bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted Polymersomes Enable Enhanced Delivery to Peripheral Nerves Post-Injury
Authors: Trumbull Kayleigh , Fetten Sophia , Montgomery Dru , Marahrens Vanessa , Myers Olivia , Arnold Noah , Twiss Jeffery , Larsen Jessica
Published: September 2024

The gold standard therapy for peripheral nerve injuries involves surgical repair, which is invasive and leads to major variations in therapeutic outcomes. Because of this, smaller injuries often go untreated. However, alternative, non-invasive routes of administration are currently unviable due to the presence of the blood-nerve barrier (BNB), which prevents passage of small molecules from the blood into the endoneurium and the nerve. This paper demonstrates that ligands on the surface of nanoparticles, called polymersomes, can enable delivery to the nerve through non-invasive intramuscular injections. Polymersomes made from polyethylene glycol (PEG)-b-polylactic acid (PLA) were conjugated with either apolipoprotein E (ApoE) or rabies virus glycoprotein-based peptide, RVG29 (RVG) and loaded with near infrared dye, AlexaFluor647. ApoE was used to target receptors upregulated in post-injury inflammation, while RVG targets neural specific receptors. Untagged, ApoE-tagged, and RVG-tagged polymersomes were injected at 100 mM either intranerve (IN) or intramuscular (IM) into Sprague Dawley rats post sciatic nerve injury. The addition of the ApoE and RVG tags enabled increased AlexaFluor647 fluorescence in the injury site at 1 hour post IN injection compared to the untagged polymersome control. However, only the RVG-tagged polymersomes increased AlexaFluor647 fluorescence after intramuscular injection. Ex vivo analysis of sciatic nerves demonstrated that ApoE-tagged polymersomes enabled the greatest retention of AlexaFluor647 regardless of the injection route. This led us to conclude that using ApoE to target inflammation enabled the greatest retention of polymersome-delivered payloads while RVG to target neural cells more specifically enabled the penetration of polymersome-delivered payloads. Observations were confirmed by calculating area under the curve pharmacokinetic parameters and the use of a two-compartment pharmacokinetic model.
Photoreceptor degeneration has heterogeneous effects on functional retinal ganglion cell types
Authors: Dyszkant Nadine , Oesterle Jonathan , Qiu Yongrong , Harrer Merle , Schubert Timm , Gonschorek Dominic , Euler Thomas
Published: September 2024

Retinitis pigmentosa is a hereditary disease causing progressive degeneration of rod and cone photoreceptors, with no effective therapies. Using the rd10 mouse model, which mirrors the human condition, we examined its disease progression. Rods deteriorate by postnatal day (P) 45, followed by cone degeneration, with most photoreceptors lost by P180. Until then, retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) remain light-responsive, albeit only under photopic conditions, despite extensive outer retinal remodelling. However, it is still unknown whether the different functional RGC types remain stable, or if some types differentially alter their activity or are even lost during disease progression. Here, we addressed if and how the response diversity of functional RGC types changes with rd10 disease progression. At P30, we were able to identify all functional wild-type RGC types also in rd10 retina, suggesting that at this early degenerative stage, the full breadth of retinal output is still present. Remarkably, we found that the fractions of functional types changed throughout progressing degeneration between rd10 and wild-type: Responses of RGCs with 'Off'-components ('Off' and 'On-Off' RGCs) seemed to be more vulnerable than 'On'-cells, with 'Fast-On' types being the most resilient. Notably, direction-selective RGCs appeared to be more vulnerable than orientation-selective RGCs. In summary, we found differences in resilience of response types (from resilient to vulnerable): 'Uncertain' > 'Fast On' > 'Slow On' > 'On-Off' > 'Off'. Taken together, our results suggest that rd10 photoreceptor degeneration has heterogeneous effects on functional RGC types, with distinct sets of types losing their characteristic light responses earlier than others. This differential susceptibility of RGC circuits may be of relevance for future neuroprotective therapeutic strategies.
There is no Biophysical Distinction between Temporal Interference Stimulation and Direct kHz Stimulation for Actuation of Peripheral Nerves
Authors: Opančar Aleksandar , Ondráčková Petra , Trajlinek Jan , Đerek Vedran , Głowacki Eric Daniel
Published: September 2024

