bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet-based interdisciplinary therapeutic group (Grupo Interdisciplinar Online, GIO) for perinatal anxiety and depression—a randomized pilot study during COVID-19
Authors: Gomà M. , Arias-Pujol E. , Prims E. , Ferrer J. , Lara S. , Glover V. , Martinez M. , Llairó A. , Nanzer N.
Published: December 2023

Early interventions may promote reductions in mothers’ anxiety-depression (AD) symptoms and improvements in their offspring. This longitudinal randomized research was conducted to assess the effects of interdisciplinary online therapeutic groups (GIO) in at-risk mothers and babies during the COVID-19 pandemic in a disadvantaged neighborhood in Barcelona (Spain). A total of 135 babies were born from March 2020 to June 2021 in a primary healthcare center of Barcelona (Spain). Pregnant woman and new mothers were screened for AD symptomatology through EPDS and STAI questionnaires. Seventy-two of them met high-risk criteria for AD and were included in the study. They were randomly assigned into the two groups of the study: 40 participants were assigned to GIO, the therapeutic group (TG), while 32 of them were assigned to the control group (CG) and received treatment as usual. The course of the mothers’ symptomatology was assessed, as well as the baby’s development at 6 months old in a blind pediatric follow-up. No differences were found in AD between both groups before the intervention. However, we obtained a significant decrease in AD symptomatology (EPDS p < .001; STAI state p = .015 and STAI trait p < .001at 6 months of life) after the intervention in the TG compared to the CG. Pediatric follow-up at 6 months demonstrated significant differences between groups in babies’ development assessment (manipulation p = .003; language p < .001; sociability p < .001). The GIO helped to ensure healthy development of the baby and reduction of the mothers’ depressive-anxiety symptomatology.
Characterization of Different Inflammatory Skin Conditions in a Mouse Model of DNCB-Induced Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Riedl Rebecca , Kühn Annika , Hupfer Yvonne , Hebecker Betty , Peltner Lukas K. , Jordan Paul M. , Werz Oliver , Lorkowski Stefan , Wiegand Cornelia , Wallert Maria
Published: December 2023

The mouse model of 2,4-dinitrochlorbenzene (DNCB)-induced human-like atopic dermatitis (hlAD) has been widely used to test novel treatment strategies and compounds. However, the study designs and methods are highly diverse, presenting different hlAD disease patterns that occur after sensitization and repeated challenge with DNCB on dorsal skin. In addition, there is a lack of information about the progression of the disease during the experiment and the achieved pheno- and endotypes, especially at the timepoint when therapeutic treatment is initiated. We here examine hlAD in a DNCB-induced BALB/cJRj model at different timepoints: (i) before starting treatment with dexamethasone, representing a standard drug control (day 12) and (ii) at the end of the experiment (day 22). Both timepoints display typical AD-associated characteristics: skin thickening, spongiosis, hyper- and parakeratosis, altered cytokine and gene expression, increased lipid mediator formation, barrier protein and antimicrobial peptide abnormalities, as well as lymphoid organ hypertrophy. Increased mast cell infiltration into the skin and elevated immunoglobulin E plasma concentrations indicate a type I allergy response. The DNCB-treated skin showed an extrinsic moderate sub-acute hlAD lesion at day 12 and an extrinsic mild sub-acute to chronic pheno- and endotype at day 22 with a dominating Th2 response. A dependency of the filaggrin formation and expression in correlation to the disease severity in the DNCB-treated skin was found. In conclusion, our study reveals a detailed classification of a hlAD at two timepoints with different inflammatory skin conditions and pheno- and endotypes, thereby providing a better understanding of the DNCB-induced hlAD model in BALB/cJRj mice.
Running Mice and Successful Theories: The Limitations of a Classical Analogy
Authors: Egg Matthias , Hämmerli August
Published: December 2023

Bas van Fraassen’s Darwinian explanation for the success of science has sparked four decades of discussion, with scientific realists and antirealists alike using biologically inspired reasoning to support their points of view. Based on critical engagement with van Fraassen’s proposal itself and later contributions by Stathis Psillos and K. Brad Wray, we claim that central arguments on both sides of this controversy suffer from an insufficient understanding of Darwinism and its underlying biological concepts. Adding the necessary biological background turns out to subvert the argumentative force of viewing the success of scientific theories as analogous to the behaviour of biotic entities. In conclusion, we sketch more productive ways of viewing the relationship between biology and scientific realism.
Monitoring persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn using the arterial to end tidal carbon dioxide gradient
Authors: Williams Emma E. , Bednarczuk Nadja , Nanjundappa Mahesh , Greenough Anne , Dassios Theodore
Published: December 2023

Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) can be monitored theoretically by the difference of the partial pressure of arterial (PaCO2) to end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2). We aimed to test the hypothesis that the PaCO2–EtCO2 gradient in infants with PPHN would be higher compared to infants without PPHN. Prospective, observational study of term-born ventilated infants with echocardiographically-confirmed PPHN with right-to-left shunting and term-born control infants without respiratory disease. The PaCO2–EtCO2 gradient was calculated as the difference between the PaCO2 measured from indwelling arterial sample lines and EtCO2 measured by continuous Microstream sidestream capnography. Twenty infants (9 with PPHN and 11 controls) were studied with a median (IQR) gestational age of 39.5 (38.7–40.4) weeks, a birthweight of 3.56 (3.15–3.93) kg and a birthweight z-score of 0.03 (− 0.91 to 1.08). The PaCO2–EtCO2 gradient was larger in the infants with PPHN compared to those without PPHN after adjusting for differences in the mean airway pressure and fraction of inspired oxygen (adjusted p = 0.037). In the infants with PPHN the median PaCO2–EtCO2 gradient decreased from 10.7 mmHg during the acute illness to 3.3 mmHg pre-extubation. The median difference in the gradient was significantly higher in infants with PPHN (6.2 mmHg) compared to infants without PPHN (-3.2 mmHg, p = 0.022). The PaCO2–EtCO2 gradient was higher in infants with PPHN compared to term born infants without PPHN and decreased over the first week of life in infants with PPHN. The gradient might be utilised to monitor the evolution and resolution of PPHN.
Sanitized clustering against confounding bias
Authors: Yao Yinghua , Pan Yuangang , Li Jing , Tsang Ivor W. , Yao Xin
Published: December 2023

Real-world datasets inevitably contain biases that arise from different sources or conditions during data collection. Consequently, such inconsistency itself acts as a confounding factor that disturbs the cluster analysis. Existing methods eliminate the biases by projecting data onto the orthogonal complement of the subspace expanded by the confounding factor before clustering. Therein, the interested clustering factor and the confounding factor are coarsely considered in the raw feature space, where the correlation between the data and the confounding factor is ideally assumed to be linear for convenient solutions. These approaches are thus limited in scope as the data in real applications is usually complex and non-linearly correlated with the confounding factor. This paper presents a new clustering framework named Sanitized Clustering Against confounding Bias, which removes the confounding factor in the semantic latent space of complex data through a non-linear dependence measure. To be specific, we eliminate the bias information in the latent space by minimizing the mutual information between the confounding factor and the latent representation delivered by variational auto-encoder. Meanwhile, a clustering module is introduced to cluster over the purified latent representations. Extensive experiments on complex datasets demonstrate that our SCAB achieves a significant gain in clustering performance by removing the confounding bias.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Application of wireless sensors and deep learning algorithms in comfort analysis of wooden structures
Authors: Liu Zehao
Published: December 2023

In many buildings with wooden structures, the service life and comfort of the floor will be affected by the walking load of the human body. The vibration effect generated by the human walking on the floor will affect the comfort that the floor brings to people. This article primarily focuses on the study of the correlation between floor vibration and human walking load in wooden buildings. It provides an analysis and summary of research findings from both domestic and international sources. Furthermore, the data collected is utilized to establish a model for estimating human walking load. The advent of information technology has witnessed significant transformative changes spurred by shifts in societal needs. Notably, the establishment of wireless sensor networks stands as a significant milestone within the field of information technology, highlighting advancements in science and technology. The evolution of wireless sensor networks has proven instrumental in various sectors within China, including but not limited to the military, environmental monitoring, biological research and medical systems, disaster monitoring, and energy allocation. This paper uses deep learning algorithms to analyze the node deployment problems of wireless sensor networks, summarizes a reasonable node deployment plan through specific research and practice, and uses collaborative deep learning methods to improve the operating efficiency of the network. In addition, this article also tested the vibration effect of wood structure buildings, analyzed different influencing factors, and provided a good reference point for the formulation of wood structure comfort standards.
Enhanced structural and optical performance of the novel 3-[(5-amino-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)carbonyl]-1-ethyl-4-hydroxyquinolin-2(1H)-one heterojunction: experimental and DFT modeling
Authors: Ibrahim Magdy A. , Badran Al-Shimaa , Halim Shimaa Abdel , Roushdy N. , Farag A. A. M.
Published: December 2023

This study successfully and cost-effectively synthesized a novel compound, 3-[(5-amino-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)carbonyl]-1-ethyl-4-hydroxyquinolin-2(1H)-one (APPQ, 4), which displayed significant potential for various applications and yielded promising outcomes. Theoretical electronic absorption spectra in different media were acquired using the Coulomb-attenuating approach (CAM-B3LYP) and the Corrected Linear Response Polarizable Continuum Model (CLR) PCM. Employing CAM-B3LYP with the 6-311 +  + G(d,p) level of DFT proved to be more accurate than alternative quantum chemical calculation methods, aligning well with the experimental data. Additionally, the CAM-B3LYP method using polarized split-valence 6-311 +  + G(d,p) basis sets and CLR PCM in various solvents exhibited good agreement with the observed spectra. The high stability of APPQ, validated by the computed total energy and thermodynamic parameters at the same calculation level, surpassed that of anticipated structure 3. The theoretically calculated chemical shift values (1H and 13C) and vibrational wavenumbers were strongly correlated with the experimental data. The APPQ thin films demonstrated a band gap energy of 2.3 eV through distinctive absorption edge measurement. Photoluminescence spectra exhibited characteristic emission peaks at approximately 580 nm. Current–voltage measurements on n-Si heterojunction devices with APPQ thin films revealed typical diode behavior. These APPQ-based devices showed attractive photovoltaic properties, including an open-circuit voltage of 0.62 V, a short-circuit current of 5.1 × 10–4 A/cm2, and a maximum output power of 0.247 mW/cm2. Overall, the investigated heterojunctions display appealing photophysical characteristics, encouraging advancements in photovoltaics.
The Cerebellum and Cognitive Function: Anatomical Evidence from a Transdiagnostic Sample
Authors: Bègue Indrit , Elandaloussi Yannis , Delavari Farnaz , Cao Hengyi , Moussa-Tooks Alexandra , Roser Mathilde , Coupé Pierrick , Leboyer Marion , Kaiser Stefan , Houenou Josselin , Brady Roscoe , Laidi Charles
Published: December 2023

