and Morganella were detected in both the guts of D. longicaudata-parasitized B. dorsalis larvae and adult D. longicaudata wasps, suggesting a horizontal transfer of microbes from the parasitoid to the host. The bacterial community of P. cosyrae adult wasps was dominated by Arsenophonus nasoniae, whereas that of D. longicaudata adults was dominated by Paucibater spp. and Pseudomonas spp. Parasitization by either parasitoid wasp was associated with an overall reduction in fungal diversity and evenness. These findings indicate that unlike P. cosyrae which is avirulent to B. dorsalis, parasitization by D. longicaudata induces shifts in the gut bacteriome of B. dorsalis larvae to a pathobiont-dominated community. This mechanism possibly enhances its virulence against the pest, further supporting its candidacy as an effective biocontrol agent of this frugivorous tephritid fruit fly pest.
Digitalisierung und Sorgebeziehungen von Alleinlebenden im Alter: eine kritische Analyse politischer Dokumente
Authors: Werny Rafaela , Reich Marie , Leontowitsch Miranda , Oswald Frank
Published: June 2024

Die Digitalisierung aller Lebensbereiche transformiert das gesellschaftliche und soziale Miteinander. Es entstehen neue kulturelle Vorstellungen von Sorgebeziehungen, die ältere Menschen vor Herausforderungen stellen können. Diese gelten insbesondere für Alleinlebende im Alter, die seltener digitale Geräte benutzen und bei der Bewältigung von zunehmend digitalisierten Aufgaben (Termine, Buchungen, finanzielle Angelegenheiten) auf Unterstützung angewiesen sind. Der vorliegende Artikel untersucht das Verhältnis von Digitalisierung und Sorgebeziehungen von alleinlebenden älteren Menschen mithilfe einer kritischen Dokumentenanalyse nach Bacchi. Dieses Vorgehen ermöglicht es, das Verständnis hinter den Begriffen Alleinleben, Sorgebeziehungen und Digitalisierung in Bezug auf ältere Menschen einzeln und im Zusammenspiel in den Blick zu nehmen sowie Leerstellen sichtbar zu machen. Die Analyse von Sozialgesetzgebung und politischen sowie zivilgesellschaftlichen Dokumenten führt zu zwei zentralen Ergebnissen: Zum einen wird eine individuelle Verantwortungszuschreibung im Hinblick auf die Versorgung sowie den Zugang und Umgang mit Digitalisierung an ältere Menschen und ihre Beziehungsnetzwerke deutlich. Diese Individualisierung erscheint besonders signifikant, da die Digitalisierung als Lösungsansatz für gesamtgesellschaftliche Probleme, wie den demografischen Wandel oder den Pflegekräftemangel, präsentiert wird. Zum anderen zeigt die Analyse, dass in den Dokumenten, die Handlungsrahmen schaffen, Digitalisierung im Alter nicht thematisiert wird. Diese fehlende Fokussierung hat zur Folge, dass Handlungsstrategien schwach ausfallen.
Transvaginal versus transabdominal specimen extraction in minimally invasive surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Jasmine Hui Er , Xu Hongyun , Zhao Yun , Wee Ian Jun Yan , Ang Joella Xiaohong , Tan Emile Kwong-Wei , Seow-En Isaac
Published: June 2024

Aim

Natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) is an alternative to conventional transabdominal retrieval. We aimed to compare outcomes following transvaginal specimen extraction (TVSE) and transabdominal specimen extraction (TASE) in minimally invasive abdominal surgery.

Methods

An electronic database search of PubMed, Embase and CENTRAL was performed from inception until March 2023. Comparative studies evaluating TVSE versus TASE in adult female patients were included. Studies involving transanal NOSE, endoluminal surgery, or TVSE with concomitant hysterectomy were excluded. Weighted mean differences (WMD) and odds ratio were estimated for continuous and dichotomous outcomes respectively. Primary outcomes were postoperative day 1 (POD1) pain and length of stay (LOS). Secondary outcomes were operative time, rescue analgesia, morbidity, and cosmesis. A review of sexual, oncological, and technical outcomes was performed.

Results

Thirteen studies (2 randomised trials, 11 retrospective cohort studies), involving 1094 patients (TASE 583, TVSE 511), were included in the analysis. Seven studies involved colorectal disease and six assessed gynaecological conditions. TVSE resulted in significantly decreased POD1 pain (WMD 1.08, 95% CI: 0.49, 1.68) and shorter LOS (WMD 1.18 days, 95% CI: 0.14, 2.22), compared to TASE. Operative time was similar between both groups, with fewer patients requiring postoperative rescue analgesia with TVSE. Overall morbidity rates, as well as both wound-related and non-wound related complication rates were better with TVSE, while anastomotic morbidity rates were comparable. Cosmetic scores were higher with TVSE. TVSE did not result in worse sexual or oncological outcomes.