Temporal interference stimulation (TIS) has attracted increasing attention as a promising noninvasive electrical stimulation method. Despite positive results and optimistic expectations, the TIS field has been beset by misunderstandings concerning its mechanism of action and efficacy in safely targeting deep neural structures. Various studies posit that TIS exploits the interference of multiple supraphysiological frequency (kHz range) carriers to essentially deliver low-frequency stimulation at the intersection of the carriers, thereby circumventing limitations associated with tissue impedance and depth penetration. Due to the documented electrophysiological effects of kHz-range electric stimuli, such a picture is an oversimplification. Moreover, recent theoretical modelling work has established that the biophysics of TIS is based on kHz stimulation mechanisms. This paper presents experimental evidence supporting this conclusion, by comparing TIS with direct kHz stimulation on peripheral nerve targets in an invertebrate model (Locusta migratoria), and in human subjects. Our findings show that the stimulation effects of TIS are achievable through two-electrode kHz stimulation, without necessitating carrier interference in tissue. By comparing four-electrode TIS with two-electrode stimulation via kHz sine waves for targeting of peripheral nerves, we demonstrate overlapping strength-frequency (s-f) dependence across all stimulation types. Since all stimulation waveforms are governed by the same s-f curve, this implicates a common underlying biophysical mechanism. This equivalence challenges the notion that TIS uniquely facilitates neural engagement via other mechanisms. Furthermore, performing TIS with higher carrier frequencies into the MHz range fails to lead to stimulation. We evaluate the regions of tonic (unmodulated) and phasic (amplitude-modulated) stimulation regions inherent when using TIS, and the associated possibility of off-target effects. Our study further suggests that possible practical advantages of TIS can be achieved in an easier way by simply using amplitude-modulated kHz waveforms.
An embodied perspective: angular gyrus and precuneus decode selfhood in memories of naturalistic events
Authors: Iriye Heather M. , St. Jacques Peggy L.
Published: September 2024

While we often assume that memory encoding occurs from an in-body (first-person) perspective, out-of-body experiences demonstrate that we can form memories from a third-person perspective. This phenomenon provides a distinctive opportunity to examine the interaction between embodiment and visual perspective during encoding, and how this interplay shapes the recall of past events. Participants formed memories for naturalistic events following a manipulation of their sense of embodiment from in-body and out-of-body perspectives and recalled them during functional scanning. Region of interest multivariate analyses examined how the angular gyrus, precuneus, and hippocampus reflected visual perspective, embodiment, and their interaction during remembering. Patterns of activity during retrieval in the left angular gyrus and bilateral precuneus predicted embodiment on its own separated from visual perspective. While the left angular gyrus distinguished between in-body and out-of-body perspectives during the retrieval of events associated with both strong and weak embodiment, decoding accuracy predicting visual perspective was only above chance for events encoded with strong embodiment in the precuneus bilaterally. Decoding accuracy was not significant for any region when predicting visual perspective alone. Our results suggest that the contribution of posterior parietal regions in establishing visual perspectives within memories cannot be disentangled from embodiment. Encoding events from an embodied in-body perspective led to higher memory accuracy following repeated retrieval. These results elucidate how fundamental feelings of being located in and experiencing the world from our own body’s perspective are integrated within memory.
A fluid droplet harvests the force generated by shrinking microtubules in living cells
Authors: Morelli Katherine , Meier Sandro M. , Zhao Angela , Choudhury Madhurima , Willis M , Barral Yves , Vogel Jackie
Published: September 2024

The energy-consuming dynamic instability of microtubules generates significant forces which are thought to be harnessed to move large cargos in cells. However, identification of mechanisms which can capture the force released during microtubule depolymerization to move large loads has been elusive. In this work we show that a biomolecular condensate provides an elegant solution to this problem. Using live cell super-resolution microscopy, we directly observe that budding yeast +TIP bodies are nanoscale droplets with classic fluid-like behaviors which accumulate type V myosin (Myo2) at their surfaces. We find that conserved self-oligomerization interfaces in the protein Kar9 tune the biophysical properties of the viscoelastic +TIP body and its ability to e]iciently move the mitotic spindle. Our findings introduce a paradigm for how forces generated by microtubule dynamics are harnessed in cells and open a frontier of research on nanoscale biomolecular condensates in their native environment.
Effects of biophilic design on sustainable behaviors: introducing the use of serious game as a measure of sustainable behavior
Authors: Özgen Turan Dilay Seda , Afacan Yasemin , Surer Elif
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study explores the impact of biophilic design in built environments on sustainable behaviors through the innovative use of a serious game. By examining how exposure to biophilic elements influences behaviors in real and virtual settings, the research aims to demonstrate the potential of serious games as tools for promoting sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in three distinct experimental settings: (1) a real environment pre-game, (2) a non-immersive game environment within the same real setting and (3) an immersive game environment post-game. Data were collected from 162 participants who experienced these different conditions. The serious game “Pop a Coffee Corner” was developed based on biophilic design principles and used to assess behavioral changes.

Findings

Results indicated that exposure to biophilic design elements in real settings significantly enhanced sustainable behaviors compared to non-biophilic environments. Additionally, playing the serious game in a biophilic environment led to even greater improvements in sustainable behavior than exposure to biophilic design alone. This demonstrates the effectiveness of serious games in fostering sustainable actions.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s findings are based on a specific university setting, which may limit generalizability. Future research could explore long-term impacts and applications in diverse contexts.

