bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cactus Endophytic Fungi and Bioprospecting for their Enzymes and Bioactive Molecules: A Systematic Review
Authors: de Menezes Souza Jeferson , de Menezes Fonseca Deisiane , Pinheiro de Souza Jaciara , Cordeiro do Nascimento Luciana , Mendes Hughes Frederic , Pereira Bezerra Jadson Diogo , Góes‐Neto Aristóteles , Ferreira‐Silva Alice
Published: November 2023

Endophytic fungi are associated with plant health and represent a remarkable source of potential of enzymes and bioactive compounds, but the diversity of endophytes remains uncertain and poorly explored, especially in Cactaceae, one of the most species‐rich families adapted to growing in arid and semi‐arid regions. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review on the diversity and bioprospecting of endophytic fungi from Cactaceae. We analysed peer‐reviewed articles from seven databases using PRISMA guidelines. The results showed that the Cactaceae family is a source of new taxa, but the diversity of endophytic fungi of Cactaceae is little explored, mainly the diversity among tissues and by metagenomics. Bioprospecting studies have shown that these microorganisms can be used in the production of enzymes and larvicidal and antifungal compounds. Our results are relevant as a starting point for researchers to develop studies that expand the knowledge of plant mycobiota in arid and semi‐arid ecosystems, as well as comprising a remarkable source of fungal compounds with several biotechnological applications.
Impact of Acetate‐Based Hydrogel Electrolyte on Electrical Performance and Stability of Eco‐Friendly Supercapacitors
Authors: Landi Giovanni , La Notte Luca , Granata Veronica , Avallone Guerino , Barone Carlo , Carapella Giovanni , Pagano Sergio , Palma Alessandro Lorenzo , Sdringola Paolo , Puglisi Giovanni
Published: November 2023

The electrochemical characteristics and stability of hydrogel‐based environmentally friendly supercapacitors employing sodium acetate as salt have been investigated. To ensure the overall sustainability of the devices, chitosan (a biomaterial from renewable resources) and activated carbon (derived from coconut shells) have been used as a binder and filler within the electrodes, respectively. Cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge, and impedance spectroscopy measurements have been performed to compare the electrochemical properties of the fabricated devices. Compared to reference electrolytes containing NaCl, the utilization of sodium acetate exhibited enhancements in energy performance and stability up to 50000 cycles. The most efficient device has been delivered approximately 10.6 Wh/kg of energy at a high‐power density of about 3940 W/kg. A comprehensive investigation of the electrochemical performances has been carried out, considering both faradaic and non‐faradaic processes as charge storage mechanisms within the devices. A model has been proposed to describe the storage mechanisms and to provide insights into the ageing phenomena observed during the cycling procedure.
Well‐Defined Mn(II)‐complex Catalyzed Switchable De(hydrogenative) Csp3‐H Functionalization of Methyl Heteroarenes: A Sustainable Approach for Diversification of Heterocyclic Motifs
Authors: Mondal Avijit , Phukan Hirak Jyoti , Pal Debjyoti , Kumar Saurabh , Roy Mithu , Srimani Dipankar
Published: November 2023

Catalytic activities of Mn(I) complexes derived from expensive MnBr(CO)5 salt have been explored in various dehydrogenative transformations. However, the reactivity and selectivity of inexpensive high spin Mn(II) complexes are uncommon. Herein, we have synthesized four new Mn(II) complexes and explored switchable alkenylation and alkylation of methyl heteroarenes employing a single Mn(II)catalyst. The developed protocol selectively furnishes a series of functionalized E‐heteroarenes and C‐alkylated heteroarenes with good to excellent yields. Various medicinally and synthetically useful compounds are successfully synthesized using our developed protocol. Various controls and kinetics experiments were executed to shed light on the mechaism,which reveals that α‐C−H bond breaking of alcohol is the slowest step.
Association between treatment and improvements in overall survival of patients with advanced/metastatic non–small cell lung cancer since 2011: A study in the United States, Canada, and Germany using retrospective real‐world databases
Authors: Griesinger Frank , Ramagopalan Sreeram , Cheung Winson Y. , Wilke Thomas , Mueller Sabrina , Gupta Alind , O’Sullivan Dylan E. , Arora Paul , Brenner Darren R. , Froelich Carolin , Inskip Jessica , Maywald Ulf , Subbiah Vivek
Published: November 2023

Background

This study aimed to describe treatment patterns and overall survival (OS) in patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) in three countries between 2011 and 2020.

Methods

Three databases (US, Canada, Germany) were used to identify incident aNSCLC patients. OS was assessed from the date of incident aNSCLC diagnosis and, for patients who received at least a first line of therapy (1LOT), from the date of 1LOT initiation. In multivariable analyses, we analyzed the influence of index year and type of prescribed treatment on OS.

Findings

We included 51,318 patients with an incident aNSCLC diagnosis. The percentage of patients treated with a 1LOT differed substantially between countries, whereas the number of patients receiving immunotherapies/targeted treatments increased over time in all three countries. Median OS from the date of incident diagnosis was 9.9 months in the United States vs. 4.1 months in Canada. When measured from the start of 1LOT, patients had a median OS of 10.7 months in the United States, 10.9 months in Canada, and 10.9 months in Germany. OS from the start of 1LOT improved in all three countries from 2011 to 2020 by approximately 3 to 4 months.