Conclusion

TVSE may be feasible and beneficial compared to TASE when performed by proficient laparoscopic operators, using appropriate selection criteria. Continued evaluation with prospective studies is warranted.
A needs-based perspective on long-term care, obesity, and old age
Authors: Hansen Solveig Lena , Preuß Benedikt , Frisina Doetter Lorraine
Published: June 2024

Definition of the problem

Obesity is a burgeoning challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. In times of demographic change, it also affects an increasing number of older persons, presenting substantial challenges to delivering health and nursing care in both acute and long-term care (LTC) settings. So far, a detailed analysis of the diverse group of 65+ in this field is missing, particularly in the area of LTC. The needs of neither care recipients, nor those of nurses and institutions are monitored, analyzed, or systematically evaluated. Moreover, ethical implications of professional care for older persons with obesity have not yet been discussed in research and policy.

Arguments

We argue that a needs-based approach is appropriate to address these ethical complexities. We further argue that a comprehensive mapping of the ethical terrain is best from an interdisciplinary and mixed methods perspective. For this, we conduct a scoping review to synthesize the state-of-the-art in both the healthcare and LTC settings; and we focus on challenges reported in case studies from professional care settings in European and North American institutions.

Conclusion

Our findings point to a lack of research on ethical issues related to the LTC needs of older persons living with obesity and the challenges faced by their professional carers. From the limited number of (case) studies that can be found, however, a series of ethical concerns emerge that have direct import for access, utilization, and quality of care. Accordingly, a new research agenda is needed to inform an ethical approach for policy and practice. It must be rooted in a concern for both care recipients and caregivers in mixed methods studies. Future research should provide criteria for balancing needs, allocating resources and developing practical solutions for people who are confronted with multiple stigma.
Nachhaltiger Lebensmittelkonsum – Erklärungsansätze für den Attitude-Behavior-Gap von Studierenden in Norddeutschland
Authors: Kruse Hauke
Published: June 2024

Der Lebensmittelsektor gilt als ein Haupttreiber für globale Umweltveränderungen. Um nachhaltige Entwicklung zu gewährleisten, sind radikale Veränderungen sowohl in Nahrungsmittelproduktion als auch im Konsumverhalten der Verbraucher:innen unumgänglich. Trotz steigenden Umweltbewusstseins gibt es jedoch Diskrepanzen zwischen positiven Einstellungen zum nachhaltigen Lebensmittelkonsum und dem tatsächlichem Konsumverhalten. Diese Studie untersucht den sogenannten Attitude-Behavior-Gap für die Zielgruppe junger Student:innen aus urbanen und ländlichen Regionen. Mithilfe von zwölf Interviews werden potenzielle Erklärungsansätze erforscht und Maßnahmen skizziert, die dazu beitragen können, die Diskrepanzen abzubauen. Als Hauptbarrieren konnten zusätzlicher Aufwand und vermeintlich höhere Preise nachhaltiger Lebensmittel identifiziert werden. Darüber hinaus stellen fehlende Zugänglichkeiten zu nachhaltigen Lebensmitteln eine Hürde für Studierende aus ländlichen Regionen dar. Die Studie zeigt, dass der Wunsch nach nachhaltigem Konsum die Studierenden vor äußerst komplexe Entscheidungen stellt, die häufig Zielkonflikte aufzeigen und zu Entscheidungen führen, die von den Befragten selbst als nicht optimal betrachtet werden. Für den Abbau der Diskrepanzen sind Maßnahmen auf verschiedenen Ebenen erforderlich. Politisch müssen Rahmenbedingungen geschaffen werden, die nachhaltigen Lebensmittelkonsum erleichtern. Unternehmen und Einzelhändler sollten transparente Informationen bereitstellen und ihr Sortiment nachhaltiger gestalten. Darüber hinaus ist es grundlegend, dass Verbraucher:innen einen zusätzlichen individuellen Aufwand in Kauf nehmen.
Does obesity and varying body mass index affect the clinical outcomes and safety of biportal endoscopic lumbar decompression? A comparative cohort study
Authors: Olson Thomas E. , Upfill-Brown Alexander , Adejuyigbe Babapelumi , Bhatia Nitin , Lee Yu-Po , Hashmi Sohaib , Wu Hao-Hua , Bow Hansen , Park Cheol Wung , Heo Dong Hwa , Park Don Young
Published: June 2024

Background

Endoscopic spine surgery has recently grown in popularity due to the potential benefits of reduced pain and faster recovery time as compared to open surgery. Biportal spinal endoscopy has been successfully applied to lumbar disc herniations and lumbar spinal stenosis. Obesity is associated with increased risk of complications in spine surgery. Few prior studies have investigated the impact of obesity and associated medical comorbidities with biportal spinal endoscopy.

