bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real‐Time Intraoperative Detection of Margins for Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Tam Kenric , Huang Shan , Mukdad Laith , Alhiyari Yazeed , Krane Jeffrey , Shori Ramesh , Stafsudd Oscar , St. John Maie
Published: June 2023

Obtaining negative surgical cancer margins is the strongest predictor for the long‐term survival of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma patients. To verify that the tumor has been completely removed, surgeons rely on pathologic evaluation of frozen sections to determine surgical margins, which can be time‐consuming and subjective. Herein, we detail the real‐time intraoperative use of dynamic optical contrast imaging (DOCI), a novel imaging modality that rapidly distinguishes head and neck cancer from healthy adjacent tissues based on fluorescence decay information from spectral bands in the UV‐VIS range. Analysis of DOCI revealed microscopic characterization sufficient for tissue type identification consistent with histology (p < .05). DOCI delivers a clinically relevant tool that may better inform and drive precision surgery, directly impacting surgical outcomes and improving overall survival for our patients.
Low velocity impact performance of 3D auxetic composites embedded with re‐entrant triangle inclusions
Authors: Zhang Minglonghai , Ho Mabel Mei Po , Hu Hong
Published: June 2023

This paper reports the low‐velocity impact performance of 3D auxetic composite embedded with re‐entrant triangle inclusions by both experiments and finite element (FE) simulations. Both auxetic and non‐auxetic samples were manufactured by embedding inclusions made from carbon fiber/epoxy laminates into silicone rubber matrix. The pure silicone rubber was also manufactured for comparison. All samples were subjected to low‐velocity impact with an impact energy of 147 J and an impact speed of 5.42 m/s and their impact load‐time and energy‐time curves were compared between the experimental results and FE simulation. The impact performances under different impact energies from 60 to 120 J were further investigated based on the validated FE models. The results show that the auxetic composites show better energy absorption capacity and impact resistance than non‐auxetic composites with the same number of inclusions at all energy levels. More inclusions can result in better impact resistance of auxetic composites when the impact energy is under 120 J. The auxetic composites possess 10% higher crash efficiency than non‐auxetic samples. The embedding of inclusions leads to easier damage of the composite under impact energy of 147 J. The research provides a better understanding on the impact performance of auxetic composites made from random inclusions.
US states' racial bias correlates with less SNAP participation by “undeserving poor” adults and lower unemployment benefit maximums
Authors: Snowden Lonnie R.
Published: June 2023

The present study assessed whether Whites' anti‐African American bias correlates with states placing greater emphasis on work incentives in two government assistance programs. The study regressed the representation of “able‐bodied adults without dependents” in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP, also known as food stamps) and maximum unemployment benefits on White residents' implicit and explicit bias, while controlling for key economic and sociopolitical covariates. Findings indicate that states with greater bias had proportionally fewer SNAP‐designated “Able‐Bodied Adults Without Dependents” and states with greater implicit and explicit bias had lower unemployment benefit maximums. Due to Whites' anti‐African American bias, persons of all races and ethnicities who otherwise might benefit from public assistance are exposed to food insecurity and lesser financial support when unemployed.
Biomarkers of lung alveolarization and microvascular maturation in response to intermittent hypoxia and/or early antioxidant/fish oil supplementation in neonatal rats
Authors: Marcelino Matthew , Cai Charles L. , Wadowski Stephen , Aranda Jacob V. , Beharry Kay D.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Extremely preterm infants experience frequent intermittent hypoxia (IH) episodes during oxygen therapy which causes significant damage to the lungs and curtails important signaling pathways that regulate normal lung alveolarization and microvascular maturation. We tested the hypothesis that early supplementation with fish oil and/or antioxidants in rats exposed to neonatal IH improves expression of lung biomarkers of alveolarization and microvascular maturation, and reduces IH‐induced lung injury.

Study Design/Methods

From birth (P0) to P14, rat pups were exposed to room air (RA) or neonatal IH during which they received daily oral supplementation with either: (1) olive oil (OO) (control); (2) Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in OO; (3) fish oil; (4) glutathione nanoparticles (nGSH); or (5) fish oil +CoQ10. At P14 pups were placed in RA until P21 with no further treatment. RA controls were similarly treated. Lung growth and alveolarization, histopathology, apoptosis, oxidative stress and biomarkers of alveolarization and microvascular maturation were determined.

Results

Neonatal IH was associated with reduced lung weights and severe histopathological outcomes. These effects were curtailed with fish oil and nGSH. nGSH was also protective against apoptosis, while CoQ10 prevented IH‐induced ROS production. Of all treatments, nGSH and CoQ10 + fish oil‐induced vascular endothelial growth factor165 and CD31 (Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1), which are associated with angiogenesis. CoQ10 + fish oil improved alveolarization in RA and IH despite evidence of hemorrhage.

