bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From process to property: multi-physics modeling of dislocation dynamics and microscale damage in metal additive manufacturing
Authors: Hu Daijun , Grilli Nicolò , Yan Wentao
Published: October 2024

Metal additive manufacturing (AM) has the potential to tailor the mechanical performance of materials. Due to the complex thermal history and unique microstructure, AM materials are reported to contain distinct dislocation networks with a high dislocation density, which affect the plastic deformation behavior and fracture. However, it is challenging to experimentally observe the formation of such dislocation structures. In this work, a multi-scale multi-physics crystal plasticity modeling framework that integrates the process-structure-property relationship in metal AM is developed. The temperature field obtained from thermal-fluid flow simulations of the AM process and the microstructure from the phase field model of grain growth are combined into thermo-mechanical crystal plasticity simulations to obtain grain-scale thermal stresses. These stresses are used as input to simulate the evolution of dislocation structures within individual grains. Taking AM 316L stainless steel as the material of interest, the effect of initial dislocation configuration on the slip plane and cross-slip mechanism on the dislocation structure formation are investigated. Furthermore, a phase field damage model is implemented to study the initiation of microscale damage and their relationship with dislocation structures, which is a main novelty of this work. This modeling framework provides comprehensive simulations of all aspects of metal AM and offers insights into the dislocation mechanisms and damage formation at microscale in AM materials, which could be used to guide the manipulation of the mechanical properties of AM materials.
RSDiff: remote sensing image generation from text using diffusion model
Authors: Sebaq Ahmad , ElHelw Mohamed
Published: October 2024

The generation and enhancement of satellite imagery are critical in remote sensing, requiring high-quality, detailed images for accurate analysis. This research introduces a two-stage diffusion model methodology for synthesizing high-resolution satellite images from textual prompts. The pipeline comprises a low-resolution diffusion model (LRDM) that generates initial images based on text inputs and a super-resolution diffusion model (SRDM) that refines these images into high-resolution outputs. The LRDM merges text and image embeddings within a shared latent space, capturing essential scene content and structure. The SRDM then enhances these images, focusing on spatial features and visual clarity. Experiments conducted using the Remote Sensing Image Captioning Dataset demonstrate that our method outperforms existing models, producing satellite images with accurate geographical details and improved spatial resolution.
Group activity recognition using unreliable tracked pose
Authors: Thilakarathne Haritha , Nibali Aiden , He Zhen , Morgan Stuart
Published: October 2024

Group activity recognition in video is a complex task due to the need for a model to recognise the actions of all individuals in the video and their complex interactions. Recent studies propose that optimal performance is achieved by individually tracking each person and subsequently inputting the sequence of poses or cropped images/optical flow into a model. This helps the model to recognise what actions each person is performing before they are merged to arrive at the group action class. However, all previous models rely highly on high-quality tracking and have only been evaluated using ground truth tracking information. In practice, achieving highly reliable tracking information for all individuals in a group activity video is almost impossible. We introduce an innovative deep learning-based group activity recognition approach called Rendered Pose-based Group Activity Recognition System (RePGARS), designed to tolerate unreliable tracking and pose information. Experimental results confirm that RePGARS outperforms all existing group activity recognition algorithms tested, which do not use ground truth detection and tracking information.
Assessing the impact of climate change on spring discharge using hydrological modelling in Musanze District, Rwanda
Authors: Muhumure Joseph , Pohl Eric , Schulz Stephan
Published: October 2024

Climate change has far-reaching impacts on water availability globally, with changing precipitation patterns and global warming contributing to increasing scarcity and unreliability of spring water in many regions. Despite this understanding, the implication of climate change on the hydrological system remains limited in certain areas, including the district of Musanze, Rwanda. This study investigates the effects of climate change on the discharge of 14 springs in Musanze using the hydrological model V2Karst. CORDEX data from two global climate models of CMIP5 are used to simulate the future spring discharges over the period 2021–2100. The results reveal significantly higher annual discharges in the RCP2.6 scenario compared to the RCP8.5 for all springs from 2021 to 2100. Nevertheless, no significant long-term trend in spring discharge is observed between the early (2021–2050) and late (2071–2100) periods. However, the intra-annual temporal discharge patterns are changing with a significant increase in the seasonality index for the RCP8.5 scenario towards the end of the twenty-first century. Additionally, for both RCPs, there is a notable increase in the number of days with discharges below 40% of the mean of annual discharges during the baseline period. The overall findings of this study suggest that climate change significantly impacts the future evolution of spring discharges in Musanze, indicating potential risks to the future availability of water in the region.
Identifying the number of latent factors of stochastic volatility models
Authors: Allaj Erindi , Mancino Maria Elvira , Sanfelici Simona
Published: October 2024