Methods

This study was a prospectively collected, retrospectively analyzed comparative cohort design. Patients were divided into cohorts of normal body weight (Bone Mass Index (BMI)18.0–24.9), overweight (BMI 25.0–29.9) and obese (BMI > 30.0) as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO). Patients underwent biportal spinal endoscopy by a single surgeon at a single institution for treatment of lumbar disc herniations and lumbar spinal stenosis. Demographic data, surgical complications, and patient-reported outcomes were analyzed. Statistics were calculated amongst treatment groups using analysis of variance and chi square where appropriate. Statistical significance was determined as p < 0.05.

Results

Eighty-four patients were followed. 26 (30.1%) were normal BMI, 35 (41.7%) were overweight and 23 (27.4%) were obese. Patients with increasing BMI had correspondingly greater American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) scores. There were no significant differences in VAS Back, VAS Leg, and ODI scores, or postoperative complications among the cohorts. There were no cases of surgical site infections in the cohort. All cohorts demonstrated significant improvement up to 1 year postoperatively.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that obesity is not a risk factor for increased perioperative complications with biportal spinal endoscopy and has similar clinical outcomes and safety profile as compared to patients with normal BMI. Biportal spinal endoscopy is a promising alternative to traditional techniques to treat common lumbar pathology.
The Use of Hydrochemical Zoning to Predict Water Hazards: The Example of the Olkusz-Pomorzany Zn-Pb Mine
Authors: Motyka Jacek , Cień Damian , d‘Obyrn Kajetan
Published: June 2024

A water hazard is one of the greatest dangers in mining and tunneling operations and the issue of predicting water hazard zones has been extensively discussed in the literature. However, the currently used methods require a highly detailed understanding of hydrogeological conditions or have major limitations and often produce unreliable results. This paper describes the use of hydrogeochemical anomalies as an indicator of impending mine water hazard zones. The proposed method uses the concentration of Cl ions in water extracts from Permian rock samples collected from the face of the mine workings. The concentration of Cl ions in the water extracts strongly correlated with the concentration of this ion in the pore solutions extracted from the same rock samples. Additionally, the concentration of Cl ions in the pore solutions exhibited a very strong correlation with the concentration from the Permian leaks. Thus, the decreasing concentration of Cl ions in the water extracts was deemed a reliable signal of an approaching water hazard zone. In the hydrogeological conditions present in the Olkusz-Pomorzany mine, this method enabled the detection of the moment when a water hazard zone was ≈ 200–250 m away.
Relative dispersion and relative diffusivities in an ocean-wave coupled model of the North Sea
Authors: Villa Castrillón Luciana , Ricker Marcel , Staneva Joanna , Meyerjürgens Jens , Badewien Thomas H. , Stanev Emil V.
Published: June 2024

The study analyzes the impact of various wave-induced processes on relative dispersion and diffusivities in the North Sea using OpenDrift, a Lagrangian particle-drift model driven by a fully coupled NEMO-WAM model. The coupled model parameterizations include sea state-dependent momentum flux, energy flux, and wave-induced mixing. The study demonstrates that Eulerian currents, influenced by the interaction between the ocean and wave models, significantly enhance particle transport. Experiments conducted using drifter clusters obtained during an RV Heincke excursion further confirm the impact of wind-wave coupling. The analysis includes a comparison of results from experiments with and without wave coupling. The impact of diffusion in the Lagrangian model on relative dispersion is investigated, with the conclusion that diffusion is essential for achieving precise simulations. Furthermore, the incorporation of wind-wave-driven mixing parameters, including sea state-dependent momentum flux, energy flux, and wave-induced mixing, into the hydrodynamic model leads to elevated levels of relative dispersion and diffusivity.
Future perspectives of Brazilian beef production: what is the role of Silvopastoral systems?
Authors: Agethen Katrin , Mauricio Rogerio Martins , Deblitz Claus , Izquierdo Maria Dolores , Reyes Ernesto , Chará Julian
Published: June 2024

