bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photorhabdus viridis sp. nov. Isolated from Heterorhabditis zealandica Entomopathogenic Nematodes
Authors: Machado Ricardo A. R. , Malan Antoinette P. , Abolafia Joaquín , Ewany Jaspher , Bhat Aashaq Hussain , Stock S. Patricia
Published: October 2024

A novel bacterial species, Photorhabdus viridis sp. nov., represented by strain GreenT, isolated from Heterorhabditis zealandica MJ2C entomopathogenic nematodes, is described. Phylogenetic reconstructions using 16S rRNA gene sequences show that strain GreenT is closely related to P. thracensis DSM 15199 T. The 16rRNA gene sequences of these two strains are 98.8% identical. Phylogenetic reconstructions using whole-genome sequences show that strain GreenT is closely related to P. tasmaniensis DSM 22387 T, P. thracensis DSM 15199 T, and P. temperata DSM 14550 T. Digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between strain GreenT and its three more close relative species, P. tasmaniensis DSM 22387 T, P. thracensis DSM 15199 T, and P. temperata DSM 14550 T, are 49%, 59%, and 59%, respectively. In addition, average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between GreenT and P. tasmaniensis DSM 22387 T, P. thracensis DSM 15199 T, and P. temperata DSM 14550 T are 92.4%, 94.4%, and 94.6%, respectively. The novel species also differs in their biochemical capacities from the biochemical capacities of their more closely related taxa. The following biochemical tests may be particularly useful in this context: Arginine dihydrolase, gelatinase, and glucose and mannitol oxidation. Given the clear phylogenetic separation, the sequence divergence values, and the phenotypic differences, we conclude that strain GreenT represents a novel bacterial species, for which we propose the name Photorhabdus viridis sp. nov. with GreenT (= CCM 9407 T = CCOS 2117 T = MJ2CT) as the type strain. Our study contributes to a better understanding of the taxonomy and biodiversity of an important bacterial group with great biotechnological and agricultural potential.
Cutaneous ureterostomy following robot-assisted radical cystectomy: a multicenter comparative study of transperitoneal versus retroperitoneal techniques
Authors: Sasaki Yutaro , Yamamoto Yasuyo , Fukuta Kyotaro , Izumi Kazuyoshi , Kadoriku Fumiya , Daizumoto Kei , Shiozaki Keito , Tomida Ryotaro , Kusuhara Yoshito , Fukawa Tomoya , Yanagihara Yutaka , Yamaguchi Kunihisa , Izaki Hirofumi , Takahashi Masayuki , Okamoto Kenjiro , Yamanaka Masahito , Furukawa Junya
Published: October 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in perioperative outcomes between transperitoneal and retroperitoneal techniques in cutaneous ureterostomy (CUS).

Methods

Between 2018 and 2023, 55 patients underwent CUS following robot-assisted radical cystectomy. Among the 55 patients, we compared 33 patients who underwent transperitoneal CUS (t-CUS) and 22 who underwent retroperitoneal CUS (r-CUS).

Results

Compared with the r-CUS group, the t-CUS group had significantly shorter operative times (p < 0.001); significantly less estimated blood loss (p < 0.001); and significantly lower incidence of complications (Clavien–Dindo classification grade ≤ 2) within 30 days (p = 0.005). Unexpectedly, the incidence of ileus within 30 days was lower, though the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.064). During the median follow-up period of 24.3 months, no ileus was observed in either group after 30 days postoperatively. There was no significant difference in the stent-free rate between the groups (p = 0.449). There were also no significant differences in the rates of change in estimated glomerular filtration rate from preoperatively at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively between the groups (p = 0.590, p = 0.627, p = 0.741, and p = 0.778, respectively).

Conclusions

Compared with r-CUS, t-CUS was associated with a shorter operative time and lower incidence of perioperative complications, including gastrointestinal complications. We believe that t-CUS can be performed safely and effectively.
Root exudation patterns of contrasting rice (Oryza sativa L.) lines in response to P limitation
Authors: Schwalm Henning , Staudinger Christiana , Hajirezaei Mohammad-Reza , Mundschenk Eva , Golestanifard Alireza , Holz Maire , Wissuwa Matthias , Oburger Eva
Published: October 2024

Main conclusion

Rice exudation patterns changed in response to P deficiency. Higher exudation rates were associated with lower biomass production. Total carboxylate exudation rates mostly decreased under P-limiting conditions.

