bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Navigating Temporary Competitive Advantage: Pandemic‐Driven Strategies in the Global Airline Industry
Authors: Amankwah‐Amoah Joseph , Nyame‐Asiamah Frank , Ayiine‐Etigo David
Published: November 2024

The present study examines the evolution and dynamics of temporary competitive advantage (TCA) in the volatile airline industry. This is illustrated by using the context of COVID‐19 pandemic to understand the risk faced by the global airline industry. By focusing on “healthiness” as a source of competitiveness, many airlines and the industry instituted distinctive initiatives to demonstrate and deliver hygienically dependable travel experiences. The airline companies adopted a host of new technologies and processes such as biometric boarding, digital health passports, general biometrics, and bring‐your‐own‐device, to minimize face‐to‐face interactions and curtail the spread of the virus. These competitive strategies aimed to improve the companies' operational efficiency, and cost reduction. The avenues for future research and implications for practicing managers are identified and discussed.
The R Package Ecosystem for Robust Statistics
Authors: Todorov Valentin
Published: November 2024

In the last few years, the number of R packages implementing different robust statistical methods have increased substantially. There are now numerous packages for computing robust multivariate location and scatter, robust multivariate analysis like principal components and discriminant analysis, robust linear models, and other algorithms dedicated to cope with outliers and other irregularities in the data. This abundance of package options may be overwhelming for both beginners and more experienced R users. Here we provide an overview of the most important 25 R packages for different tasks. As metrics for the importance of each package, we consider its maturity and history, the number of total and average monthly downloads from CRAN (The Comprehensive R Archive Network), and the number of reverse dependencies. Then we briefly describe what each of these package does. After that we elaborate on the several above‐mentioned topics of robust statistics, presenting the methodology and the implementation in R and illustrating the application on real data examples. Particular attention is paid to the robust methods and algorithms suitable for high‐dimensional data. The code for all examples is accessible on the GitHub repository https://github.com/valentint/robust‐R‐ecosystem‐WIREs.
Hypocrellin: A Natural Photosensitizer and Nano‐Formulation for Enhanced Molecular Targeting of PDT of Melanoma
Authors: Gugu Nkosi Precious Winterrose , Chandran Rahul , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: November 2024

Nano‐formulation has generated attention in the battle against cancer, because of its great flexibility, reduced adverse side effects, and accuracy in delivering drugs to target tissues dependent on the size and surface characteristics of the disease. The field of photodynamic treatment has advanced significantly in the past years. Photodynamic techniques that use nano‐formulations have surfaced to further the field of nanotechnology in medicine, especially in cancer treatment. The pharmaceutical industry is seeing a growing trend toward enhanced drug formulation using nano‐formulations such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, nano‐emulsions, and micelles. Natural extracts have also shown adverse effects when employed as photosensitizers in cancer therapy because they are cytotoxic when activated by light. Still, natural photosensitizers are a big part of cancer treatment. However, some shortcomings can be minimized by combining nano‐formulations with these natural photosensitizers. The synergistic improvement in medication delivery that maintains or increases the mechanism of cell death in malignant cells has also been demonstrated by the combination of photodynamic therapy with nano‐formulations and natural photosensitizers. Lastly, this review assesses the feasibility and potential of a photodynamic therapy system based on nano‐formulations and natural photosensitizers in clinical treatment applications and briefly discusses the removal of toxic compounds associated with nano‐formulations within cells.
Investigation on the impact of Hall and ion‐slip currents and buoyant force on heat transfer in three dimensional flow of Carreau–Yasuda fluid with multi‐nanoparticles
Authors: Shakir Beenish , Nawaz M. , Almohammadi Saja Mohammad , Alharbi Sayer Obaid
Published: November 2024

This proposed analysis focuses on heat transport in a magneto‐multi‐nano fluid over a vertical surface. The base fluid (ethylene glycol, denoted by EG) containing , and is taken into consideration. The nonuniform magnetic field is imposed perpendicularly to the sheet. The boundary layer governing equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations and solved by applying bvp4c. The mesh‐free analysis is performed, and the results are confirmed to be correct and accurate. An agreement between present and published data is found. A parametric study is performed to examine the trends in the variation of field variables. Hall and ion‐slip effects play a key role in the prevention of the Joule heating. The buoyancy force arises due to density difference under Boussinesq approximation. This force has assisting or opposing effects on fluid motion provided that flow is in a downward or upward direction, respectively. Heat generation produced by fluids undergoing thermal changes is responsible of the increase in the temperature of the fluid. Therefore, the characteristics of the generation of heat for heat transportation fluid are favorable. However, a heat‐absorbing fluids absorb heat and lower their heat energy because of which temperature of fluid decreases. Hence, the ability of fluid to transport heat increases. Thus, for the best thermal performance of fluid, fluid should be heat‐absorbing. It is noted that wall shear stresses exerted by tri‐nanofluid are higher than wall shear stresses exerted by di‐ and mono‐nanofluids. Moreover, Hall and ion‐slip currents play a remarkable role in reducing the shear stresses on the surface of the fluid. Thus, partially and fully ionized fluids (once fluid is subjected to magnetic field) exert lesser wall shear stress in comparison with the neutral fluid. In the case of positive buoyancy force, the wall shear stresses are decreasing function of the Grashof number. However, wall shear stresses increase in case of opposing buoyancy force.
Complications in Occipitocervical Surgery
Authors: Ozer Ali Fahir
Published: November 2024