Against the backdrop of changing production conditions and market requirements, it seems time has come to rethink Brazil’s beef production systems. We analyse the economic and environmental performance of three beef production systems: classic beef production system (CB), and two types of silvopastoral systems: the integrated crop-livestock-forestry system (ICLFS) and the natural regeneration system (NR) in a comparative case study analysis. We find that, though costs of production are the lowest for CB, only the ICLFS and NR case studies are generating long-term profits. While greenhouse gas emissions per kg live weight added are lowest in ICLFS, followed by NR and CB, per hectare (ha) emissions are highest in NR, followed by ICLFS and CB. Considering the system’s carbon removal, NR and potentially ICLFS are sequestering more than releasing. Additionally, the land required to produce beef is lowest in NR, followed by ICLFS and CB. Considering the additional outputs produced by ICLFS and NR, they showcase the potential of multifunctional production systems for future scenarios, where land scarcity puts land-demanding production systems, such as beef, under pressure. The three production systems perform differently depending on the indicators analysed. How they will reply to future challenges depends on the location and the specific environment. Yet, from the analysed systems, CB is the least sustainable, economically and environmentally.
The Other Side: Preschool Children’s Experience of a Read-Aloud Focused on Social Justice
Authors: Wild Norline R.
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this article is to detail preschool age students’ exploration of social justice as they cocreated with their teacher an interactive read-aloud approach, named Picturebooks for Social Justice. Over the three phases, the teacher researcher studied her own preschool teaching as she read and explored 12 picturebooks with the 3-5-year-old children in her preschool class. Guided by relational and critical theoretical perspectives, findings demonstrate and detail examples of the children’s learning across the social justice standards of identity, diversity, justice, and action. These standards, which functioned both as the content and the goals of Picturebooks for Social Justice, were explored through books in the context of the strong bond between the children and teacher. The insights gained in this study can guide educators and researchers in understanding young children’s capacity to explore and understand social justice.
Performance and investment styles of international multi-asset funds during market crises
Authors: Leite Paulo
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive investigation into the performance of multi-asset funds investing internationally. Based on a custom-built conditional multi-factor model, which includes several bond and equity-related factors, along with time-varying betas and alphas, we show that funds in our dataset significantly underperform from 2004 to 2021. This evidence holds even on a before-fee basis, with funds investing predominantly in bonds exhibiting significantly higher alphas than funds investing predominantly in equities. Since multi-asset funds may better hedge against market downturns than equity or bond funds, given their higher asset class diversification, we also evaluate performance for crisis and non-crisis phases separately. The results show that, during market crises, international multi-asset funds perform significantly better than in non-crisis times, achieving neutral performance. However, while funds that favour bond investments perform similarly across different market phases, funds that prioritize equity investments perform significantly better during crises. Consequently, multi-asset funds with higher bond holdings can be a better option during non-crisis periods, while funds with higher equity holdings should be preferred during market downturns. This somewhat puzzling finding seems to be related to funds’ cash holdings. By providing a better understanding of the asset allocation decisions of international mutual fund managers, as well as of their impact on fund performance, this work has meaningful implications for investors.
Same, but different: similar states of forest structure in temperate mountain regions of Europe despite different social-ecological forest disturbance regimes
Authors: Stritih Ana , Senf Cornelius , Kuemmerle Tobias , Munteanu Catalina , Dzadzamia Lasha , Stritih Jernej , Matijašić Dragan , Cortner Owen , Seidl Rupert
Published: June 2024

Context

Ecosystem services provided by mountain forests are critically linked to forest structure. Social-ecological disturbance regimes (i.e., the rate, frequency, and patch size distribution of disturbances driven by interacting natural and anthropogenic processes) and land use affect forest structure, but their specific impacts are not fully understood.

Objectives

We examine how differences in disturbance regimes affect patterns of forest structure across three European mountain ranges with similar vegetation types but different land-use histories: the European Alps, the Carpathians, and the Caucasus.

Methods

We related data on horizontal and vertical forest structure, measured by spaceborne lidar (GEDI), with Landsat-derived information on forest disturbances (1986–2020) and topographic, climatic, and anthropogenic predictors.

Results

We found similar social-ecological disturbance regimes in the Alps and Carpathians (average annual disturbance rates of 0.34% and 0.39%, respectively, and median patch size < 0.5 ha), yet much lower disturbance rates and patch sizes in the Caucasus (0.08% yr−1 and < 0.2 ha). Despite different disturbance regimes, we found similar patterns of forest structure. Two alternative states emerged consistently across all mountain ranges: a tall and closed-canopy state in 74–80% of forests and a low and open-canopy state (< 50% canopy cover) in the rest. While forest structure responded consistently to abiotic drivers such as topography and climate, its association with anthropogenic pressures differed between mountain ranges. Stand-replacing disturbances played an important role in the Carpathians, while forest structure in the Caucasus was related to proximity to settlements, reflecting local forest use.