Conclusions

The benefits of nGSH and CoQ10 + fish oil suggest an antioxidant effect which may be required to curtail IH‐induced lung injury. Further clinical assessment of the effectiveness of nGSH is warranted.
Stepwise Fabrication and Optimization of Coplanar Waveguide Resonator Hybrid Devices
Authors: Kellner Nicole , Hüttner Niklas , Will Marco , Hakonen Pertti , Hüttel Andreas K.
Published: June 2023

From the background of microwave‐optomechanical experiments involving carbon nanotubes, the optimization of superconducting coplanar waveguide resonator devices is discussed. Two devices, one with unmodified geometry compared to previous work and one integrating several improvements, are lithographically built up step‐by‐step. After each step, the low‐temperature GHz transmission properties are retested. This allows to identify the impact of the fabrication and the geometry modification on the device properties. In addition, simplified circuit geometries are modeled numerically, confirming the experimental results and providing further insights for optimization.
Surface analysis insight note: Straightforward concentration depth profiling by angle‐resolved X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy using a Tikhonov regularization algorithm
Authors: Murdoch Billy J. , McCulloch Dougal G.
Published: June 2023

Angle‐resolved X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (ARXPS) is a technique used for depth‐dependent analysis in the near‐surface region of samples. Calculation of a concentration depth profile using ARXPS requires an inverse Laplace transform, which adds considerable complexity to the analysis. In this insight note, the Tikhonov regularization algorithm for depth profile reconstruction from ARXPS data is examined. The steps required to produce a concentration depth profile are provided. The discussion includes strategies that deal with elastic scattering, electron attenuation, choice of regularization terms and optimization of the regularization parameters. The method is implemented in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that allows users to calculate a depth profile for data collected at up to five angles for five different peak components.
Roles of Cobalt‐Coordinated Polymeric Perylene Diimide in Hematite Photoanodes for Improved Water Oxidation
Authors: Gao Lili , Chai Huan , Niu Huilin , Jin Jun , Ma Jiantai
Published: June 2023

Interfacial charge recombination is a permanent issue that impedes the photon energy utilization in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. Herein, a conjugated polymer, urea linked perylene diimide polymer (PDI), is introduced to the designation of hematite‐based composite photoanodes. On account of its unique molecule structure with abundant electronegative atoms, the O and N atoms with lone electron pairs can bond with Fe atoms at the surface of Zr4+ doped α‐Fe2O3 (Zr:Fe2O3) and thus establish charge transfer channels for expediting hole separation and migration. Meanwhile, PDI molecules can passivate the surface states in Zr:Fe2O3, which is in favor of suppressing carrier recombination. Particularly, Co2+ is used to coordinate with PDI (Co‐PDI) to accelerate hole extraction as well as utilization, and the as‐obtained Co‐PDI form type‐II heterojunction with Zr:Fe2O3. Such a photoanode configuration takes advantage of the unique molecule structure of PDI, and the target Co‐PDI/Zr:Fe2O3 photoanodes eventually attain a photocurrent density of 2.17 mA cm−2, which is inspirational for unearthing the potential use of conjugative molecules in PEC fields.
An assessment of the feasibility of initiating urban agriculture in Pardis New Town of Iran
Authors: Hedayatifard Maedeh , Azimi Mitra
Published: June 2023

Initiation of urban agriculture in small‐scale urban areas not only serves an ecological function but has also become one of the most important measures in urban management for increasing the sociocultural capital and the mental and physical health of citizens through providing a site for the social relations of the urban population. Community gardens have become especially important in Iranian new towns, which are facing severe social challenges. This research attempts to evaluate the possibility of initiating a community garden in Pardis New Town using the qualitative approach and content analysis of interviews, focus group meetings, as well as online survey. Research findings have shown that despite the short period of residence in the Pardis New Town, due to the background of local and self‐organized communal activities to create a green neighborhood, the relatively adequate skills of residents in agriculture and gardening through work experience in their previous places of residence, and declaration of readiness to engage in volunteer activities, the conditions are favorable for the initiation of a community garden and for its bottom‐up management in collaboration with official institutions. The findings of the analysis have identified the strategic requirements in the areas of design and management of community gardens.
A good screening test: not just high sensitivity
Authors: Lei T.‐Y. , Li Y.‐Y. , Li D.‐Z.
Published: June 2023

Linked article: This Correspondence comments on Maya et al. Click here to view the article.
Intensive agriculture to blame for bird population decline
Authors: Mills Georgina
Published: June 2023

Georgina Mills reports on new research that looks at the pressures facing bird populations in Europe.
Horses, dogs and a camel… it's all in a day's work for one veterinary physiotherapist
Authors: Byrne Millie
Published: June 2023

Millie Byrne decided a quiet life wasn't for her and completed a master's degree in veterinary physiotherapy – and before she'd even finished she had taken the plunge and started her own business.
The tip of the iceberg—The roles of long noncoding RNAs in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Connerty Patrick , Lock Richard B.
Published: June 2023

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are traditionally defined as RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides that have no protein coding potential. LncRNAs have been identified to be dysregulated in various types of cancer, including the deadly hematopoietic cancer—acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Currently, survival rates for AML have reached a plateau necessitating new therapeutic targets and biomarkers to improve treatment options and survival from the disease. Therefore, the identification of lncRNAs as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for AML has major benefits. In this review, we assess the key studies which have recently identified lncRNAs as important molecules in AML and summarize the current knowledge of lncRNAs in AML. We delve into examples of the specific roles of lncRNA action in AML such as driving proliferation, differentiation block and therapy resistance as well as their function as tumor suppressors and utility as biomarkers.