The occipitocervical junction is formed by the foramen magnum (FM) and the adjacent anatomical structures of the C1 and C2 vertebrae. The FM is formed anteriorly by the basilar part of occipital bone. Anterolaterally, it borders the occipital condyles and hypoglossal canal as well as the jugular foramen. Posteriorly, the FM is formed by the squamous part of the occipital bone with the internal occipital crest. In the midline, named landmarks at the anterior margin are the basion and, at the posterior margin, the opisthion. Vital anatomic structures are located in the FM or pass through. Among these are the medulla oblongata, meninges, anterior and posterior spinal arteries, vertebral arteries, and spinal roots of the accessory nerve. The FM is firmly anchored to the cervical canal via strong ligamentous support.

Pathologies in this area can be of congenital, acquired, traumatic, neoplastic, or infectious origin, with the respective surgical indications and approaches depending on the nature and location of the pathology. If the pathology is occipitoatlantal, the occiput is usually involved in surgery. On the other hand, if the pathology is only at the level of C1-C2, surgery may be limited to these two vertebrae.

In this section, we present the surgical management of exemplary congenital cases, and we discuss the complications and what needs to be done to deal with them.
Carotid Complications in Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Arraez Miguel A. , Arraez Cinta , Ros Angela , Selfa Antonio , Ros Bienvenido
Published: November 2024

Carotid artery rupture is a worrisome complication that sometimes occurs during microsurgical or endoscopic skull base procedures. Many identifiable aspects are related to prevention, intraoperative management, and immediate postoperative endovascular treatment. This article deals with microsurgical and endoscopic cases in which the carotid artery or its branches have been damaged in the context of a resection of skull base lesions. Factors related to the anatomy of the skull base and the arteries and their variations are considered, along with intraoperative measures to control the bleeding. Finally, depending on the case, recommendations for immediate postoperative endovascular management are made.
Complications Following Microvascular Decompression (MVD) for Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)
Authors: Turel Keki
Published: November 2024

This article descibes the surgical management of classic trigeminal neuralgia via microvascular decompression of the neuro-vascular conflict zone. This treatment has been proven to be higly effective with an immediate relief of debilitating symptoms and a durable response. The article reports on cases with associated complications and their avoidance.
Complications in Neuroendoscopy
Authors: Delitala Alberto , Fazzolari Benedetta
Published: November 2024

Neuroendoscopy complications can be divided into three categories: vascular, neural, and technical failures. Moreover, cognitive sequelae can be considered as delayed complications of neuroendoscopic surgery. The purpose of this manuscript is to report the experiences published in the current literature in order to identify the causes of complications in neuroendoscopy and methods to manage and avoid them.
Children’s Well-being During COVID-19 Pandemic: An Exploratory Study Among 10–12 Year Old School Children in Bangladesh
Authors: Goswami Haridhan , Banik Bijoy Krishna , Goswami Gour Gobinda , Khalil M. Ibrahim
Published: November 2024

The issue of subjective well-being has received considerable attention in social science and health-related research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, we noticed a gap in knowledge regarding children’s views on how the pandemic affected their lives during the pandemic, especially in developing countries. This chapter filled out that research gap in the context of Bangladesh. Data in this chapter were obtained from the Children’s Worlds COVID-19 Special Survey carried out in Bangladesh during the pandemic. For that purpose, a child-friendly questionnaire was developed, and survey data were gathered from 1370 school children 10–12 years of age. In this chapter, we used some of the data to identify how children rated (on an 11-point scale, 0 = not at all satisfied to 10 = totally satisfied) 12 different aspects of their lives during the pandemic and examine whether there was a difference in the rating by their gender and rural-urban location. The study revealed that rural children were significantly less satisfied with their home, area of living, safety, learning at school, and future. In addition, a gendered aspect was observed where boys reported significantly lower satisfaction with their material possessions and how adults listened to them.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Young People’s Levels of Subjective Well-being: Evidence from HILDA 2001–2020
Authors: Chesters Jenny
Published: November 2024

In 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic rolled across the world, young people in Australia faced unprecedented challenges in their daily lives. Although the lockdowns and restrictions implemented to contain the pandemic impacted all Australians, young people were particularly affected. Adolescence is the period when young people develop their own social networks, thus, peer relationships become increasingly more important. During the pandemic, young people were isolated from their friends at school, extra-curricular activities were disrupted and life became increasingly uncertain. Thus, the COVID-19 pandemic further complicated an already complex process. This paper examines whether these disruptions influenced levels of subjective well-being of young people aged 15 to 17 years. Drawing on Social Production Function (SPF) theory, analysis of data collected by the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) project is conducted to examine whether levels of subjective well-being of five cohorts of young people aged 15 to 17 years in 2001, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020 varied according to period effects. The findings show that, despite the unprecedented lockdown measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 cohort of young people reported similar levels of subjective well-being as previous cohorts.
The Well-Being of Young People in Europe During the Pandemic: The Social Ties, Labor Market Integration, and the Social Inequalities
Authors: Stanojević Dragan , Todosijević Bojan , Gvozdanović Anja
Published: November 2024