Conclusions

Observed continuous improvement in OS among patients receiving at least a 1LOT from 2011 to 2020 was likely driven by improved care and changes in the treatment landscape. The difference in the proportion of patients receiving a 1LOT in the observed countries requires further investigation.
An Improved Method for Purification of the Residual Bodies from the Seminiferous Tubules of Mice
Authors: Apu Mohd Nazmul Hasan , Shirokikh Nikolay E. , Khochbin Saadi , Soboleva Tatiana A.
Published: November 2023

Human fertility is declining in Western countries, and it is becoming increasingly clear that male infertility plays a pivotal role in the overall fertility decline. To understand the process that drives successful male germ cell maturation, the study of spermatogenesis of model organisms, such as mice, is essential. Residual bodies (RBs) play an important role in the last stages of spermatogenesis. They are formed at the time when post‐meiotic spermatids undergo sequential differentiation steps so that the acrosome and flagellum are developed, the nucleus is markedly condensed, and the cytoplasm is lost. The masses of lost cytoplasm become RBs. Our recent work has shown that RB dynamics are highly sensitive to even small fertility defects. It was also noted that the transcriptome and proteome of RBs changes in response to spermatogenic defects. Thus, RBs represent an excellent and highly sensitive entity for studying male fertility. Previously published protocols for RB purification had some major limitations: they produced an RB fraction that was heavily contaminated with spermatozoa and erythrocytes or required tens of grams of starting material. In addition, most of the available protocols were developed for purification of RBs from rat testes. Here, we present a protocol that allows the isolation of 2.5‐3 × 106 RBs from mouse testes with a purity of 98% from only 1 g of starting material. The purified material can be used for various downstream applications to study male fertility, such as transcriptome and proteome analyses, super‐resolution microscopy, and electron and cryo‐electron microscopy, amongst many others. © 2023 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: An improved method for purification of the residual bodies from the seminiferous tubules of mice
Revolutionizing Solid‐State NASICON Sodium Batteries: Enhanced Ionic Conductivity Estimation through Multivariate Experimental Parameters Leveraging Machine Learning
Authors: Zhang Yuyao , Zhan Tingjie , Sun Yang , Lu Lun , Chen Baoliang
Published: November 2023

Na superionic conductor (NASICON) materials hold promise as solid‐state electrolytes due to their wide electrochemical stability and chemical durability. However, their limited ionic conductivity hinders their integration into sodium‐ion batteries. The conventional approach to electrolyte design struggles with comprehending the intricate interactions of factors impacting conductivity, encompassing synthesis parameters, structural characteristics, and electronic descriptors. Herein, we explored the potential of machine learning in predicting ionic conductivity in NASICON. We compile a database of 211 datasets, covering 160 NASICON materials, and employ facile descriptors, including synthesis parameters, test conditions, molecular and structural attributes, and electronic properties. Random forest (RF) and neural network (NN) models were developed and optimized, with NN performing notably better, particularly with limited data (R2=0.820). Our analysis spotlighted the pivotal role of Na stoichiometric count in ionic conductivity. Furthermore, the NN algorithm highlighted the comparable significance of synthesis parameters to structural factors in determining conductivity. In contrast, the impact of electronegativity on doped elements appears less significant, underscoring the importance of dopant size and quantity. This work underscores the potential of machine learning in advancing NASICON electrolyte design for sodium‐ion batteries, offering insights into conductivity drivers and a more efficient path to optimizing materials.
Intersectionality of demographic characteristics in self‐reported anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and probable eating disorders among college students
Authors: Egbert Jamie , Luke Amy , Qeadan Fares
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate associations between identity intersectionality, with a primary focus on minority identity, and probable eating disorders (EDs) within the US college student population.

Method

Data consisting of n = 414,299 college students' responses to the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment between fall 2015 and spring 2019 were utilized for this study. Overall and stratified adjusted odds ratios (aORs) were used to assess the association between different facets of identity (i.e., race/ethnicity, gender identity, and sexual orientation) and probable EDs.

Results

Among all, in our analytic sample, 7.15% reported a probable ED. Interactions between all three identity variables were significant, and thus stratified odds ratios were evaluated. Transgender men were significantly more likely to report probable ED than cisgender male peers within the following racial/ethnic groups: non‐Hispanic White (aOR: 3.33; 95% CI: 2.79, 3.96; p < .0001), non‐Hispanic Black (aOR: 3.29; 95% CI: 1.72, 6.28; p = .0003), Hispanic (aOR: 2.31; 95% CI: 1.55, 3.43; p < .0001), Asian or Pacific Islander (aOR: 2.19; 95% CI: 1.45, 3.30; p = .0002), Biracial or Multicultural (aOR: 3.36; 95% CI: 2.17, 5.22; p < .0001), and other (aOR: 4.19; 95% CI: 2.25, 7.79; p < .0001).

Conclusions

This study underscores the importance of increasing our understanding of interactions between marginalized identities and the ways in which minority identity informs ED risk.

