bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effektivität digitaler Pflegeanwendungen bei Pflegebedürftigen im häuslichen Umfeld
Authors: Scheibe Sandy , Timpel Patrick , Mäder Melanie , Heinrich Ria , Kugler Joachim , Schönfelder Tonio
Published: February 2024

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: Die steigende Zahl Pflegebedürftiger stellt Gesundheitssysteme zunehmend vor Herausforderungen. Im Juni 2021 wurden digitale Pflegeanwendungen (DiPA) in den Leistungskatalog der gesetzlichen Pflegekassen in Deutschland aufgenommen. Diese sollen einer Verschlimmerung der Pflegebedürftigkeit entgegenwirken und/oder die Selbstständigkeit Pflegebedürftiger im häuslichen Umfeld unterstützen. Ziel: Ziel war es, national und international verfügbare Evidenz zur Effektivität von DiPA, entsprechend der Definition des Bundesinstituts für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte (BfArM) , systematisch zu erfassen und aufzubereiten. Methode: Die Übersichtsarbeit wurde nach dem PRISMA-Statement mittels systematischer Recherchen in den Datenbanken Medline und Cinahl durchgeführt und durch eine umfassende Handsuche ergänzt (08/2022). Die Studienqualität wurde mit dem Risk of Bias Tool (RoB2) bewertet. Die Ergebnissynthese erfolgte narrativ. Ergebnisse: Es wurden acht randomisierte kontrollierte Studien eingeschlossen. Studienergebnisse zeigten Verbesserungen der Kognition, der Aktivitäten des täglichen Lebens und der Mobilität Pflegebedürftiger. Die Studienqualität ist aufgrund vorwiegend unverblindeter Studiendesigns und kleinen Fallzahlen niedrig bis moderat. Schlussfolgerungen: Die aktuell verfügbare Evidenz bietet weder den Herstellenden von DiPA noch den zuständigen Akteur_innen im Gesundheitswesen eine belastbare Grundlage zur Bewertung des Nutzens von DiPA. Weiterer Forschungsbedarf zur Effektivität von DiPA besteht. Insbesondere sind qualitativ hochwertige Studien notwendig, um das Potenzial von DiPA für den deutschen Pflegesektor abschätzen zu können.
Modeling Hydrologically Mediated Hot Moments of Transient Anomalous Diffusion in Aquifers Using an Impulsive Fractional‐Derivative Equation
Authors: Zhang Yong , Liu Xiaoting , Lei Dawei , Yin Maosheng , Sun HongGuang , Guo Zhilin , Zhan Hongbin
Published: February 2024

Hydrologically mediated hot moments (HM‐HMs) of transient anomalous diffusion (TAD) denote abrupt shifts in hydraulic conditions that can profoundly influence the dynamics of anomalous diffusion for pollutants within heterogeneous aquifers. How to efficiently model these complex dynamics remains a significant challenge. To bridge this knowledge gap, we propose an innovative model termed “the impulsive, tempered fractional advection‐dispersion equation” (IT‐fADE) to simulate HM‐HMs of TAD. The model is approximated using an L1‐based finite difference solver with unconditional stability and an efficient convergence rate. Application results demonstrate that the IT‐fADE model and its solver successfully capture TAD induced by hydrologically trigged hot phenomena (including hot moments and hot spots) across three distinct aquifers: (a) transient sub‐diffusion arising from sudden shifts in hydraulic gradient within a regional‐scale alluvial aquifer, (b) transient sub‐ or super‐diffusion due to convergent or push‐pull tracer experiments within a local‐scale fractured aquifer, and (c) transient sub‐diffusion likely attributed to multiple‐conduit flow within an intermediate‐scale karst aquifer. The impulsive terms and fractional differential operator integrated into the IT‐fADE aptly capture the ephemeral nature and evolving memory of HM‐HMs of TAD by incorporating multiple stress periods into the model. The sequential HM‐HM model also characterizes breakthrough curves of pollutants as they encounter hydrologically mediated, parallel hot spots. Furthermore, we delve into discussions concerning model parameters, extensions, and comparisons, as well as impulse signals and the propagation of memory within the context of employing IT‐fADE to capture hot phenomena of TAD in aquatic systems.
A Siamese Swin-Unet for image change detection
Authors: Tang Yizhuo , Cao Zhengtao , Guo Ningbo , Jiang Mingyong
Published: February 2024

The problem of change detection in remote sensing image processing is both difficult and important. It is extensively used in a variety of sectors, including land resource planning, monitoring and forecasting of agricultural plant health, and monitoring and assessment of natural disasters. Remote sensing images provide a large amount of long-term and fully covered data for earth environmental monitoring. A lot of progress has been made thanks to deep learning's quick development. But the majority of deep learning-based change detection techniques currently in use rely on the well-known Convolutional neural network (CNN). However, considering the locality of convolutional operation, CNN unable to master the interplay between global and distant semantic information. Some researches has employ Vision Transformer as a backbone in remote sensing field. Inspired by these researches, in this paper, we propose a network named Siam-Swin-Unet, which is a Siamesed pure Transformer with U-shape construction for remote sensing image change detection. Swin Transformer is a hierarchical vision transformer with shifted windows that can extract global feature. To learn local and global semantic feature information, the dual-time image are fed into Siam-Swin-Unet which is composed of Swin Transformer, Unet Siamesenet and two feature fusion module. Considered the Unet and Siamesenet are effective for change detection, We applied it to the model. The feature fusion module is designed for fusion of dual-time image features, and is efficient and low-compute confirmed by our experiments. Our network achieved 94.67 F1 on the CDD dataset (season varying).
Projected population exposure to heatwaves in Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, China
Authors: Dong Diwen , Tao Hui , Zhang Zengxin
Published: February 2024