Practical implications

The research provides practical guidelines for incorporating biophilic design in built environments, and developing serious games can be a practical strategy for architects, urban planners and educators to promote sustainable behaviors among individuals. This approach can be applied in educational settings, public spaces and workplaces to foster a deeper connection with nature and encourage environmentally responsible behaviors.

Social implications

By demonstrating the effectiveness of biophilic design and serious games in promoting sustainable behaviors, this study contributes to broader societal efforts to address environmental challenges. Implementing these strategies can lead to increased environmental awareness and pro-environmental behaviors, ultimately supporting sustainability goals.

Originality/value

This study introduces the serious game approach as a novel method to evaluate and promote sustainable behaviors through biophilic design. It highlights the potential for integrating biophilic elements in both real and virtual environments to encourage environmentally responsible behavior, offering valuable insights to architects, designers and policymakers.
A collaborative cybersecurity framework for higher education
Authors: Otoom Ahmed Ali , Atoum Issa , Al-Harahsheh Heba , Aljawarneh Mahmoud , Al Refai Mohammed N. , Baklizi Mahmoud
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the educational computer emergency response team (EduCERT) framework, an integrated response mechanism to bolster national cybersecurity through collaborative efforts in the higher education sector. The EduCERT framework addresses this gap by enhancing cyber security and mitigating cybercrime through collaborative incident management, knowledge sharing and university awareness campaigns.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose an EduCERT framework following the design science methodology. The framework is developed based on literature and input from focus group experts. Moreover, it is grounded in the principles of the technology-organization-environment framework, organizational learning and diffusion of innovations theory.

Findings

The EduCERT has eight components: infrastructure, governance, knowledge development, awareness, incident management, evaluation and continuous improvement. The framework reinforces national cybersecurity through cooperation between universities and the National Computer Emergency Response Team. The framework has been implemented in Jordan to generate a cybersecurity foundation for higher education. Evaluating the EduCERT framework’s influence on national cybersecurity highlights the importance of adopting comprehensive cyber-security policies and controls. The framework application shows its relevance, effectiveness, adaptability and alignment with best practices.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the impact of applying the framework in the Jordanian context, it is essential to acknowledge that the proposed EduCERT framework’s practical implementation may encounter challenges specific to diverse international educational environment sectors. However, framework customization for global applicability could address varied educational institutions in other countries.

Practical implications

Furthermore, the proposed EduCERT framework is designed with universal applicability that extends beyond the specific country’s context. The principles and components presented in the framework can serve as valuable design advice for establishing collaborative and resilient cybersecurity frameworks in educational settings worldwide. Therefore, the research enhances the proposed framework’s practical utility and positions it as an invaluable contribution to the broader discourse on global cybersecurity in academia.

Originality/value

This paper enhances national cybersecurity in the higher education sector, addressing the need for a more integrated response mechanism. The EduCERT framework demonstrates its effectiveness, adaptability and alignment with best practices, offering valuable guidance for global educational institutions.
Impact of sustainability education on senior student attitudes and behaviors: evidence from India
Authors: M.A. Sanjeev , Agrawal Reena , Syed Raihan Taqui , Arumugam Thangaraja , K. Praveena
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to ascertain the impact education for sustainable development (ESD) on knowledge, attitude and behavior among senior (last year undergraduate) Indian students.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a cross-sectional causal investigation with descriptive design using survey method. It uses the knowledge, attitude and behaviors toward the sustainable development scales of the International Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD) for data collection and partial least-square structural equation modelling for empirically testing the proposed research model.

Findings

The study results establish the importance of sustainability education on knowledge, attitude and behavior. The impact of knowledge on behavior is direct and partially mediated through the attitudinal pathway – indicating central and peripheral routes sustainability related information processing and attitude formation. The results also indicate poor knowledge of the impact of socio-cultural issues on sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

The study results will help assess the impact current ESD initiatives in India and redesign the ESD curriculum in line with ESD for 2030 initiatives to facilitate the achievement of UN’s sustainable development goals by 2030. This study is limited to senior students and offers scope for extension to other groups.