Multiple lines of evidence across human functional, lesion, and animal data point to a cerebellar role, in particular of crus I, crus II, and lobule VIIB, in cognitive function. However, a mapping of distinct facets of cognitive function to cerebellar structure is missing. We analyzed structural neuroimaging data from the Healthy Brain Network (HBN). Cerebellar parcellation was performed with a validated automated segmentation pipeline (CERES) and stringent visual quality check (n = 662 subjects retained from initial n = 1452). Canonical correlation analyses (CCA) examined regional gray matter volumetric (GMV) differences in association to cognitive function (quantified with NIH Toolbox Cognition domain, NIH-TB), accounting for psychopathology severity, age, sex, scan location, and intracranial volume. Multivariate CCA uncovered a significant correlation between two components entailing a latent cognitive canonical (NIH-TB subscales) and a brain canonical variate (cerebellar GMV and intracranial volume, ICV), surviving bootstrapping and permutation procedures. The components correspond to partly shared cerebellar-cognitive function relationship with a first map encompassing cognitive flexibility (r = 0.89), speed of processing (r = 0.65), and working memory (r = 0.52) associated with regional GMV in crus II (r = 0.57) and lobule X (r = 0.59) and a second map including the crus I (r = 0.49) and lobule VI (r = 0.49) associated with working memory (r = 0.51). We show evidence for a structural subspecialization of the cerebellum topography for cognitive function in a transdiagnostic sample.
Neoichnological analysis of sea stars in the deep sea near the Aleutian Trench: behavioral insights from in situ observations
Authors: Miguez-Salas Olmo , Brandt Angelika , Moreau Camille
Published: December 2023

The study of biogenic structures (e.g., lebensspuren) produced by benthic fauna on the seafloor provides invaluable information about the behavior of their tracemakers. In the case of sea stars, most of the previous research has been focused on shallow-marine environments due to the extreme scarcity of data from deep-sea lebensspurens. Here, we examined sea star traces from six deep-sea stations (deeper than 4500 m) near the Aleutian Trench (North Pacific). A total of six families were identified from still images. The majority of them were not observed producing any lebensspuren or just pentameral impressions related to resting and feeding activities. Two members of the families Pterasteridae and Porcellanasteridae could be clearly characterized by a composite behavior resulting in contrasting lebensspuren morphotypes. A morphotype belonging to the genus Hymenaster undet. produced pentameral impressions (related to predation) and punctuated trails (related to podia locomotion). Members of the family Porcellanasteridae produced oval to circular impressions (that may be related to burrowing trails for the detection of organic matter), flat-shallow trails (related to podia locomotion), and irregular M-ridged trails (related to locomotion while feeding through the sediment interface). There is a severe scarcity of data related to the locomotion of past deep-sea Asteroidea (i.e., trace fossils) and their ichnotaxonomical classification. We discuss the implications of our results for the ichnofamily Biformitidae, as well as the importance of considering other features (e.g., podia impressions) rather than just hook-shaped traces related to arm locomotion.
Linear representations of fundamental groups of Klein surfaces derived from spinor representations of Clifford algebras
Authors: Tyszkowska Ewa
Published: December 2023

We study actions of multiplicative subgroups of Clifford algebras on Riemann surfaces. We show that every Klein surface of algebraic genus greater than 1 is isomorphic to the orbit space of such an action. We obtain linear representations of fundamental groups of Klein surfaces by using the spinor representations of Clifford algebras.
Large hairy armadillo Chaetophractus villosus: the most recent mammal invader in the binational Tierra del Fuego Island
Authors: Jaksic Fabian M.
Published: December 2023