This article is categorized under:

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
Mercury Exposure in Birds of Prey from Norway: Relation to Stable Carbon and Nitrogen Isotope Signatures in Body Feathers
Authors: Gómez-Ramírez Pilar , Bustnes Jan Ove , Eulaers Igor , Johnsen Trond Vidar , Lepoint Giles , Pérez-García Juan Manuel , García-Fernández Antonio Juan , Espín Silvia , Jaspers Veerle Leontina Bernard
Published: June 2023

Mercury (Hg) and stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios were analysed in body feathers from nestlings of white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) (WTE; n = 13) and Northern goshawks (Accipiter gentilis) (NG; n = 8) and in red blood cells (RBC) from NG (n = 11) from Norway. According to linear mixed model, species factor was significant in explaining the Hg concentration in feathers (LMM; p < 0.001, estimate (WTE) = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.26, 3.76), with concentrations higher in WTE (3.01 ± 1.34 µg g−1 dry weight) than in NG (0.51 ± 0.34 µg g−1 dry weight). This difference and the isotopic patterns for each species, likely reflect their diet, as WTE predominantly feed on a marine and higher trophic-chain diet compared to the terrestrial NG. In addition, Hg concentrations in RBCs of NG nestlings were positively correlated with feather Hg concentrations (Rho = 0.77, p = 0.03), supporting the potential usefulness of nestling body feathers to biomonitor and estimate Hg exposure. Hg levels in both species were generally below the commonly applied toxicity threshold of 5 µg g−1 in feathers, although exceeded in two WTE (6.08 and 5.19 µg g−1 dry weight).
Evaluating digital work instructions with augmented reality versus paper-based documents for manual, object-specific repair tasks in a case study with experienced workers
Authors: Eversberg Leon , Lambrecht Jens
Published: June 2023

Manual repair tasks in the industry of maintenance, repair, and overhaul require experience and object-specific information. Today, many of these repair tasks are still performed and documented with inefficient paper documents. Cognitive assistance systems have the potential to reduce costs, errors, and mental workload by providing all required information digitally. In this case study, we present an assistance system for object-specific repair tasks for turbine blades. The assistance system provides digital work instructions and uses augmented reality to display spatial information. In a user study with ten experienced metalworkers performing a familiar repair task, we compare time to task completion, subjective workload, and system usability of the new assistance system to their established paper-based workflow. All participants stated that they preferred the assistance system over the paper documents. The results of the study show that the manual repair task can be completed 21% faster and with a 26% lower perceived workload using the assistance system.
Angle ranks of abelian varieties
Authors: Dupuy Taylor , Kedlaya Kiran S. , Zureick-Brown David
Published: June 2023

Using the formalism of Newton hyperplane arrangements, we resolve the open questions regarding angle rank left over from work of the first two authors with Roe and Vincent. As a consequence we end up generalizing theorems of Lenstra–Zarhin and Tankeev proving several new cases of the Tate conjecture for abelian varieties over finite fields. We also obtain an effective version of a recent theorem of Zarhin bounding the heights of coefficients in multiplicative relations among Frobenius eigenvalues.
Reconstruction of Inferior Vena Cava by Autologous Great Saphenous Vein Grafts in Liver Surgery
Authors: Feng Xi , Wu Kan , Yang XianWei , Qiu HaiZhou , Wei YongGang , Li Bo , Wang Wentao , Huang Bin
Published: June 2023

Background

To secure surgical margin for hepatic lesion with involvement of the inferior vena cava (IVC), combined radical liver resection and IVC replacement are required. A novel method of replacing IVC by newly customized autologous great saphenous vein (GSV) grafts was introduced by this study. This study aimed at reporting the feasibility and outcome of this novel technique.

Methods

From January 2014 to January 2021, all consecutive patients who underwent concomitant hepatectomy and IVC replacement by autogenous GSV graft were enrolled in this study. Technical insights, intraoperative details, demographic data, postoperative complication, graft patency and survival data were collected and analyzed.

Results

Concomitant hepatectomy/autotransplantation (ERAT) with IVC replacement by autogenous GSV graft was successful in 47 patients and there was no 30‐day mortality. There were 8 out of the 47 patients whose retrohepatic venae cavae were completely invaded by the lesion and their reconstructed IVCs were totally made from GSV grafts. The other 39 patients whose IVCs were partially invaded had their IVCs reconstructed by both the unaffected part of the IVC wall and newly customized GSV graft. Postoperative complications classified as Clavien‐Dindo grade II, III A and III B were observed in 10, 7 and 3 patients, respectively. The median follow‐up months were 35 months (29–80 months). No patient developed thrombosis of the graft and 100% patency of the IVC was observed throughout the study.