This chapter analyzes the relationships between life satisfaction and three dimensions of integration: social ties, participation in the labor market, and political participation among the European youth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it is commonly presumed that a higher level of social integration corresponds to a greater level of life satisfaction it is important to explore whether certain forms of integration may be associated with greater dissatisfaction and frustration. For instance, under certain circumstances, dissatisfaction might motivate greater political participation and involvement in various social networks. In other words, it is of interest to ascertain whether dissatisfaction might, in fact, foster a greater propensity to connect with others and engage in collective actions.

We address this problem by using multilevel data. The individual-level data come from the tenth cycle of the European Social Survey (ESS10-2018), conducted across 31 countries during the years 2020–2022. Since our study focuses on youth, a sub-population comprising individuals aged 15–35 years was extracted. In order to control for the contextual-level data, we employed two standard indicators, GINI and GDP per capita. The results show that the various forms of integration—closer social ties, being a member of an ethnic majority, labor market integration, and some forms of political participation (voting)—are associated with greater life satisfaction.
The Pandemic Effects on Sociability and Well-being of Low-Income Adolescents in Mexico
Authors: Saraví Gonzalo A.
Published: November 2024

This chapter analyzes the relationship between adolescent mental health and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth sociability. The focus is on three spheres of sociability: peer interaction, family life, and urban experience. The main findings show the relevance of face-to-face sociability in this period of life, and how its disruption had a significant effect on the socioemotional well-being of young people. Mexico has been one of the countries with the longest school closure in the world (almost 2 years) which has dealt a critical blow to youth social life. The analysis is based on information from a Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) on adolescence and the COVID-19 Pandemic that privileged the voices, emotions, and perceptions of the participants, applying innovative qualitative techniques. Students from an upper-middle school located in the popular outskirts of Mexico City were invited to participate as co-researchers and thus, to co-create a research process driven by their lived experiences of the pandemic. In total, 61 students (41% male and 59% girls) from 17 to 19 years old were involved. Fieldwork was carried out between October 2020 and August 2021.
Basics of Nuclear Reactor Physics
Authors: Pyeon Cheol Ho , Chiba Go , Endo Tomohiro , Watanabe Kenichi
Published: November 2024

When we conduct various kinds of experiments with nuclear reactors and interpret the obtained measurement results qualitatively and quantitatively, knowledge of the theory of nuclear reactor physics is quite helpful and it enables us to better understand the experiments. Phenomena occurring in nuclear reactors are generally based on the interections between neutrons and nuclei, so the fundamental knowledge on this interaction are described and several important physical quantities are introduced. Then, the fission chain reactions are interpreted by a classical theory, the six-factor formula. Based on the fundamental quantities in the nuclear reactor physics such as the neutron flux and the reaction rate, the neutron diffusion equation is derived, and the neutron non-leakage probabilities are quantified based on this diffusion theory. Furthermore, the basics of the nuclear reactor kinetics theory are discussed using the point kinetics equation.
Measurements of Reaction Rates
Authors: Pyeon Cheol Ho , Chiba Go , Endo Tomohiro , Watanabe Kenichi
Published: November 2024

Neutron flux plays a significant role in the theory of reactor physics, while neutron flux is indirectly measured through the interaction between the neutron and the material used as the neutron detector in experiments. The physical quantity that is measured throughout the experiment is the “reaction rate.” To obtain the neutron flux from the measured reaction rate, various information involving cross sections of the material used as the detector is necessary, in addition to experimental devices. At the same time, it is necessary to consider the theory of reactor physics related to the specific reactions between neutrons and materials in the irradiation field. This chapter introduces methodologies for measuring the reaction rate by the activation foil method before determining the neutron flux.
Breeding behaviour of Central European Red Kites: parental sex-dependent differences
Authors: Dostál Marek , Škrábal Jan , Raab Rainer , Spakovszky Péter , Matušík Hynek , Svetlík Ján , Maderič Boris , Makoň Karel , Literák Ivan
Published: November 2024