The intensification of heatwaves dues to climate change is a significant concern, with substantial impacts on ecosystems and human health, particularly in developing countries. This study utilizes NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NEX-GDDP-CMIP6) and projected population data accounting for China’s population policies to project changes in various grades of heatwaves (light, moderate, and severe) and the population exposure to heatwaves (PEH) in Xinjiang under three shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP1–2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5). The results show that the number of days and intensity of heatwaves in Xinjiang are projected to increase. Heatwaves occurring in Xinjiang will predominantly be severe heatwaves (SHW) in the long-term under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, and the number of SHW days projected to increase by 62 ± 18.4 days compared to the reference period. Changes in heatwaves are anticipated to influence PEH, estimating population exposure to light, moderate, and severe heatwaves (LPEH, MPEH, and SPEH) at 534.6 ± 64 million, 496.2 ± 43.5 million, and 1602.4 ± 562.5 million person-days, respectively, in the long-term under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. The spatial distribution of PEH is projected to be consistent with that of the reference period, with high values persisting in Urumqi, Kashgar and Hotan. Changes in PEH are primarily driven by climate effects, followed by interactive effects, while population effects contribute the least. Therefore, mitigating climate change is crucial to reduce the PEH in Xinjiang.
Investigating the effect of hypertension on vascular cognitive impairment by using the resting-state functional connectome
Authors: Hung Tai-Hsin , Chen Vincent Chin-Hung , Chuang Yu-Chen , Hsu Yen-Hsuan , Wu Wen-Chau , Tsai Yuan-Hsiung , McIntyre Roger S. , Weng Jun-Cheng
Published: February 2024

Hypertension (HTN) affects over 1.2 billion individuals worldwide and is defined as systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140 mmHg and diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg. Hypertension is also considered a high risk factor for cerebrovascular diseases, which may lead to vascular cognitive impairment (VCI). VCI is associated with executive dysfunction and is also a transitional stage between hypertension and vascular dementia. Hence, it is essential to establish a reliable approach to diagnosing the severity of VCI. In 28 HTN (51–83 yrs; 18 males, 10 females) and 28 healthy controls (HC) (51–75 yrs; 7 males, 21 females), we investigated which regions demonstrate alterations in the resting-state functional connectome due to vascular cognitive impairment in HTN by using the amplitude of the low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo), graph theoretical analysis (GTA), and network-based statistic (NBS) methods. In the group comparison between ALFF/ReHo, HTN showed reduced spontaneous activity in the regions corresponding to vascular or metabolic dysfunction and enhanced brain activity, mainly in the primary somatosensory cortex and prefrontal areas. We also observed cognitive dysfunction in HTN, such as executive function, processing speed, and memory. Both the GTA and NBS analyses indicated that the HTN demonstrated complex local segregation, worse global integration, and weak functional connectivity. Our findings show that resting-state functional connectivity was altered, particularly in the frontal and parietal regions, by hypertensive individuals with potential vascular cognitive impairment.
Relationship between abdominal circumference and the incidence of hyperuricemia in the general Japanese population
Authors: Kawano Kazumi , Ueno Tamami , Maeda Toshiki , Nohara Chihiro , Maki Kaori , Iwanaga Kazuyo , Morinaga Akiko , Funakoshi Shunsuke , Abe Makiko , Satoh Atsushi , Kawazoe Miki , Yoshimura Chikara , Takahashi Koji , Tada Kazuhiro , Ito Kenji , Yasuno Tetsuhiko , Mukobara Shigeaki , Kawanami Daiji , Masutani Kosuke , Arima Hisatomi
Published: February 2024

In this study, we aimed to separately evaluate the relationship between waist circumference and the incidence of hyperuricemia in men and women in the general Japanese population. We performed a population-based longitudinal study using data from the annual health examination of residents of Iki City, Japan. A total of 5567 participants without hyperuricemia at baseline were included in the analysis. The men and women were placed into groups according to the tertile of waist circumference. The outcome was incident hyperuricemia (uric acid > 416 µmol/L [7.0 mg/dL]). The relationship between waist circumference and the incidence of hyperuricemia was investigated using Cox proportional hazards models. During the follow-up period, hyperuricemia developed in 697 people (551 men and 146 women). The incidence (per 1000 person-years) of hyperuricemia increased with increasing waist circumference in the men (34.9 for tertile 1, 49.9 for tertile 2 and 63.3 for tertile 3; Ptrend < 0.001) and women (5.5 for tertile 1, 6.3 for tertile 2 and 11.9 for tertile 3; Ptrend < 0.001). Significant associations were identified after adjustment for potential confounders (men: Ptrend < 0.001; women: Ptrend = 0.014). In conclusion, both men and women with larger waist circumferences were at higher risks of subsequent hyperuricemia.
A virtual reality experiment to study pedestrian perception of future street scenarios
Authors: Argota Sánchez-Vaquerizo Javier , Hausladen Carina I. , Mahajan Sachit , Matter Marc , Siebenmann Michael , van Eggermond Michael A. B. , Helbing Dirk
Published: February 2024