Social implications

The study results can help redesign the sustainability curriculum at the school and undergraduate levels in the country in line with ESD for 2023 objectives. The results indicate an urgent need to include the impact of sociocultural issues on sustainability to sensitize Indian students towards the same.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the sustainability education literature by assessing the impact of sustainability curricula on sustainability knowledge, attitude and behavior among Indian senior students – hitherto uninvestigated. It also will help in the informed redesign/ improvement of ESD curriculum under the ESD for 2030 initiatives.
Effects of transformational leadership and organizational climate on project performance in industrial revolution 5.0: a systematic literature review
Authors: Yang Yuge , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour , Imran Muhammad , Kong Liulin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The relationships between transformational leadership (TL), organizational climate (OC) and project performance have been investigated by previous studies, but no review of existing studies has systematically analyzed the effects of TL and OC on project performance in the industrial revolution (IR) 5.0 era. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a systematic literature review on the effects of TL and OC on project performance in IR 5.0, and to identify mainstream research topics, research gaps and future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

To do this, a total of 53 included journal articles were obtained after initially retrieving 648 documents from the Scopus database by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. It consists of four main steps, namely, identification of documents, screening, eligibility and included articles. In addition, science mapping analyses were conducted for keyword co-occurrence and document analyses, which aided in identifying the mainstream research topics, research gaps and future research directions.

Findings

The results report the annual publication trends, keywords and document analyses. Furthermore, a detailed qualitative discussion highlighted four mainstream research topics including TL in project management; the relationship between TL, OC and innovation; safety climate; and OC in project management. Moreover, this review study identified four research gaps and future research directions aligned with the mainstream research topics. They include: longitudinal investigations and multinational corporation surveys in TL; scope and longitudinal data in innovation; mono-method bias and universality of safety climate; and more comprehensive analyses of OC.

Originality/value

This review study would contribute to not only advancing the effects of TL and OC on project performance in IR 5.0, but also enabling project managers to understand TL or OC issues to improve project performance.
Exploratory study on short‐term administration of oral fosravuconazole for tinea pedis
Authors: Tsunemi Yuichiro , Naka Wataru
Published: September 2024

We investigated the clinical efficacy of short‐term, oral fosravuconazole (F‐RVCZ) therapy for tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete's foot. F‐RVCZ (equivalent to 100 mg ravuconazole) was administered orally once daily for 1 week for interdigital and vesicular tinea pedis and for 4 weeks for hyperkeratotic tinea pedis. Efficacy was evaluated based on mycological efficacy and clinical symptoms at Weeks 1, 4, and 8 for interdigital and vesicular tinea pedis and at Weeks 4, 8, and 12 for hyperkeratotic tinea pedis. Efficacy was confirmed at the end of treatment. Therapeutic efficacy increased over time from the end of treatment for both types of tinea pedis. All adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were within expectations and there were no cases of discontinuation due to ADRs or serious ADRs. Short‐term oral F‐RVCZ therapy is expected to be as effective or more effective than terbinafine and itraconazole, which have already been approved in Japan and may be a useful option for the treatment of tinea pedis.
Warm temperature inhibits cytoplasmic incompatibility induced by endosymbiotic Rickettsiella in spider hosts
Authors: Proctor Jordyn D. , Mackevicius‐Dubickaja Virginija , Gottlieb Yuval , White Jennifer A.
Published: September 2024

Bacterial endosymbionts manipulate reproduction in arthropods to increase their prevalence in the host population. One such manipulation is cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI), wherein the bacteria sabotage sperm in infected males to reduce the hatch rate when mated with uninfected females, but zygotes are ‘rescued’ when that male mates with an infected female. In the spider Mermessus fradeorum (Linyphiidae), Rickettsiella symbionts cause variable levels of CI. We hypothesised that temperature affects the strength of CI and its rescue in M. fradeorum, potentially mediated by bacterial titre. We reared Rickettsiella‐infected spiders in two temperature conditions (26°C vs. 20°C) and tested CI induction in males and rescue in females. In incompatible crosses between infected males and uninfected females, the hatch rate from warm males was doubled (mean ± standard error = 0.687 ± 0.052) relative to cool males (0.348 ± 0.046), indicating that CI induction is weaker in warm males. In rescue crosses between infected females and infected males, female rearing temperature had a marginal effect on CI rescue, but the hatch rate remained high for both warm (0.960 ± 0.023) and cool females (0.994 ± 0.004). Bacterial titre, as measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, was lower in warm than cool spiders, particularly in females, suggesting that bacterial titre may play a role in causing the temperature‐mediated changes in CI.
tidysdm: Leveraging the flexibility of tidymodels for species distribution modelling in R
Authors: Leonardi Michela , Colucci Margherita , Pozzi Andrea Vittorio , Scerri Eleanor M. L. , Manica Andrea
Published: September 2024

In species distribution modelling (SDM), it is common practice to explore multiple machine learning (ML) algorithms and combine their results into ensembles. In R, many implementations of different ML algorithms are available but, as they were mostly developed independently, they often use inconsistent syntax and data structures. For this reason, repeating an analysis with multiple algorithms and combining their results can be challenging.

Specialised SDM packages solve this problem by providing a simpler, unified interface by wrapping the original functions to tackle each specific requirement. However, creating and maintaining such interfaces is time‐consuming, and with this approach, the user cannot easily integrate other methods that may become available.