I reviewed the history of knowledge on large hairy armadillo Chaetophractus villosus in Patagonia and its current presence in Tierra del Fuego Island, a southernmost geographic region in South America shared by Argentina and Chile. My aim was to highlight what is known of this recent invasion, to identify knowledge advances and gaps, and to propose some new avenues of inquiry. This review reveals that studies on large hairy armadillo have covered the following topics: (a) introduction, spread, current distribution, and the role of physical and/or ecological barriers; (b) genetic profiling, which is ongoing and highly promising research for determining founding effects and genetic bottlenecks in an expanding alien population; (c) life history—including habitat, food, and time use, reproduction, behavior, and population dynamics; (d) interactions with sympatric consumer species—be them as mutualists or competitors—and with food plants and arthropod prey; (e) interactions with predators; (f) interactions with humans—including hunting, commercialization, facilitation, and interference; (g) an eyesore is the lack of an ecosystem approach to this invading species, because the large hairy armadillo may be deemed an ecosystem engineer, which profoundly alters its habitat and prey base and has close ties to human endeavors.
Production of cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) pulp powder by foam-mat drying: analysis of physicochemical and antioxidant properties
Authors: Kaba Beyza , Yıkılkan Yasemin , Pashazadeh Hojjat , Ali Redha Ali , Koca Ilkay
Published: December 2023

Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) is a rich source of (poly)phenols such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins that are known for their bioactivity. This study aimed to enhance the industrial applications of this cherry’s pulp as a potential functional food ingredient. Foam-mat drying was used to produce cherry powder from cherry pulp. The convective drying process was performed at different temperatures (50, 60, 70, and 80°C) to study the effect of drying temperature on the physical properties, flow properties, microstructure, (poly)phenol content, antioxidant properties, and bioaccessibility of foam-dried cherry pulp, in comparison to freeze-dried sample. Different drying temperatures did not affect color properties. The highest gloss was determined at high temperatures (70–80°C). According to the Carr index, the fluidity increased between 18 and 22% as the temperature increased. The total phenolic content was higher at elevated temperatures (70–80°C), yet the anthocyanin content was the highest at 60°C. The flavonoid content was not affected by different drying temperatures, as well as compared to lyophilized samples. The antioxidant activity was higher in samples dried at elevated temperatures, with no significant difference in comparison to lyophilized samples. The bioaccessibility experiment showed that the lyophilized samples had significantly greater bioaccessibility in comparison to the convective dried samples, yet further investigation is required to understand the differences in bioaccessibility and bioavailability of individual polyphenols. Overall, foam-mat drying using a convective drying system could be an economic choice to preserve acceptable amounts of phenolics and antioxidants.
Asymmetric post-translational modifications regulate the nuclear translocation of STAT3 homodimers in response to leukemia inhibitory factor
Authors: Diallo Mickael , Pimenta Constança , Murtinheira Fernanda , Martins-Alves Daniela , Pinto Francisco R. , da Costa André Abrantes , Letra-Vilela Ricardo , Martin Vanesa , Rodriguez Carmen , Rodrigues Mário S. , Herrera Federico
Published: December 2023

STAT3 is a pleiotropic transcription factor overactivated in 70% of solid tumours. We have recently reported that inactivating mutations on residues susceptible to post-translational modifications (PTMs) in only one of the monomers (i.e. asymmetric) caused changes in the cellular distribution of STAT3 homodimers. Here, we used more controlled experimental conditions, i.e. without the interference of endogenous STAT3 (STAT3-/- HeLa cells) and in the presence of a defined cytokine stimulus (Leukemia Inhibitory Factor, LIF), to provide further evidence that asymmetric PTMs affect the nuclear translocation of STAT3 homodimers. Time-lapse microscopy for 20 min after LIF stimulation showed that S727 dephosphorylation (S727A) and K685 inactivation (K685R) slightly enhanced the nuclear translocation of STAT3 homodimers, while K49 inactivation (K49R) delayed STAT3 nuclear translocation. Our findings suggest that asymmetrically modified STAT3 homodimers could be a new level of STAT3 regulation and, therefore, a potential target for cancer therapy.
Quality Criteria for Studies Assessing the Acute Effects of Heading: Results from a UEFA Expert Panel
Authors: Peek Kerry , Franchi Martino , Lemmink Koen , Balsom Paul , Meyer Tim
Published: December 2023

There is increasing concern regarding the effects of heading in football on brain health including cognitive, behavioural and neuromotor function, with research suggesting an association between repeated ball-head impacts and neurodegenerative disease. While longitudinal studies to determine the long-term consequences of heading are challenging, there have been short-term ‘acute’ studies conducted, with some studies lacking appropriate methodology to ensure valid results. The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) established a panel of experts to determine methodological recommendations for the conduct of studies that explore the acute effects of heading (defined as a single session of heading conducted either in a laboratory setting or following match play or a training session). The aim of this panel was to create quality criteria for acute heading studies that will form part of the eligibility assessment when applying for UEFA research funding (although the criteria can be applied to the conduct of acute heading research more widely). This process was deemed necessary to counter studies with poor methodological quality that used heading trials that did not accurately represent player exposure to ball-head impacts through football practice and match play (such as small sample sizes, unrealistically high heading exposure, and a lack of consideration of confounding variables). The panel identified core design decisions that authors should consider when designing and conducting acute heading research, with key methodological requirements for each domain pertaining to participants, heading trials, confounding variables, statistics and dependent/target variables and their measurement. After two rounds of reviews, the final list of quality criteria was agreed by the panel and will be applied to the next round of UEFA grant applications.
Fear of Relationship Commitment and Singlehood
Authors: Apostolou Menelaos , Tekeş Burcu
Published: December 2023