Conclusions

Different social-ecological contexts in mountain regions can produce markedly different forest disturbance regimes. Despite these differences, similar states of forest structures emerge, suggesting strong attractors of structure in temperate mountain forests.
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes after Gestational Diabetes: A Systematic Review Mapping Physical Activity Components using the Socio-Ecological Model
Authors: Ioannou Elysa , Humphreys Helen , Homer Catherine , Purvis Alison
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Gestational diabetes commonly occurs during pregnancy and increases lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes following pregnancy. Engaging in physical activity postnatally can reduce this subsequent risk. Interventions aiming to increase physical activity after gestational diabetes may not address the wide range of post-pregnancy barriers. A socio-ecological approach highlights the need to include multi-level factors such as social, community and organisational factors. The aim of the review was to map intervention components to prevent type 2 diabetes after gestational diabetes using the socio-ecological model as a framework and investigate how physical activity changes align with different intervention components utilised.

Methods

Eligible studies included any study type within 5 years of a gestational diabetes diagnosis and targeted physical activity. A systematic search of MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL Complete, and Scopus was conducted in October 2022. Results were categorised based on whether findings demonstrated no increases, non-statistically significant increases or statistically significant increases in physical activity.

Results

Forty-eight studies were included (37 different interventions). Thirty-eight studies were assessed as “adequate” quality, only two studies were “good” quality, and the remaining were limited quality. Mixed physical activity outcomes were observed across components used at the intrapersonal level, with components across other levels of the socio-ecological model showing more increases in physical activity. Intervention components within the social and organisational levels, for example childcare provision, providing group-based sessions and offering remote delivery, were more often present in interventions with physical activity increases.

Conclusions for Practice

Future interventions targeting physical activity after gestational diabetes should aim to include social and organisational-level components in their intervention design.

This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021272044).
Design and performance evaluation of UCX for the Tofu Interconnect D on Fugaku towards efficient multithreaded communication
Authors: Watanabe Yutaka , Tsuji Miwako , Murai Hitoshi , Boku Taisuke , Sato Mitsuhisa
Published: June 2024

The increasing trend of manycore processors makes multithreaded communication more important to avoid costly global synchronization among cores. One of the representative approaches that require multithreaded communication is the global task-based programming model. In the model, a program is divided into tasks, and tasks are asynchronously executed by each node, and independent thread-to-thread communications are expected. However, the Message passing interface (MPI) based approach is not efficient because of design issues. In this research, we design and implement the utofu transport layer in an abstracted communication library called Unified communication-X (UCX) for efficient remote direct memory access (RDMA) based multithreaded communication on Tofu Interconnect D. The evaluation results on Fugaku show that UCX can significantly improve the multithreaded performance over MPI, while maintaining portability between systems thanks to UCX. UCX shows about 32.8 times lower latency than Fujitsu MPI with 24 threads in the multithreaded pingpong benchmark and about 37.8 times higher update rate than Fujitsu MPI with 24 threads on 256 nodes in multithreaded GUPs benchmark.
Unraveling the link between cardiorespiratory fitness and cancer: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Kunutsor Setor K. , Kaminsky Leonard A. , Lehoczki Andrea , Laukkanen Jari A.
Published: June 2024

Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) not only reflects an individual’s capacity to perform physical activities but also encapsulates broader effects on the basic biology of aging. This review aims to summarize the evidence on the influence of CRF on overall and site-specific cancer risks. It delves into the biological mechanisms through which CRF may exert its effects, explores the clinical implications of these findings, identifies gaps in the current evidence base, and suggests directions for future research. The synthesis of findings reveals that higher CRF levels (general threshold of > 7 METs) are consistently associated with a reduced risk of a range of cancers, including head and neck, lung, breast, gastrointestinal, particularly pancreatic and colorectal, bladder, overall cancer incidence and mortality, and potentially stomach and liver, bile duct, and gall bladder cancers. These inverse associations between CRF and cancer risk do not generally differ across age groups, sex, race, or adiposity, suggesting a universal protective effect of CRF. Nonetheless, evidence linking CRF with skin, mouth and pharynx, kidney, and endometrial cancers is limited and inconclusive. Conversely, higher CRF levels may be potentially linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer and hematological malignancies, such as leukemia and myeloma, although the evidence is still not conclusive. CRF appears to play a significant role in reducing the risk of several cancers through various biological mechanisms, including inflammation reduction, immune system enhancement, hormonal regulation, and metabolic improvements. Overall, enhancing CRF through regular physical activity offers a vital, accessible strategy for reducing cancer risk and extending the health span. Future research should aim to fill the existing evidence gaps regarding specific cancers and elucidate the detailed dose–response relationships between CRF levels and cancer risk. Studies are also needed to elucidate the causal relationships and mechanistic pathways linking CRF to cancer outcomes.
The Promising Role of Selenium and Yeast in the Fight Against Protein Amyloidosis
Authors: Kieliszek Marek , Sapazhenkava Katsiaryna
Published: June 2024