The current allocation of street space is based on expected vehicular peak-hour flows. Flexible and adaptive use of this space can respond to changing needs. To evaluate the acceptability of flexible street layouts, several urban environments were designed and implemented in virtual reality. Participants explored these designs in immersive virtual reality in a $$2\times 3$$

2
×
3

mixed factorial experiment, in which we analysed self-reported, behavioural and physiological responses from participants. Distinct communication strategies were varied between subjects. Participants’ responses reveal a preference for familiar solutions. Unconventional street layouts are less preferred, perceived as unsafe and cause a measurably greater stress response. Furthermore, information provision focusing on comparisons lead participants to focus primarily on the drawbacks, instead of the advantages of novel scenarios. When being able to freely express thoughts and opinions, participants are focused more on the impact of space design on behaviour rather than the objective physical features themselves. Especially, this last finding suggests that it is vital to develop new street scenarios in an inclusive and democratic way: the success of innovating urban spaces depends on how well the vast diversity of citizens’ needs is considered and met.
Magnet ingestion in growing children: a multi-center observational study on single and multiple magnet incidents
Authors: Alansari Amani N. , Baykuziyev Temur , Soyer Tutku , Akıncı Servet Melike , Al Ali Khalid Khalfan , Aljneibi Adel , Alyasi Nafea Hussain , Afzal Muhammad , Ksia Amine
Published: February 2024

Over the past 15 years, there has been a noticeable uptick in incidents involving children ingesting multiple magnetic foreign bodies which can cause injuries and gastrointestinal complications including death. The current study aimed to identify the prevalence, clinical presentation, and management of single or multiple magnet ingestions. A retrospective multi-central cross-sectional study was conducted to include all pediatric patients < 18 years presented to the emergency department with ingestion of single or multiple magnets and admitted across hospitals in Qatar, UAE, KSA, Tunisia, and Turkey between January 2011 and December 2021. Demographics, symptoms, management, and outcomes were analyzed. There were 189 magnet ingestions, of which 88 (46.6%) were multiple magnet ingestions. Most patients (55.6%) were male, and the median age was 3.9 (IQR 2–7) years. An abdominal X-ray was obtained in all cases. 119 (62%) patients were conservatively treated, 53 (28%) required surgical intervention and 17 (8.9%) underwent gastroscopy. None of the patients with single magnet ingestions experienced morbidity or severe outcomes. Multiple magnet ingestions led to significant morbidity including hospitalizations, perforations (44.3%), severe intestinal necrosis (19.3%), peritonitis (13.6%), severe abdominal infection (10.2%), and septic shock (4.5%). The rate of surgical intervention (59.1% vs. 1.0%) and gastroscopy (15.9% vs. 3.0%) was significantly higher in the multiple ingestion group compared to the single magnet ingestion group. No deaths were identified. A high risk of serious complications, including the need for surgery to remove the magnets and substantial morbidity may result from swallowing more than one magnet. Magnet safety requirements, public education, and improved legislation are urgently required.
Thin-film lithium niobate electro-optic terahertz wave detector
Authors: Wilke Ingrid , Monahan Jackson , Toroghi Seyfollah , Rabiei Payam , Hine George
Published: February 2024

The design, fabrication, and validation of a thin-film lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) electro-optic (EO) time-domain terahertz (THz) wave detector is reported. LNOI offers unprecedented properties for the EO detection of freely propagating THz wave radiation pulses and transient electric fields because of the large EO coefficient of the material, engineering of the velocity matching of the THz wave and optical wave, and much reduced detector size. The proof-of-concept device is realized using thin-film lithium niobate optical waveguides forming a Mach–Zehnder interferometer with interferometer arms electrically poled in opposite directions. THz waves are coupled effectively to the fully dielectric device from free space without using antennas or plasmonics. The detection of THz waves with frequencies up to 800 GHz is successfully demonstrated. The detector allows for the detection of THz frequency electric fields up to 4.6 MV/m. The observed frequency response of the device agrees well with theoretical predictions.
Perception of interpersonal distance and social distancing before and during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Givon-Benjio Nur , Sokolover Hili , Aderka Idan M. , Hadad Bat-Sheva , Okon-Singer Hadas
Published: February 2024

Since COVID-19 is easily transmitted among people in close physical proximity, the focus of epidemiological policy during the COVID-19 crisis included major restrictions on interpersonal distance. However, the way in which distance restrictions affected spatial perception is unclear. In the current study, we examined interpersonal distance preferences and perceptions at three time points: pre-pandemic, early post-pandemic, and late post-pandemic. The results indicate that following the pandemic outbreak, people perceived others as farther away than they actually were, suggesting that the distance restrictions were associated with an enlargement of perceived interpersonal distance. Interestingly, however, people maintained the same distance from one another as before the outbreak, indicating no change in actual distance behavior due to the risk of infection. These findings suggest that COVID-19 was associated with a change in the way distance is perceived, while in practice, people maintain the same distance as before. In contrast, COVID-related anxiety predicted both a preference for maintaining a greater distance and a bias toward underestimating perceived distance from others. Thus, individuals who were highly fearful of COVID-19 perceived other people to be closer than they actually were and preferred to maintain a larger distance from them. The results suggest that subjective risk can lead to an increased perception of danger and a subsequent change in behavior. Taken together, even when behaviors should logically change, the decision-making process can be based on distorted perceptions. This insight may be used to predict public compliance.
Comparing the current short-term cancer incidence prediction models in Brazil with state-of-the-art time-series models
Authors: Bouzon Nagem Assad Daniel , Gomes Ferreira da Costa Patricia , Spiegel Thaís , Cara Javier , Ortega-Mier Miguel , Monteiro Scaff Alfredo
Published: February 2024