Within the rhizosphere, root exudates are believed to play an important role in plant phosphorus (P) acquisition. This could be particularly beneficial in upland rice production where P is often limited. However, knowledge gaps remain on how P deficiency shapes quality and quantity of root exudation in upland rice genotypes. We therefore investigated growth, plant P uptake, and root exudation patterns of two rice genotypes differing in P efficiency in semi-hydroponics at two P levels (low P = 1 µM, adequate P = 100 µM). Root exudates were collected hydroponically 28 and 40 days after germination to analyze total carbon (C), carbohydrates, amino acids, phenolic compounds spectrophotometrically and carboxylates using a targeted LC–MS approach. Despite their reported role in P solubilization, we observed that carboxylate exudation rates per unit root surface area were not increased under P deficiency. In contrast, exudation rates of total C, carbohydrates, amino acids and phenolics were mostly enhanced in response to low P supply. Overall, higher exudation rates were associated with lower biomass production in the P-inefficient genotype Nerica4, whereas the larger root system with lower C investment (per unit root surface area) in root exudates of the P-efficient DJ123 allowed for better plant growth under P deficiency. Our results reveal new insights into genotype-specific resource allocation in rice under P-limiting conditions that warrant follow-up research including more genotypes.
A chronological catalog of methods and solutions in the Space–Time Computational Flow Analysis: II. Isogeometric analysis
Authors: Tezduyar Tayfun E. , Takizawa Kenji
Published: October 2024

This is Part II of a two-part article that serves as a chronological catalog of the methods and solutions in the Space–Time Computational Flow Analysis (STCFA). In Part I, we focused on the methods and solutions in finite element analysis. Here, we focus on the methods and solutions in isogeometric analysis (IGA). The methods we cover include the ST-IGA and ST Slip Interface method. The first-of-its-kind solutions we cover include the flapping-wing aerodynamics with the wing motion coming from an actual locust, ventricle-valve-aorta flow analysis with patient-specific aorta and realistic ventricle and leaflet geometries and motion, and car and tire aerodynamics with near-actual car body and tire geometries, road contact, and tire deformation. These and the other first-of-its-kind solutions covered show how the STCFA brought solutions in so many classes of challenging flow problems.
The effectiveness of exercise and/or nutritional interventions to improve the quality of life of women with breast cancer receiving radiation therapy: a scoping review
Authors: Feighan Laura , MacDonald-Wicks Lesley , Callister Robin , Surjan Yolanda
Published: October 2024

Currently, in Australia, 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer. A common adjuvant treatment for breast cancer is radiation therapy (RT). The amalgamation of side effects caused by RT treatment can ultimately affect a patient’s quality of life (QoL). With increasing breast cancer survival, a greater focus on the non-lethal consequences of this disease and its treatment is warranted. Exercise and nutrition have proven beneficial in promoting and supporting overall health and managing chronic diseases. Furthermore, exercise has demonstrated improvement and sustainment to QoL. The focus of this scoping literature review was to determine the scale of evidence regarding the effectiveness of exercise and/or nutritional interventions for women with breast cancer receiving radiation therapy. An online search of five databases was conducted to identify studies published between 2000 and 2023. The 58 studies included in the scoping review comprised 46 interventions and 4615 women with breast cancer who received radiation therapy participated. Most studies (90%; n = 52) were ‘exercise only’ based, 3% (n = 2) were ‘nutrition only’, and the remaining 7% (n = 4) of studies were combined exercise and nutrition interventions. The findings from this review highlight most studies are dedicated to investigating exercise. Further research is required to fully understand the potential benefits of these interventions and their synergistic impact on the quality of life of women with breast cancer receiving radiation therapy.
Evaluation of clinical and radiographic warning signs for prediction of oroantral communication following tooth extractions
Authors: Jurásek Alexandra , Farkas Nelli , Frank Dorottya , Kolarovszki Béla , Sándor Balázs , Radácsi Andrea , Szántó Ildikó , Katona Krisztián
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Oroantral communication (OAC) is a relatively common and mild complication of maxillary tooth extractions. Preoperative prediction of OAC can reduce treatment duration and prepare both operators and patients for the procedure. This study aims to identify alarming radiographic and clinical indicators that can predict OAC therefore assisting clinical decision making to practicing general dentists.

Methods

In this retrospective case–control study the OAC group consisting of 97 cases and a control group twice the size was established. Clinical data were collected, and measurements were conducted separately by two blinded observers on digital panoramic radiographs. Inter-rater reliability was assessed. In case of disagreement a third observer’s results were utilized. The correlation between OAC and demographic data (age, sex), as well as various factors assessed on panoramic radiographs (including, but not limited to, the length of the root, root projection into the sinus, bone width, presence of mesial and distal adjacent teeth), was statistically evaluated.

Results

Inter-rater reliability was found to be excellent. Several factors were identified as potential predictors of OAC. According to our model, the strongest predictors were the distance between the cemento-enamel junction and marginal bone, extent of root projection into the sinus, presence of sinus recess around the roots, angulation, and absence of the mesial adjacent tooth.

Conclusions

Well-defined measurements on panoramic radiographs may aid in predicting OAC. Further prospective investigations are necessary to confirm these indicators and address factors related to clinical examination and operation.