Public significance

The impact of multiple marginalized identities on ED outcomes is not well understood. Our study expands on previous ACHA‐NCHA studies by addressing identity intersectionality, looking at more than one identity at a time (i.e., specifically race/ethnicity, gender identity, and sexual orientation). Our results contribute unique risk profiles for students who identify with multiple marginalized groups. Further, they indicate that that these associations vary based on the compounded effect of the demographic factors considered.
Improvement in health‐related quality of life and symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with alopecia areata randomized to baricitinib or placebo: Results from two international randomized controlled trials
Authors: Piraccini Bianca M. , Ohyama Manabu , Craiglow Brittany , Bewley Anthony , Ding Yuxin , Chen Yun‐Fei , Dutronc Yves , Pierce Evangeline , Durand Frederick , Mostaghimi Arash
Published: November 2023

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune hair loss disorder associated with high rates of emotional and psychosocial distress. Baricitinib, an oral selective Janus kinase (JAK) 1 and JAK 2 inhibitor, was superior to placebo with respect to hair regrowth in two phase 3 trials involving 1200 adults with severe AA (≥50% of scalp hair loss).

Objectives

This analysis investigated the evolution of health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and symptoms of anxiety and depression after treatment with baricitinib in severe AA.

Methods

Patients were randomized to placebo, baricitinib 2‐mg, or baricitinib 4‐mg. Improvements in HRQoL and psychological burden were measured using Skindex‐16 AA and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales (HADS‐A and HADS‐D), respectively. Changes from baseline through Week 36 were analyzed using analysis of covariance with modified last observation carried forward for missing data. Proportion of patients with baseline HADS score ≥8 that shifted to <8 (normal) was analyzed at Week 36 using logistic regression with nonresponder imputation.

Results

At Week 36, patients receiving baricitinib 2‐mg and 4‐mg reported significant improvements versus placebo in Skindex‐16 AA symptoms (2‐mg: −2.80 and 4‐mg: −2.53), functioning (2‐mg: −14.02 and 4‐mg: −17.14), and emotions (2‐mg: −20.42 and 4‐mg: −24.11) domain scores. In comparison to placebo, patients receiving baricitinib 2‐mg and 4‐mg experienced significant reductions in HADS‐A (2‐mg:‐0.96 and 4‐mg:‐1.04) and HADS‐D (2‐mg: −0.30 and 4‐mg: −0.33) scores after 36 weeks. More patients on baricitinib shifted from a score ≥8 to <8 for anxiety (2‐mg: 33% and 4‐mg: 39%) and depression (2‐mg: 34% and 4‐mg: 45%) but results were generally not significant.

Conclusions

In two large trials, greater improvements in HRQoL and symptoms of anxiety and depression were observed after treatment with baricitinib 2‐mg and 4‐mg compared to placebo. These results support that hair regrowth has a positive impact on HRQoL and psychological burden in severe AA.
Bridging the Gap: Association between Objective and Subjective Outcomes of Communication Performance in People with Parkinson's Disease Evaluated for Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Rodriguez‐Porcel Federico , Schwen Blackett Deena , Hickok Gregory , Bonilha Leonardo , Turner Travis H.
Published: November 2023

Background

Decrements in verbal fluency following deep brain stimulation (DBS) in people with Parkinson's disease (PwP) are common. As such, verbal fluency tasks are used in assessing DBS candidacy and target selection. However, the correspondence between testing performance and the patient's perception of communication abilities is not well‐established.

Methods

The Communication Participation Item Bank (CPIB) was administered to 85 PwP during pre‐DBS neuropsychological evaluations. Central tendencies for CPIB responses and correlations between CPIB total scores, clinical and demographic factors, and language‐based tasks were examined.

Results

Most PwP indicated some degree of communication interference on the CPIB. Worse scores on semantic fluency and greater motor impairment were associated with more communication interference.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest an incomplete correspondence between commonly used language‐based tests and patient‐reported outcomes of communication abilities. The need for a functional communication instrument that reflects the different aspects of communication abilities in functional contexts is emphasized.
Topology analysis of the Ripple transaction network
Authors: Jin Anan , Ye Yuhang , Lee Brian , Qiao Yuansong
Published: November 2023

The Ripple network is one typical blockchain‐based decentralized credit network, which supports money transfer without physical money movement by only transferring the credits between participants. It is critical to obtain a deep understanding on the characteristics of the payment networks while optimizing the network design and transaction routing. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis to the Ripple transaction network, including two subnets formed by the two key functionalities, that is, Ripple Direct Payment Network (RDPN) and Ripple Credit Payment Network (RCPN). The analysis is performed with different network metrics, including clustering coefficient, centrality, and so on. Furthermore, this paper provides an in‐depth analysis on the node degrees and edge weights, which reflect the number of transacted accounts of an account and the number of transactions between two accounts. The results show that the network is highly imbalanced and concentrated with a few nodes and edges holding most of the resources. Moreover, RDPN and RCPN show different characteristics in terms of transmitted and received transactions, the senders are more concentrated in RDPN, whereas in RCPN, the receivers are more concentrated.
A projection‐based reduced‐order model for parametric quasi‐static nonlinear mechanics using an open‐source industrial code
Authors: Agouzal Eki , Argaud Jean‐Philippe , Bergmann Michel , Ferté Guilhem , Taddei Tommaso
Published: November 2023