Not having an intimate partner is a common state in contemporary post-industrial societies. One reason that individuals report for being single is their fear of relationship commitment. The objective of the current research was to investigate the factors that are associated with the fear of relationship commitment and how this fear is associated with singlehood. In a sample of 453 Turkish-speaking participants, we found that lower levels of agreeableness, openness, mating performance, and relationship quality were associated with a higher fear of relationship commitment. Moreover, a higher fear of relationship commitment was linked to a greater likelihood of being single compared to being in an intimate relationship. Additionally, we found that lower levels of self-esteem, extraversion, and openness were associated with reduced mating performance, which, in turn, was associated with a higher fear of relationship commitment and a higher probability of being single compared to being in an intimate relationship.
XRD-Analysis of the Relation of Stacking Fault Formation and the TRIP-Effect in ADI
Authors: Stieler Felix , Tonn Babette
Published: December 2023

The mechanical properties of ausferritic ductile iron are strongly influenced by the ability of the austenite to undergo martensite formation. Strain-induced martensite formation occurring under the right circumstances results in transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) that improves ductility and strength. TRIP has been shown to depend on the austenite’s stacking fault energy (SFE), which describes the crystals micromechanical behaviour. In austenitic FeMnAlSi-TRIP steels, TRIP as a reaction to mechanical load only occurs for SFE <20 mJ/m2. For carbon-stabilised austenite as in ADI, the relationship between stacking faults, mechanical properties and martensitic transformation has not yet been established. To investigate the TRIP-effect in ADI, unalloyed ADI with 3.43 wt% C, 2.52 wt% Si and 0.21 wt% Mn was ausferritised and subjected to tensile tests at temperatures between −180 °C and 200 °C. The amount of martensite produced by thermal and mechanical activation, crystalline microstrain and stacking fault density were measured on deformed and undeformed regions of the specimen by XRD and the resulting SFE calculated. Between −70 and 20 °C, the elongation at fracture exceeded 10 % compared to below 2 % in the temperature range of −130 to −180 °C. At temperatures above 80 °C, elongation at fracture gradually decreased to 4.5 % at 200 °C. High sample ductility was associated with lower SFEs as low as 35 mJ/m2, indicating a correlation of stacking fault formation and strain-induced martensite formation in ADI.
Predictors of the clinical severity of T1DM presentation at diagnosis in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM)
Authors: Karavanaki Kyriaki , Korona Anastasia , Karanasios Spyridon , Kossiva Lydia
Published: December 2023

Purpose

We aimed to assess factors associated with the presence and severity of ketoacidosis (DKA) at pediatric type 1 diabetes (T1DM) diagnosis, in relation to pancreatic, associated and familial autoimmunity.

Methods

Antibodies against pancreatic beta-cells, organ specific autoantibodies (thyroid, celiac, and parietal) and family history of autoimmunity were retrospectively evaluated in 116 T1DM patients aged 11.9 ± 4.6 (mean ± SD) years, with disease duration 7.62 ± 3.67 years (mean ± SD).

Results

Most patients (67.2%) presented with DKA at diagnosis. Younger children (< 2 years) had tenfold risk of DKA, compared to older children (12.1–15 years) (OR = 10.8, 95% CI: 1.0–116.9, P = 0.05). Fasting c-peptide levels were lower in the DKA group (OR = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.07–0.89, P = 0.033). The number of anti-pancreatic antibodies at disease onset did not show any significant correlations with the presence (p = 0.889) or severity of DKA (p = 0.863). All patients with multiple autoimmunity (> 2 autoimmune diseases plus T1DM) presented with DKA. Familial autoimmunity acted protectively against DKA manifestation (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.16–1.0, P = 0.051).

Conclusions

Among newly diagnosed T1DM patients, 67.2% presented with DKA. Younger age, lower c-peptide and the presence of associated autoimmunity were predictive factors of the presence and severity of DKA at diagnosis. High degree of suspicion, due to family history, may prevent DKA development and severity.
The potentiality of nature to tug at our heartstrings: an exploratory inquiry into supportive affordances for emotion-focused family therapy in the outdoors
Authors: Fernee Carina Ribe , Wahlgren Sophia Louise Hjorth , Trangsrud Lise Katrine Jepsen
Published: December 2023

A wealth of studies demonstrate the associations between nature contact and well-being, and gradually, nature-based solutions are becoming more widespread in mental health care and recovery. While emotion-focused therapies generally show promising results, evidence of nature-based family therapy is still scarce. In a forthcoming clinical trial at Sørlandet hospital in Southern Norway, we will compare indoor and outdoor provision of emotion-focused multi-family therapy. The foundation of emotion-focused therapeutic work with families is a deep belief in the healing powers of families, where resources within the “ecosystem” of a given family can be reactivated and nudged towards establishing a greater sense of harmony and connectedness over time. According to a Gibsonian understanding of affordances, humans respond to possibilities and limitations within an environment, where affordances in the context of this article arise from a systemic interplay between nature, participating families and facilitators. In this exploratory inquiry, we are particularly interested in the myriad ways nature may influence four core principles in emotion-focused therapy, including (a) emotion awareness, (b) emotion regulation, (c) reflection on emotion, and (d) emotion transformation. In this perspective article, we propose hypotheses and working metaphors in relation to everything from emotions’ multiple purposes to the delineation of facilitators’ accepting, empathic and curious stance. First and foremost, we attempt to generate a preliminary account of nature’s potentiality to tug at our heartstrings and offer a supportive environment for the novel provision of emotion-focused family therapy in the outdoors.
Frame plurality and ‘or/rationality’: a dialogic approach to the behavioral state
Authors: Schmidt Ruth , Stenger Katelyn
Published: December 2023