Clinical relevance

We present several clinical and radiographic warning signs of OAC that can facilitate pre-extraction decision-making.
Correlation of screen exposure to stress, learning, cognitive and language performance in children
Authors: Hahnefeld Andrea , Fink Monika , Le Beherec Saskia , Baur Marie Anna , Bernhardt Katharina , Mall Volker
Published: October 2024

The omnipresence of mobile screens and convenience to operate them has led to increased screen time for young children whereas the sequelae of prolonged exposure are not known yet. 70 refugee children (RG) and 111 children of a clinical comparison group (CG) from a help-seeking population (age: M = 5.10; SD = 1.11; range 3.00–6.97 years) were assessed concerning their amount of daily screen exposure time in relation to parental education and distress. Salivary cortisol was collected as a marker for biological stress and children were tested concerning learning performance, non-verbal IQ and vocabulary with the Kaufmann Assessment Battery for Children (KABC-II). Language skills were assessed in educator rating. The amount of children’s screen exposure was negatively related to parental education and positively to distress. In the CG, higher amounts of screen time were associated with elevated cortisol levels and lower learning scores. On both measures, the RG and CG only differed in the condition of screen time less than one hour/day, for higher amounts of screen time the CG approached the more problematic scores of the RG. Whereas in the whole sample the amount of screen time was negatively correlated to language performance, it was not correlated to non-verbal IQ-scores. As a higher amount of media exposure in our clinical comparison group is associated with elevated biological stress, decreased learning and lower language performance, it should be classified as a relevant environmental factor and regularly considered in clinical assessments of children and therapeutical interventions, especially in vulnerable subgroups. German clinical trials register, registration number: DRKS00025734, date: 07–23-2021.
Tuning the geometry of porous alumina layers via anodization in mixtures of different acids
Authors: Świerkula Aleksandra , Zaraska Leszek
Published: October 2024

Porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) layers have been obtained by two-step anodization of high-purity Al in two types of acid mixtures, i.e., in H2C2O4–H3PO4 and, for the first time, in H2SO4–H3PO4 systems. The kinetics of oxide formation was examined by monitoring the current vs. time curves while the morphology of the resulting layers was carefully verified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A special emphasis was put on establishing correlations between electrolyte composition, the kinetics and effectiveness of oxide growth, and the morphological features of AAO layers (pore and cell diameter, porosity), as well as pore arrangement. It was confirmed that the addition of H3PO4 to both H2C2O4 and H2SO4 electrolytes results in a significant decrease in oxide growth rate, and worsening of pore arrangement, while the values of pore diameter and interpore distance are much less affected. Moreover, the presence of a small amount of phosphoric acid in the reaction mixture allowed for a noticeable increase in pore ordering if anodization was carried out beyond the self-ordering regime, or performing controlled anodization even at voltages at which the burning phenomenon is typically observed. It is strongly believed that manipulating the electrolyte composition by adding another acid may provide another degree of freedom to control the morphology of the resulting nanostructured alumina layers.
Background predation risk induces anxiety-like behaviour and predator neophobia in zebrafish
Authors: Thapa Himal , Salahinejad Arash , Crane Adam L. , Ghobeishavi Ahmad , Ferrari Maud C. O.
Published: October 2024

Prey face a major challenge in balancing predator avoidance with other essential activities. In environments with high risk, prey may exhibit neophobia (fear of novelty) due to the increased likelihood of novel stimuli being dangerous. The zebrafish, Danio rerio, is an established model organism for many scientific studies. Although spatial and object neophobia in zebrafish have received previous attention, little is known about the role of background risk in inducing neophobia in zebrafish. Here, we present two experiments using zebrafish to explore whether background predation risk can induce anxiety-like behaviour in a novel environment and neophobic responses when exposed to a novel odour. Over five days, we repeatedly exposed zebrafish to either high background risk in the form of chemical alarm cues (i.e., injured conspecific cues that indicate a predator attack) or a low-risk water control stimulus. In Experiment 1, when tested in a novel tank, zebrafish exposed to high predation risk displayed anxiety-like responses (reduced activity and increased bottom time spent) compared to their low-risk counterparts. Moreover, high-risk individuals showed reduced intra-session habituation to the novel tank compared to low-risk individuals. In Experiment 2, high-risk individuals exhibited fear responses toward a novel odour, unlike low-risk individuals. These results reveal that short-term repeated exposures to high risk can induce anxiety-like behaviour and predator odour neophobia in zebrafish.
The Development of the Confianza Scale–Spanish: A Culturally Responsive Tool for Latine Relationship Building
Authors: Silverio Nicole , Gutierrez Daniel , Mullen Patrick R.
Published: October 2024

Latines are the largest ethnic minority group in the United States, making up nearly one-fifth of the population. Despite experiencing similar rates of mental health issues as the dominant culture, however, Latines are notably less likely to seek treatment. Prior research has linked this reluctance to cultural mistrust, and some scholars have underscored the significance of confianza, a cultural value, in promoting Latine mental health engagement. Using a survey research methodology with a sample of 278 Latines, this study examines the psychometric properties and factor structure of the newly developed Confianza Scale–Spanish (CS-S), an instrument designed to quantitatively assess for confianza between clients and their mental healthcare providers. Study results provided initial evidence for the validity and reliability of the CS-S and indicated that confianza may be a single-factor construct. Clinical and research implications within the counseling field are discussed.
Five definitions of adsorption and their relevance to the formulation of dynamic mass balances in gas adsorption columns
Authors: Turner Jarrett S. , Ebner Armin D. , Ritter James A.
Published: October 2024