We propose a projection‐based model order reduction procedure for a general class of parametric quasi‐static problems in nonlinear mechanics with internal variables. The methodology is integrated in the industrial finite element code codeaster. Model order reduction aims to lower the computational cost of engineering studies that involve the simulation to a costly high‐fidelity differential model for many different parameters, which correspond, for example to material properties or initial and boundary conditions. We develop an adaptive algorithm based on a POD‐Greedy strategy, and we develop an hyper‐reduction strategy based on an element‐wise empirical quadrature in order to speed up the assembly costs of the reduced‐order model by building an appropriate reduced mesh. We introduce a cost‐efficient error indicator which relies on the reconstruction of the stress field by a Gappy‐POD strategy. We present numerical results for a three‐dimensional elastoplastic system in order to illustrate and validate the methodology.
An Exploratory Analysis of the Chronic Rhinosinusitis Online Support Community
Authors: Ulloa Ruben , Tam Benjamin , Orozco Francis Reyes , Castellanos Carlos X. , Chang Michael T. , Hur Kevin
Published: November 2023

Objective

To characterize the users of the largest chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) online support communities (OSCs), describe the perceived benefits of OSCs for their users, and understand how patient medical decision making is affected by membership in OSCs.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional online survey.

Setting

Online.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was adapted from the existing literature on patient support groups and modified for CRS patients. The survey was posted on multiple Facebook/Reddit groups aimed at providing support toward patients with CRS. Survey data was collected over 3 months and analyzed thereafter.

Results

There were 127 total participants. The majority were female (65.35%), white (76.98%), and the median age was 38 years. Just under half of patients had nasal polyps (48.67%) and 54.54% had undergone surgery. Many participants (69.42%) reported engaging in the OSC at least multiple times per month. The most common reason for joining an OSC was to learn tips on how to manage CRS (89.7%) and the most achieved goal from membership was hearing from others undergoing a similar experience (79.5%). Involvement in an OSC impacted knowledge of CRS in 87.41% of participants. Most users (81.1%) would recommend membership in an OSC and 54.33% reported the OSC influenced their medical decision‐making.

Conclusion

A majority of patients with CRS who frequently engage in an OSC for CRS have a positive experience. OSCs are a resource that CRS patients utilize to manage their disease.
A fire‐safe, single‐component epoxy resin based on a phosphorus/imidazole‐containing latent curing agent and diphenylphosphine
Authors: Hu Ben , Wang Jun , Chen Xi , Wang Jingsheng , Yang Shuang , Zhu Lu , Zou Lanian , Huo Siqi
Published: November 2023

This work reported a flame‐retardant, single‐component epoxy resin (EP) via introducing diphenylphosphine (DPP) and benzimidazolyl‐substituted cyclotriphosphazene (BICP) into EP. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test showed that the onset curing temperature of DPP/BICP‐15/10 was 50°C lower than that of BICP‐12 due to the catalytic decomposition effect of DPP toward BICP under heating. Besides, the shelf life of DPP/BICP‐15/10 at room temperature reached ~14 days, demonstrating good storage stability. EP/DPP/BICP maintained satisfactory thermal properties and showed excellent flame retardancy with a UL‐94V‐0 classification. Compared with the unmodified EP sample, the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR) of DPP/BICP‐15/13 were decreased by ~68.1% and ~55.1%, respectively. Hence, this flame‐retardant, single‐component epoxy resin with satisfactory comprehensive properties exhibited great potential for versatile industrial applications.
Tribological and morphological properties of bentonite nano‐clay/CaCO3 reinforced high‐density polyethylene nanocomposites
Authors: Ahmed Tauseef , Ya Hamdan Haji , Alam Mohammad Azad , Azeem Mohammad , Khan M. Rehan , Sapuan S. M. , Yusuf Mohammad , Afridi Junaid
Published: November 2023

Elastomeric polymers such as high‐density polyethylene, have a variety of desirable features, that have supplanted traditional materials. However, high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) shows inadequate wear resistance, which limits its use for industrial applications, particularly in low‐load‐bearing applications such as flexible energy harvesting devices and sensors. The current work is engrossed in investigating the influence of hybrid reinforcements CaCO3 particles and bentonite nano clay as secondary reinforcements in high‐density polyethylene (HDPE)‐based composites on the wear and friction properties. The reinforcements were melt compounded with HDPE using a Brabender mixer and sampled using an injection molding machine. The wear test (ASTM G‐99‐04) was performed by a pin‐on‐disk tribo‐tester. In comparison to a base matrix, the synthesized hybrid composite achieved the maximum improvement in wear rate of 93%. The results revealed that there is a significant improvement in wear resistance. Morphological analysis revealed that due to the encapsulation and compatibilization effect of bentonite nano clay the hybrid composite exhibited improved wear performance. The results signify the synergistic effect of filler particles resulted in sufficient bonding for stress transfer due to the encapsulation of CaCO3 by nano clay. The wear mechanism observed optically was abrasion, fatigue, and adhesion wear that changed with the change in the weight percent of nanoparticles. Finally, the prepared composite with enhanced tribological properties such as low wear rate, low friction coefficient, and enhanced morphology can be used in low load‐bearing wear applications such as turbo nanogenerators and piezo nanogenerators.