We provide a procedure to identify the number of latent factors of stochastic volatility models. The methodology relies on the non-parametric Fourier estimation method introduced by Malliavin and Mancino (Finance Stoch 4:49–61, 2002) and applies to high-frequency data. Based on the Fourier analysis, we first estimate the latent volatility process and then the volatilities and covariances of the processes that are gradually identified, such as volatility of volatility and leverage. The analysis of the eigenvalue spectrum of the Gram matrix can reveal information about the actual number of factors driving the process at hand. We corroborate our analysis by numerical simulations on single and multi factor models. Finally, we apply our methodology to intraday prices from the S &P 500 index futures.
Advancing Our Understanding of Complex Intervention Development in Social Work: Co-Producing Support for Youth Transitioning from Out-of-Home Care
Authors: Olsson Tina M. , Bergström Martin , Välikoski Magda , Karlsson Matilda , Skoog Therése
Published: October 2024

Research on intervention development has expanded over the past decade. However, much of the extant literature on complex intervention development is confined to healthcare and public health broadly or intervention science specifically with scant attention to the process within other fields known for their extensive provision of social interventions such as social work or community-based services. This paper aims to advance understanding of the complex intervention development process within social work using an example from the Swedish municipal social services. We use the Guidance for Reporting Intervention Development Studies (GUIDED) to describe the development and content of My Choice-My Way! an intervention to support youth transitioning from out-of-home care. Youth in out-of-home care is an extremely vulnerable group and one of social welfare services’ core user populations. Coproduction processes were used to develop a theory-, evidence-, and implementation-based approach to intervention development. Implications for future development within social work are discussed.
Review of agronomic and kernel quality traits of 273 almond cultivars
Authors: Calle Alejandro , Aparicio-Durán Lidia , Batlle Ignasi , Eduardo Iban , Miarnau Xavier
Published: October 2024

Almond stands out as one of the best-adapted temperate tree species globally. Its adaptability facilitated a widespread distribution from Central Asia to regions such as the Mediterranean, the United States, and Australia, enabling the adaptation of different genotypes to specific edaphoclimatic conditions. Throughout this spreading process, diverse almond landraces were selected in each growing area, resulting in a collection with varying agronomic and kernel quality properties well adapted to each origin. In addition to these native cultivars, various almond breeding programs, both public and private, released new cultivars to address key issues related to the production and kernel quality of traditional cultivars. This collective effort has resulted in a wide range of cultivars with diverse phenotypic characteristics, available for cultivation and breeding purposes. In this review, we summarize the main agronomic and kernel quality characteristics of globally available cultivated almond germplasm. This germplasm comprises genotypes from Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Australia, and Europe, either locally cultivated or released from breeding programs. For each cultivar, we provide information (if known) on the origin, parentage, year of introduction, self-(in)compatibility, S alleles, blooming time, chilling, and heat requirements, bearing habits, kernel and shell characteristics, harvesting time, tree characteristic, and disease susceptibility/resistance. In conclusion, the global diversity of cultivated almond germplasm presented in this review provides a valuable repository of phenotypic traits and genetic resources to continue advancements in almond cultivation and breeding worldwide.
Association of Maternity Leave Characteristics and Postpartum Depressive Symptoms among Women in New York
Authors: Hecht Hannah K. , Nguyen Angela-Maithy N. , Harley Kim G.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The United States is the only high-income country without a comprehensive national maternity leave policy guaranteeing paid, job-projected leave. The current study examined associations between maternity leave characteristics (duration of leave, payment status of leave) and postpartum depressive symptoms.

Methods

This study used a sample of 3,515 postpartum women from the New York City and New York State Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) from 2016 to 2019. We used logistic regression to examine the association of leave duration and payment status with self-reported postpartum depressive symptoms between 2 and 6 months postpartum.

Results

Compared to having at least some paid leave, having unpaid leave was associated with an increased odds of postpartum depressive symptoms, adjusting for leave duration and selected covariates (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–1.93). There was no significant difference in postpartum depressive symptoms between those with partially and those with fully paid leave. In contrast to prior literature, leave duration was not significantly associated with postpartum depressive symptoms (aOR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.97–1.02 for each additional week of leave).

Discussion

This study suggests that unpaid leave is associated with increased risk of postpartum depression, which can have long-term health effects for both mothers and children. Future studies can help to identify which communities could most benefit from paid leave and help to inform paid leave policies.
Designing stable ride-sharing for commuting trip chain with role flexibility
Authors: Peng Zixuan , Wang Wensi , Wang Chenyu , Yu Bin
Published: October 2024