The World Health Organization has highlighted that cancer was the second-highest cause of death in 2019. This research aims to present the current forecasting techniques found in the literature, applied to predict time-series cancer incidence and then, compare these results with the current methodology adopted by the Instituto Nacional do Câncer (INCA) in Brazil. A set of univariate time-series approaches is proposed to aid decision-makers in monitoring and organizing cancer prevention and control actions. Additionally, this can guide oncological research towards more accurate estimates that align with the expected demand. Forecasting techniques were applied to real data from seven types of cancer in a Brazilian district. Each method was evaluated by comparing its fit with real data using the root mean square error, and we also assessed the quality of noise to identify biased models. Notably, three methods proposed in this research have never been applied to cancer prediction before. The data were collected from the INCA website, and the forecast methods were implemented using the R language. Conducting a literature review, it was possible to draw comparisons previous works worldwide to illustrate that cancer prediction is often focused on breast and lung cancers, typically utilizing a limited number of time-series models to find the best fit for each case. Additionally, in comparison to the current method applied in Brazil, it has been shown that employing more generalized forecast techniques can provide more reliable predictions. By evaluating the noise in the current method, this research shown that the existing prediction model is biased toward two of the studied cancers Comparing error results between the mentioned approaches and the current technique, it has been shown that the current method applied by INCA underperforms in six out of seven types of cancer tested. Moreover, this research identified that the current method can produce a biased prediction for two of the seven cancers evaluated. Therefore, it is suggested that the methods evaluated in this work should be integrated into the INCA cancer forecast methodology to provide reliable predictions for Brazilian healthcare professionals, decision-makers, and oncological researchers.
The utility of quantifying the orientation of breast masses in ultrasound imaging
Authors: Chen Kailiang , Wu Size
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to quantify the orientation of breast masses and determine whether it can enhance the utility of a not parallel orientation in predicting breast mass malignancy. A total of 15,746 subjects who underwent breast ultrasound examinations were initially enrolled in the study. Further evaluation was performed on subjects with solid breast masses (≤ 5 cm) intended for surgical resection and/or biopsy. The orientation angle, defined as the acute angle between the align of the maximal longitudinal diameter of the breast mass and the surface of the breast skin, was measured. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was conducted, and various performance measures including sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, accuracy, odds ratio, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) were calculated. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine if the orientation angle was an independent predictor of breast malignancy. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was also conducted to assess the net benefit of adopting the orientation angle for predicting breast mass malignancy. The final analysis included 83 subjects with breast cancer and 135 subjects with benign masses. The intra-group correlation coefficient for the measurement of the orientation angle of breast masses was 0.986 (P = 0.001), indicating high reproducibility. The orientation angles of malignant and benign breast masses were 36.51 ± 14.90 (range: 10.7–88.6) degrees and 15.28 ± 8.40 (range: 0.0–58.7) degrees, respectively, and there was a significant difference between them (P < 0.001). The cutoff value for the orientation angle was determined to be 22.9°. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, accuracy, odds ratio, and AUC for the prediction of breast malignancy using the orientation angle were 88.0%, 87.4%, 81.1%, 92.2%, 87.6%, 50.67%, and 0.925%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that the orientation angle (> 22.9°), not circumscribed margin, and calcifications of the breast mass were independent factors predicting breast malignancy. The net benefit of adopting the orientation angle for predicting breast malignancy was 0.303. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that quantifying the orientation angle of breast masses is useful in predicting breast malignancy, as it demonstrates high sensitivity, specificity, AUC, and standardized net benefit. It optimizes the utility of the not parallel orientation in assessing breast mass malignancy.
Association between the perceived value of adopting new behaviors and depressive symptoms among older adults
Authors: Nishijima Chiharu , Katayama Osamu , Lee Sangyoon , Makino Keitaro , Harada Kenji , Morikawa Masanori , Tomida Kouki , Yamaguchi Ryo , Fujii Kazuya , Misu Yuka , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: February 2024

Early preventive measures against depression have become important with unprecedented global aging. Increase in one’s perceived value (PV) may correspond to better mental health outcomes. This cross-sectional observation study aimed to clarify whether the PV of adopting new behaviors is associated with depressive symptoms. The participants were 5266 community-dwelling older adults aged ≥ 65 years. We developed a questionnaire to measure the PV of adopting new behaviors, specifically activities beneficial for preventing depressive symptoms (physical, cognitive, and social activities) in older adults. The questionnaire asked whether adopting the ten selected behaviors was valuable. The scores were added, and the total score ranged from − 20 to 20. The odds ratios (OR) of depressive symptoms were calculated using binomial logistic regression according to the PV score quartiles. Depressive symptoms were reported by 595 (11.3%) participants. After adjusting for potential confounders, higher quartiles of PV scores were significantly associated with lower prevalence of depressive symptoms: vs Q1; Q2 OR 0.76 (95% confidence interval: 0.59–0.97); Q3 0.67 (0.51–0.87); Q4 0.54 (0.40–0.73) (P for trend < .001). Having a higher PV of adopting new behaviors may prevent depressive symptoms among older adults. Healthcare professionals need to pay attention to poor value orientation among older adults.
Spray-dried pH-sensitive chitosan microparticles loaded with Mycobacterium bovis BCG intended for supporting treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Gonciarz Weronika , Brzeziński Marek , Orłowska Weronika , Wawrzyniak Paweł , Lewandowski Artur , Narayanan Vedha Hari B. , Chmiela Magdalena
Published: February 2024

