bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biophysical control of plasticity and patterning in regeneration and cancer
Authors: Murugan Nirosha J. , Cariba Solsa , Abeygunawardena Sawith , Rouleau Nicolas , Payne Samantha L.
Published: December 2023

Cells and tissues display a remarkable range of plasticity and tissue-patterning activities that are emergent of complex signaling dynamics within their microenvironments. These properties, which when operating normally guide embryogenesis and regeneration, become highly disordered in diseases such as cancer. While morphogens and other molecular factors help determine the shapes of tissues and their patterned cellular organization, the parallel contributions of biophysical control mechanisms must be considered to accurately predict and model important processes such as growth, maturation, injury, repair, and senescence. We now know that mechanical, optical, electric, and electromagnetic signals are integral to cellular plasticity and tissue patterning. Because biophysical modalities underly interactions between cells and their extracellular matrices, including cell cycle, metabolism, migration, and differentiation, their applications as tuning dials for regenerative and anti-cancer therapies are being rapidly exploited. Despite this, the importance of cellular communication through biophysical signaling remains disproportionately underrepresented in the literature. Here, we provide a review of biophysical signaling modalities and known mechanisms that initiate, modulate, or inhibit plasticity and tissue patterning in models of regeneration and cancer. We also discuss current approaches in biomedical engineering that harness biophysical control mechanisms to model, characterize, diagnose, and treat disease states.
Prevalence and correlates of loneliness and social isolation in the oldest old: a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression
Authors: Hajek André , Volkmar Alina , König Hans-Helmut
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Conducting a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression regarding the prevalence and correlates of loneliness and social isolation amongst the community-dwelling and institutionalised oldest old (80 years and over).

Methods

Three electronic databases (PsycINFO, CINAHL and Medline) were searched, including studies from inception to January 5, 2023. An additional hand search was conducted by checking included studies’ references, and studies that cited included studies. We included observational studies describing the prevalence and (ideally) the correlates of loneliness, or social isolation, amongst individuals aged 80 years and over. Study design, operationalization of loneliness and social isolation, statistical analysis, characteristics of the sample and key findings were extracted. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted.

Results

We included 22 studies. The estimated prevalence of severe loneliness was 27.1% (95% CI: 23.7–30.4%). The estimated prevalence of moderate loneliness equalled 32.1% (95% CI: 15.8–48.4%). Moreover, the estimated prevalence of social isolation was 33.6% (95% CI: 28.9–38.2%). There was heterogeneity between the studies. Egger tests suggest the absence of potential publication bias. Meta-regressions showed that the heterogeneity could neither be attributed to the assessment of loneliness nor to the continent where the study was conducted.

Conclusion

Loneliness and social isolation are important problems in the oldest old. In this age group, studies are required, in particular from regions outside Europe. Additionally, longitudinal studies are required to investigate the determinants of loneliness and social isolation amongst individuals aged 80 years and over. Studies using more sophisticated tools to quantify loneliness and social isolation are required.
Multi-material and thickness optimization of laminated composite structures subject to high-cycle fatigue
Authors: Hermansen Sebastian M. , Lund Erik
Published: December 2023

Laminated composite structures have a distinct inherent potential for optimization due to their tailorability and their associated complex failure mechanisms that makes intuitive design remarkably difficult. Optimization of such is a maturing technology with many criteria and manufacturing constraints having been successfully demonstrated. An approach for high-cycle fatigue is however yet to be developed in a gradient-based context. Thus, the objective of this work is to introduce a novel framework that allows for effective high-cycle fatigue optimization of laminated composite structures.Offset is taken in the Discrete Material and Thickness Optimization parametrization, which allows for simultaneous material and thickness selection for each layer that constitute a laminate. The fatigue analysis approach is based on accumulating damage from all variable-amplitude cycles in an arbitrary spectrum. As high-cycle fatigue behavior is highly nonlinear, it is difficult to handle in optimization. To stabilize the problem, damage is scaled using an inverse P-mean norm formulation that reduces the nonlinearity and provides an accurate measure of the damage. These scaled damages are then aggregated using P-norm functions to reduce the number of constraints. This is convenient, as it allows sensitivities to be efficiently calculated using analytical adjoint design sensitivity analysis. The effectiveness of this approach will be demonstrated on both benchmark examples and a more complicated main spar structure.
The protective role of l-carnitine on oxidative stress, neurotransmitter perturbations, astrogliosis, and apoptosis induced by thiamethoxam in the brains of male rats
Authors: Abd Elkader Heba-Tallah Abd Elrahim , Hussein Marium Marzoq , Mohammed Nema A . , Abdou Heba M .
Published: December 2023

Synthetic organic insecticides such as pyrethroids, organophosphates, neonicotinoids, and others have the potential to disrupt ecosystems and are often toxic to humans. Thiamethoxam (TMX), a neonicotinoid insecticide , is a widely used insecticide with neurotoxic potential. l-Carnitine (LC) is regarded as the “gatekeeper” in charge of allowing long-chain fatty acids into cell mitochondria. LC is an endogenous chemical that is renowned for its prospective biological activity in addition to its role in energy metabolism. This study investigated the protective effects of LC against TMX-induced neurotoxicity in male Wistar rats. For 28 days, animals were divided into four groups and treated daily with either LC (300 mg/kg), TMX (100 mg/kg), or both at the aforementioned doses. Our results revealed marked serum lipid profile and electrolyte changes, declines in brain antioxidants and neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, dopamine, and serotonin levels) with elevations in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and proinflammatory cytokine levels, as well as acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase brain activity in TMX-treated rats. TMX also increased the expression of caspase-3 and glial fibrillary acidic protein. In contrast, pretreatment with LC attenuated TMX-induced brain injury by suppressing oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines and modulating neurotransmitter levels. It also ameliorated the expression of apoptotic and astrogliosis markers. It could be concluded that LC has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-astrogliosis, and anti-apoptotic potential against TMX neurotoxicity.