Conclusion

In selected patients, hepatectomy/ERAT with IVC replacement by autogenous GSV graft is safe and feasible. The newly customized autologous GVS graft was ideal for reconstruction of the IVC in liver surgery.
Synthetic Versus Biological Mesh in Ventral Hernia Repair and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Recommendations from Evidence‐Based Medicine
Authors: Shi Hekai , Wang Rui , Dong Wenpei , Yang Dongchao , Song Heng , Gu Yan
Published: June 2023

Aim

To compare the efficacy and safety of synthetic and biological meshes in ventral hernia repair (VHR) and abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR).

Methods

We screened all clinical trials that reported the application of synthetic and biological meshes in VHR and AWR using Medline, Web of Science, and Embase (Ovid). Only comparative studies with similar baselines such as age, sex, body mass index, degree of wound contamination, and hernia defects between the intervention and control groups were included. Effect sizes with 95% confidence were pooled using a random‐ or fixed‐effects model based on the size of heterogeneity. A sensitivity analysis was performed to test the stability of the results.

Results

Ten studies with 1305 participants were included. Biological meshes were associated with significantly higher recurrence rate (OR, 2.09; 95% CI 1.42–3.08; I2 = 50%), surgical site infection (OR, 1.47; 95% CI 1.10–1.97; I2 = 30%), higher re‐admission rate (OR, 1.51; 95% CI 1.05–2.17; I2 = 50%), and longer length of hospital stay (SMD, 0.37; 95% CI 0.10–0.65; I2 = 72%). Similar surgical site occurrence, re‐operation rate, and mesh explantation rate were observed among biological and synthetic meshes. Biological meshes have no difference in recurrence rate as compared to synthetic meshes, between the clean‐contaminated, and contamination‐infected fields (OR, 1.41; 95% CI 0.41–4.87 vs 3.00; 95% CI 1.07–8.46; P = 0.36).

Conclusion

Synthetic meshes are a safe alternative to biological meshes for VHR and AWR. Considering the high cost of biological meshes, synthetic meshes are more appropriate for the VHR and AWR.
The mitotic spindle-related seven-gene predicts the prognosis and immune microenvironment of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shen Ruxin , Li Zhaoshui , Wu Xiaoting
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Abnormalities in the mitotic spindle have been linked to a variety of cancers. Data on their role in the onset, progression, and treatment of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) need to be explored.

Methods

The data were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB), for the training cohort, external validation cohort, and the hallmark mitotic spindle gene set, respectively. Mitotic spindle genes linked to LUAD prognosis were identified and intersected with differentially expressed up-regulated genes in the training cohort. Nomogram prediction models were built based on least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, univariate cox, and multivariate cox analyses. The seven-gene immunological score was examined, as well as the correlation of immune checkpoints. The DLGAP5 and KIF15 expression in BEAS-2B, A549, H1299, H1975, and PC-9 cell lines was validated with western blot (WB).

Results

A total of 965 differentially expressed up-regulated genes in the training cohort intersected with 51 mitotic spindle genes associated with LUAD prognosis. Finally, the seven-gene risk score was determined and integrated with clinical characteristics to construct the nomogram model. Immune cell correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between seven-gene expression with B cell, endothelial cell (excluding LMNB1), and T cell CD8 + (p < 0.05). However, the seven-gene expression was positively correlated with multiple immune checkpoints (p < 0.05). The expression of DLGAP5 and KIF15 were significantly higher in A549, H1299, H1975, and PC-9 cell lines than that in BEAS-2B cell line.

Conclusion

High expression of the seven genes is positively correlated with poor prognosis of LUAD, and these genes are promising as prospective immunotherapy targets.
Genderspezifische Unterschiede in der Anästhesie und Schmerzbehandlung – eine Übersicht
Authors: Sinner Barbara
Published: June 2023

Frauen und Männer unterscheiden sich in zahlreichen anästhesierelevanten Aspekten. Hierzu zählen nicht nur die Vorerkrankungen, sondern auch geschlechtsspezifische Unterschiede in der Pharmakodynamik und -kinetik verschiedener Medikamente. Hinzu kommen die unterschiedlichen und zyklusabhängigen Einflüsse der weiblichen Sexualhormone. Diese Übersichtsarbeit soll einen Einblick in die geschlechtsspezifischen Unterschiede in der Anästhesie und Schmerzbehandlung geben.
A new large-area hierarchical PPP-RTK service strategy
Authors: Cui Bobin , Jiang Xinyuan , Wang Jungang , Li Pan , Ge Maorong , Schuh Harald
Published: June 2023