Highlights

Bentonite nano clay and CaCO3 dispersed homogeneously in HDPE matrix.

Wear resistance of HDPE increases by reinforcing particles (nano‐clay and CaCO3).

Micro‐cutting, deformations, and particle husks were the possible wear mechanism.

Encapsulation effects the hybrid composite to exhibit improved wear performance.
Modeling the multi‐state natural history of rare diseases with heterogeneous individual patient data: A simulation study
Authors: Broomfield Jonathan , Abrams Keith R. , Freeman Suzanne , Latimer Nicholas , Rutherford Mark J. , Crowther Michael J. ,   Project HERCULES, the Cooperative International Neuromuscular Research Group investigators and Duchenne Regulatory Science Consortium members
Published: November 2023

Multi‐state survival models are used to represent the natural history of a disease, forming the basis of a health technology assessment comparing a novel treatment to current practice. Constructing such models for rare diseases is problematic, since evidence sources are typically much sparser and more heterogeneous. This simulation study investigated different one‐stage and two‐stage approaches to meta‐analyzing individual patient data (IPD) in a multi‐state survival setting when the number and size of studies being meta‐analyzed are small. The objective was to assess methods of different complexity to see when they are accurate, when they are inaccurate and when they struggle to converge due to the sparsity of data. Biologically plausible multi‐state IPD were simulated from study‐ and transition‐specific hazard functions. One‐stage frailty and two‐stage stratified models were estimated, and compared to a base case model that did not account for study heterogeneity. Convergence and the bias/coverage of population‐level transition probabilities to, and lengths of stay in, each state were used to assess model performance. A real‐world application to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a neuromuscular rare disease, was conducted, and a software demonstration is provided. Models not accounting for study heterogeneity were consistently out‐performed by two‐stage models. Frailty models struggled to converge, particularly in scenarios of low heterogeneity, and predictions from models that did converge were also subject to bias. Stratified models may be better suited to meta‐analyzing disparate sources of IPD in rare disease natural history/economic modeling, as they converge more consistently and produce less biased predictions of lengths of stay.
Visible and selective gel assembly via covalent click chemistry
Authors: Zheng Yinglin , Ke Zhihai
Published: November 2023

This study marks the birth of visible and selective click covalent assembly. It is achieved by amplifying orthogonal alkyne−azide click chemistry through interfacial multisite interactions between azide/alkyne functionalized polymer hydrogels. Macroscopic assembly of hydrogels via host−guest chemistry or noncovalent interactions such as electrostatic interactions has been reported. Unlike macroscopic supramolecular assembly, here we report visible and selective “click” covalent assembly of hydrogels at the macroscale. LEGO‐like hydrogels modified with alkyne and azide groups, respectively, can click together via the formation of covalent bonds. Monomer concentration‐dependent assembly and selective covalent assembly have been studied. Notably, macroscopic gel assembly clearly elucidates click preferences and component selectivity not observed in the solution reactions of competing monomers.
Mediation analysis with latent factors using simultaneous group‐wise and parameter‐wise penalization
Authors: Cai Xizhen , Wang Qing , Zhu Yeying
Published: November 2023

Mediation analysis aims to uncover the underlying mechanism of how an exposure variable affects the outcome of interest through one or more than one mediating variables. In the event that the number of candidate mediators is large, variable selection or dimension reduction techniques are often utilized to reduce the dimension of the initial set of mediators. In this paper, we propose a latent variable approach using sparse factor analysis with both group‐wise and parameter‐wise penalization to remove irrelevant candidate mediators and estimate the latent factors simultaneously. After the low‐dimensional latent mediating factors are obtained, the direct and indirect effects can be estimated and tested from a multivariate mediation model. To demonstrate the practical applications of the proposed methodology, we apply it to a weight behaviour dataset and an environmental dataset, separately.
Getting LOST: A conceptual framework for supporting and enhancing spatial navigation in aging
Authors: Weisberg Steven M. , Ebner Natalie C. , Seidler Rachael D.
Published: November 2023

Spatial navigation is more difficult and effortful for older than younger individuals, a shift which occurs for a variety of neurological, physical, and cognitive reasons associated with aging. Despite a large body of evidence documenting age‐related deficits in spatial navigation, comparatively less research addresses how to facilitate more effective navigation behavior for older adults. Since navigation challenges arise for a variety of reasons in old age, a one‐size‐fits‐all solution is unlikely to work. Here, we introduce a framework for the variety of spatial navigation challenges faced in aging, which we call LOST—Location, Orientation, Spatial mapping, and Transit. The LOST framework builds on evidence from the cognitive neuroscience of spatial navigation, which reveals distinct components underpinning human wayfinding. We evaluate research on navigational aids—devices and depictions—which help people find their way around; and we reflect on how navigation aids solve (or fail to solve) specific wayfinding difficulties faced by older adults. In summary, we emphasize a bespoke approach to improving spatial navigation in aging, which focuses on tailoring navigation solutions to specific navigation challenges. Our hope is that by providing precise support to older navigators, navigation opportunities can facilitate independence and exploration, while minimizing the danger of becoming lost. We conclude by delineating critical knowledge gaps in how to improve older adults' spatial navigation capacities that the novel LOST framework could guide to address.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Development and Aging

Neuroscience > Cognition

Neuroscience > Behavior
Inverse Problems for Trees
Authors: Kurasov Pavel
Published: November 2023

This chapter is devoted to the solution of the inverse problem for Schrödinger operators on metric trees.
Hydrocephalus in prematurity: does valve choice make a difference?
Authors: Hall Benjamin J. , Ali Ahmad M.S. , Hennigan Dawn , Pettorini Benedetta
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Extremely premature neonates diagnosed with post-haemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) are recognised to have particularly poor outcomes. This study assessed the impact of a number of variables on outcomes in this cohort, in particular the choice of shunt valve mechanism.