Here, we present tidysdm, an R package that solves this problem by taking advantage of the tidymodels universe. tidymodels provide standardised grammar, data structures and modelling interfaces, and a well‐documented infrastructure to integrate new algorithms and metrics. The wide adoption of tidymodels means that most ML algorithms and metrics are already integrated, and the user can add additional ones. Moreover, because of the broad adoption of tidymodels, new statistical approaches tend to be implemented quickly, making them easily integrated into existing pipelines and analyses.

tidysdm takes advantage of the tidymodels universe to provide a flexible and fully customisable pipeline to fit SDM. It includes SDM‐specific algorithms and metrics, and methods to facilitate the use of spatial data within tidymodels.

Additionally, tidysdm is the first software that natively allows SDM to be performed using data from different periods, expanding the availability of SDM for scholars working in palaeontology, archaeology, palaeobiology, palaeoecology and other disciplines focussing on the past.
Lateglacial and Holocene palaeoenvironmental evolution of alkaline peatlands in the Somme valley (France): between climate and anthropogenic forcing
Authors: Garcia Chloe , Brasseur Boris , Bacon Jeremy , Saulnier‐Copard Segolene , Gauthier Caroline , Mathieu Lou‐Anne , Gauthier Agnes , Michaelis Dierk , Mokadem Fatima , Antoine Pierre
Published: September 2024

As in most chalk river valleys in NW Europe, the sedimentary fill of the Somme valley is mainly composed of fluviogenic alkaline peat. The site of Morcourt exhibits a thick and well‐preserved fluvial sequence (10 m, including 6 m of peat). This sequence provides the framework for reconstructing fluvial and palaeoenvironmental dynamics from the end of the Upper Weichselian Pleniglacial (~20 000 cal. a BP) to the High Middle Ages (~700 cal. a BP). The palaeoenvironmental reconstruction is based on a high‐resolution stratigraphic study of 60 transect cores, 36 radiocarbon dates and sedimentological, geochemical, pollen and plant macrofossil analyses. There are three main phases in the development of the valley floor: (i) after the incision of the abandoned Pleniglacial braided river channels, a first generation of localized peat developed during the Bølling and the Allerød interstadial (<1 m thick); (ii) at the beginning of the Holocene, a peat formation phase began in the deepest parts of the valley and then spread over the valley floor by the end of the Middle Holocene (~4700 cal. a BP), with the limited runoff shifting to a small lateral channel; and (iii) at the transition to the Late Holocene, environmental changes, driven by the intensification of human activities and perhaps accentuated by climatic modifications, caused the incision of the peat system as a result of the formation of a channel. This channel drained the valley, and then mixed a detrital load into the peat. By the Low Middle Ages, the system had been altered to such an extent that the peat was completely covered by organic silty alluvium. The water table was lower, which definitively inhibited peat formation. The Morcourt sedimentary record (thickness and continuity) and the resumption of turfigenesis during the Late Holocene are remarkable in NW Europe, making this site a model of continuous morpho‐fluvial evolution since the Lateglacial.
Roles of osteocalcin in the central nervous system
Authors: Qi Xiao‐Shan , He Xin , Peng Ying , He Xing‐Hong , Yang Qian‐Yu , Jiao Kai , Liu Heng
Published: September 2024

Background

Bone‐derived protein osteocalcin, which has beneficial effects on brain function, may be a future research direction for neurological disorders. A growing body of evidence suggests a link between osteocalcin and neurological disorders, but the exact relationship is contradictory and unclear.

Scope of Review

The aim of this review is to summarize the current research on the interaction between osteocalcin and the central nervous system and to propose some speculative future research directions.

Major Conclusions

In the normal central nervous system, osteocalcin is involved in neuronal structure, neuroprotection, and the regulation of cognition and anxiety. Studies on osteocalcin‐related abnormalities in the central nervous system are divided into animal model studies and human studies, depending on the subject. In humans, the link between osteocalcin and brain function is inconsistent. These conflicting data may be due to methodological inconsistencies. By reviewing the related literature on osteocalcin, some comorbidities of the bone and nervous system and future research directions related to osteocalcin are proposed.
Expert engagement in setting a climate adaptation research agenda
Authors: Skikne Sarah , Hellmann Jessica
Published: September 2024

In order to initiate the actionable science needed to support effective conservation under climate change, we engaged researchers and other experts in refining and prioritizing a climate adaptation research agenda that was originally developed via dialogue with natural resource managers. Experts identified topics that were missing or underrepresented in an initial practitioner‐defined list of science topics, and then scored topics according to the state of knowledge, the feasibility of research, and the potential that research might change management. Our process capitalizes on the complementarity between the expertise of practitioners and the expertise of researchers and other non‐practitioners, improves the transparency and legitimacy of the agenda‐setting process, and reveals the challenges public agencies have in focusing on some research topics.
Long COVID among people with HIV: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Xueying , Shi Fanghui , Zhang Hao , Giang William A. , Kaur Amandeep , Chen Hui , Li Xiaoming
Published: September 2024

Background

People with HIV might be at an increased risk of long COVID (LC) because of their immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation and alterations in immunological responses against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2; coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID‐19]). This systematic review aimed to evaluate the association between HIV infection and LC and the prevalence and characteristics of and risk factors for LC among people with HIV.