Gram-negative spiral-shaped Helicobacter pylori (Hp) bacteria induce the development of different gastric disorders. The growing resistance of Hp to antibiotics prompts to search for new therapeutic formulations. A promising candidate is Mycobacterium bovis BCG (BCG) with immunomodulatory properties. Biodegradable mucoadhesive chitosan is a good carrier for delivering BCG mycobacteria to the gastric mucosal environment. This study aimed to show whether BCG bacilli are able to increase the phagocytic activity of Cavia porcellus—guinea pig macrophages derived from the bone marrow towards fluorescently labeled Escherichia coli. Furthermore, to encapsulate live BCG bacilli, in spray-dried chitosan microparticles (CHI-MPs), and assess the pH-dependent release of mycobacteria in pH conditions mimicking gastric (acidic) or gut (alkaline) milieu. Microparticles (MPs) were made of chitosan and coated with Pluronic F-127-(Plur) or N-Acetyl-d-Glucosamine-(GlcNAc) to increase the MPs resistance to low pH or to increase anti-Hp effect, respectively. Spray-drying method was used for microencapsulation of live BCG. The biosafety of tested CHI-MPs has been confirmed using cell models in vitro and the model of guinea pig in vivo. The CHI-MPs loaded with BCG released live mycobacteria at pH 3.0 (CHI-GlcNAc-MPs) or pH 8.0. (CHI-Plur-MPs). The CHI-MPs loaded with live BCG can be used for per os inoculation of Cavia porcellus to check the effectiveness of delivered mycobacteria in increasing anti-H. pylori host response.
Path analysis of influencing factors for maternal antenatal depression in the third trimester
Authors: Wang Yanchi , Gu Jian , Zhang Feng , Xu Xujuan
Published: February 2024

Maternal antenatal depression (AD) is a nonpsychotic depressive episode during pregnancy that can harm both the pregnant woman and the fetus. This study aimed to investigate the intrinsic interrelationships between AD and its influencing factors by constructing a path model. This survey-based cross-sectional study included 1071 pregnant women who underwent pregnancy examinations in three hospitals in Nantong City, China, between February and June 2023. General information and information regarding maternal AD, pregnancy stress, prenatal anxiety, social support, marital satisfaction, sleep quality, and resilience were collected. Multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS 25.0 was employed to determine the factors influencing pregnancy depression, and Amos25.0 was used to construct a structural equation model. AD incidence was 19.4% (208/1071). The independent risk factors affecting AD in pregnant women have been integrated into the established path analysis model. The model demonstrated a good fit (χ2/DF = 1.238, comparative fit index = 0.999, goodness-of-fit index = 0.998, normed fit index = 0.996, adjusted goodness-of-fit index = 0.990, incremental fit index = 0.999, and root mean square error of approximation = 0.015). While prenatal anxiety (0.230) and hyperthyroidism (0.048) only had direct effects on AD, mental resilience was the biggest factor affecting AD, followed by pregnancy stress, marital satisfaction, prenatal anxiety, sleep quality, social support, and hyperthyroidism. Improved mental resilience, social support, sleep quality, and marital satisfaction; reduced pregnancy stress and prenatal anxiety; and effective hyperthyroidism treatment might reduce AD. This study underscored the significance of delivering actionable strategies and tangible assistance to pregnant women to reduce AD.
Unveiling attenuation structures in the northern Taiwan volcanic zone
Authors: Lin Y.-P. , Ko J. Y.-T. , Huang B.-S. , Lin C.-H. , Shih M.-H.
Published: February 2024

This cutting-edge study delves into regional magmatism in northern Taiwan through advanced 3-D P- and S-wave frequency-dependent attenuation tomography. Positioned at the dynamic convergence boundary between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate, Taiwan experiences moderate earthquakes and intriguing volcanic activity, with a focus on the Tatun volcano group. Employing the Formosa seismic array for high-resolution results, our research identifies high-attenuation anomalies (low Q) beneath the northern Taiwan volcanic zone (NTVZ) and offshore submarine volcanoes, indicative of potential hydrothermal activities and magma reservoirs at varying depths. Additionally, we explore low-attenuation anomalies (high Q) in the forearc region of the Ryukyu subduction zone, suggestive of partial saturation linked to serpentinization processes resulting from seawater infiltration or forearc mantle hydration. These findings shed light on the complex geological features and provide essential insights into the crustal properties of northern Taiwan, contributing to a deeper understanding of its magmatic evolution and tectonic processes.
Synergistic advancements in high-performance flexible capacitive pressure sensors: structural modifications, AI integration, and diverse applications
Authors: Zhao Qiang , Fan Lei , Zhao Nan , He Haoyun , Zhang Lei , Tan Qiulin
Published: February 2024