The breeding behaviour of raptors is determined by many characteristics, such as courtship and mating patterns, nest building, foraging, territorial defence activities, clutch incubation, and caring for the young. Here, we study the breeding behaviour of the Red Kite (Milvus milvus), a European native bird of prey. From a period between 2018 and 2022, we analysed data for 33 adult Red Kites (14 males and 19 females) during 70 successful breeding episodes in Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Using satellite telemetry and in situ observations, we found differences between males and females in the size of the home range, number of nights on the nest, and maximum distances from the nest. We analysed the influence of different factors on movement activity, breeding productivity, and home range size. Females spent significantly more nights on the nest than did males, flew shorter distances from the eyrie, and occupied smaller areas. Red Kites with two or more breeding experiences arrived significantly earlier than did unexperienced Kites in their first breeding attempts. Juveniles departed from the nest sooner than did their parents. Birds with more fledged juveniles occupied smaller home ranges. Our study reveals new knowledge of substantially different breeding behaviours in male and female Central European Red Kites.
Surgeon perspectives on factors affecting intraoperative complexity in major emergency abdominal surgery: a Danish nationwide survey
Authors: Jensen Lasse Rehné , Kokotovic Dunja , Gormsen Johanne , Burcharth Jakob , Jensen Thomas Korgaard
Published: November 2024

Background

The factors contributing to increased intraoperative complexity in major emergency abdominal surgery are not well documented. Several factors could influence surgeons’ expectations regarding intraoperative complexity in emergency settings. The purpose of this study was to investigate surgeons’ expectations regarding how prior and current factors may affect intraoperative complexity in emergency surgery.

Methods

The study was an anonymous, case-based questionnaire survey targeting a national cohort of general surgeons in Denmark. The questionnaire included four parts: (1) demographics; (2) rating of factors affecting intraoperative complexity in an emergency laparotomy; (3) ranking of factors by impact on intraoperative complexity; and (4) specification of factors necessitating a consultant’s presence at the start of surgery.

Results

The questionnaire was answered by 137 surgeons. Both in-house and on-call surgeons agreed that the prior factors of previous open abdomen and previous abdominal surgery described with difficult conditions had the highest impact on intraoperative complexity. The most important current factors were severe hemodynamic instability and suspected adhesional obstruction in computed tomography. Significant differences were found in the need for consultant presence: previous radiotherapy (3% in-house vs. 39% on-call; p < 0.001), previous open abdomen (23% in-house vs. 47% on-call; p < 0.002), severe hemodynamic instability (46% in-house vs. 65% on-call; p < 0.001), and suspected perforated diverticulitis (18% in-house vs. 33% on-call; p < 0.002).

Conclusion

This study revealed a consensus among in-house and on-call surgeons regarding the key factors influencing intraoperative complexity in emergency abdominal surgery, offering valuable insights from the perspective of Danish surgeons.
Calcific versus non-calcific plaque: a CAD-RADS and FFRCT study
Authors: Murphy David , Graby John , Hudson Benjamin , Lowe Robert , Carson Kevin , Kandan Sri Raveen , McKenzie Daniel , Khavandi Ali , Rodrigues Jonathan Carl Luis
Published: November 2024

Coronary Artery Disease-Reporting and Data System (CAD-RADS) standardises Computed Tomography Coronary Angiography (CTCA) reporting. Coronary calcification can overestimate stenosis. We hypothesized where CADRADS category is assigned due to predominantly calcified maximal stenosis (Ca+), the CTCA-derived Fractional Flow Reserve (FFRCT) would be lower compared to predominantly non-calcified maximal stenoses (Ca-) of the same CAD-RADS category. Consecutive patients undergoing routine clinical CTCA (September 2018 to May 2020) with ≥1 stenosis ≥25% with FFRCT correlation were included. CTCA’s were subdivided into Ca+ and Ca-. FFRCT was measured in the left anterior descending (LAD), left circumflex (LCx) and right coronary artery (RCA). Potentially flow-limiting classified as FFRCT≤0.8. A subset had Invasive Coronary Angiography (ICA). 561 patients screened, 320 included (60% men, 69±10 years). Ca+ in 51%, 69% and 50% of CAD-RADS 2, 3 and 4 respectively. There was no difference in the prevalence of FFRCT≤0.8 between Ca+ and Ca- stenoses for each CAD-RADS categories. No difference was demonstrated in the median maximal stenoses FFRCT or end-vessel FFRCT within CAD-RADS 2 and 4. CAD-RADS 3 Ca+ had a lower FFRCT (maximal stenosis p= .02, end-vessel p= .005) vs Ca-. No difference in the prevalence of obstructive disease at ICA between predominantly Ca+ and Ca- for any CAD-RADS category. There was no difference in median FFRCT values or rate of obstructive disease at ICA between Ca+ and Castenosis in both CAD-RADS 2 and 4. Ca+ CAD-RADS 3 was suggestive of an underestimation based on FFRCT but not corroborated at ICA.
Assessing climate impacts of agroforestry system in LCA: case study in Zambia
Authors: Lahtinen Oskari J. J. , Kyttä Venla V. , Tuomisto Hanna L.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Agroforestry systems have the potential to reduce the carbon footprint (CF) of food production. One of the advantages of these systems is carbon removal from the atmosphere to biogenic carbon of trees. Nevertheless, there is not a common agreement on the method to include the climatic benefits of agroforestry systems in life cycle assessment (LCA). This study aims to evaluate methods for including biogenic carbon in the LCA of agroforestry systems.