Numerous dynamic mass balances in the literature that describe the adsorption of gases in a column are written in terms of actual or absolute adsorption, while unwittingly and incorrectly utilizing excess adsorption isotherms. Perhaps this is because the actual and absolute adsorption isotherms cannot be experimentally measured nor predicted without making uncertain assumptions. The objective here was to derive unambiguous relationships between actual, absolute, excess, net and column amounts adsorbed that provide a straightforward understanding of the subtle differences between these quantities and that provide a simple means for incorporating them into dynamic mass balances. For this purpose, the actual, absolute, excess, net and column amounts adsorbed (loadings) were clearly defined, along with various volumes, porosities and densities that exist inside and outside an adsorbent contained in a column with a gaseous adsorbate. These adsorption definitions and quantities were used to derive four interconversion relationships for each type of adsorption in terms of the actual loading. The resulting expressions, based on intensive properties, can be used to relate any adsorption definition to any other adsorption definition. These relationships were also used to derive five dynamic mass balances, one for each type of adsorption. The similarities and differences in the terms between each of these five dynamic mass balances were discussed, along with their applicability to real world problems. In some cases at low pressure where the isotherms do not differ appreciably, it may be approximately correct to use excess or net adsorption isotherms in a dynamic mass balance written in terms of actual or absolute adsorption. However, the extent of the incorrectness is unknown due to mass transfer effects. So, it is recommended to use the dynamic mass balance with its specific type of adsorption, most likely excess adsorption. Then, when certain assumptions are made about the adsorbing and non-adsorbing void fractions, these expressions can be readily used in adsorption process simulation.
Ethical use of artificial intelligence based tools in higher education: are future business leaders ready?
Authors: Mumtaz Sabiha , Carmichael Jamie , Weiss Michael , Nimon-Peters Amanda
Published: October 2024

This study examined the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence-based Tools (AIT) in higher education, focusing on graduate business students. Drawing from a diverse sample of students from the United States of America (USA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the research explored how cultural values shaped perceptions and behaviors towards ethical use of AIT. Structural Topic Modeling (STM), a machine learning technique to identify themes in open-ended responses, was used to assess the influence of culture as a covariate. Culture was classified into ten clusters comprising a group of countries, and findings were interpreted using Hofstede’s cultural framework. The study revealed significant variations in ethical perceptions across cultural clusters. For example, students from the Southern Asia cluster viewed the use of AIT to answer questions as more ethical, while students from Latin Europe were less likely to perceive it as ethical. Conversely, students from Latin Europe were more inclined to consider the use of AIT to understand concepts as ethical, compared to their Southern Asian counterparts. The findings highlight the importance of understanding cultural perceptions when integrating AIT in higher education. Addressing a significant gap in the existing educational literature, this research contributes to the broader discussion on the ethical implications of AI in education and offers practical strategies for fostering a culturally sensitive and inclusive approach while utilizing a novel methodology within the field.
The sympathetic nervous system in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Chang Joshua W.-H. , Ramchandra Rohit
Published: October 2024

The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is a major mediator of cardiovascular physiology during exercise in healthy people. However, its role in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), where exercise intolerance is a cardinal symptom, has remained relatively unexplored. The present review summarizes and critically explores the currently limited data on SNS changes in HFpEF patients with a particular emphasis on caveats of the data and the implications for its subsequent interpretation. While direct measurements of SNS activity in HFpEF patients is scarce, modest increases in resting levels of muscle sympathetic nerve activity are apparent, although this may be due to the co-morbidities associated with the syndrome rather than HFpEF per se. In addition, despite some evidence for dysfunctional sympathetic signaling in the heart, there is no clear evidence for elevated cardiac sympathetic nerve activity. The lack of a compelling prognostic benefit with use of β-blockers in HFpEF patients also suggests a lack of sympathetic hyperactivity to the heart. Similarly, while renal and splanchnic denervation studies have been performed in HFpEF patients, there is no concrete evidence that the sympathetic nerves innervating these organs exhibit heightened activity. Taken together, the totality of data suggests limited evidence for elevated sympathetic nerve activity in HFpEF and that any SNS perturbations that do occur are not universal to all HFpEF patients. Finally, how the SNS responds during exertion in HFpEF patients remains unknown and requires urgent investigation.
Punishment and Reward Sensitivity in Risk-Taking as Potential Mechanisms Explaining the Relationships Between Childhood Callous-Unemotional Traits and Adolescent Substance Use in a Longitudinal Cohort Study Sample
Authors: Sakki Hanna , St Clair Michelle C. , Shou Yiyun , Allen Jennifer L.
Published: October 2024