Methods

Multiple databases, including Embase, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Sociological Abstracts, were searched to identify articles published before June 2023. Published articles were included if they presented at least one LC outcome measure among people with HIV and used quantitative or mixed‐methods study designs. For effects reported in three or more studies, meta‐analyses using random‐effects models were performed using R software.

Results

We pooled 39 405 people with HIV and COVID‐19 in 17 eligible studies out of 6158 publications in all the databases. It was estimated that 52% of people with HIV with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection developed at least one LC symptom. Results from the random‐effects model showed that HIV infection was associated with an increased risk of LC (odds ratio 2.20; 95% confidence interval 1.25–3.86). The most common LC symptoms among people with HIV were cough, fatigue, and asthenia. Risk factors associated with LC among people with HIV included a history of moderate–severe COVID‐19 illness, increased interferon‐gamma‐induced protein 10 or tumour necrosis factor‐α, and decreased interferon‐β, among others.

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 pandemic continues to exacerbate health inequities among people with HIV because of their higher risk of developing LC. Our review is informative for public health and clinical communities to develop tailored strategies to prevent aggravated LC among people with HIV.
Transit as racialized space: Comparing perceptions of refugees along the Mexico–Guatemala border
Authors: Galemba Rebecca B.
Published: September 2024

Scholars have attuned to the challenges Central American migrants face along increasingly perilous northward journeys. However, most studies of “transit spaces” are relatively migrant‐centric, focusing on the meanings these spaces hold for migrants, or how particular locales are reconfigured in relation to migratory processes. There has been less attention to the meanings such places hold for long‐term inhabitants, as well as how they change over time. This article draws on long‐term ethnographic fieldwork along the Mexico–Guatemala border to compare how inhabitants perceived migrants and refugees in two different periods: narratives recalling suspicion of Guatemalan refugees in the 1980s and more recent anxieties held toward Central American migrants. Through the comparison, it problematizes how the very conceptualization of transit spaces and migrants in transit serves to uphold larger racial projects of exclusionary nationalism and the “national order of things” where territory, ethno‐racial identity, and belonging are assumed to align.
Tobacco smoking and its impact on pain intensity of temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review and metanalysis
Authors: Shetty Amarshree A. , Almalki Sultan Abdulrahman , Al Jameel AlBandary Hassan , Gowdar Inderjit Murugendrappa , Ronsivalle Vincenzo , Cicciù Marco , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

Background

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompass a spectrum of orofacial conditions characterised by pain and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint and surrounding structures. Tobacco smoking has been posited as a potential factor influencing the prevalence and intensity of TMD. However, the nature and extent of this relationship remain unclear due to variations in study outcomes. This systematic review aimed to consolidate existing research findings to elucidate the association between tobacco smoking and TMD pain intensity.

Methods

A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to June 2023. Studies investigating the relationship between tobacco smoking and TMD pain were included. Data extraction was conducted by two reviewers. Quality assessment was performed using the New Castle‐Ottawa scale. Review Manager 5.4 was used to quantitatively analyse the results.

Results

The review included four studies employing similar TMD assessment techniques. All studies reported elevated TMD pain intensity among tobacco users, with non‐smokers exhibiting lower pain intensity. The quality of the included studies was good. Meta‐analytic results showed that TMD pain intensity was higher in the smokers group compared to the non‐smokers group, with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of 0.65 (BPM) (95% CI: [0.10, 1.19], p = .02).

Conclusion

This systematic review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the existing literature on tobacco smoking and TMD symptoms. The findings underscore the multifaceted nature of the relationship between smoking and TMD pain, highlighting its clinical relevance and the need for tailored interventions. Further research is warranted to elucidate underlying mechanisms and potential moderating factors, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of this complex association.
Congenital hypothyroidism and risk of subsequent autism spectrum disorder and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Hung‐Yi , Liang Chih‐Sung , Tsai Shih‐Jen , Hsu Ju‐Wei , Huang Kai‐Lin , Su Tung‐Ping , Chen Tzeng‐Ji , Bai Ya‐Mei , Hsu Tien‐Wei , Chen Mu‐Hong
Published: September 2024

Aim

Evidence suggests an association between maternal hypothyroidism and risk of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in offspring. We examined the risk of ASD and ADHD in individuals with congenital hypothyroidism (CHT).