Methods

We studied three different maize production systems in Zambia: Low-input, High-input, and Agroforestry scenario. In the Agroforestry scenario, we studied a maize–Faidherbia albida system by investigating three methodological approaches with a functional unit (FU) of 1 ha. In Methodological Approach 1, biogenic carbon in the above- and below-ground biomass of trees in the agroforestry system was considered as a temporary carbon dioxide (CO2) storage via correction flow. In Methodological Approach 2, the biomass of trees was used as an energy source. In Methodological Approach 3, the mass balance principle was employed. The system expansion method was utilized to make each production system comparable. Three sensitivity analyses with a FU of 1000 kg of dry matter maize grain were also conducted following the methodological approaches.

Results and discussion

The Agroforestry scenario had the lowest CF in all methodological approaches and in all sensitivity analyses when the maize grain yield level was the same as reported in the literature. Yet, uncertainty levels were high, as an IPCC tier 1 method was used. It was found that the biogenic carbon of the trees in agroforestry systems can be included in LCA by the currently available methods. The mass balance principle was a practical method for including the biogenic carbon of the trees in LCA. System expansion was another feasible method, wherein processes are added to the compared systems until they include the provision of the same functions.

Conclusions

Biogenic carbon in the biomass of trees in agroforestry systems can greatly contribute to decreasing the CF if it is considered in LCA. If the FU and allocation methods are selected accordingly, the biogenic carbon can be effectively included in LCA. Based on the results of this case study, the maize–F. albida agroforestry system has the potential for decreasing the CF of maize production in Zambia.
Comparative Quantitative Analysis of the Evolution of Precipitates in Inconel 625 Superalloy Manufactured by Laser Powder Bed Fusion Subjected to High-Temperature Creep and Annealing
Authors: Staroń Sylwia , Pasiowiec Hubert , Gola Kewin , Ledwig Piotr , Dubiel Beata
Published: November 2024

The aim of the study is to contribute to understanding how prolonged exposure to high temperature and stress affects the morphology, size, and distribution of secondary phase precipitates in Inconel 625 manufactured by laser powder bed fusion. Creep tests were performed under a constant stress of 100 MPa at temperatures of 600 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C. Samples creep tested at 600 °C and 700 °C were terminated after 2000 hours, while at 800 °C, the creep test was carried out until rupture. Isothermal annealing was carried out at temperatures of 700 °C and 800 °C for the same duration as creep tests. Microstructural analysis of creep-deformed and annealed samples was performed with the use of light microscopy, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. The first-ever comparison of the evolution of precipitates in Inconel 625 LPBF after creep tests and annealing at 700 °C and 800 °C was shown. The qualitative and quantitative analysis revealed that the stress applied during creep tests leads to more pronounced nucleation of δ phase precipitates, although the growth of δ particles occurs more slowly compared to annealing. Furthermore, in creep-tested samples, the growth and coalescence of carbides and Laves phase particles were more intensive, compared to stress-free annealing, particularly at a temperature of 800 °C. Moreover, we show that the evolution of carbides and Laves phase particles along grain boundaries contributes to cavity and microcrack formation during high-temperature creep of Inconel 625 LPBF.
Incidence and risk factors of female sexual dysfunction in urban and rural China: a 4-year prospective cohort study
Authors: Pang Haiyu , Si Mingyu , Xu Tao , Li Zhaoai , Gong Jian , Liu Qing , Wang Yuling , Wang Juntao , Xia Zhijun , Zhu Lan
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in urban and rural China. A prospective cohort study was conducted from February 2014 to January 2016, with follow-up from June to December 2018. Women aged ≽20 years were recruited from urban and rural areas in six provinces of China using a multistage, stratified, cluster sampling method. Sexual function was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire. A total of 16 827 women without sexual dysfunction at baseline participated in this study, 9489 of them (urban, 5321; rural, 4168) who had complete information from baseline to follow-up were included in the final analysis. The rate of follow-up was 68.81%, and the median follow-up time was 4.13 years. The 4-year incidence of FSD was 43.07%, with an incidence density of 12.02 per 100 person-years. In particular, the 4-year incidence and incidence density of FSD were 41.03% and 11.88 per 100 person-years in the urban group and 45.68% and 12.17 per 100 person-years in the rural group. Among women with sexual dysfunction, difficulties in sexual desire, satisfaction, and arousal were the main symptoms. In urban women, the risk factors for FSD included age ≽45 years (adjusted relative risk 1.69, 95% confidence interval 1.57–1.81), hypertension (1.31, 1.14–1.49), previous delivery (1.26, 1.13–1.41), post-menopausal status (1.20, 1.10–1.32), pelvic inflammatory disease (1.13, 1.05–1.21), and multiparity (1.11, 1.03–1.19). In the rural group, the risk factors significantly associated with FSD were age ≽45 years (1.50, 1.40–1.61), previous delivery (1.39, 1.17–1.65), hypertension (1.18, 1.06–1.30), multiparity (1.16, 1.07–1.27), and post-menopausal status (1.15, 1.07–1.23). FSD is a hidden epidemic condition in China, and the development of prevention strategies should consider the distinct risk factors present in rural and urban areas.
Monitoring fossil fuel CO2 emissions from co-emitted NO2 observed from space: progress, challenges, and future perspectives
Authors: Li Hui , Qiu Jiaxin , Zhang Kexin , Zheng Bo
Published: November 2024