In ride-sharing, fixing the roles of commuters with vehicles could come at an opportunity of missed balance between riders and drivers. The decisions made by commuters with vehicles about roles are related to both to-work travel and return-home travel. Commuters may choose not to drive when they have a confirmed ride back home. This study designs a stable ride-sharing model with role flexibility for the commuting trip chain. The preferences of commuters over matching partners in trip chains are formulated. A stable matching algorithm based on commuting trip chain is designed. To assess the performance of the proposed model and algorithm, real-life data from a resident trip survey in Dalian are used to design experimental cases. The results indicate that stable matching based on the trip chain is not a consequence of the repetition of successive one-period stable matching. Compared with matching in two phases, the matching rate of commuters increases by an average of 10%. When the number of commuters with role flexibility increases by four times, the matching rate of commuters increases by an average of 5.6%.
Exposure to superstar firms and financial distress
Authors: Cheng Stephanie F. , Vyas Dushyantkumar , Wittenberg-Moerman Regina , Zhao Wuyang
Published: October 2024

A few highly successful firms (“superstar firms”) have captured large market shares and earned massive profits in recent decades. We examine whether superstar firms are associated with a greater likelihood of financial distress for firms exposed to them in product markets. Building on recent research, we identify superstars as firms with the highest markups in the industry and whose industry markup share increases over time. We then measure, with product similarity scores, a firm’s overall product market exposure to superstars. We document that firms with greater exposure are more likely to file for bankruptcy. We examine why superstar exposure is associated with bankruptcy and show that firms with the greater superstar exposure exhibit weaker financial performance and greater riskiness. Furthermore, we show that the association between superstar exposure and the likelihood of bankruptcy strengthens when superstars have greater market power.
Longitudinal comparison of the relationship of energy intake with body composition and physical performance in elite female basketball and volleyball players
Authors: Miguel-Ortega Álvaro , Calleja-González Julio , Mielgo-Ayuso Juan
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To maximise sporting success, disciplines such as basketball and volleyball need to improve their methods of analysing the sporting performance and fitness of their athletes. Although energy intake quantities have been established at a theoretical level for women to perform at a sporting level, it has been found that these energy intake levels are not met or followed and that, despite this, the performance of female players is not diminished. Thus, the purpose of this research study was to describe and compare the anthropometric characteristics of these two disciplines and to identify the differences in actual and theoretical energy intake, as well as to observe physical performance in both disciplines.

Methods

Anthropometric data, continuous quantitative data, training time and characteristics, and energy intake data were collected. Performance tests included upper and lower body strength, speed, agility, and endurance tests. Dietary monitoring showed lower intakes of total energy, carbohydrate and protein than theoretically recommended. However, the athletes experienced overall improvements in performance and body composition.

Results

The mean total energy intake was 20.2 ± 4.3 kcal·kg−1·day−1. The minimum individual mean intake was 9.8 kcal·kg−1·day−1 and the maximum was 25.95 kcal·kg−1·day−1. Carbohydrates accounted for 54.3% ± 8.8% of the energy intake; 20.3% ± 6.5% from fats; 25.4% ± 5.7% from proteins.

Conclusions

Current data suggest that, although a cause-effect relationship between dietary intake and BC performance cannot be determined, elite athletes in these sports disciplines may experience beneficial outcomes despite having lower total energy, CHO, protein, and fat intakes than previously recommended in the literature.
Modelling Mucus Clearance in Sinuses: Thin-Film Flow Inside a Fluid-Producing Cavity Lined with an Active Surface
Authors: Desai Nikhil , Lauga Eric
Published: October 2024

The paranasal sinuses are a group of hollow spaces within the human skull, surrounding the nose. They are lined with an epithelium that contains mucus-producing cells and tiny hairlike active appendages called cilia. The cilia beat constantly to sweep mucus out of the sinus into the nasal cavity, thus maintaining a clean mucus layer within the sinuses. This process, called mucociliary clearance, is essential for a healthy nasal environment and disruption in mucus clearance leads to diseases such as chronic rhinosinusitis, specifically in the maxillary sinuses, which are the largest of the paranasal sinuses. We present here a continuum mathematical model of mucociliary clearance inside the human maxillary sinus. Using a combination of analysis and computations, we study the flow of a thin fluid film inside a fluid-producing cavity lined with an active surface: fluid is continuously produced by a wall-normal flux in the cavity and then is swept out, against gravity, due to an effective tangential flow induced by the cilia. We show that a steady layer of mucus develops over the cavity surface only when the rate of ciliary clearance exceeds a threshold, which itself depends on the rate of mucus production. We then use a scaling analysis, which highlights the competition between gravitational retention and cilia-driven drainage of mucus, to rationalise our computational results. We discuss the biological relevance of our findings, noting that measurements of mucus production and clearance rates in healthy sinuses fall within our predicted regime of steady-state mucus layer development.
The effects of climate change on Pinus tabulaeformis radial growth in the Xiaowutai Mountains, northern China
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhang Jiping , Wei Benyong , Qiao Qing , Zhang Wentao , Ning Yangcui , Liu Chunlan
Published: October 2024