Consequentialist theories of the behavioral state are largely grounded in satisfying self-interested preferences through policies that employ choice architecture and related strategies to encourage rational decision-making. Even when allowing for free choice, however, this stance tends to be characterized by a paternalistic ‘view from nowhere’ that may not fully accommodate a plurality of values. Alternative approaches such as contractarianism position policy in the context of marketplace exchange, bolstered by shared beliefs in the legitimacy of social institutions. Yet this view may not sufficiently consider issues of asymmetric access, or ideological frames that do not see these institutions as legitimate. To address these deficits, we propose the value of a dialogical approach to behavioral public policy that facilitates collaborative engagement and behavioral justice to redress asymmetries and inequities through a more discursive approach, which builds on practices employed by design for public policy. In so doing, this political theory suggests an actionable counterpoint to paternalistic and competition-based conceptions of the State to address frame plurality and increase the potential for system equity.
Headache Education in Canadian Medical Schools
Authors: Guay Meagan , Lagman-Bartolome Ana Marissa , Lay Christine
Published: December 2023

This study aims to gain a better understanding of the current scope of headache education received in Canadian medical schools. The Women’s College Hospital Centre for Headache at the University of Toronto, Canada, distributed a questionnaire to administrators and physicians involved in medical student education at Canadian medical schools and gathered information surrounding headache education. Overall, the degree of headache education varied between schools in regard to the hours of training that occurred and year the training took place. This survey provides an initial insight into the current standards of headache-specific education in Canadian medical schools.
A Prospective Post-Marketing Observational Study of Brivaracetam in People With Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Yanes Rayan , Briard Joel Neves , Nguyen Tang-Duc Jeremy , Sultanem Maya , Nguyen Dang Khoa , Gibbs Steve , Ikeda Kristin , Jirsch Jeffrey , Josephson Colin , Boisse Lomax Lysa , Cloutier Véronique , Keezer Mark
Published: December 2023

We evaluated the effectiveness and tolerability of brivaracetam (BRV), an adjunctive antiseizure medication, as a treatment for focal epilepsy in adults. In this prospective study, we enrolled 51 participants from 3 sites across Canada. At 6 months, 68% (26/38) of participants were still taking BRV, among whom 35% (8/23) attained seizure freedom and 48% (11/23) saw their seizure frequency reduced by over 50%. We did not measure any significant change in irritability, quality of life, depression, and anxiety while treated with BRV. Our findings suggest BRV is effective in reducing seizure frequency among adults with focal epilepsy.
Retrospective Analysis of Canadian Adults with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Pal Dominique , Forster Nicole , Madan Monika , Whitney Robyn , Farncombe Kirsten M. , Kim Raymond H.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Our study goal was to characterize the relative frequencies of molecular and phenotypic traits of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) in a Canadian adult population. Previous studies have sought to identify TSC-related genotypic and phenotypic trends in pediatric cohorts, but little is known about clinical manifestations and severity when it presents in adults.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective chart review of adult patients seen at the TSC clinic at the University Health Network genetics clinics (Toronto, Ontario) to compare trends in the relative frequency of TSC manifestations with genotype.

Results:

Fifty-one patients were eligible for this study. Eight patients had a pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant in the tuberous sclerosis complex 1 (TSC1) gene, 18 had a tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (TSC2) pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant, 6 patients had multiple variants identified in TSC1/TSC2 or TSC2/PKD1, 11 had no mutation identified (NMI) and 8 had no genetic testing done. Patients with a pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant in TSC2 presented with an increased involvement of multiple systems and a higher frequency of TSC-related manifestations relative to the other mutation groups.

Conclusion:

Previous studies comparing the wide phenotypic variability with TSC genotype have mainly comprised pediatric cohorts. With a focus on adults, we found trends to be similar across previous literature. An informed multidisciplinary approach should be taken to ensure proper surveillance and management of adults with TSC until a correlation between genotype and phenotype, especially past infancy, is better understood.
A data-driven approach to guide supersonic impinging jet control
Authors: Stahl Spencer L. , Gaitonde Datta V.
Published: December 2023