Developing an anthropogenic carbon dioxides (CO2) emissions monitoring and verification support (MVS) capacity is essential to support the Global Stocktake (GST) and ratchet up Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The 2019 IPCC refinement proposes top-down inversed CO2 emissions, primarily from fossil fuel (FFCO2), as a viable emission dataset. Despite substantial progress in directly inferring FFCO2 emissions from CO2 observations, substantial challenges remain, particularly in distinguishing local CO2 enhancements from the high background due to the long atmospheric lifetime. Alternatively, using short-lived and co-emitted nitrogen dioxide (NO2) as a proxy in FFCO2 emission inversion has gained prominence. This methodology is broadly categorized into plume-based and emission ratios (ERs)-based inversion methods. In the plume-based methods, NO2 observations act as locators, constraints, and validators for deciphering CO2 plumes downwind of sources, typically at point source and city scales. The ERs-based inversion approach typically consists of two steps: inferring NO2-based nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions and converting NOx to CO2 emissions using CO2-to-NOx ERs. While integrating NO2 observations into FFCO2 emission inversion offers advantages over the direct CO2-based methods, uncertainties persist, including both structural and data-related uncertainties. Addressing these uncertainties is a primary focus for future research, which includes deploying next-generation satellites and developing advanced inversion systems. Besides, data caveats are necessary when releasing data to users to prevent potential misuse. Advancing NO2-based CO2 emission inversion requires interdisciplinary collaboration across multiple communities of remote sensing, emission inventory, transport model improvement, and atmospheric inversion algorithm development.
Preoperative mitral valve annulus area size is an important factor in avoiding functional mitral stenosis after mitral valve repair
Authors: Sasaki Haruka , Takaoka Hiroyuki , Yoshida Kazuki , Matsumoto Moe , Nishikawa Yusei , Noguchi Yoshitada , Aoki Shuhei , Suzuki Katsuya , Yashima Satomi , Kinoshita Makiko , Suzuki-Eguchi Noriko , Takanashi Shuichiro , Matsumiya Goro , Kobayashi Yoshio
Published: November 2024

Background

Functional mitral stenosis (FMS) following mitral valve (MV) repair for degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR) is known as a poor prognostic factor. The parameters for avoiding postoperative FMS in MV repair for DMR have not been established.

Methods

Two-hundred-and-twenty patients (mean age 61.1 ± 13.3 years, 144 males) who underwent MV repair for DMR were analyzed. MV annulus area was measured pre- and postoperatively using three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Trans-mitral pressure gradient (TMPG) was evaluated by postoperative transthoracic echocardiography and FMS was defined as a mean TMPG ≥ 5 mmHg.

Results

FMS was present in 14 patients (6.4%). Pre- versus postoperative MV annulus area change ratio was greater in the FMS group than in the non-FMS group (62.5 ± 7.2% vs. 48 ± 11.2%, p < 0.0001). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, MV annulus area change ratio was an independent predictor of FMS (odds ratio 1.19, 95% confidence interval 1.09–1.33, p < 0.0001), while receiver operating characteristics analysis showed that the optimal threshold for MV annulus area change ratio to predict FMS was 56.2% (area under the curve, 0.87; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The preoperative MV annulus area on TEE can be used to determine the postoperative MV annulus area to avoid FMS after MV repair.
Onboard background-oriented schlieren imaging using consumer-grade hardware
Authors: Quinn M. K. , Crowther W. J. , Wood K. , Kabbabe K.
Published: November 2024

A demonstration of a fully onboard method for generating background oriented schlieren (BOS) data on a jet exhaust is presented. Readily available commercial camera equipment is used to capture in-flight imagery of a miniature jet engine exhaust mounted on a custom-built model aircraft. The setup for image acquisition and processing algorithms are described. A new process for registration of images to reduce the degrading effects of vibration and flexure of the airframe are developed and presented along with the underpinning BOS algorithm. Results show that jet flows can be visualised using this technique using a contained system on a single aircraft and demonstrate how a simple technique, such as BOS, can be democratised to such an extent that the cost of conducting in-flight jet measurements can be reduced to the budget of any model aircraft flyer.
What Is Spider-Man’s Real Name? Marvel Comics as Fictional Journalism
Authors: Cook Roy T.
Published: November 2024