Introducing precise atmosphere information into precise point positioning enables rapid ambiguity resolution and introduces a significant accuracy improvement. However, it can only be implemented in regions with dense networks and stable communication links. For larger areas, e.g., an intercontinental level, there is a conflict between the accuracy of corrections and the amount of atmosphere information to be disseminated. We develop a hierarchical augmentation mode to combine the advantages of the fitting model and region interpolation model to relieve the communication burden. Relying on the fitting model with fewer coefficients applied over large areas as the essential information, the unmodeled errors are calculated at each reference station, and further correction information is optional compensation depending on the magnitude of the unmodeled residuals. We perform the proposed models on 103 EUREF Permanent Network stations with 200-km station spacing and 84 stations as the external validation. The ionosphere and troposphere fitting models have an average accuracy of about 4.2 and 1.3 cm, respectively, under meteorologically calm conditions. The unmodeled error transmission determined by the magnitude of residuals can be reduced by 61% and 96% for the ionospheric and tropospheric delays, respectively, with respect to the legacy interpolation mode. Further compensation implemented, i.e., unmodeled residuals, can achieve instantaneous convergence for 83.6% of all solutions, and the overall initialization time is within 1.0 min. Thus, the proposed hierarchical positioning mode satisfies real-time positioning convergence requirements and significantly reduces massive corrections in communication.
Considerations for environmental biogeochemistry and food security for aquaculture around Lake Victoria, Kenya
Authors: Marriott A. L. , Osano O. F. , Coffey T. J. , Humphrey O. S. , Ongore C. O. , Watts M. J. , Aura C. M.
Published: June 2023

The impact of population expansion through economic growth and development has been identified as one of the key drivers of both water and sediment contamination from potentially harmful elements (PHEs). This presents a major hazard not only to aquatic ecosystems but local riparian communities and beyond who rely heavily on this natural resource for drinking water and fish—a valuable source of dietary micronutrients and protein. The present study measured biogeochemical concentration of PHEs in water, sediment and fish from locations pooled into four zones within Winam Gulf and Lake Victoria area of Kenya. Captured fish were used as a sentinel receptor of lake health to evaluate potential risks to fisheries and aquaculture food security. In water, concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu) and lead (Pb) were observed above the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) maximum contamination level drinking water guidelines (MCL), with aluminium (Al) observed above the Aquatic Life Criteria in all four zones. Similarly, sediment concentrations in all four zones exceeded the US EPA Effects range low (ERL) threshold guidelines for Cu, nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn) and Pb, with Cu, Zn and Pb classed at moderate contamination levels using the contamination factor. Fish tissue concentrations from the four zones were calculated using recommended daily intakes (RDI) and for PHEs as provisional maximum tolerable intakes (PMTIs) and indicated most macro- and micronutrients were at or below 10% RDI from aquaculture and wild fish, with Se indicating a greater RDI (16–29%) in all the zones. Contributions of PHEs to PMTIs were below threshold guidelines for both aquaculture and wild fish with only Cd, Cr and Pb levels being above the PMTI thresholds. There is a need to assess the long-term effects of persistent anthropogenic PHE input into Winam Gulf and the wider Lake Victoria basin. Continued monitoring of PHEs using both historical and more recent data will enable future management policies to be implemented through improved mitigation strategies to reduce their impact on water quality, fish health and subsequent human health.
Interparental Relationship Satisfaction from Nine Months to Nine Years and Children’s Socioemotional Competencies at Nine Years
Authors: Conica Mirela , Nixon Elizabeth , Quigley Jean
Published: June 2023

The quality of the interparental relationship bears important implications for children’s socioemotional development. Given evidence that relationship satisfaction among parents tends to decline over time this study examined how change in parents’ relationship satisfaction from nine-months-old until nine-years-old related to children’s socioemotional difficulties at nine-years-old. Participants were 2074 mothers, fathers, and their child (55.1% male) recruited through random sampling of the Child Benefit Registrar by Growing Up in Ireland cohort study. Mothers ranged in age from 18 to 40 years (M = 31.06, SD = 4.70) and fathers ranged in age from 18 to 60 years (M = 33.50, SD = 5.54). Mothers and fathers completed the Dyadic Adjustment Scale at nine-months-old and at nine-years-old whereas child socioemotional development was assessed via teacher report on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire at nine-years-old. Residualised change analysis indicated that both parents experienced declines in relationship satisfaction from nine-months-old until nine- years-old. However, in families where initial levels of relationship satisfaction were high, there was no significant association between decline in satisfaction and child socioemotional difficulties. Conversely, in couples where initial levels of satisfaction were low, mothers, but not fathers, who experienced further declines had female, but not male, children with more socioemotional difficulties at nine years (β = −0.22,p = 0.01;R2 = 0.15, F = 2.31,p = 0.02). These findings highlight the need for carefully tailored interventions aimed at promoting couple relationship satisfaction during transition to parenthood such that the negative impact on children of any decline experienced over time can be mitigated.
Safety and Efficacy of Hizentra® Following Pediatric Hematopoietic Cell Transplant for Treatment of Primary Immunodeficiencies
Authors: Patel Niraj C. , Torgerson Troy , Thakar Monica S. , Younger M. Elizabeth M. , Sriaroon Panida , Pozos Tamara C. , Buckley Rebecca H. , Morris David , Vilkama Diana , Heimall Jennifer
Published: June 2023

Primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) comprises a group of disorders of immune function. Some of the most severe PIDD can be treated with hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT). Hizentra® is a 20% liquid IgG product approved for subcutaneous administration in adults and children greater than 2 years of age with PIDD-associated antibody deficiency. Limited information is available on the use of Hizentra® in children following HCT for PIDD. A multicenter retrospective chart review demonstrated 37 infants and children (median age 70.1 [range 12.0 to 176.4] months) with PIDD treated by HCT who received Hizentra® infusions over a median duration of 31 (range 4–96) months post-transplant. The most common indication for HCT was IL2RG SCID (n = 16). Thirty-two patients switched from IVIG to SCIG administration, due to one or more of the following reasons: patient/caregiver (n = 17) or physician (n = 12) preference, discontinuation of central venous catheter (n = 16), desire for home infusion (n = 12), improved IgG serum levels following lower levels on IVIG (n = 10), and loss of venous access (n = 8). Serious bacterial infections occurred at a rate of 0.041 per patient-year while on therapy. Weight percentile increased by a mean of 16% during the observation period, with females demonstrating the largest gains. Mild local reactions were observed in 24%; 76% had no local reactions. One serious adverse event (death from sepsis) was reported. Hizentra® was discontinued in 15 (41%) patients, most commonly due to recovery of B cell function (n = 11). These data demonstrate that Hizentra® is a safe and effective option in children who have received HCT for PIDD.
Advances in the study of global forest wildfires
Authors: Li Tong , Cui Lizhen , Liu Lilan , Chen Yang , Liu Hongdou , Song Xiufang , Xu Zhihong
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Wildfire is one of the most important natural disturbances in forest and multi-vegetation ecosystems, directly or indirectly affecting the structural processes and functions of forest ecosystems with varying degrees. Wildfire releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide and other substances by destroying vegetation, making itself an important topic for the study of global change and environmental impacts. Therefore, a deeper understanding of this topic is particularly crucial for managing forest ecosystems.

Methods

This paper was based on a literature search of the Web of Science database for international forest wildfire research, utilizing bibliometric and quantity statistical analysis methods.

Results

The results show that forest wildfire research has been rapidly growing over the last 20 years, with the number of relevant articles generally increasing yearly at an average annual growth rate of about 22.45%. The US tops the list in terms of total and independent publications, with a total of 3111 articles (49.88%). The key journals publishing on this topic include 12 journals, Stephens S.L., Bergeron Y., and Lindenmayer D.B. are the key contributing authors to the field, and research institutions are primarily concentrated in the US Forest Service. Keyword co-occurrence analysis shows that current forest wildfire research is focused on seven main areas. This paper systematically reviewed the progress and hotspots of international forest wildfire research in recent decades, mainly focusing on occurrences, severity, management, and warning techniques for wildfires, as well as the impact of climate change and human activities on wildfires.

Conclusions

The study concludes that research trends in this field have undergone a significant evolution in recent decades. The future forest wildfire research moves towards a combination of typical mechanisms and large-scale effects across spatial and temporal scales, deep integration of aerospace and earth observations and precise simulations, discipline fusion, and couplings research. We believe that this study provides a comprehensive and systematic overview for future forest wildfire observation, prediction, management, and investigation of ecological effects.
Unlocking and accelerating transformations to the SDGs: a review of existing knowledge
Authors: Allen Cameron , Malekpour Shirin
Published: June 2023

As we approach the 2030 deadline to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), there is a growing sense of urgency around the need to accelerate the necessary transformations. These encompass a broad range of systems and require fundamental changes in system goals and design. In this paper, we undertake a narrative review of the literature relating to the acceleration of transformations and offer a framework for unlocking and accelerating transformations to the SDGs. While there is no blueprint for acceleration, there is an expanding knowledge base on important dynamics, impediments and enabling conditions across diverse literatures which can help to inform strategic interventions by actors. The emerging literature on positive tipping points and deep leverage points identifies opportunities to rewire systems design so that important system feedbacks create the conditions for acceleration. Transformation takes time and actors will need to build momentum to reorient systems around new goals, informed by knowledge of common policy, technology and behavioural feedbacks that govern system dynamics. Where resistance is strong, actors can seek to augment system design in ways that weaken balancing feedbacks that stabilise existing system configurations and strengthen reinforcing feedbacks that promote emerging system configurations oriented towards the SDGs. Well-designed and sequenced interventions can promote innovation and behaviour change and build and maintain political support. This can build critical enabling conditions and push systems towards large-scale tipping points, paving the way for decisive policy action that is crucial for triggering acceleration. We conclude by highlighting gaps and priorities for further research.
Transcriptome Profiling of Hippocampus After Cerebral Hypoperfusion in Mice
Authors: Zhang Zengyu , Guo Zimin , Jin Pengpeng , Yang Hualan , Hu Mengting , Zhang Yuan , Tu Zhilan , Hou Shuangxing
Published: June 2023