Childhood callous-unemotional (CU) traits are associated with a neurocognitive response style of high reward and low punishment sensitivity, which may make these children particularly vulnerable to substance misuse. However, the mechanisms explaining the link between CU traits and substance use are poorly understood. This study investigated the mediating influences of reward and punishment sensitivity on the association between childhood CU traits and adolescent substance use. Using data from the UK Millennium Cohort Study, mediation analyses were conducted to investigate the potential indirect effects of age 14 reward and punishment sensitivity in risk-taking on the relationships between age 11 CU traits and alcohol, cannabis, and other illicit drug use at age 17. No direct effects of CU traits on substance use were found when accounting for gender, baseline alcohol use, poverty, emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, and verbal ability at age 11. Indirect effects of increased reward sensitivity on the relationship between CU traits and increased use were seen for alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs. There was a significant indirect effect of reduced punishment sensitivity on the relationship between CU traits and increased alcohol use, but not cannabis or other substance use. Findings suggest that reward and punishment sensitivity may have independent effects on decision-making processes contributing to adolescent substance use. Prevention and early intervention for substance use should consider modifying intervention strategies to fit the needs of adolescents with a callous interpersonal style and a neurocognitive profile characterized by a high drive for rewards and low risk aversion.
Conformational Flexibility and Net Charge are Key Determinants for the Antimicrobial Activity of Peptide Uy234 Against Multidrug-resistant Bacteria
Authors: Salazar-Hernández Daniel , Juárez-González Víctor Rivelino , Bustamante Víctor H. , Martínez-Martínez Lucía Lourdes , Ramírez Verónica , Balleza Daniel , Quintero-Hernández Verónica
Published: October 2024

Background

The antimicrobial activity of two peptides, Uy234 derived from the venom of the scorpion Urodacus yaschenkoi and a consensus peptide QnCs-Buap, was evaluated. We tested different pathogenic bacteria: Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella enterica, Bacillus subtilis, Enterococcus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus, including one methicillin resistant (MRSA) and two multidrug resistant (MDR) clinical isolates. In contrast to the QnCs-Buap peptide, Uy234 showed relevant growth inhibitory activity on A. baumannii and B. subtilis, and mostly on S. aureus strains.

Objective

The present research focused on elucidating the mechanism for this antibacterial activity.

Methodology

We carried out an in-depth analysis of the composition, structure, flexibility, and physicochemical properties of both peptides.

Results

We found a crucial role of the C-terminal amide and composition in favoring the formation of a dense H-bond network in the Uy234 peptide. This H-bonding network slightly stiffens the peptide and keeps it in a preordered conformation in the aqueous phase.

Conclusions

We hypothesize that, given that Uy234 is a very short peptide (18 aa), it could have a destabilizing effect and favor micellization phenomena instead forming pores. In contrast, the QnCs-Buap peptide (13 aa), having only the positive charge at the N-terminal end and being significantly more hydrophobic and rigid, is not capable of overcoming the energy barrier to disturb the membrane. We propose that Uy234 peptide can be a scaffold to develop new derivatives with high potential against infections caused by diverse multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Graphical Abstract
Ideal Workers, Supporting Actors, or Thrill Seekers? How Coworker Demands Influence Ambulance Volunteers’ Experiences of Freedom and Meaningful Work
Authors: McAllum Kirstie
Published: October 2024

For nonprofit organizations (NPOs) struggling to attract adequate numbers of volunteers, examining what makes nonprofit engagement meaningful is essential because disenchanted volunteers can simply quit. Yet, the assumption that freedom is a core aspect of the volunteer experience and of meaningful work may not hold true in high-stakes environments where volunteers must demonstrate high levels of commitment and expertise. This study aims to analyze how freedom plays out in high-stakes volunteering and its impact on meaningful work. Drawing on interviews with volunteer and paid ambulance crew working in nine stations in Aotearoa New Zealand, the study explores how “super-volunteers” talk about freedom in the context of their on-road work and how coworkers communicatively attempt to influence volunteers’ freedom. Three volunteer profiles emerged from the analysis: ideal workers, supporting actors, and thrill seekers. Most paid staff encouraged ideal workers to strive for self-realization, a form of positive freedom in work, which led to optimal clinical performance. Supporting actors privileged self-determination or positive freedom at work, although coworkers successfully pushed them to contribute to basic emergency work. Because thrill seekers demanded freedom from boring or dirty jobs, appeals to teamwork failed to sway them. The study makes two key contributions. First, the diversity of freedoms volunteers evoked and resisted underscores the importance of nuancing the assertion that volunteering is a “free” act. Second, although the meaningful work literature is drifting in the pro-freedom direction, it shows that the freedoms enacted by volunteers or promoted by coworkers were arguably “mistaken”—for volunteers, patients, and the NPO itself.
Effect of layering and pre-loading on the dynamic properties of sand-rubber specimens in resonant column tests
Authors: Kowalska Magdalena , Vrettos Christos
Published: October 2024