Clarifying the climate change effects on the radial growth of trees has implications for sustainable forest management, especially under global warming. To investigate tree growth responses to regional climate change of Xiaowutai Mountain, four Chinese pine (Pinus tabulaeformis) ring-width index chronologies were established at different elevations (1290–1600 m). Species growth trends were estimated using climate change projections derived from global climate models. The results show: (1) the four ring-width chronologies exhibited strong statistical characteristics, making them suitable for dendroclimatology studies. Radial growth-climate relationships were highly consistent, showing a negative correlation with previous September temperatures and current May–June temperatures, as well as a positively correlated with precipitation and Palmer Drought Severity Index during the corresponding period; and (2) climate change scenarios revealed that temperature will gradually increase on the Xiaowutai Mountain, and only a slight variation in precipitation is expected. Chinese pine radial growth may show a decline under future climate change.
What do Lygus like? Looking for potential trap crops to reduce faba bean damage
Authors: Aguiar-Cordero Teresa , Cárcamo Héctor , Prager Sean
Published: October 2024

Grain legumes, such as faba bean (Vicia faba L.), are crucial for protein supply and soil fertility enhancement through nitrogen fixation. However, faba bean cultivation is challenged by Lygus plant bugs (Hemiptera: Miridae), which cause significant crop damage and seed quality loss. This study aimed to evaluate Lygus preferences between faba bean and alternative crops to develop effective management strategies. We conducted choice bioassay experiments under laboratory conditions and field plot experiments. Laboratory results indicated sex-based host preferences, with males favoring faba beans and females preferring canola. Field studies showed that faba beans adjacent to canola had higher Lygus abundance and damage compared to those next to peas, flax, and safflower. Safflower and sunflower demonstrated potential as trap crops to reduce Lygus damage to faba beans. Our findings provide insights into Lygus behavior and suggest that a combination of trap cropping, and targeted insecticide use could mitigate the impact of Lygus infestations on faba bean cultivation.
Real-world efficacy and safety of naltrexone-bupropion therapy in Chinese patients with obesity: A single-centre experience
Authors: Lui David Tak Wai , Tsoi Kimberly Hang , Fong Carol Ho Yi , Jiang Nancy Su , Chow Wing Sun , Yuen Michele Mae Ann
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave®) has shown efficacy and safety in large randomised controlled trials, predominantly comprising Caucasians. Data are limited in Asian populations. We carried out a retrospective matched cohort study of Chinese patients with obesity to evaluate the efficacy and safety of naltrexone-bupropion in real-world clinical practice.

Methods

We performed a retrospective matched cohort study of Chinese patients with obesity managed in the Obesity Clinic of Queen Mary Hospital in Hong Kong between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2020. Electronic health records of patients treated with naltrexone-bupropion were retrieved for body weight and height, obesity-related metabolic parameters, and adverse events over a 12-month period. Age- and sex-matched controls from the Obesity Clinic who were only on self-directed lifestyle management were identified for comparison of weight changes. General linear models were used to analyse the change in body weight over 12 months.

Results

Thirty-seven patients treated with naltrexone-bupropion were included (mean age 42.2 ± 8.4 years, 54.1% men, baseline body mass index 37.3 ± 4.6 kg/m2), and 37 age- and sex-matched controls were included. Among the 37 naltrexone-bupropion-treated patients, the mean weight loss was 9.2 ± 5.2% at 6 months and 9.7 ± 8.1% at 12 months, which were significantly more than in controls (p < 0.001). Improvements in the obesity-related parameters were observed in association with weight loss over 12 months. Ten patients (27.0%) discontinued naltrexone-bupropion due to side effects, mainly neurological and gastrointestinal manifestations, within the first 12 months.

Conclusion

We demonstrated real-world efficacy and safety of naltrexone-bupropion among Chinese patients with obesity.
Clinical and Molecular Profiles of a Cohort of Egyptian Patients with Collagen VI-Related Dystrophy
Authors: Sharaf-Eldin Wessam E. , Rafat Karima , Issa Mahmoud Y. , Elbendary Hasnaa M. , Eissa Noura R. , Hawaary Bahaa , Gaboon Nagwa E. A. , Maroofian Reza , Gleeson Joseph G. , Essawi Mona L. , Zaki Maha S.
Published: October 2024

Collagen VI-related dystrophies (COL6-RD) display a wide spectrum of disease severity and genetic variability ranging from mild Bethlem myopathy (BM) to severe Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD) and the intermediate severities in between with dual modes of inheritance, dominant and recessive. In the current study, next-generation sequencing demonstrated potential variants in the genes coding for the three alpha chains of collagen VI (COL6A1, COL6A2, or COL6A3) in a cohort of Egyptian patients with progressive muscle weakness (n = 23). Based on the age of disease onset and the patient clinical course, subjects were diagnosed as follows: 12 with UCMD, 8 with BM, and 3 with intermediate disease form. Fourteen pathogenic variants, including 5 novel alterations, were reported in the enrolled subjects. They included 3 missense, 3 frameshift, and 6 splicing variants in 4, 3, and 6 families, respectively. In addition, a nonsense variant in a single family and an inframe variant in 3 different families were also detected. Recessive and dominant modes of inheritance were recorded in 9 and 8 families, respectively. According to ACMG guidelines, variants were classified as pathogenic (n = 7), likely pathogenic (n = 4), or VUS (n = 3) with significant pathogenic potential. To our knowledge, the study provided the first report of the clinical and genetic findings of a cohort of Egyptian patients with collagen VI deficiency. Inter- and intra-familial clinical variability was evident among the study cohort.
A Nanobody-Based Proximity Ligation Assay Detects Constitutive and Stimulus-Regulated Native Arc/Arg3.1 Oligomers in Hippocampal Neuronal Dendrites
Authors: Baldinotti Rodolfo , Pauzin Francois P. , Fevang Hauk , Ishizuka Yuta , Bramham Clive R.
Published: October 2024

Activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc), the product of an immediate early gene, plays critical roles in synaptic plasticity and memory. Evidence suggests that Arc function is determined by its oligomeric state; however, methods for localization of native Arc oligomers are lacking. Here, we developed a nanobody-based proximity ligation assay (PLA) for detection, localization, and quantification of Arc-Arc complexes in primary rat hippocampal neuronal cultures. We used nanobodies with single, structurally defined epitopes in the bilobar Arc capsid domain. Nanobody H11 binds inside the N-lobe ligand pocket, while nanobody C11 binds to the C-lobe surface. For each nanobody, ALFA- and FLAG-epitope tags created a platform for antibody binding and PLA. Surprisingly, PLA puncta in neuronal dendrites revealed widespread constitutive Arc-Arc complexes. Treatment of cultures with tetrodotoxin or cycloheximide had no effect, suggesting stable complexes that are independent of recent neuronal activity and protein synthesis. To assess detection of oligomers, cultures were exposed to a cell-penetrating peptide inhibitor of the Arc oligomerization motif (OligoOFF). Arc-Arc complexes detected by H11 PLA were inhibited by OligoOff but not by control peptide. Notably, Arc complexes detected by C11 were unaffected by OligoOFF. Furthermore, we evaluated Arc complex formation after chemical stimuli that increase Arc synthesis. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor increased Arc-Arc signal detected by C11, but not H11. Conversely, dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG) treatment selectively enhanced H11 PLA signals. In sum, nanobody-based PLA reveals constitutive and stimulus-regulated Arc oligomers in hippocampal neuronal dendrites. A model is proposed based on detection of Arc dimer by C11 and higher-order oligomer by H11 nanobody.
Endothelial Neurogranin Regulates Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability via Modulation of the AKT Pathway
Authors: Akande Adesewa O. , Carter Zachary A. , Stokes Karen Y. , Nam Hyung W.
Published: October 2024

Neurogranin (Ng) expression is a biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease. A loss of brain Ng and an increase in CSF Ng positively correlate with cognitive decline. Ng is known to regulate neuronal calcium-calmodulin binding and synaptic plasticity, which are critical for learning/memory. Interestingly, we discovered that Ng is also expressed in mouse and human blood–brain barrier (BBB). However, the role of Ng expression in brain vasculature remains largely undefined. In this study, we investigated the role of Ng expression on neurovascular structure and function using Ng null mice and human cerebral microvascular endothelial (hCMEC/D3) cells. We performed brain clearing and immunolabeling of blood vessels from whole brains and brain slices. Deletion of Ng significantly decreases neurovascular density in mice. Using in vivo permeability assays, we found increased neurovascular permeability in Ng null mice. We also observed significant changes in the expression of tight junction proteins using western blot and immunofluorescent staining. To identify the molecular pathways involved, we carried out label-free proteomics on brain lysates from endothelial-specific Ng knockout mice. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis indicated that the AKT pathway is attenuated in the vasculature of endothelial-specific Ng knockout mice. To validate these in vivo findings, we pharmacologically manipulated AKT signaling in hCMEC/D3 cells and observed that inhibition of AKT activation causes increased permeability. Our results indicate that the loss of Ng expression alters neurovascular structure and permeability, potentially contributing to neurological dysfunction. Therefore, modulating Ng expression in the BBB may offer a novel therapeutic approach for Alzheimer’s disease.
Scoping review of anticancer drug utilization in lung cancer patients at the end of life
Authors: Szigethy Endre , Merzah Mohammed , Sola Ivan , Urrútia Gerard , Bonfill Xavier
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This scoping review aims to deepen the understanding of end-of-life anticancer drug use in lung cancer patients, a disease marked by high mortality and symptom burden. Insight into unique end-of-life treatment patterns is crucial for improving the appropriateness of cancer care for these patients.

Methods

Comprehensive searches were carried out in Medline and Embase to find articles on the utilization of anticancer drugs in the end of life of lung cancer patients.

Results

We identified 68 publications, highlighting the methodological characteristics of studies including the timing of the research, disease condition, treatment regimen, type of treatment, and features of the treatment. We outlined the frequency of anticancer drug use throughout different end-of-life periods.