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is considered to be one of the major mechanism in the pathogenesis of vascular cognitive impairment (VCI). Increased inflammatory cells, particularly microglia, often parallel hypoperfusion-induced gray matter damage such as hippocampal lesions, but the exact mechanism remains largely unknown. To understand the pathological mechanisms, we analyzed hippocampus-specific transcriptome profiles after cerebral hypoperfusion. The mouse hypoperfusion model was induced by employing the 0.16/0.18 mm bilateral common carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) procedure. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) was assessed after 3-week hypoperfusion. Pathological changes were evaluated via hematoxylin staining and immunofluorescence staining. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed using RNA samples of sham- or BCAS-operated mice, followed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) validation. We found that the 0.16/0.18 mm BCAS induced decreased CBF, hippocampal neuronal loss, and microglial activation. Furthermore, GSEA between sham and BCAS mice showed activation of interferon-beta signaling along with inflammatory immune responses. In addition, integrative analysis with published single-cell RNA-seq revealed that up-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in a distinct cell type of “microglia,” and down-regulated DEGs were enriched in “CA1 pyramidal,” not in “interneurons” or “S1 pyramidal.” This database of transcriptomic profiles of BCAS-hypoperfusion will be useful for future studies to explore potential targets for vascular cognitive dysfunction.
Are visits of Dutch energy coach volunteers associated with a reduction in gas and electricity consumption?
Authors: Schneider Philipp T. , van de Rijt Arnout , Boele Charlotte , Buskens Vincent
Published: June 2023

In a number of European countries, local municipalities, housing cooperatives, and citizen-based initiatives have been training energy coaches to help citizens improve the sustainability of their homes. These local volunteers offer an analysis of a citizen’s home to advise on how to make it more sustainable, comparing citizens’ consumption patterns with similar others’. While energy coaches are widely employed, evidence on the effectiveness of energy coaches and their approach is lacking. We collaborated with a housing cooperation that trains and provides tools for energy coaches in the Netherlands, comparing the electricity and gas consumption of households before the visit of a local energy coach and their consumption 1 year later. Our results suggest that the visit of an energy coach was associated with a reduction in energy consumption, but only for those who were told by the energy coach that they were consuming more energy than comparable others.
Geometry and convergence of natural policy gradient methods
Authors: Müller Johannes , Montúfar Guido
Published: June 2023

We study the convergence of several natural policy gradient (NPG) methods in infinite-horizon discounted Markov decision processes with regular policy parametrizations. For a variety of NPGs and reward functions we show that the trajectories in state-action space are solutions of gradient flows with respect to Hessian geometries, based on which we obtain global convergence guarantees and convergence rates. In particular, we show linear convergence for unregularized and regularized NPG flows with the metrics proposed by Kakade and Morimura and co-authors by observing that these arise from the Hessian geometries of conditional entropy and entropy respectively. Further, we obtain sublinear convergence rates for Hessian geometries arising from other convex functions like log-barriers. Finally, we interpret the discrete-time NPG methods with regularized rewards as inexact Newton methods if the NPG is defined with respect to the Hessian geometry of the regularizer. This yields local quadratic convergence rates of these methods for step size equal to the inverse penalization strength.
Optimal projection filters with information geometry
Authors: Armstrong John , Brigo Damiano , Hanzon Bernard
Published: June 2023

We review the introduction of several types of projection filters. Projection structures coming from information geometry are used to obtain a finite dimensional filter in the form of a stochastic differential equation (SDE), starting from the exact infinite-dimensional stochastic partial differential equation (SPDE) for the optimal filter. We start with the Stratonovich projection filters based on the Hellinger distance as introduced and developed in Brigo et al. (IEEE Trans Autom Control 43(2):247–252, 1998, Bernoulli 5(3):495–534, 1999), where the SPDE is put in Stratonovich form before projection, hence the term “Stratonovich projection”. The correction step of the filtering algorithm can be made exact by choosing a suitable exponential family as manifold, there is equivalence with assumed density filters and numerical examples have been studied. Other authors further developed these projection filters and we present a brief literature review. A second type of Stratonovich projection filters was introduced in Armstrong and Brigo (Math Control Signals Syst 28(1):1–33, 2016) where a direct $$L^2$$

L
2

metric is used for projection. Projecting on mixtures of densities as a manifold coincides with Galerkin methods. All the above projection filters lack optimality, as the single vector fields of the Stratonovich SPDE are projected optimally but the SPDE solution as a whole is not approximated optimally by the projected SDE solution according to a clear criterion. This led to the optimal projection filters in Armstrong et al. (Proc Lond Math Soc 119(1):176–213, 2019, Projection of SDEs onto submanifolds. “Information Geometry”, 2023 special issue on half a century of information geometry, 2018), based on the Ito vector and Ito jet projections, where several types of mean square distances between the optimal filter SPDE solution and the sought finite dimensional SDE approximations are minimized, with numerical examples. After reviewing the above developments, we conclude with the remaining challenges.
Data Preparation: A Technological Perspective and Review
Authors: Fernandes Alvaro A. A. , Koehler Martin , Konstantinou Nikolaos , Pankin Pavel , Paton Norman W. , Sakellariou Rizos
Published: June 2023

Data analysis often uses data sets that were collected for different purposes. Indeed, new insights are often obtained by combining data sets that were produced independently of each other, for example by combining data from outside an organization with internal data resources. As a result, there is a need to discover, clean, integrate and restructure data into a form that is suitable for an intended analysis. Data preparation, also known as data wrangling, is the process by which data are transformed from its existing representation into a form that is suitable for analysis. In this paper, we review the state-of-the-art in data preparation, by: (i) describing functionalities that are central to data preparation pipelines, specifically profiling, matching, mapping, format transformation and data repair; and (ii) presenting how these capabilities surface in different approaches to data preparation, that involve programming, writing workflows, interacting with individual data sets as tables, and automating aspects of the process. These functionalities and approaches are illustrated with reference to a running example that combines open government data with web extracted real estate data.
Electrokinetic modelling of cone-jet electrosprays
Authors: López-Herrera J.M. , Herrada M.A. , Gañán-Calvo A.M.
Published: June 2023