Methods

Electronic case notes were retrospectively reviewed of all premature neonates admitted to our centre for management of hydrocephalus between 2012 and 2021. Data included (i) gestational age, (ii) birth weight, (iii) hydrocephalus aetiology, (iv) surgical intervention, (v) shunt system, (vi) ‘surgical burden’ and (vii) wound failure and infection rate. Data was handled in Microsoft Excel and statistical analysis performed in SPSS v27.0

Results

N = 53 premature hydrocephalic patients were identified (n = 28 (52.8%) female). Median gestational age at birth was 27 weeks (range: 23–36 + 6 weeks), with n = 35 extremely preterm patients and median birth weight of 1.9 kg (range: 0.8–3.6 kg). Total n = 99 programmable valves were implanted (n = 28 (28.3%) de novo, n = 71 (71.2%) revisions); n = 28 (28.3%) underwent n ≥ 1 pressure alterations, after which n = 21 (75%) patients had symptoms improve. In n = 8 patients exchanged from fixed to programmable valves, a mean reduction of 1.9 revisions per patient after exchange was observed (95%CI: 0.36–3.39, p = 0.02). Mean overall shunt survival was 39.5 weeks (95%CI: 30.6–48.5); 33.2 weeks (95%CI: 25.2–41.1) in programmable valves and 35.1 weeks (95%CI: 19.5–50.6) in fixed pressure (p = 0.22) with 12-month survival rates of 25.7% and 24.7%, respectively (p = 0.22). Shorter de novo shunt survival was associated with higher operation count overall (Pearson’s R: − 0.54, 95%CI: − 0.72 to − 0.29, p < 0.01). Wound failure, gestational age and birth weight were significantly associated with shorter de novo shunt survival in a Cox regression proportional hazards model; gestational age had the greatest impact on shunt survival (Exp(B): 0.71, 95%CI: 0.63–0.81, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Hydrocephalus is especially challenging in extreme prematurity, with a shorter de novo shunt survival associated with higher number of future revisions. Programmable valves provide flexibility with regard to pressure setting, with the potential for fewer shunt revisions in this complex cohort.
Master equation model for solute transport in river basins: part II basin fluvial scale
Authors: Rizzello Stefano , Vitolo Raffaele , Napoli Gaetano , De Bartolo Samuele
Published: November 2023

At basin scale the physical phenomenon of diffusion involves the intricate spreading and dispersion of substances within complex systems as networks of interconnected channels, streams, and land surfaces. Understanding this process is crucial for many purposes as management and conservation of water resources. We extend the model application of our previous work (Part I, Rizzello et al. in Stoch Environ Res Risk Assess 37:3807–3817, 2023) from channel to basin scale. We use conservation of mass and momentum to formulate and apply the Master Equation system at basin scale. The results on simulated events highlight the transition of the model from channel scale to basin scale.
Acceptability of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring and Oral Truvada Among African Users in Late-Stage of Pregnancy
Authors: Montgomery Elizabeth T. , Hawley Imogen , Fairlie Lee , Bunge Katie , Mathebula Florence , Etima Juliane , Mutero Prisca , Senyama Linly , Mayo Ashley , Stoner Marie C. D. , Piper Jeanna , Balan Ivan , van der Straten Ariane
Published: November 2023

The Microbicide Trials Network 042 study (MTN-042/DELIVER) is a two-arm, randomized, open-label Phase 3b trial that is evaluating the safety, adherence, and acceptability of the monthly ring and daily oral PrEP among HIV-uninfected pregnant people in four African countries. This analysis focuses on acceptability data captured qualitatively from a subset (n = 48) of the 150 people in the first cohort of the trial who were enrolled in late-stage pregnancy at 36 to 38 weeks gestational age and followed until after delivery. Single IDIs were conducted by trained interviewers at each clinic site using a semi-structured guide. Data excerpts of key codes pertaining to acceptability, pregnancy, and maternal health were summarized, reviewed and interpreted by multinational analyst teams. Although the product use period was relatively short, the data suggested several acceptability findings that may directly translate to longer durations of product use in pregnancy. The first was the overarching maternal sentiment that being able to protect both oneself and their baby was highly valued. The second was the importance of counseling support from providers not only because participants used methods that might generate side effects, but because pregnancy itself is a period with its own set of side effects. The third was that, similar to non-pregnant participants in other trials, here study products were generally liked and described as easy to use. Concerns about ring and oral PrEP use could be addressed with provider counseling and support and should form an essential component rollout among pregnant people.
Unwahrscheinliche Bildungskarrieren
Authors: Clark Zoë , Denysova Olexandra , Molnar Daniela
Published: November 2023