Several studies show that scrap tyre rubber mixed with sand is an effective and sustainable method for mitigating vibrations. The dynamic and cyclic response of this composite soil has already been investigated. However, layered sand-rubber configurations have not been considered yet. This study reports findings of resonant column tests on three types of specimen: (a) sand-only or rubber-only, (b) layered sand-rubber, and (c) sand-rubber mixtures. The analysis allowed for an evaluation of the maximum shear modulus and its degradation with strain over a wide range of confining stress and shear strain. The evolution of the damping ratio with strain was determined analogously. Effects of pre-loading and pre-straining were also considered. The results show that the behaviour of layered specimens is much more similar to that of pure rubber than to sand-rubber mixtures, with very low shear modulus values, smaller degradation of stiffness with strain and pre-loading, and higher damping. For example, at the confining stress of 100 kPa and rubber content of 0/33.3/50/67.7/100% by volume, the small strain shear moduli for sand-rubber mixtures are equal to 98.3/30.4/15.4/7.1/1.3 MPa and 98.3/3.6-4.2/2.4-2.8/2.1/1.3 MPa for sand-rubber layered specimens, depending on the arrangement of layers. A shear beam model is shown to be adequate for calculating the response of the layered specimens comprising layers of large stiffness contrast.
Disparities in management of symptomatic osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: a nationwide multidisciplinary survey
Authors: Weber A. , Vercoulen T. F. G. , Jacobs E. , Buizer A. T. , Bours S. P. G. , van den Bergh J. P. , Jeuken R. M. , van Kuijk S. M. J. , Evers S. M. A. A. , Willems P. C.
Published: October 2024

Summary

This nationwide multidisciplinary survey found dissatisfaction among physicians with current osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture care, revealing significant disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up practices. Issues include poor communication and differing guidelines. Improving interdisciplinary collaboration and standardized care strategies is essential for better patient outcomes.

Purpose

This survey aims to assess current preferred care practices for symptomatic osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) in the Netherlands, focusing on guideline adherence, identifying knowledge gaps, and clarifying consensus and collaboration across medical disciplines in OVCF treatment.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted via Qualtrics (Provo, UT) using a self-administered online survey distributed to 238 general practitioners and physicians in orthopedics, traumatology, internal medicine, rheumatology, and geriatrics working at 51 hospitals in the Netherlands. The survey, conducted in Dutch, included 36 multiple-choice and two open questions and was accessible via an anonymous email link or QR code. General practitioners received additional questions specific to their role. Data was anonymized, stored securely, and analyzed using descriptive statistics in Microsoft Excel and SPSS (Version 24). Open-ended responses were coded and categorized. The survey was conducted prior to the publication of the updated Federation of Medical Specialists guidelines in 2024.

Results

Physicians across various disciplines uniformly expressed dissatisfaction with current OVCF care. The survey highlighted significant disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up practices. A lack of communication between primary and secondary care providers and differing guidelines further complicate OVCF management. These issues point to considerable variation in clinical practice and gaps in interdisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusion

Addressing the identified issues requires fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and creating cohesive care strategies. Ensuring access to diagnostic resources in both primary and secondary care and establishing coordinated care models promises more structured and standardized treatment. These steps are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes in OVCF management.
A Comparative Study of the Impact of La2O3 and La2Zr2O7 Dispersions on Molybdenum Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Fracture
Authors: Tkachenko Serhii , Slámečka Karel , Bednaříková Vendula , Remešová Michaela , Gejdoš Pavel , Ksenzova Olha , Valášek Daniel , Dvořák Karel , Šulák Ivo , Gálíková Markéta , Baláž Matěj , Deák Andrea , Cihlář Jaroslav , Čelko Ladislav
Published: October 2024

We report, for the first time, the effect of lanthanum zirconate (La2Zr2O7) particles on the microstructure and mechanical behavior of an experimental molybdenum oxide dispersion-strengthened alloy. The focus was on the preparation of the novel Mo–La2Zr2O7 composite using high-energy ball milling and spark plasma sintering and on the comparison of its microstructural and mechanical properties with pure Mo and Mo–La2O3 ODS alloy counterparts. Mechanical properties were assessed using a Vickers hardness test at room temperature and a three-point flexural test in the temperature range from − 150 to 150 °C. The microstructure of the studied materials and their fracture behavior were evaluated using x-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy. The strengthening effect of La2Zr2O7 particles was found to be lower than that of La2O3 particles, resulting in a 30-35% lower yield stress and flexural strength of the Mo–La2Zr2O7 alloy compared to the Mo–La2O3 alloy. The experimental Mo–La2Zr2O7 alloy exhibited low plasticity and no distinct ductile-to-brittle transition temperature (DBTT) in the tested temperature range, unlike pure Mo and the Mo–La2O3 alloy, which had the DBTT of 63 and 1 °C, respectively. Fracture occurred mainly in a brittle intergranular manner in the entire testing temperature range, while the counterpart materials showed localized plastic stretching at grain boundaries and within grains at and above the transition region. The observed behavior was primarily related to lower strengthening and brittleness as well as less effective grain boundary purification.
The Good (Tumor Killing) and the Bad (Cardiovascular Complications) of Immunologic Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Gamero Maria T. , Patel Avish , Storozynsky Eugene
Published: October 2024