We develop and defend a novel interpretation of mainstream Marvel Comics—an interpretation we call the Fictional Journalism Interpretation. We then show how this interpretation of Marvel comics (i) challenges standard accounts of the manner in which fictional truths are generated by fictions and (ii) provides us with novel, interesting, and in some cases simpler explanations of, and understandings of, phenomena within these comics that are hard to deal with adequately on more traditional accounts, including both contradictions in the fiction and various metafictional storytelling strategies. We conclude by defending the view from a number of objections.
Changing Trends of Excess Self-protective Behavior, and Association with Belief in Prevention Myths During the COVID-19 Epidemic in China: A Panel Study
Authors: Peng Sihui , Yang Tingzhong , Rockett Ian R.H.
Published: November 2024

This prospective observational study examined changing trends of excess self-protective behavior (EPB), and their association with perceived risk, perceived severity, and irrational beliefs about prevention during the Chinese COVID-19 epidemic. Participants were recruited for an online panel survey. There are 150 participants for the baseline and 102 for the final survey. There were 5 waves of interviews. Perceptions of risk and disease severity were measured by single items. Irrational beliefs about prevention and EPB comprised 5 common prevention misconceptions. Descriptive statistics and the CATMOD program were used for data analysis. The prevalence of participants perceiving personal risk of contracting COVID-19 and severe consequences of the disease was 18.6% and 25.5%, respectively, at baseline, and declining to 4.9% and 17.6% at final observation. The 5 selected EPB also showed a diminishing trend. Belief in COVID-19 prevention myths trended upwards. Perceived risk was positively associated with each EPB, and perceived severity with disinfection of clothes and hoarding of products. Myth adherence was positively associated with disinfection of clothes and both hand washing and sanitization. This study yields new information about EPB among the Chinese public. Policy modifications and public education interventions are essential for minimizing the adverse health effects of subscribing to irrational beliefs.
Leveraging heterogeneous LiDAR data to model successional stages at tree species level in temperate forests
Authors: Bald Lisa , Ziegler Alice , Gottwald Jannis , Koch Tiziana L. , Ludwig Marvin , Meyer Hanna , Wöllauer Stephan , Zeuss Dirk , Frieß Nicolas
Published: November 2024

In the context of the ongoing biodiversity crisis, understanding forest ecosystems, their tree species composition, and especially the successional stages of their development is crucial. They collectively shape the biodiversity within forests and thereby influence the ecosystem services that forests provide, yet this information is not readily available on a large scale. Remote sensing techniques offer promising solutions for obtaining area-wide information on tree species composition and their successional stages. While optical data are often freely available in appropriate quality over large scales, obtaining light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data, which provide valuable information about forest structure, is more challenging. LiDAR data are mostly acquired by public authorities across several years and therefore heterogeneous in quality. This study aims to assess if heterogeneous LiDAR data can support area-wide modeling of forest successional stages at the tree species group level. Different combinations of spectral satellite data (Sentinel-2) and heterogeneous airborne LiDAR data, collected by the federal government of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, were utilized to model up to three different successional stages of seven tree species groups. When incorporating heterogeneous LiDAR data into random forest models with spatial variable selection and spatial cross-validation, significant accuracy improvements of up to 0.23 were observed. This study shows the potential of not dismissing initially seemingly unusable heterogeneous LiDAR data for ecological studies. We advocate for a thorough examination to determine its usefulness for model enhancement. A practical application of this approach is demonstrated, in the context of mapping successional stages of tree species groups at a regional level.
Exploring the Antifibrotic Mechanisms of Ghrelin: Modulating TGF-β Signalling in Organ Fibrosis
Authors: Li Mei , Zheng Chang , Wang Huiyi , Wang Shan
Published: November 2024

Background

Fibrosis is a pathological condition that affects various organs by increasing fibrous connective tissue while reducing parenchymal cells. This imbalance can lead to compromised organ function and potential failure, posing significant health risks. The condition’s complexity necessitates the exploration of effective treatments to mitigate its progression and adverse outcomes.

Aims

This study aims to investigate the role of ghrelin, a peptide hormone known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties, in modulating fibrosis across different organs. By binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHSR-1a), ghrelin has shown potential in attenuating the fibrotic process, particularly through its interaction with the TGF-β signalling pathway.

Methods

An extensive review of clinical and animal model studies focusing on liver, kidney, lung, and myocardial fibrosis was conducted. The primary focus was on examining how ghrelin influences the TGF-β signalling pathway, with an emphasis on the regulation of TGF-β expression and the suppression of Smad signalling molecules. The methodology involved analysing data from various studies to understand ghrelin’s molecular mechanisms in combating fibrosis.

Results

The findings from the reviewed studies indicate that ghrelin exerts significant anti-fibrotic effects across multiple organ systems. Specifically, ghrelin was found to downregulate TGF-β expression and suppress Smad signalling molecules, leading to a marked reduction in fibrous tissue accumulation and preservation of organ function. In liver fibrosis models, ghrelin reduced TGF-β1 levels and Smad3 phosphorylation, while in kidney and cardiac fibrosis, similar protective effects were observed. The data also suggest that ghrelin’s effects are mediated through both canonical and non-canonical TGF-β pathways.