Die Frage danach, welcher Bildungsauftrag der Heimerziehung zukommt, ist nicht leicht zu klären. Die Heimerziehung ist nicht verpflichtet, schulische Belange gegenüber anderen Bedarfen ihrer Adressat_innen zu priorisieren. Gleichzeitig hat sie den gesetzlichen Auftrag, junge Menschen bei der Entwicklung einer selbstbestimmten, eigenständigen und gemeinschaftsfähigen Persönlichkeit zu unterstützen. Fest steht damit, dass Bildungsprozesse in stationären Settings möglich sein müssen. Die im Artikel dargestellten Ergebnisse machen deutlich, dass Heimerziehung insofern (formale) Bildung fördert, als sie einen Beitrag zur Stabilisierung belastender Lebenslagen leisten und damit erfolgreiche Bildungskarrieren möglich machen kann. Deutlich wird aber auch, dass Bildung dann behindert wird, wenn organisationale Standardisierung zum Tragen kommt und diese vor individuellen Bedarfen priorisiert werden.
On Whether It Is and What It Is
Authors: Franda Francesco
Published: November 2023

This dialogue, taking place between Prof. Whether and Prof. What, focuses on the nature of the relationship between ontology, conceived as the branch of philosophy concerned with the question of what entities exist, and metaphysics, conceived as the complementary part of philosophy that seeks to explain, of those entities, what they are. Most philosophers claim that it is not possible to address the first question without at the same time addressing the second, since knowing whether an entity exists requires knowing what that entity is. Prof. Whether argues against this popular position and offers a detailed analysis of the idea according to which it is possible to do ontology without engaging in metaphysics. Prof. Whether and Prof. What agree that, rather than being merely possible, in some cases it is, for methodological reasons, even preferable to start with a metaphysics-free ontology, postponing any inquiry concerning the nature of the entities included in the ontological inventory to a later stage. However, Prof. What notes that it is not always possible to do ontology without metaphysics, because there are certain kinds of entities, such as universals and possible worlds, that necessarily need a prior metaphysical characterization.
Renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Spiegelberg Jasmin
Published: November 2023

Kidney cancer accounts for 5% and 3% of all adult malignancies in men and women. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) accounts for approximately 80% of all kidney cancer.
This year’s American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting was held from 2–6 June 2023, in Chicago, USA. Combination therapies for advanced RCC continue to be of interest at ASCO 2023, with the presentation of updated results from some ongoing studies. There were several studies presented at ASCO looking at treatments for non clear renal cell carcinoma. Immunotherapy- based therapy regimes are now the gold standard for rare histological subtypes of RCC.
The role of community energy systems to facilitate energy transitions in Ethiopia and Mozambique
Authors: Gebreslassie Mulualem G. , Cuvilas Carlos
Published: November 2023

Policymakers and academics are focusing on energy transition to provide affordable, sustainable, and green energy for everyone. This is being driven by a combination of the lack of electricity access to millions of people particularly in the African continent and the requirement for the reduction of environmental impact through the use of greener energy resources and systems. This paper summarizes an interdisciplinary research program investigating community energy systems in Ethiopia and Mozambique to facilitate energy transitions. Specifically, it compares community energy landscapes, progress made, and existing challenges and opportunities. To determine the status of community energy development in the two countries, recent publications and official policies were reviewed, and community energy managers were interviewed. The review showed that renewable energy sources are the dominant focus for community energy developments, which is key to achieving a cleaner energy future. However, progress in community energy development has been slow in these countries. There are several reasons that hinder community energy systems from driving the necessary energy transition to a cleaner, modern, and affordable energy. Some of these reasons are the absence of favorable regulatory frameworks, incentive package, knowledge on business models, weak commitments from stakeholders, and insufficient community involvement. These issues vary in degree between the two countries.
A framework for software vendor selection by applying Inconsistency and Conflict Removal (ICR) method
Authors: Rani Anshul , Mishra Deepti , Omerovic Aida
Published: November 2023

In a software ecosystem, companies’ stakeholders make various decisions and perform various tasks to ensure the strategic and architectural goals of the company. Analyzing vendor capabilities and making decisions to select software vendors requires expert professionals. To analyze vendors’ capabilities and accessing them according to the company’s strategic and architectural goals is presently an ad-hoc and manual process. Presently, there is no systematic process for ‘vendor analysis and selection’ specifically for the software industry. Therefore, this study introduces a novel framework which elaborates all the tasks required for vendor proposal evaluation. It also includes the automatic detection of inconsistencies and conflicts prevalent during this process. A new method called ‘Inconsistency and Conflict Removal (ICR)’ is proposed as part of this framework. ICR automates the process of spotting inconsistencies and conflicts by taking scores of vendor capabilities as input reported by different decision-makers. Further, to illustrate this framework, ‘a case of Hospital’ has been considered. This study provides valuable knowledge that would facilitate organizations in software vendor selection. It will lead to substantial savings in terms of economics, such as actual costs, time, and improved administrative processes.
Experimental investigation of performance and soot emissions of oxygenated fuel blends in a small aero engine
Authors: Rabl Alexander , Mull Christopher , Härtl Martin , Helcig Christian , Gümmer Volker
Published: November 2023