Conclusion

This review provides a comprehensive overview of primary studies exploring end-of-life treatments in lung cancer patients. Methodological inconsistencies pose many challenges, revealing a notable proportion of patients experiencing potential overtreatment, warranting more standardized research methods for robust evaluations.
Assessment of Mycotoxins in Infants and Children Cereal-Based Foods: Dietary Exposure and Potential Health Risks
Authors: de Sá Soraia V. M. , Fernandes José O. , Faria Miguel A. , Cunha Sara C.
Published: October 2024

Public health concerns are rising regarding potential mycotoxin contamination in processed cereal-based products consumed by infants and young children. Due to their developing physiological systems and greater vulnerability, children are particularly susceptible to the adverse health effects of mycotoxins. This study investigated the presence of a wide range of mycotoxins (20 in total, encompassing various chemical classes, such as aflatoxins, ochratoxins, trichothecenes, zearalenones, fumonisins, citrinin and sterigmatocystin) in readily available processed cereal-based foods targeted towards infants and children in Portugal. Among the 148 analysed samples, 43% contained at least one of the targeted mycotoxins. Aflatoxin B1 (8.1%) and fumonisin B1 (10.8%) were the most commonly detected regulated mycotoxins, while emerging mycotoxins like enniatin B (14.9%) and beauvericin (10.1%) were also prevalent. The most commonly co-occurring mycotoxins were ENNB + BEA and FB1 + FB2. Although the Estimated Daily Intake of non-carcinogenic mycotoxins in most products was below their respective Tolerable Daily Intake (DONs and FBs (1 μg/kg bw/day), HT-2 and T-2 (0.02 μg/kg bw/day), ZEN (0.25 μg/kg bw/day), and CIT (0.2 μg/kg bw/day)), Hazard Quotient and Hazard Index values exceeded safe thresholds, indicating potential health risks.
The interplay between the urban development of Rome (Italy) and the Tiber River floods: A review of two millennia of socio-hydrological history
Authors: Ridolfi Elena , Lucantonio Mara , Di Baldassarre Giuliano , Moccia Benedetta , Napolitano Francesco , Russo Fabio
Published: October 2024

The urban development of Rome (Italy) has been intertwined with the dynamics of the Tiber River since its foundation. In this review paper, we analyse more than 2500 years of flood history and urban development to untangle the dynamics of flood risk and assess the resulting socio-hydrological phenomena. Until the 1800s, urban dwellers living in the riparian areas of the Tiber River were accustomed to frequent flooding. From the 1900s, the construction of flood walls reshaped the co-evolution of hydrological, economic, political, technological, and social processes. As a result, while the probability of flooding is currently very low, its potential adverse consequences would be catastrophic. From the analysis of the long-term feedback between urban development of Rome and flood events from ancient times to present days, it emerges the crucial need for an effective flood risk mitigation strategy that combines structural and non-structural measures. In particular, heightened flood risk awareness and preparedness to cope with rare but potentially devastating events is key to alleviate flood risk.
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting pulmonary complications in elderly patients undergoing thoracic surgery
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Xue Dinghao , Wang Long , Li Yanxiang , Liu Luyu , Liao Guosong , Cao Jiangbei , Liu Yanhong , Lou Jingsheng , Li Hao , Yang Yongbin , Mi Weidong , Fu Qiang
Published: October 2024

Background

Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) remain a prevalent concern among elderly patients undergoing surgery, with a notably higher incidence observed in elderly patients undergoing thoracic surgery. This study aimed to develop a nomogram to predict the risk of PPCs in this population.

Methods

A total of 2963 elderly patients who underwent thoracic surgery were enrolled and randomly divided into a training cohort (80%, n = 2369) or a validation cohort (20%, n = 593). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify risk factors for PPCs, and a nomogram was developed based on the findings from the training cohort. The validation cohort was used to validate the model. The predictive accuracy of the model was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, area under ROC (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

A total of 918 (31.0%) patients reported PPCs. Nine independent risk factors for PPCs were identified: preoperative presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), elevated leukocyte count, higher partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2) level, surgical site, thoracotomy, intraoperative hypotension, blood loss > 100 mL, surgery duration > 180 min, and malignant tumor. The AUC value for the training cohort was 0.739 (95% CI: 0.719–0.762), and it was 0.703 for the validation cohort (95% CI: 0.657–0.749). The P-values for the Hosmer-Lemeshow test were 0.633 and 0.144 for the training and validation cohorts, respectively, indicating a notable calibration curve fit. The DCA curve indicated that the nomogram could be applied clinically if the risk threshold was between 12% and 84%, which was found to be between 8% and 82% in the validation cohort.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the pressing need for early detection of PPCs in elderly patients undergoing thoracic surgery. The nomogram exhibited promising predictive efficacy for PPCs in elderly patients undergoing thoracic surgery, enabling the identification of high-risk patients and consequently aiding in the implementation of preventive interventions.