A flexible capacitive sensor based on micro-crumpled composite film electrodes with a broad sensing range for monitoring human physiological signals and recognizing gesture has been developed.
Kinetic analysis of the crystallization of Y2O3 and La2O3 doped Li2O–Al2O3–SiO2 glass
Authors: Zheng Tao , Li Minghan , Ma Yanping , Jiang Hong
Published: February 2024

Study of crystallisation of rare earth oxide doped LAS glass ceramics without doping with conventional nucleating agents.
Ammonium release in synthetic and human urine by a urease immobilized nanoconstruct
Authors: Diasi Manab , Singh Rinki , Mahapatra Amarjyoti Das , L Renuka , Patel Hitarth , Ganatra Hasit , Datta Bhaskar
Published: February 2024

Urease nanoconstructs are capable of releasing similar levels of ammonium in diluted synthetic and real human urine.
Post cross-linked ROS-responsive poly(β-amino ester)-plasmid polyplex NPs for gene therapy of EBV-associated nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Yuan Caiyan , Chang Shuangyan , Zhang Chong , Dong Dirong , Ding Jiahui , Mahdavian Ali Reza , Hu Zheng , Sun Lili , Tan Songwei
Published: February 2024

Post cross-linked ROS-responsive P-aP-DTT-pDNA polyplex NPs could effectively transfect CRISPR/Cas9 encoded plasmids into nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells and targeted cleavage of the Lmp1 oncogene to achieve gene therapy of NPC.
Theoretical evidence of the piezoelectric property enhancement for ScY- or CaTi-codoped wurtzite AlN
Authors: Guo Youyou , Ma Xinguo , Xie Tian , Yao Shida , Liao Jiajun , Ren Yijing , Ma Nan
Published: February 2024

The higher piezoelectricity properties of (ScY)xAl1−xN and (CaTi)xAl1−xN alloys originate from the polarization enhancement of the materials caused by lattice distortion and charge redistribution.
Molecular dynamics investigation on the interfacial thermal resistance between annealed pyrolytic graphite and copper
Authors: Jiang Xinyu , Li Xiaoyang , Li Dong , Su Lizheng , Zhang Tianning , Chen Bin , Li Zhi
Published: February 2024

Modern highly integrated microelectronic products often face the challenge of internal heat dissipation, leading to a significant decrease in their operational efficiency.
Plastic Mg3(Sb,Bi)2-based thermoelectric compounds with enhanced texture via cold-deformation
Authors: Zhang Ziming , Gao Zhiqiang , Deng Tingting , Song Qingfeng , Chen Lidong , Bai Shengqiang
Published: February 2024

Based on the discovery of plastic deformation capacity of Mg3(Sb,Bi)2, we propose a cold-deformation method to fabricate special-shaped devices without the sintering process and realize high carrier mobility which is comparable with that of the Mg3Sb2 single crystal.
Sonodynamic-chemotherapy synergy with chlorin e6-based carrier-free nanoparticles for non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Tian Shuangyu , Li Jinghang , Wang Dongdong , Han Yingchao , Dai Honglian , Yan Lesan
Published: February 2024

A carrier-free nanoparticle, composed of Chlorin e6 and erlotinib, was developed using a straightforward one-step assembly method for treating non-small cell lung cancer, achieving synergistic therapeutic effects of sonodynamic therapy and chemotherapy.
Encyclopaedic Review of Glipizide Pre-clinical and Clinical
Status
Authors: Mohammed Saad , Mahmood Tarique , Shamim Arshiya , Ahsan Farogh , Shariq Mohammad , Parveen Saba , Waseem Rufaida , Singh Aditya
Published: February 2024

Glipizide is an oral glucose-lowering medication that is beneficial for the
treatment of type 2 diabetes. This study compiles exhaustively all accessible
information on glipizide, from preclinical to clinical studies. Glipizide may be
used in concert with TRAIL to treat cancer cells; in vitro studies have shown
that it suppresses angiogenesis and vasculogenesis while shielding cells from
glycation-induced damage. Anticonvulsant effects and modifications in the
pharmacokinetics of other medications, such as Divalproex Sodium, were seen in
glipizide in vivo experiments. Propranolol amplifies glipizide's
hypoglycemic effect briefly in normal animals but consistently enhances it in
diabetic ones. In the treatment of cancer and neurodegenerative poly(Q)
illnesses, glipizide has demonstrated to offer potential therapeutic advantages.
It is ineffective in preventing DENA-induced liver cancer and may cause DNA
damage over time. The way glipizide interacts with genetic variants may increase
the risk of hypoglycemia. Combining Syzygium cumini and ARBE to glipizide may
enhance glycemic and lipid control in type 2 diabetes. Individuals with coronary
artery disease who take glipizide or glyburide have an increased risk of death.
The risk of muscular responses and acute pancreatitis is minimal when glipizide
and dulaglutide are combined. In conclusion, glipizide has shown promising
therapeutic efficacy across a variety of disorders.
Hydrocephalus following Brain Tumor Surgery: Factors Correlating with Occurrence of Postoperative Hydrocephalus and Predictive Scoring Model
Authors: Beangklang Raweenut , Sitthinamsuwan Bunpot , Tansirisithikul Chottiwat , Nunta-aree Sarun
Published: February 2024