Methods

A nationwide population‐based cohort study enrolled a total of 1260 children younger than 12 years with a confirmed diagnosis of CHT and no prior diagnosis of any neurodevelopmental disorders, selected from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan between 1998 to 2013. In addition, 12,600 controls matched for sex, age, and residence were selected. Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to investigate the association among CHT, ASD, and ADHD.

Results

Children with CHT were associated with a higher incidence of ASD (7.1‰ vs 1.3‰, P < 0.001) and ADHD (39.7‰ vs 18.7‰, P < 0.001) than the control group. Cox regression analyses demonstrated that children with CHT were associated with elevated risks of ASD (hazard ratio [HR], 4.72 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.08–10.70]) and ADHD (HR, 2.03 [95% CI, 1.49–2.77]), after adjusting for demographic data and family history of major psychiatric disorders, compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Children with CHT were associated with approximately a two‐fold increased risk of ADHD and a four‐fold increased risk of ASD than the control group. Our study highlights the need for future research to elucidate the potential pathophysiology among CHD, ASD, and ADHD.
Spatial and statistical predictors of voter purge rates in Michigan
Authors: Sadler Richard C. , Wojciechowski Thomas W. , Hayes Eileen
Published: September 2024

Objective

Voter purges can protect election integrity by ensuring deceased or moved individuals are removed from election rolls. But they have been used to diminish voting power of marginalized groups, often by anti‐majoritarian forces seeking to undemocratically retain power. Little research has examined “who gets purged?” at the state level, especially with respect to local‐level differences.

Methods

We leverage Michigan's voter purge database from 2014 to 2018. Records are geocoded to their exact address, and a range of spatial correlates are identified to answer the above question. We then used generalized structural equation modeling to incorporate patterns of mobility and mortality.

Results

Initial results showed that more Democratic leaning areas, denser/more urban areas, and areas with more Black residents had higher purge rates. Notably, while these mediation effects were significant, racial composition and median income (i.e. more black and poorer communities) remained a significant factor in voter purge rates. These results suggest a potentially troublesome underlying element in Michigan's pattern of voter purges. We suggest this is an important first step in future research in other states and with subsequent databases, which can help strengthen the case that purges may be being used to uphold discriminatory and anti‐majoritarian goals.
Effects of Sintering Temperature on the Electrical Performance of Ce0.8Sm0.2O1.9–Pr2NiO4 Composite Electrolyte for SOFCs
Authors: Cheng Jihai , Zhu Xuhang , Zhang Wenyi
Published: September 2024

Novel composite electrolyte Sm0.2Ce0.8O1.9–Pr2NiO4 (SDC–PNO) for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) was prepared. The effects of sintering temperature on the performance of SDC–PNO composite electrolyte were studied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms that the composite samples sintering at different temperatures contain two pure phases corresponding to SDC and PNO, respectively. It indicates that there is no interfacial reaction between Sm0.2Ce0.8O1.9 and Pr2NiO4, and the composite electrolyte keeps regular grain boundaries after long-term operation. The results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) show that a dense structure can be formed after sintering at 1250 °C. The electrical properties were tested in air by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique in the temperature range of 400–800 °C. Results show that an appropriate increase of the sintering temperature can effectively increase the conductivity of SDC–PNO composite electrolyte, and the maximum conductivity of 0.102 S/cm can be obtained in the sample sintered at 1250 °C and tested at 800 °C. In summary, the electrical conductivity of Sm0.2Ce0.8O1.9 can be significantly increased by adding Pr2NiO4, and SDC–PNO composite electrolyte is a promising electrolyte for solid oxide fuel cells.
A Feedback Control Strategy to Regulate the Temperature in a Nonlinear Solar Receiver
Authors: Verstraete Sofie , Abedini Hamed , Alsahlani Assaad , Ophoff Cedric , Ozalp Nesrin
Published: September 2024

The substantial energy provided by the sun is a promising substitute for traditional heat sources in various industrial applications. However, the transient nature of solar energy still poses a significant challenge to its widespread utilization. This work presents a methodology for regulating the temperature within a solar receiver by dynamically adjusting incoming sunlight through the aperture using a controlled iris mechanism. The performance of this technique is experimentally compared with the gas flowrate control method, which is typically used in industry. The proposed control system, grounded in the physical model of the solar receiver, underwent experimental testing under varying conditions, including different gas flowrates, simulator power levels, and aperture sizes. The collected data were then analyzed to estimate a simplified model of the solar receiver. A model predictive controller (MPC) is implemented using the model estimations, and its performance was assessed by tracking two set points (335 and 325 °C) over a period of 2 h. The experimental testing of both control systems indicates the superiority of iris mechanism over gas flowrate controller in terms of robustness, settling time, and smoothness. A hybrid control system utilizing both aperture size and gas flowrate is also developed and tested during the operation of the solar receiver via computer simulations.
View Factors Approach for Bifacial Photovoltaic Array Modeling: Bifacial Gain Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Benbba Rania , Akhsassi Mohamed , El mouden Hasnae , Wifaya Ahmed , Outzourhit Abdelkader
Published: September 2024