In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to research on diseases related to the deposition of misfolded proteins (amyloids) in various organs. Moreover, modern scientists emphasise the importance of selenium as a bioelement necessary for the proper functioning of living organisms. The inorganic form of selenium—sodium selenite (redox-active)—can prevent the formation of an insoluble polymer in proteins. It is very important to undertake tasks aimed at understanding the mechanisms of action of this element in inhibiting the formation of various types of amyloid. Furthermore, yeast cells play an important role in this matter as a eukaryotic model organism, which is intensively used in molecular research on protein amyloidosis. Due to the lack of appropriate treatment in the general population, the problem of amyloidosis remains unsolved. This extracellular accumulation of amyloid is one of the main factors responsible for the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease. The review presented here contains scientific information discussing a brief description of the possibility of amyloid formation in cells and the use of selenium as a factor preventing the formation of these protein aggregates. Recent studies have shown that the yeast model can be successfully used as a eukaryotic organism in biotechnological research aimed at understanding the essence of the entire amyloidosis process. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate the reaction of yeast to selenium and the phenomenon of amyloidosis is important in the aetiology and pathogenesis of various disease states. Therefore, it is imperative to conduct further research and analysis aimed at explaining and confirming the role of selenium in the processes of protein misfolding disorders. The rest of the article discusses the characteristics of food protein amyloidosis and their use in the food industry. During such tests, their toxicity is checked because not all food proteins can produce amyloid that is toxic to cells. It should also be noted that a moderate diet is beneficial for the corresponding disease relief caused by amyloidosis.
Diabetes and obesity: the role of stress in the development of cancer
Authors: Avogaro Angelo
Published: June 2024

Diabesity is a condition where an individual has both diabetes and obesity, which can lead to severe complications including cardiovascular disease, a leading cause of mortality. Recently, cancer has become a leading cause of excess hospitalizations, and both diabetes and obesity are associated with a higher risk of developing several types of cancer. In this review, we propose that chronic stress significantly increases this association. Managing diabetes and obesity is challenging as they both cause significant distress. The relationship between stress and cancer is interconnected, with anxiety and depression being common in cancer patients. Cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause lasting changes in the body’s neuroendocrine system, with stress causing an excessive release of catecholamines and prostaglandins in patients undergoing cancer surgery, which promotes the spread of cancer to other parts of the body. Furthermore, stress could significantly increase the risk of cancer in patients with diabetes, obesity, or both.
Clinical features and potential markers of disease in idiopathic non-histaminergic angioedema, a real-life study
Authors: Mormile Ilaria , Gigliotti Maria Celeste , Ferrara Anne Lise , Gatti Roberta , Spadaro Giuseppe , de Paulis Amato , Loffredo Stefania , Bova Maria , Petraroli Angelica
Published: June 2024

Idiopathic non-histaminergic acquired angioedema (InH-AAE) is a rare disease, with unknown etiology and pathogenesis, characterized by recurrent clinical manifestations and resistance to antihistamines and corticosteroids. We aim to evaluate clinical features and potential markers of disease in an Italian cohort of patients with InH-AAE. We enrolled 26 patients diagnosed with InH-AAE. Information about clinical features, treatments, routine laboratory investigations, immunological and genetic tests were collected. We assessed plasma levels of complement components, angiogenic and lymphangiogenic mediators, proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and activity of phospholipases A2. Finally, patients underwent nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC); both quantitative and qualitative capillaroscopic parameters were analyzed. Plasma levels of VEGFs were similar in healthy controls and in InH-AAE patients. ANGPT1 was decreased in InH-AAE patients compared to controls while ANGPT2 was similar to controls. Interestingly, the ANGPT2/ANGPT1 ratio (an index of vascular permeability) was increased in InH-AAE patients compared to controls. sPLA2 activity, elevated in patients with C1-INH-HAE, showed differences also when measured in InH-AAE patients. TNF-α concentration was higher in InH-AAE patients than in healthy controls, conversely, the levels of CXCL8, and IL-6 were similar in both groups. At the NVC, the capillary loops mainly appeared short and tortuous in InH-AAE patients. InH-AAE represents a diagnostic challenge. Due to the potential life-threatening character of this condition, a prompt identification of the potentially bradykinin-mediated forms is crucial. A better comprehension of the mechanism involved in InH-AAE would also lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches to improve life quality of patients affected by this disabling disease.
Invertebrate Responses to Large- and Small-Scale Drivers in Coastal Phragmites australis Beds in the Northern Baltic Sea
Authors: Eveleens Maarse Floriaan , Gagnon Karine , Snickars Martin , Salovius-Laurén Sonja
Published: June 2024