Conclusions

Ghrelin presents a promising therapeutic agent in the management of fibrosis due to its potent anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic actions. Its ability to modulate the TGF-β signalling pathway underscores a vital molecular mechanism through which ghrelin can mitigate fibrotic progression in various organs. Future research should focus on further elucidating ghrelin’s molecular interactions and potential clinical applications in fibrosis treatment, offering new avenues for developing effective anti-fibrotic therapies.
Entropy of group actions beyond uniform lattices
Authors: HAUSER TILL , SCHNEIDER FRIEDRICH MARTIN
Published: November 2024

Entropy of measure-preserving or continuous actions of amenable discrete groups allows for various equivalent approaches. Among them are those given by the techniques developed by Ollagnier and Pinchon on the one hand and the Ornstein–Weiss lemma on the other. We extend these two approaches to the context of actions of amenable topological groups. In contrast to the discrete setting, our results reveal a remarkable difference between the two concepts of entropy in the realm of non-discrete groups: while the first quantity collapses to 0 in the non-discrete case, the second yields a well-behaved invariant for amenable unimodular groups. Concerning the latter, we moreover study the corresponding notion of topological pressure, prove a Goodwyn-type theorem, and establish the equivalence with the uniform lattice approach (for locally compact groups admitting a uniform lattice). Our study elaborates on a version of the Ornstein–Weiss lemma due to Gromov.
In political judgment contrast is stronger than assimilation, especially when polarization is high
Authors: Ganzach Yoav
Published: November 2024

Past research suggested that assimilation (i.e., the tendency to exaggerate the similarity between one’s ideological position and the position of a preferred political object) is stronger than contrast (i.e., the tendency to exaggerate the dissimilarity between one’s ideological position and the position of a non-preferred political object). However, critiques of this research argue that this conclusion is unwarranted because it is biased toward assimilation appearing stronger than contrast. In the current study, we examine the ideological judgments of American presidential candidates between 1972 and 2020 and analyze all available subjects (in contrast to previous studies that relied primarily on data collected in the 1970s and 1980s and analyzed only subjects who actually voted), and show that, in these years, contrast was stronger than assimilation. We also show that during these years, there was very little change in assimilation but a substantial increase in contrast. We attribute this change to increased polarization among the American electorate.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of the Suicide Cognitions Scale-Revised (SCS-R) in Spanish Adolescents in Residential Care
Authors: Muela Alexander , Bryan Craig J. , García-Ormaza Jon , Salaberra Karmele
Published: November 2024

The Suicide Cognitions Scale (SCS) has demonstrated considerable promise as a risk screening tool, although it has yet to be validated for use with adolescents or in Spanish-speaking populations. The aim of this study was to develop a Spanish version of the 16-item SCS-Revised (SCS-R) and to examine its psychometric properties in a sample of adolescents. Participants were 172 adolescents aged between 12 and 18 years (M = 15.32, SD = 1.57) and currently in residential care. They completed the Spanish SCS-R and a series of other psychological measures. The psychometric properties of the SCS-R were examined through factor analyses and testing of convergent/discriminant validity and construct validity. Factor analyses supported a bifactor structure, indicating that SCS-R items were primarily measuring a common underlying latent variable. SCS-R scores were positively correlated with multiple indicators of psychopathology and other suicide risk factors (e.g., depression, hopelessness) but negatively correlated with protective factors (e.g., believing that one’s mental pain will eventually end). Importantly, SCS-R scores differentiated adolescents in residential care who had previously attempted suicide from those who had only thought about suicide. Scores also differentiated adolescents who had previously attempted suicide from those who had previously only engaged in non-suicidal self-injury. This constitutes further evidence that the SCS-R measures a construct that distinguishes suicidal thought from action and is specific to suicidal forms of self-harm. Overall, the results suggest that the Spanish SCS-R is a potentially useful tool for identifying adolescents at risk of attempting suicide in residential care.
A New Method for Reconstruction of Regional Three‐Dimensional Electron Density Distributions Using AI‐Based Data Assimilation Method and Incoherent Scatter Radar Measurements
Authors: Li Chenghao , Fang Hanxian , Cao Xiaoqun , Duan Die , Xiao Chao , Huang Hongtao , Ren Ganming , Lin Yang , Cai Yihui
Published: November 2024

The ionosphere's dynamic structure affects electromagnetic radiation by altering radio wave propagation, impacting daily communications. The characteristics of the ionosphere are primarily characterized by electron density parameters. This paper proposes a method to construct Three‐Dimensional (3‐D) electron density distributions with arbitrary spatiotemporal resolution in ISR observational regions. The method, termed Artificial Intelligence‐based data assimilation (AI‐Assim), integrates data assimilation directly into a neural network. It assimilates electron density from the IRI‐2020 model to fill ISR observation gaps. Experiments conducted using the Sanya Incoherent Scatter Radar (SYISR) in Hainan, China, successfully constructed a 3‐D electron density structure over the region, with a 0.2° latitude/longitude resolution and 1 km height resolution. The method's effectiveness was validated by calculating the mean square error and comparing the results with digisonde measurements.