A data-driven framework using snapshots of an uncontrolled flow is proposed to identify, and subsequently demonstrate, effective control strategies for different objectives in supersonic impinging jets. The open-loop, feed-forward control approach, based on a dynamic mode decomposition reduced-order model (DMD-ROM), computes forcing receptivity in an economical manner by projecting flow and actuator-specific forcing snapshots onto a reduced subspace and then evolving the dynamics forwards in time. Since it effectively determines a linear response around the unsteady flow in the time domain, the method differs materially from typical techniques that use steady basic states, such as stability or input–output approaches that employ linearized Navier–Stokes operators in the frequency domain. The method presented naturally accounts for factors inherent to the snapshot basis, including configuration complexity and flow parameters such as Reynolds number. Furthermore, gain metrics calculated in the reduced subspace facilitate rapid assessments of flow sensitivities to a wide range of forcing parameters, from which optimal actuator inputs may be selected and results confirmed in scale-resolved simulations or experiments. The DMD-ROM approach is demonstrated from two different perspectives. The first concerns asymptotic feedback resonance, where the effects of harmonic pressure forcing are estimated and verified with nonlinear simulations using a blowing–suction actuator. The second examines time-local behaviour within critical feedback events, where the phase of actuation becomes important. For this, a conditional space–time mode is used to identify the optimal forcing phase that minimizes convective instability growth within the resonance cycle.
Eukaryotic swimming cells are shaped by hydrodynamic constraints
Authors: Lisicki Maciej , Velho Rodrigues Marcos F. , Lauga Eric
Published: December 2023

Eukaryotic swimming cells such as spermatozoa, algae or protozoa use flagella or cilia to move in viscous fluids. The motion of their flexible appendages in the surrounding fluid induces propulsive forces that balance viscous drag on the cells and lead to a directed swimming motion. Here, we use our recently built database of cell motility (BOSO-Micro) to investigate the extent to which the shapes of eukaryotic swimming cells may be optimal from a hydrodynamic standpoint. We first examine the morphology of flexible flagella undergoing waving deformation and show that their amplitude-to-wavelength ratio is near that predicted theoretically to optimise the propulsive efficiency of active filaments. Next, we consider ciliates, for which locomotion is induced by the collective beating of short cilia covering their surface. We show that the aspect ratios of ciliates are close to that predicted to minimise the viscous drag of the cell body. Both results strongly suggest a key role played by hydrodynamic constraints, in particular viscous drag, in shaping eukaryotic swimming cells.
Dynamics of the interaction of a pair of thin evaporating droplets on compliant substrates
Authors: Malachtari A. , Karapetsas G.
Published: December 2023

The dynamics of the interaction of a system of two thin volatile liquid droplets resting on a soft viscoelastic solid substrate are investigated theoretically. The developed model fully considers the effect of evaporative cooling and the generated Marangoni stresses due to the induced thermal gradients, while also accounting for the effect of the gas phase composition and the diffusion of vapour in the atmosphere of the droplets. Using the framework of lubrication theory, we derive evolution equations for both the droplet profile and the displacement of the elastic solid, which are solved in combination with Laplace's equation for the vapour concentration in the gas phase. A disjoining-pressure/precursor-film approach is used to describe contact-line motion. The evolution equations are solved numerically, using the finite-element method, and we present a thorough parametric analysis to investigate the physical properties and mechanisms that affect the dynamics of droplet interactions. The results show that the droplets interact through both the soft substrate and the gas phase. In the absence of thermocapillary phenomena, the combined effect of non-uniform evaporation due to the increased vapour concentration between the two droplets and elastocapillary phenomena determines whether the drop–drop interaction is attractive or repulsive. The Marangoni stresses suppress droplet attraction at the early stages of the drying process and lead to longer droplet lifetimes. For substrates with intermediate stiffness, the emergence of spontaneous symmetry breaking at late stages of evaporation is found. The rich dynamics of this complex system is explored by constructing a detailed map of the dynamic regimes.
The role of viscoplastic drop shape in impact
Authors: Isukwem Kindness , Godefroid Julie , Monteux Cécile , Bouttes David , Castellani Romain , Hachem Elie , Valette Rudy , Pereira Anselmo
Published: December 2023

The impact of fluid drops on solid substrates is a cardinal fluid dynamics phenomenon intrinsically related to many fields. Although these impacting objects are very often non-spherical and non-Newtonian, previous studies have mainly focused on spherical Newtonian drops. As a result, both shape and rheological effects on the drop-spreading dynamics remain largely unexplored. In the present work we use a mixed approach combining experiments with multiphase three-dimensional numerical simulations to extend the work reported by Luu & Forterre (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 632, 2009, pp. 301–327) by highlighting the fundamental role of shape in the normal impact of viscoplastic drops. Such complex fluids are highly common in various industrial domains and ideally behave either like a rigid body or a shear-rate-dependent liquid, according to the stress solicitation. Spherical, prolate, cylindrical and prismatic drops are considered. The results show that, under negligible capillary effects, the impacting kinetic energy of the drop is dissipated through viscoplastic effects during the spreading process, giving rise to three flow regimes: (i) inertio-viscous, (ii) inertio-plastic, and (iii) mixed inertio-visco-plastic. These regimes are deeply affected by the drop initial aspect ratio, which in turn reveals the possibility of using drop shape to control spreading. The physical mechanisms driving the considered phenomenon are underlined by energy budget analyses and scaling laws. The results are summarised in a two-dimensional diagram linking the drop maximum spreading, minimum height and final shape with different spreading regimes through a single dimensionless parameter, here called the impact number.
Inertial range scaling of inhomogeneous turbulence
Authors: Araki Ryo , Bos Wouter J.T.
Published: December 2023