Phragmites australis is a common helophyte, covering much of the sheltered and shallow soft bottoms along the coasts of the Baltic Sea. Despite the expansion of P. australis over the past decades, there is little information on aquatic macroinvertebrates within P. australis beds. In this study, we examined the effect of large-scale (wave exposure, nutrients) and small-scale (distance from the seaward edge, live and dead stalk density, epiphyte and rhizome biomass) drivers on the density, taxa richness, diversity, and community structure of epifauna and infauna in monospecific P. australis beds around the Åland Islands and the Archipelago Sea. We found that higher wave exposure and nutrient levels generally supported higher epi- and infauna abundance and taxa richness. The effects on Shannon–Wiener diversity were less evident apart from an increase of the infauna diversity in the Archipelago Sea with increasing nutrient levels. On a local scale, the distance from the seaward edge, live and dead stalk density, and epiphyte biomass had varying effects on both epi- and infauna communities in the different regions. Rhizome biomass had no effect on either the epi- or infauna abundance, taxa richness, or diversity. Furthermore, according to existing studies, other habitats, e.g., Zostera marina meadows, Fucus vesiculosus belts, and vegetated soft-bottomed shallow bays, are generally characterized by more abundant fauna, except for the infauna, which had a higher density in P. australis beds than in vegetated soft-bottomed shallow bays. P. australis are a widespread, expanding, and understudied habitat with an important role in supporting coastal biodiversity.
Microtopographic Variation as a Potential Early Indicator of Ecosystem State Change and Vulnerability in Salt Marshes
Authors: Smith Alexander J. , Guntenspergen Glenn R. , Carr Joel A. , Walters David C. , Kirwan Matthew L.
Published: June 2024

As global climate change alters the magnitude and rates of environmental stressors, predicting the extent of ecosystem degradation driven by these rapidly changing conditions becomes increasingly urgent. At the landscape scale, disturbances and stressors can increase spatial variability and heterogeneity — indicators that can serve as potential early warnings of declining ecosystem resilience. Increased spatial variability in salt marshes at the landscape scale has been used to quantify the propagation of ponding in salt marsh interiors, but ponding at the landscape scale follows a state change rather than predicts it. Here, we suggest a novel application of commonly collected surface elevation table (SET) data and explore millimeter-scale marsh surface microtopography as a potential early indicator of ecosystem transition. We find an increase in spatial variability using multiple metrics of microtopographic heterogeneity in vulnerable salt marsh communities across the North American Atlantic seaboard. Increasing microtopographic heterogeneity in vulnerable salt marshes mirrored increasing trends in variance when a tipping point is approached in other alternative stable state systems — indicating that early warning signals of marsh drowning and ecosystem transition are observable at small-spatial scales prior to runaway ecosystem degradation. Congruence between traditional and novel metrics of marsh vulnerability suggests that microtopographic metrics can be used to identify hidden vulnerability before widespread marsh degradation. This novel analysis can be easily applied to existing SET records expanding the traditional focus on vertical change to additionally encapsulate lateral processes.
Generic load regulation strategy for enhancing energy efficiency of chiller plants
Authors: Wan Hang , Gong Yuyang , Wang Shengwei , Sun Yongjun , Xu Tao , Huang Gongsheng
Published: June 2024

In many chiller plants, high coefficient of performance (COP) is only achieved at a few favorable part load ratios (PLRs), while the COP is low at many other non-favorable PLRs. To address this issue, this study proposes a generic load regulation strategy that aims to maintain chiller plants operating at high COP, particularly under non-favorable PLRs. This is achieved by incorporating thermal energy storage (TES) units and timely optimizing the charging and discharging power of the integrated TES units. The optimal charging and discharging power is determined by solving a dynamic optimization problem, taking into account the performance constraints of the TES units and the chiller plants. To provide an overview of the energy-saving potential of the proposed strategy, a comprehensive analysis was conducted, considering factors such as building load profiles, COP/PLR curves of chillers, and attributes of the TES units. The analysis revealed that the proposed load regulation strategy has the potential to achieve energy savings ranging from 5.7% to 10.8% for chiller plants with poor COPs under unfavorable PLRs, particularly in buildings with significant load variations.
Agent-based decision-support model for bus route redesign in networks of small cities and towns: case study of Agder, Norway
Authors: Rasca Sinziana I. , Hu Bin , Biesinger Benjamin , Prandtstetter Matthias
Published: June 2024