Bifacial modules are highly valued in the global photovoltaic market since they are able to receive sunlight from both sides and can generate up to 10–30% additional energy compared to monofacial ones. They are integrated into various sectors, including building and notably Agrivoltaics. In this work, a coupled optical–thermal–electrical model was developed in matlab to simulate the energy performance and bifacial gain for a ground-raised bifacial system. The model allows optimization as a function of the photovoltaic (PV) system and bifacial module characteristics. A fixed, south-facing bifacial PV arrays composed of three rows assumed installed in Agadir, Morocco, is considered. The optical model is based on an analytical determination of view factors using the cross-string rule. These enable the determination of irradiances received by both sides of modules, which are subsequently used to evaluate energy yield of the system. Model validation was carried out based on various statistical metrics by comparing our results with simulation results generated by various softwares. The comparison shows a very good agreement, notably with 3dbifacialvf (R2 = 1, root-mean-square error (RMSE) = 0.03 W/m2 and R2 = 0.96, RMSE = 12.4 W/m2) for front and rear side irradiance, respectively. The DC energy generated by the system differs by less than 1% compared to pvsyst results. Sensitivity analysis revealed that all system parameters, particularly ground albedo, positively affect the bifacial gain. The bifacial gain increased from 10.6% to 20.1% as the ground albedo increased from 0.25 to 0.5.
A Computational Assessment of Free Surface and Mount Effects in Towing Tank Experiments on Flow Over a 6:1 Prolate Spheroid
Authors: Johnson Samuel M. , Chyczewski Tom , Schmitz Sven , Yang Xiang
Published: September 2024

Pre-test simulations were performed of the high Reynolds number 6:1 prolate spheroid towing tank experiments to be carried out by the Office of Naval Research. The two Reynolds numbers of interest in the experiments were investigated, Re = 11.74e6 and Re = 1.47e6, with the prolate spheroid inclined 0°, 10°, 20°, and 45° with respect to the incoming flow. Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes simulations were conducted for three flow configurations. The first included a 6:1 prolate spheroid mounted to a sting and strut under a free surface. The second configuration removed the mounting geometry, and the last configuration omitted the mounting geometry and the free surface. Increments in the forces and moments acting on the prolate spheroid were calculated to quantify the impact of the free surface and mounting geometry on the force measurements in the towing tank experiments. The addition of the free surface resulted in relatively small increments except for the side force at 45° incidence. Increments in the forces and moments due to the addition of the strut were generally larger, particularly at high incidence angles, and reached up to 5% of the total values.
Why to Select Wastewater Pumps in Wastewater Treatment Plants?
Authors: Tripolt Yvonne , Thamsen Paul-Uwe
Published: September 2024

Wastewater is by definition a medium which describes used water, not referring if it is caused by private homes, industries or communes. In its raw condition it is pumped or transported by gravity to the next wastewater treatment plant (WWTP).

The wastewater treatment process is basically divided into a mechanical, biological and optional also into a chemical treatment stage.

The transportation of the media inside of WWTPs is done by different pump types. Most common are wastewater pumps with special impellers and positive displacement pumps, which are mainly used in the sludge line of the treatment process.

Compared with other industries, e.g. the desalination or pulp and paper industry where each process step is defined by a certain pump type, there is no clear strategy available for the pump selection in the wastewater treatment process.

The selection of the pumps is done by experience of planning offices as well as by the experience of the sewage plant operators. There is no standard available, which recommends a certain pump type for a certain application or process step.

Taking this into consideration, pumps are selected, which may not be the best choice for a certain pumping position based on efficiency, wear or reliability.

Based on this, three wastewater treatment plants are analyzed according to the process, different pump positions and the related pumped media.

The analysis shows that different pump types are used for the same media. Some of them have a higher or lower failure potential as well as a different efficiency level. In some pumping positions where the media is already precleaned also the question of selecting wastewater hydraulics can be critically scrutinized.

For one WWTP also a power and energy saving analysis is done. Installed hydraulics are changed theoretically with hydraulics at a higher efficiency level. An energy saving potential of about 2% compared to the whole power consumption of the installed pumps is calculated.

By doing this analysis the requirement of having a standard available for the right pump selection in wastewater treatment plants is figured out. Wastewater hydraulics are in some positions not the best choice related to the energy saving potential.