Hydrocephalus following brain tumor surgery is found, although cause of hydrocephalus is optimally eradicated. This study aimed to investigate factors associated with development of postoperative hydrocephalus that requires shunt procedure and generate predictive scoring model of this condition. Demographic, clinical, radiographic, treatment, laboratory, complication, and postoperative data were collected. Binary logistic regression was used to investigate final model for generating predictive scoring system of postoperative hydrocephalus. A total of 179 patients undergoing brain tumor surgery were included. Forty-five (25.1%) patients had postoperative hydrocephalus that required shunt surgery. In univariate analysis, several factors were found to be associated with postoperative hydrocephalus. Strong predictors of postoperative hydrocephalus revealed in multivariate analysis included tumor recurrence before surgery (odds ratio [OR], 4.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28–14.98; p = 0.018), preoperative hydrocephalus (OR, 6.52; 95% CI, 2.44–17.46; p < 0.001), glial tumor (OR, 3.76; 95% CI, 1.14–12.43; p = 0.030), metastasis (OR, 5.19; 95% CI, 1.72–15.69; p = 0.004), intraventricular hemorrhage (OR, 7.08; 95% CI, 1.80–27.82; p = 0.005), and residual tumor volume (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01–1.09; p = 0.007). A cutoff predictive score with the best area under curve and optimum cutoff point was utilized for discriminating patients with high risk from individuals with low risk in occurrence of postoperative hydrocephalus. This study reported predictive factors strongly associated with development of postoperative hydrocephalus. Predictive scoring system is useful for identifying patients with an increased risk of postoperative hydrocephalus. Patients classified in the high-risk group require closed surveillance of the hydrocephalus.
Unusual, human-mediated prevalence of epiphytes in semi-arid New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Silcock J. L. , Pye J. , Tighe A. , Reid-Loynes P. , Ashby R. , Fairfax R. J.
Published: February 2024

Context Epiphytes are typically associated with wet forests and are seldom documented in drylands. This absence is presumed to reflect moisture limitations to their establishment and survival. Aims In response to a large body of epiphyte observations made by a pastoralist in collaboration with local Indigenous people, we investigated and documented an unusually high concentration of woody epiphytes from semi-arid eastern Australia and describe this in relation to ecological and cultural factors. Methods We searched for, recorded and measured epiphytic trees and shrubs in semi-arid eucalypt woodlands of northern New South Wales and southern Queensland. Factors influencing their distribution were examined. Key results Eucalypts growing along the Barwon River palaeochannels host 21 species of shrubs and trees. Over 95% of the 712 woody epiphytes documented were alive, and some appeared decades old; 70% were growing in trees that had been modified by humans, and at least half of the host sites were directly anthropogenically created. Epiphytes are widely, but typically sparsely, distributed in other semi-arid eucalypt woodlands, with a further 311 found during regional surveys. Conclusions The large trees of the Barwon palaeochannels, their extensive human modification to create favourable sites for epiphyte establishment, and the diversity of understorey shrubs providing a propagule source have combined to create this epiphyte-rich woodland. Their association with Culturally Modified Trees and the relatively low density of epiphytes elsewhere suggest that Aboriginal people have played a direct role in creating this landscape, to which they remain deeply connected. Implications Epiphytes may be more widespread in drylands than previously recognised. We hope that this study stimulates further research on their distribution, characteristics, and ecological and cultural associations.
Impact of Phytophthora dieback on a key heathland species Xanthorrhoea australis (Asphodelaceae) (austral grasstree) and floristic composition in the eastern Otways, Victoria
Authors: Wilson B. A. , Casey S. P. , Garkaklis M. J. , Learmonth C. , Wevill T.
Published: February 2024

Context The plant pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi causes severe declines in susceptible vegetation, including loss of plant species, vegetation structure and fauna abundance. Grasstrees (Xanthorrhoea spp.) are keystone species that provide optimal habitat for vertebrates and invertebrates and are highly susceptible to the pathogen. Although effects in the Otway Ranges have been assessed at specific sites, there is less knowledge across the landscape on the extent of loss of Xanthorrhoea australis (austral grasstree). Aims The aims were thus to assess impacts at three Heathy Woodland sites and to determine the magnitude of loss of X. australis and susceptible species losses. Methods Floristic composition, species cover or abundance, and basal area of X. australis were recorded in quadrats within treatments (uninfested, infested, post-infested vegetation). Analyses included floristics (PRIMER v7), significant effects (ANOSIM), species contribution to similarity/dissimilarity (SIMPER). Species richness and susceptible species cover were analysed using two-way crossed ANOVAs to detect the influence of site, treatment, and interactions. Key results Species composition of uninfested vegetation was significantly different to infested and post-infested vegetation, with susceptible species more abundant in uninfested areas. Post-infested vegetation had the lowest percentage cover of susceptible species. The mean percentage cover of X. australis in uninfested vegetation (43%) was 10-fold greater than in infested areas (4.3%) and extremely low in post-infested vegetation (0.9%). Conclusions Susceptible species were subject to density declines and extirpation, and the loss of X. australis resulted in major structural vegetation changes. Implications These results have severe implications for heathy woodland communities and reliant fauna. Limiting the spread of P. cinnamomi and protecting grasstrees is critical for their security.
Improving digital partner notification for sexually transmitted infections and HIV through a systematic review and application of the Behaviour Change Wheel approach
Authors: Kocur Will , McLeod Julie , Bloch Sonja Charlotte Margot , MacDonald Jennifer J. , Woodward Charlotte , McInnes-Dean Amelia , Gibbs Jo J. , Saunders John J. , Blandford Ann A. , Estcourt Claudia , Flowers Paul
Published: February 2024