Graphical Abstract
Association between dynapenic abdominal obesity and arthritis among the middle-aged and older Chinese: a longitudinal study
Authors: Zhou Shengliang , Luo Naijia , Si Haibo , Da Wacili , Liu Yuan , Wu Limin , Li Mingyang , Shen Bin
Published: October 2024

Background

This study aimed to assess the longitudinal association between dynapenic abdominal obesity and new-onset arthritis among the middle-aged and older Chinese population.

Methods

We included 6863 participants from the 2011 and 2015 waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Dynapenia was defined as handgrip strength < 28 kg for males, and < 18 kg for females. Abdominal obesity was defined as a waist circumference ≥ 90 cm for males and ≥ 85 cm for females. Based on the definitions, all participants were divided into four groups: no dynapenia and no abdominal obesity (ND/NAO), abdominal obesity alone (ND/AO), dynapenia alone (D/NAO), and dynapenia and abdominal obesity (D/AO). The association between dynapenic abdominal obesity and new-onset arthritis was assessed by sex using the Poisson regression models.

Results

After a four-year follow-up, 1272 (18.53%) participants reported new-onset arthritis. Those in the D/AO group had a significantly increased risk of new-onset arthritis compared to those in the ND/NAO group (adjusted relative risk (RR): 1.34, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.77). In females, the ND/AO (RR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.03–1.43) and D/AO (RR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.01–1.93) groups were associated with a higher risk of arthritis. This significant association was not observed in males.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that the combined effect of dynapenia and abdominal obesity significantly increased the risk of new-onset arthritis in females, but this association was not observed in males.
Calf circumference was negatively associated with all-cause mortality among the Chinese centenarians: a prospective study with a 5-year follow-up
Authors: Sun Zhigao , Zhang Hengbo , Liu Xiaofei , Wang Xiaobing , Liu Qiong , Zhao Yali , Nie Yan , Huang Dongzong , Fu Shihui
Published: October 2024

Background

Sarcopenia is an aging-related disorder characterized by a loss of muscle mass and function. Calf circumference (CC) is a useful surrogate marker of muscle mass and function. This prospective study was designed to investigate the association between CC and all-cause mortality during a follow-up for 5 years in the Chinese centenarians.

Methods

The China Hainan Centenarian Cohort Study (CHCCS) is conducted in 18 cities and counties of Hainan, China.

Results

All 231 centenarians had a mean age of 103.03 years. Survival participants had a longer CC and were often living alone compared with others (P<0.05 for all). Multivariate Cox regression models showed that CC was negatively associated with all-cause mortality (P < 0.05 for all). Participants with a longer CC had a lower mortality risk compared with others [Exp(β): 0.918; 95%confidence interval: 0.863–0.977]. Participants with a longer CC had a lower mortality risk whether they were males or females and lived with family members or alone.

Conclusion

CC was negatively associated with all-cause mortality and could be an indicator of future mortality among the Chinese centenarians. Further researches should focus on preventing a decline in the CC in order to promote human longevity.
Mediating role of accelerated aging in the association between depression and mortality risk: findings from NHANES
Authors: Xu Cheng , Wang Jia-ni , Song Zhen , Deng Han-yu , Li Chong-chao
Published: October 2024

Objective

To investigate the association between depression, accelerated biological aging, and mortality risk, and to assess whether accelerated aging mediates the relationship between major depression and mortality risk.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 12,761 participants aged 20 years or older from the 2005–2010 cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) was analyzed. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), with scores of ≥ 10 indicating major depression. Accelerated biological aging was measured using phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel). Multivariable linear regression models and subgroup analyses were used to examine the association between depression and accelerated aging, while weighted multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models and subgroup analyses assessed the impact of major depression on mortality risk. Mediation analysis was performed to assess whether PhenoAgeAccel mediated the relationship between major depression and mortality outcomes.

Results

Among the 12,761 adults, the weighted mean age was 46.6 years, with 48.8% being male, and 6.9% experiencing major depression. The results showed a positive association between major depression and PhenoAgeAccel (β: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.06–1.16). Over a median follow-up duration of 11.3 years (interquartile range: 9.9–13.1), major depression was associated with increased all-cause mortality (HR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13–1.62) and cardiovascular mortality (HR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.18–2.54). However, the relationship with cancer mortality was not statistically significant after full adjustment for confounding factors. The mediation analysis further revealed that PhenoAgeAccel accounted for 10.32% and 5.12% of the associations between major depression and all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular mortality, respectively.