Purpose of Review

This review details the significant advancement in knowledge of Immune-checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) and its potential deleterious cardiac immune-related adverse effects (irAE). We explore their mechanisms on the cardiac tissue, providing guidance on risk factors, clinical presentations, diagnostic strategies along with treatment.

Recent Findings

Recent findings have provided insights of cardiac irAEs that exist beyond the previously well-known ICI-induced myocarditis. We have a better understanding of the wide variety of cardiac irAEs pathologies both early and late onset. Moreover, there is more data on mechanisms of cardiotoxicity and patient and therapy-related risk factors, supporting closer routine cardiac monitoring with biomarkers and imaging for prevention and early detection.

Diagnosing cardiac irAEs is a challenge given its broad clinical presentation. A high-level of suspicion in addition to early work-up is crucial to prevent serious cardiac events. A multi-disciplinary team including Cardiologists and Oncologists is essential for closely monitor patients’ cardiac status on ICI therapy. There is a need of updated guidelines to establish clear recommendations in patients on ICIs.
Empathy, personality, and aggression in male and female adolescents
Authors: Romero Alicia , Blanch Angel , Martínez Albert , Malas Olga
Published: October 2024

The relationship between empathy and aggression is inconclusive, with substantial evidence revealing moderator effects of factors such as age, sex, and personality. This study examines whether sex differences or sex similarities stem from the relationship between empathy, personality, and aggression. There were 197 adolescents enrolled in secondary education (89 males and 108 females), who completed the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI), the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ), and the Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ). Females scored higher than males in empathy factors (fantasy, empathic concern, and personal distress), neuroticism, and in aggression (anger and hostility). Males and females showed similar outcomes in the association between perspective taking and personal distress with anger and hostility. Extraversion and neuroticism failed to explain additional variance in instrumental aggression (physical and verbal). Neuroticism, however, explained a meaningful larger amount of variance in the affective and cognitive components of aggression beyond empathy measures for both males and females, anger (9%) and hostility (15%), respectively. The findings suggest that, regardless of sex, empathy appears important for instrumental aggression (physical, verbal), whereas neuroticism is a robust predictor of affective and cognitive aggression (anger, hostility).
Barriers Perceived by Professionals in Family-Centered Early Intervention Services: A Systematic Review of the Current Evidence
Authors: Pacheco-Molero Manuel , Morales-Murillo Catalina , León-Estrada Irene , Gutiérrez-Ortega Mónica
Published: October 2024

Family-centered services are the recommended early intervention approach to develop and deliver services for children with disabilities and their families. This systematic review aims to identify and highlight what barriers service providers in family-centered early intervention perceive that prevent them from providing high-quality services focused on the family and the child's overall well-being. We identified 37 articles that met the selection criteria of the first initial search of 1858 articles. These studies provided insights from both service providers and families. The identified barriers were categorized into eight dimensions: family, child, knowledge, and application of the approach/model, professional beliefs, natural environment, service coordination, working conditions, and current legislation. The main barriers identified were family barriers, insecurities perceived by professionals and difficulties in their ability to provide services, changes in their attitudes and behaviors when they perceive that they are losing their role as experts, lack of knowledge and application of specific practices, and lack of skills needed to engage primary caregivers in natural settings. These findings should inform policy implementation at local and state levels in countries where family-centered service is established in early childhood programs.
Enhancing glioblastoma cytotoxicity through encapsulating O6-benzylguanine and temozolomide in PEGylated liposomal nanocarrier: an in vitro study
Authors: Hegde Manasa Manjunath , Palkar Pranoti , Mutalik Sadhana P. , Mutalik Srinivas , Goda Jayant Sastri , Rao B. S. Satish
Published: October 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) (grade IV glioma) is the most fatal brain tumor, with a median survival of just 14 months despite current treatments. Temozolomide (TMZ), an alkylating agent used with radiation, faces challenges such as systemic toxicity, poor absorption, and drug resistance. To enhance TMZ effectiveness, we developed poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) liposomes co-loaded with TMZ and O6-benzylguanine (O6-BG) for targeted glioma therapy. These liposomes, prepared using the thin-layer hydration method, had an average size of 146.33 ± 6.75 nm and a negative zeta potential (−49.6 ± 3.1 mV). Drug release was slower at physiological pH, with 66.84 ± 4.62% of TMZ and 69.70 ± 2.88% of O6-BG released, indicating stability at physiological conditions. The liposomes showed significantly higher cellular uptake (p < 0.05) than the free dye. The dual drug-loaded liposomes exhibited superior cytotoxicity against U87 glioma cells, with a lower IC50 value (3.99µg/mL) than the free drug combination, demonstrating enhanced anticancer efficacy. The liposome formulation induced higher apoptosis (19.42 ± 3.5%) by causing sub-G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. The novelty of our study lies in co-encapsulating TMZ and O6-BG within PEGylated liposomes, effectively overcoming drug resistance and improving targeted delivery for glioma treatment.
Structural characterization of a suspension bridge by mapping the temperature effects on strain response based on neural network models
Authors: Miranda Fabiana N. , Mata Juan , Santos João Pedro , Romão Xavier
Published: October 2024