Background Partner notification (PN) is key to controlling sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Digital PN options (e.g. social media, short message service (SMS), emails) are promising in increasing PN behaviour. However, their implementation is often challenging and studies report varied levels of acceptability and uptake of PN, highlighting the need to optimise digital PN interventions. Methods A systematic review of barriers and facilitators to digital PN interventions for STIs, including HIV, across eight research databases (from 2010 to 2023) identified eight relevant studies, two of which addressed HIV. Data extraction identified 98 barriers and 54 facilitators to the use of digital PN interventions. These were synthesised into 18 key barriers and 17 key facilitators that were each deemed amenable to change. We then used the Behaviour Change Wheel approach, the Acceptability, Practicability, Effectiveness, Affordability, Side-effects and Equity criteria, and multidisciplinary expert input, to systematically develop practical recommendations to optimise digital PN. Results Thirty-two specific recommendations clustered around three themes. Digital PN interventions should: (1) empower and support the index patient by providing a range of notification options, accompanied by clear instructions; (2) integrate into users’ existing habits and the digital landscape, meeting contemporary standards and expectations of usability; and (3) address the social context of PN both online and offline through normalising the act of PN, combating STI-related stigma and stressing the altruistic aspects of PN through consistent messaging to service users and the public. Conclusions Our evidence-based recommendations should be used to optimise existing digital PN interventions and inform the co-production of new ones.
Juvenile probation officers delivering an intervention for substance use significantly reduces adolescents’ risky sexual behaviours
Authors: Fix Rebecca L. , Walsh Colleen S. , Sheidow Ashli J. , McCart Michael R. , Chapman Jason E. , Drazdowski Tess K.
Published: February 2024

Background Risky sexual behaviour (RSB) is a serious public health problem for adolescents. We examined whether a contingency management intervention implemented by juvenile probation officers (JPOs) targeting substance use also impacted RSB. Methods A total of 218 adolescents on probation were randomly assigned to contingency management or to probation as usual. Results The substance use intervention delivered by JPOs reduced rates of RSB over time (β = −0.32, P = 0.041 at 6 months; β = −0.32, P = 0.036 at 9 months). Conclusions Adolescents receiving a substance use intervention from JPOs demonstrated reduced/prevented RSB. Interventions targeting single risk behaviours in juvenile probation populations should measure changes in other risk behaviours. Under-resourced communities lacking clinicians might consider JPOs delivering interventions.
Mycoplasma DnaK expression increases cancer development in vivo upon DNA damage
Authors: Benedetti Francesca , Silvestri Giovannino , Denaro Frank , Finesso Giovanni , Contreras-Galindo Rafael , Munawwar Arshi , Williams Sumiko , Davis Harry , Bryant Joseph , Wang Yin , Radaelli Enrico , Rathinam Chozha V. , Gallo Robert C. , Zella Davide
Published: February 2024

Well-controlled repair mechanisms are involved in the maintenance of genomic stability, and their failure can precipitate DNA abnormalities and elevate tumor risk. In addition, the tumor microenvironment, enriched with factors inducing oxidative stress and affecting cell cycle checkpoints, intensifies DNA damage when repair pathways falter. Recent research has unveiled associations between certain bacteria, including
Mycoplasmas
, and various cancers, and the causative mechanism(s) are under active investigation. We previously showed that
Mycoplasma fermentans
DnaK, an HSP70 family chaperone protein, hampers the activity of proteins like PARP1 and p53, crucial for genomic integrity. Moreover, our analysis of its interactome in human cancer cell lines revealed DnaK’s engagement with several components of DNA-repair machinery. Finally, in vivo experiments performed in our laboratory using a DnaK knock-in mouse model generated by our group demonstrated that DnaK exposure led to increased DNA copy number variants, indicative of genomic instability. We present here evidence that expression of DnaK is linked to increased i) incidence of tumors in vivo upon exposure to urethane, a DNA damaging agent; ii) spontaneous DNA damage ex vivo; and iii) expression of proinflammatory cytokines ex vivo, variations in reactive oxygen species levels, and increased β-galactosidase activity across tissues. Moreover, DnaK was associated with increased centromeric instability. Overall, these findings highlight the significance of
Mycoplasma
DnaK in the etiology of cancer and other genetic disorders providing a promising target for prevention, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
Kierkegaard and Hobbes on the State of Nature
Authors: Neoh Joshua
Published: February 2024

This paper connects Hobbes the political philosopher with Kierkegaard the existentialist philosopher through the prism of the state of nature. It compares Kierkegaard's account of the emergence of ethical norms from the aesthetic stage of life with Hobbes's account of the emergence of legal norms from the state of nature. The paper argues that the transition from the state of nature to the state of civil society involves, not only a change of state, but also a transformation of self. This view of the relationship between the self and the state sees the Hobbesian state through the lens of the Kierkegaardian self. An internal change takes place within the self when we move from the state of nature to the state.