We investigate how inhomogeneity influences the

$k^{-5/3}$

inertial range scaling of turbulent kinetic energy spectra (with

$k$

the wavenumber). For weak statistical inhomogeneity, the energy spectrum can be described as an equilibrium spectrum plus a perturbation. Theoretical arguments suggest that this latter contribution scales as

$k^{-7/3}$

. This prediction is assessed using direct numerical simulations of three-dimensional Kolmogorov flow.
Vorticity dynamics in transcritical liquid jet breakup
Authors: Poblador-Ibanez Jordi , Sirignano William A. , Hussain Fazle
Published: December 2023

A transcritical domain with a sharp two-phase interface may exist during the early times of liquid hydrocarbon fuel injection at supercritical pressure. Thus, two-phase dynamics are sustained before substantial heating of the liquid and drive the early three-dimensional deformation and atomisation. A recent study of a transcritical liquid jet showed distinct deformation features caused by interface thermodynamics, low surface tension and intraphase diffusive mixing. In the present work, the compressible vortex identification method

$\lambda _\rho$

is used to study the vortex dynamics in a cool liquid n-decane transcritical jet surrounded by a hotter oxygen gaseous stream at supercritical pressures. The relationship between vortical structures and the liquid surface evolution is detailed, along with the vorticity generation mechanisms, including variable-density effects. The roles of hairpin and roller vortices in the early deformation of lobes, the layering and tearing of liquid sheets and the formation of fuel-rich gaseous blobs are analysed. At these high pressures, enhanced intraphase mixing and ambient gas dissolution affect the local liquid structures (i.e. lobes). Thus, liquid breakup differs from classical sub-critical atomisation. Near the interface, liquid density and viscosity drop by up to 10 % and 70 %, respectively, and the liquid is more easily affected by the vortical motion (e.g. liquid sheets wrap around vortices). Despite the variable density, compressible vorticity generation terms are smaller than the vortex stretching and tilting. Layering traps and aligns the vortices along the streamwise direction while mitigating the generation of new rollers.
The effects of purslane consumption on blood pressure, body weight, body mass index, and waist circumference: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled
Authors: Narimani Behnaz , Amini Mohammad Reza , Sheikhhossein Fatemeh , Akhgarjand Camellia , Gholizadeh Mohammad , Askarpour Moein , Hekmatdoost Azita
Published: December 2023

The effects of purslane consumption on anthropometric measurements and blood pressure have been studied in numerous experiments. However, the research findings conflict with one another. In order to assess the impact of purslane on weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), this meta-analysis was carried out. Up until February 2023, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the reference lists of the identified pertinent randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were all searched. The random-effects model was used to calculate the effect size and then to describe it as a weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) (CRD42023427955). The systematic review was able to incorporate seven RCTs. Meta-analysis showed that purslane significantly decreased body weight (WMD): −0⋅73 kg, 95 % confidence interval (CI): −1⋅37, −0⋅09, P=0⋅025), BMI (WMD: −0⋅35 kg/m2, 95 % CI: −0⋅64, −0⋅07, P=0⋅016), and SBP (WMD: −3⋅64 mmHg, 95 % CI: −6⋅42, −0⋅87, P = 0⋅01), and for WC, there was no discernible effect (WMD: −0⋅86 cm; 95 % CI, −1⋅80 to 0⋅07; P = 0⋅06) and DBP (WMD: −0⋅36 mmHg; 95 % CI, −1⋅75 to 1⋅03; P = 0⋅61). Purslane consumption, especially in participants with a BMI of <30, might play a role in decreasing SBP, body weight, BMI, and WC. Purslane consumption significantly reduced body weight, BMI, and SBP; however, WC and DBP did not experience a reduction. More investigation is needed to verify the impact of purslane consumption on anthropometric parameters and blood pressure.
Loess transportation surfaces in west-central Wisconsin, USA
Authors: Schaetzl Randall J.
Published: December 2023

The concept of a loess transportation surface portends that saltating sands deflate silt/dust and send them into suspension. This process continues until a topographic barrier stops the saltating sand, allowing loess deposits to accumulate downwind. This paper reports on loess transportation surfaces in west-central Wisconsin, USA. During the postglacial period, cold, dry conditions coincided with strong northwesterly winds to initiate widespread saltation of freely available sands, deflating any preexisting loess deposits. Large parts of the study area are transportation surfaces, and lack loess. Loess deposits were only able to accumulate at “protected” sites—downwind from (east of) topographic barriers, such as isolated bedrock uplands and the north-to-south flowing Black River. Loess in locations from these barriers is thicker (sometimes >5 m) than would be expected, and in places has even accumulated above preexisting loess deposits. For example, downwind (east) of the Black River, most of the low-relief landscape is covered with ≈40–70 cm of silty loess, even though it is many tens of kilometers from the initial loess source. Upwind of the river, on the transportation surface, the low-relief landscape is only intermittently mantled with thin, scattered deposits of silty-sandy eolian sediment, and generally lacks loess.