Mapping the structural responses based on main loads to characterize signature of complex structures with high-dimensional features is a determinant factor for structural health monitoring (SHM). Current technological advances contribute to the optimization of data analysis, aiming to make the process less demanding in terms of time and computational demand. Machine learning (ML) models became popular due to their capacity to estimate structural behaviour based on the measurements gathered by the SHM systems. This work proposes a methodology supported by Neural Networks (NN) for the characterization and prediction of the structural behaviour based on thermal loads and structural responses. By comparing the observed values and predicted outcomes from the NN, it is possible to identify measuring errors, new trends or pattern variations that need further assessment. A sensitivity analysis is also proposed to confirm the model robustness and to characterize the influence of the temperature on the structural responses. The case study is the 25 de Abril’s bridge, located in Lisbon, Portugal.
Kantorovich Variant of the Blending Type Bernstein Operators
Authors: Baytunç Erdem , Gezer Halil , Aktuğlu Hüseyin
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we introduce a novel class of blending-type Bernstein–Kantorovich operators. These operators depend on three parameters: $$\alpha $$
α
, $$\gamma $$
γ
, and s. We establish results on the uniform convergence and rate of convergence of these operators in terms of the first and second order modulus of continuity. We also investigate the shape-preserving properties of the operators, such as monotonicity and convexity, for each choice of $$\alpha $$
α
, $$\gamma $$
γ
, and s. Finally, we provide graphical and numerical results to illustrate the accuracy of the operators and to demonstrate how they approach certain functions.
Privatheit und Identifizierbarkeit
Authors: Schwind Philipp
Published: October 2024

Das Recht auf Privatheit erstreckt sich nur auf Informationen, durch welche die sie betreffenden Personen identifizierbar sind. Diese Annahme wird im Recht und in der philosophischen Debatte weithin geteilt; an ihr orientiert sich auch der Umgang mit persönlichen Daten, etwa in der Medizin. Dagegen argumentiert der vorliegende Aufsatz, dass auch die Verbreitung anonymer Informationen eine Privatheitsverletzung darstellen kann. Diese Schlussfolgerung ergibt sich aus zwei Thesen: (1) Aus Sicht des Betroffenen beziehen sich die Urteile anderer über anonyme Informationen auf deren Urheber, auch wenn Außenstehende nicht wissen, um wen es sich handelt; (2) Unser Selbstverständnis wird durch das Urteil anderer über uns mitkonstituiert. Dies ist eine Folge unserer sozialen Natur. Es gibt bestimmte Bereiche unseres Lebens, die wir um unserer selbst willen nicht dem Blick anderer aussetzen möchten. Die nichtautorisierte Verbreitung von Informationen, welche diese Bereiche zum Gegenstand haben, kann daher unsere Privatheit auch dann verletzten, wenn diese anonym sind. Die Frage nach dem Umfang von Privatheit stellt zwar ein allgemeines Problem dar, aber es gibt Gründe, diese mit Blick auf die digitale Medizin zu diskutieren.
Perceptions of Mental Health and Mental Health Care in Luxembourg: A High-Income Country
Authors: Luers Tara , Aggarwal Pankhuri , Raval Vaishali V.
Published: October 2024

Mental health care in high-income countries can have various rates of usage due to differences in accessibility, modality of psychotherapy, and potential stigma surrounding mental health (Alonso et al., 2004). This study aimed to explore perceptions of mental health and mental health care, stigma for mental illness, and perceived change in mental health due to COVID − 19 pandemic in a high-income country with relatively easy access to basic mental health care. An anonymous survey was sent to individuals who are 18 years and older and resident of Luxembourg, a small country in Europe (N = 56). Participants were asked a series of open-ended and forced choice questions. Descriptive statistics were calculated for forced-choice questions and inductive content analysis was used to analyze the open-ended responses. Participants defined mental health in a variety of different ways, and a majority reported receiving mental health services. There was no significant difference in participants’ ratings of mental health before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mental health professionals were relatively easy to find and were considered somewhat helpful, though participants also reported some stigma towards mental illness. Benefits and challenges of in-person and virtual therapy showed points of crossover and potential for further research. The current findings inform the broader literature on mental healthcare with implications for improving care in high-income countries.