Recent studies show that mixing jet fuel with oxygenated fuels has an impact on exhaust gas soot formation. Soot particles are an environmental hazard with an impact on air quality around airports, and possibly influencing ice crystal nucleation, leading to contrail and ice cloud (cirrus) formation. These ice clouds significantly warm up the atmosphere by reflecting heat radiation back to Earth and, at the same time, being transparent to incoming sunlight. Many investigations concentrate on reducing aviation’s CO2 footprint, but only a few account for reducing soot emissions in aero engines. This study examines the potential of blending Jet A-1 with oxygenated fuels to decrease soot particle formation in aero engines. For this, blends with 5 vol% and 20 vol% of ethanol, and 5 vol% of a polyoxymethylene dimethyl ether 3–5 mix (OME3-5 mix) are investigated in an Allison 250-C20B turboshaft engine with the help of a condensation particle counter (CPC). The results show tendencies in soot particle reduction, which, in most cases, is larger than the volumetric percentage of the oxygenated fuel within the blend.
Assessing Global Landslide Casualty Risk Under Moderate Climate Change Based on Multiple GCM Projections
Authors: Wang Xia , Wang Ying , Lin Qigen , Yang Xudong
Published: November 2023

Extreme precipitation-induced landslide events are projected to increase under climate change, which poses a serious threat to human lives and property. In this study, a global-scale landslide risk assessment model was established using global landslide data, by considering landslide hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. The global climate model data were then employed to drive the established global landslide risk model to explore the spatial and temporal variations in future landslide risk across the globe as a result of extreme precipitation changes. The results show that compared to the 30-year period from 1971 to 2000, the average annual frequency of landslides triggered by extreme precipitation is projected to increase by 7% and 10%, respectively, in the future 30-year periods of 2031–2060 and 2066–2095. The global average annual casualty risk of landslides is projected to increase from about 3240 to 7670 and 8380, respectively (with growth rates of 140% and 160%), during the 2031–2060 and 2066–2095 periods under the SSP2-4.5 scenario. The top 10 countries with the highest casualty risk of landslides are China, Afghanistan, India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Rwanda, Turkey, Nepal, Guatemala, and Brazil, 60% of which are located in Asia. The frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation will increase under climate change, which will lead to an increase in casualties from landslides in mountainous areas globally, and this risk should be taken seriously. The present study was an attempt to investigate and quantify the impact of global landslide casualty risk under climate change, which still has uncertainty in terms of outcomes, and there remains a need for further understanding in the future of the propagation of uncertainty between the factors that affect the risk.
Exploring Urban–Rural Paradox: Does Going Rural Mean Higher Life Satisfaction?
Authors: Biagi Bianca , Meleddu Marta
Published: November 2023

A stylised fact in regional and urban studies of life satisfaction in developed countries is that people living in cities report being less satisfied than those in rural areas. Building upon the theoretical framework of Sen’s capability approach, along with research on life satisfaction and amenities, this paper examines the role of amenity availability and accessibility, as well as social relations, in shaping life satisfaction. Using data from the 2013–2018 household survey conducted by the National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT) in Italian regions at the NUTS2 level, this study explores the role of availability and accessibility of amenities and social relations on urban–rural life satisfaction. Results suggest that the likelihood of having higher life satisfaction is associated with living in wealthier rural places where higher-ranked cities exert accessibility and positive externalities in line with the borrowed size concept by Alonso (Daedalus 102(4):191–206, 1973).
Practically Feasible Sensor-Embedded Kinetic Assessment Piano System for Quantifying Striking Force of Digits During Piano Playing
Authors: Lai Kuan-Yin , Hsu Chieh-Hsiang , Lin Yu-Chen , Tsai Chung-Hung , Lin Cheng-Feng , Kuo Li-Chieh , Su Fong-Chin
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Understanding the pathogenesis of playing-related hand disorders through investigations based on coordination and biomechanical perspectives is indispensable. This study aimed to establish a sensor-embedded kinetic assessment piano system (SeKAPS) and conduct reliability and validity tests for this system. In addition, the differences in digit coordination between professional pianists and non-musicians were investigated.

Methods

Twelve subminiature load cells were embedded in the middle of the 12 corresponding keys of an upright piano. A customized calibrated system with a load cell was used to establish the criterion-related validity of the SeKAPS. The reliability of the SeKAPS was determined by 22 volunteer pianists. The other ten professional pianists and ten non-musicians were recruited to indicate the feasibility of the SeKAPS to distinguish the performing differences between groups.

Results

The R2 values of regression analyses for the load cells were 0.993–0.999 (p < 0.001), indicating high validity. The ICC values of the modified keys were 0.82–0.93, indicating high reliability. The results indicate that SeKAPS is accurate in detecting the striking force of digits during piano playing. Significant differences existed in the mean peak force and mean CVs of the peak force of the specific digits between the two groups. The results showed differences in finger control strategies between the pianists and non-musicians.

Conclusion

The SeKAPS may provide a valuable assessment for assisting pianists in understanding digit force control and movement strategies to achieve efficient digit coordination.