Conclusion

Depression is associated with accelerated aging and contributes to increased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Accelerated aging partially mediates the association between major depression and mortality risk. Our findings highlight the urgent need to incorporate mental health care into public health strategies to delay population aging and reduce mortality risk.
Decoding pain: prediction under different emotional contexts through physiological signals
Authors: Alves Bruna , Brás Susana , Sebastião Raquel
Published: October 2024

Pain recognition is a challenging yet crucial problem. Common methods used to measure pain are based on self-reported tools; however, not every person can communicate it. Therefore, automatic pain detection methods have emerged. Since pain is related to the emotional state of an individual, this variable must be considered. Thus, this work proposes pain prediction under different emotional contexts. For this purpose, data were collected during a protocol designed for pain induction with previous emotional elicitation. Emotions were elicited through videos composed of excerpts of documentaries, horror and comedy films, while the pain was induced through a Cold Pressor Test. Physiological signals, such as electrocardiogram, electrodermal activity and surface electromyogram, were collected during the protocol. Furthermore, several questionnaires were answered and pain reports were also registered. Two problems were addressed: pain classification and estimation of the Pain Tolerance score. The algorithm with the best performance for each problem was found using only data from the neutral session and nested cross-validation strategy. Using only physiological data from the neutral session, a F1-score of 99.32% was obtained for pain recognition and a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.29 was obtained for Pain Tolerance estimation. When considering all the emotional sessions, the physiological data were merged with scores of the Visual Analogue Scale questionnaire, achieving a F1-score of 98.60% and a MAE of 0.41, for the first and second problems, respectively. These results are promising and stress out the key role that the emotional context of the individuals plays in pain prediction.
Coping Flexibility: Match Between Coping Strategy and Perceived Stressor Controllability Predicts Depressed Mood
Authors: Leslie-Miller Calissa J. , Joormann Jutta , Quinn Meghan E.
Published: October 2024

Individual differences in coping responses can predict psychological distress, anxiety, and depression; therefore, it is vital to explore adaptive coping strategies. Recent research suggests that an individual’s ability to choose strategies based on the context may be more important than the ability to use any one strategy, an ability termed coping flexibility. For example, problem-focused coping is adaptive for situations of high control, while emotion-focused coping is adaptive for situations of low control. This conceptualization of coping flexibility, termed strategy-situation fit, consists of the match of strategy to situation. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate if daily fluctuations in strategy-situation fit for daily stressors would be associated with daily levels of depressed mood. A seven-day diary study in a sample of undergraduate students (n = 75) was completed. The results of generalized linear mixed models demonstrated that in situations of high stress and high control, more use of emotion-focused coping was related to higher levels of depressed mood. Additionally, in situations of high stress and low control, more use of emotion-focused coping was related to lower levels of depressed mood. These findings suggest that the match between emotion-focused coping and perceived stressor controllability can be a predictor of daily experiences of depressed mood when faced with high-level stressors.
Inequalities between s-numbers
Authors: Ullrich Mario
Published: October 2024

Singular numbers of linear operators between Hilbert spaces were generalized to Banach spaces by s-numbers (in the sense of Pietsch). This allows for different choices, including approximation, Gelfand, Kolmogorov and Bernstein numbers. Here, we present an elementary proof of a bound between the smallest and the largest s-number.
Clay Minerals and Continental‐Scale Remagnetization: A Case Study of South American Neoproterozoic Carbonates
Authors: Donardelli Bellon Ualisson , Trindade Ricardo Ivan Ferreira , Williams Wyn , Galante Douglas , Sant’Anna Lucy Gomes , Pescarini Thales
Published: October 2024

The Neoproterozoic carbonate rocks of the Araras Group (Amazon Craton) and the Sete‐Lagoas and Salitre Formations (São Francisco Craton) share a statistically indistinguishable single‐polarity (reversed) characteristic direction. This direction is associated with paleomagnetic poles that do not align with the expected directions for primary detrital remanence. We employ a combination of classical rock magnetic properties and micro imaging/chemical analysis (in thin sections) using synchrotron radiation to examine these remagnetized carbonate rocks. Magnetic data indicate that most samples lack the anomalous hysteresis properties typically associated with carbonate remagnetization (except for distorted loops). Through a combination of Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), X‐ray Fluorescence (XRF), and X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), we identified subhedral/anhedral magnetite, or spherical grains with a core‐shell structure of magnetite surrounded by maghemite. These grains are within the pseudo‐single domain size range, as do most of the iron sulfides, and are spatially associated with potassium‐bearing aluminosilicates. While fluid percolation and organic matter maturation play a role, smectite‐illitization appears to be crucial for the growth of these phases. X‐ray diffraction analysis, in addition, identifies these silicates as predominantly highly crystalline illite, suggesting exposure to epizone temperatures. These temperatures were likely reached during the final stages of the Gondwana assembly (Cambrian), but remanence was only locked in afterward, in successive cooling events during the Early Middle Ordovician. This is supported by the carbonates' paleomagnetic pole positions compared to Gondwana's apparent polar wander path, and the absence of reversals, contrasting with the high reversal frequency of the Late Ediacaran/Cambrian.