The physics of electrospray has been subject to an intense debate for three decades regarding the ultimate electrokinetics that determines the electric current and the size of the emitted droplets in the steady Taylor cone-jet mode (TCJ). In order to solve with a high degree of accuracy the complete electrokinetic structure of the TCJ, in this work, we have used the full Poisson–Nernst–Planck model electrokinetic equations, which have been solved using a high accuracy numerical scheme. We consider a formulation with no interfacial adsorption of ions, as in Mori & Young (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 855, 2018, pp. 67–130). Our simulations corroborate Mori and Young's conclusion that the classical leaky dielectric model (LDM) recovers the electrodiffusion theory for weak electrolytes when disregarding ion adsorption at the interface. However, for strong electrolytes, our results differ drastically from those provided by the LDM. In this case, we observe that the ion distribution, and consequently the conductivity in the bulk, can be strongly non-homogeneous. Given the rather universal validity of the LDM experimentally observed so far, we postulate that ion interfacial adsorption must be considered in the case of strong, highly dissociated electrolytes to retrieve the LDM limit, mostly for a cone jet operating in the vicinity of the minimum flow rate.
Vortex imprints on a free surface as proxy for surface divergence
Authors: Babiker Omer M. , Bjerkebæk Ivar , Xuan Anqing , Shen Lian , Ellingsen Simen Å.
Published: June 2023

In turbulence near a free surface, strong vortices attach to the surface, creating surface imprints visible as nearly circular ‘dimples’. By studying these imprints in direct numerical simulation (DNS) data we make two observations. First, the imprints of surface-attached vortices can be very effectively distinguished from other turbulent surface features using two physical features: they are nearly circular in shape, and persist for a long time compared with other pertinent time scales. Secondly, the instantaneous number of surface dimples from surface-attached vortices in an area,

$N(t)$

, is intimately related to its mean-square surface divergence,

$\beta ^2(t)$

. We develop a simple and physically transparent computer vision procedure which, using the properties of low eccentricity and longevity, detects and tracks vortices from their surface features only, with sensitivity and accuracy of

$90\,\%$

or better. We compare

$N(t)$

and

$\beta ^2(t)$

, finding a normalised cross-correlation of

$0.90$

, with changes in

$N$

lagging around

$0.8T_\infty$

behind those in

$\beta ^2$

(

$T_\infty$

is an integral time scale), confirming the common observation that vortices are spawned by strong upwelling events where

$\beta ^2$

is large. These findings suggest that the rate of mass flux across the surface, being closely related to surface divergence, can be estimated remotely in some natural flows using visible free-surface dimples as proxy.
An Epidemiological Analysis of Terrorist Attacks in the Nordic and Baltic Countries from 1970 through 2020
Authors: De Cauwer Harald , Granholm Fredrik , Khorram-Manesh Amir , Barten Dennis G. , Tin Derrick , Mortelmans Luc J. , Somville Francis , Ciottone Gregory R.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, and the recent Russo-Ukrainian war that started in 2022, were triggers that radically changed the perception of security in the Nordic and Baltic countries. The on-going Russian hybrid war has resulted in a renewed global interest in the safety and security of many countries (eg, the Nordic-Baltic Eight). The prospective North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership of Finland and Sweden may drastically change the regional military and political landscape.

The objective of this study was to identify and characterize all documented terrorist attacks in this region as reported to the Global Terrorism Database (GTD) from 1970 through 2020.

Methods:

The GTD was searched using the internal database functions for all terrorism incidents in the Nordic-Baltic states: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden.

Temporal factors, location, target type, attack and weapon type, perpetrator type, number of casualties, and property value loss were collated. Results were exported into an Excel spreadsheet for analysis.

Results:

There were 298 terrorism-related incidents from 1970 through 2020. Most attacks occurred in Sweden, followed by Norway and Finland. No entries were recorded for the Baltic states prior to their independency in 1991. The 298 incidents resulted in a total of 113 fatalities and 277 injuries.

Facility/infrastructure attacks were the most frequently identified attack type (35.0%), followed by bombings and explosions (30.9%). Armed assaults were responsible for 80 fatalities and 105 injuries, followed by bombings/explosions with 15 fatalities and 72 injuries. The predominant target types were immigrants and refugee shelters (64/298 incidents). In only 33.6% of the incidents, perpetrators were known. Right-wing assailants represented the largest group, accounting for 27 incidents.

Conclusion:

From 1970 through 2020, there were 298 terrorist attacks in the Nordic-Baltic Eight. Sweden accounted for 50% of incidents.

The profile of terrorist attacks was very diverse, as were the perpetrators and targets. Every country had its own incident characteristics. The surge of right-wing extremism must be closely monitored.