Small cities and towns often struggle to provide high-quality public transport services to daily commuters. This is reflected in the modal split, where the share of car users dominates. Such a problem requires a modern solution, where transport planners can verify the impact of potential transport network improvements on the travel behavior of the residents before the changes are actually deployed. This study aims to demonstrate the usefulness of employing an agent-based simulation tool in the decision process for redesigning an express service regional bus route connecting a network of small cities and towns. The model was initially developed as a Mobility as a Service simulation solution for suburban areas of European metropolises. The model is adapted and applied to a case study for the region of Agder, Norway, simulating the impact of nine different scenarios on the patronage of a specific bus route. The simulation model proposes to upgrade the classic agent structure to a persona profile designed specifically for the case study. The main objective of this research is to identify the scenario that maximizes patronage while minimizing total route travel time and additional costs. The results suggest that the proposed model can be successfully adapted from suburban metropolitan areas to the realities of the considered case study, and potentially other similar regions. Specifically, out of the nine proposed scenarios, the model identified four promising ones. One of the four scenarios also fits the cost constraints imposed by the transport provider. The model provides a solid approach for analyzing complex transport systems that are practically impossible to consider in detail if the analysis is done without computer support. Thus, the results can be used as a decision support system for public transport planning and operations in networks of small cities and towns.
Geriatric Facial Dermatosis
Authors: Flowers R. Hal , Im Grace Y. , Jowdy Peter , Cohen Olivia G. , Lanyi Shira , Omesiete Wilson
Published: June 2024

Purpose of Review

The objective of this review is to identify and describe common facial dermatoses in the geriatric population. This review includes relevant clinical presentation, statistical data (when available), pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, associated systemic diseases, updated treatment recommendations, and recent advances in the field.

Recent Findings

Several medications including biological agents were recently approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating skin diseases in general population. However, limited research data are available for the geriatric population. The choice of treatment should be guided by factors such as the specific disease type, locations of the lesions, patients’ comorbidities, and their individual preferences.

Recognizing and addressing facial dermatosis is becoming more crucial as the elderly population is projected to increase in the coming decades. Healthcare providers should familiarize themselves with common facial dermatoses that affect the elderly, enabling them to deliver appropriate care to enhance patients’ well-being. Managing skin dermatoses requires a comprehensive evaluation, considering the patient's comorbidities and polypharmacy, ruling out differential diagnoses, and meticulously assessing the risks and benefits of potential interventions. Future research should prioritize evaluating the effectiveness and safety of treatments specifically tailored for the geriatric population.
Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical characteristics and outcomes of adult pneumococcal meningitis patients – a Dutch prospective nationwide cohort study
Authors: Liechti Fabian D. , Bijlsma Merijn W. , Brouwer Matthijs C. , van de Beek Diederik
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To investigate clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with pneumococcal meningitis during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In a Dutch prospective cohort, risk factors and clinical characteristics of pneumococcal meningitis episodes occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic (starting March 2020) were compared with those from baseline and the time afterwards. Outcomes were compared with an age-adjusted logistic regression model.

Results

We included 1,699 patients in 2006–2020, 50 patients in 2020–2021, and 182 patients in 2021–2023. After March 2020 relatively more alcoholism was reported (2006–2020, 6.1%; 2020–2021, 18%; 2021–2023, 9.7%; P = 0.002) and otitis–sinusitis was less frequently reported (2006–2020, 45%; 2020–2021, 22%; 2021–2023, 47%; P = 0.006). Other parameters, i.e. age, sex, symptom duration or initial C-reactive protein level, remained unaffected. Compared to baseline, lumbar punctures were more frequently delayed (on admission day, 2006–2020, 89%; 2020–2021, 74%; 2021–2022, 86%; P = 0.002) and outcomes were worse (‘good recovery’, 2020–2021, OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.3–0.8).

Conclusion

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we observed worse outcomes in patients with pneumococcal meningitis. This may be explained by differing adherence to restrictions according to risk groups or by reduced health care quality.