Graphical abstract
Effect of cutting set variations on structural and functional properties of hamburgers
Authors: Berger Lisa M. , Adam Felix , Gibis Monika , Witte Franziska , Terjung Nino , Weiss Jochen
Published: December 2023

Meat grinders are composed of a combination of individual functional elements (e.g., screw conveyor, perforated plates, knives). This setup, and in particular the chosen cutting set, influences the characteristics of ground meat and hamburgers produced. In this study, we took a closer look at the effect of cutting set variations and process parameters on structural, functional, and physicochemical properties of beef hamburgers produced. It was found that the specific mechanical energy input during grinding increased when cutting levels, i.e., a set of one hole plate and one knife, were increased, causing more cell disintegration (r = 0.387, p = 0.02). Surprisingly though, an influence on the functional and quality parameters of the hamburgers could not be found for most parameters tested. The findings indicate that variations in the cutting set affect the process parameters and the stress applied to the meat, but residence times in this zone are too small to cause noticeable effects on the analytical and qualitative properties of hamburgers. As such, there are options for energy and cost optimization of industrial grinding processes without sacrificing quality.
Arthroscopic surgery for ankle gouty arthritis: a retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes at six month follow-up based on a novel classification system
Authors: Zhang Baozhou , Li Ying , Yang Xiaosong , Gong Xiaofeng , Sun Ning , Lai Liangpeng , Li Wenjing , Wu Yong
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes, patient-reported outcomes, and recurrence rate of patients diagnosed with ankle gouty arthritis who underwent arthroscopic surgery based on the new classification.

Methods

A total of 51 patients diagnosed with ankle gouty arthritis were included in this retrospective study. A new classification was proposed based on the location and extent of MSU crystal deposition under an arthroscopy view. Patients are classified into different types and underwent arthroscopic surgery accordingly. The primary outcome measure was the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score. The secondary outcomes included the visual analog pain scale (VAS), serum uric acid levels, and the recurrence rate of ankle gouty arthritis at one year postoperatively.

Results

Based on the new classification, five patients were Type I, 24 patients were Type II, five were Type III A, six were Type III B, and 11 were Type IV. The average follow-up time was 23.5 ± 10.9 months. The AOFAS hindfoot-ankle score improved significantly from 70.3 ± 15.9 to 85.6 ± 13.0 (p < 0.01). The mean serum uric acid level was significantly decreased from 442.0 ± 109.2 to 540.5 ± 132.4 (p < 0.01). The average VAS scale decreased from 3.8 ± 1.9 to 1.4 ± 1.7 (p < 0.01). The median of recurrences in one year postoperatively was significantly decreased from 1.5 (1, 3.75) to 0 (0, 0.75) (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

A new classification strategy for ankle gouty arthritis based on arthroscopic view was proposed. Patients with ankle gouty arthritis showed significant improvement in ankle function and pain relief after undergoing arthroscopic surgery driven by the new classification.
Artificial intelligence for X-ray scaphoid fracture detection: a systematic review and diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis
Authors: Kraus Matan , Anteby Roi , Konen Eli , Eshed Iris , Klang Eyal
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Scaphoid fractures are usually diagnosed using X-rays, a low-sensitivity modality. Artificial intelligence (AI) using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) has been explored for diagnosing scaphoid fractures in X-rays. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the use of AI for detecting scaphoid fractures on X-rays and analyze its accuracy and usefulness.

Materials and methods

This study followed the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) and PRISMA-Diagnostic Test Accuracy. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed database for original articles published until July 2023. The risk of bias and applicability were evaluated using the QUADAS-2 tool. A bivariate diagnostic random-effects meta-analysis was conducted, and the results were analyzed using the Summary Receiver Operating Characteristic (SROC) curve.

Results

Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and were all retrospective. The AI’s diagnostic performance for detecting scaphoid fractures ranged from AUC 0.77 to 0.96. Seven studies were included in the meta-analysis, with a total of 3373 images. The meta-analysis pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.80 and 0.89, respectively. The meta-analysis overall AUC was 0.88. The QUADAS-2 tool found high risk of bias and concerns about applicability in 9 out of 10 studies.

Conclusions

The current results of AI’s diagnostic performance for detecting scaphoid fractures in X-rays show promise. The results show high overall sensitivity and specificity and a high SROC result. Further research is needed to compare AI’s diagnostic performance to human diagnostic performance in a clinical setting.

Clinical relevance statement

Scaphoid fractures are prone to be missed secondary to assessment with a low sensitivity modality and a high occult fracture rate. AI systems can be beneficial for clinicians and radiologists to facilitate early diagnosis, and avoid missed injuries.

Key Points

• Scaphoid fractures are common and some can be easily missed in X-rays.

• Artificial intelligence (AI) systems demonstrate high diagnostic performance for the diagnosis of scaphoid fractures in X-rays.

• AI systems can be beneficial in diagnosing both obvious and occult scaphoid fractures.
Occupational physical activity, all-cause mortality and incidence of cardiovascular diseases: results from three Italian cohorts
Authors: Fontana Dario , Ceron Raffaele , d’Errico Angelo
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To examine the association of exposure to Occupational Physical Activity (OPA) with all-cause mortality and incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Methods

The study population was composed of three Italian cohorts: a national cohort of employees participating in the National Health Survey 2005, followed-up until 2014 (ILS 2005), and two urban cohorts of employees resident in Turin at 2001 and 2011 censuses (TLS 2001 and TLS 2011, respectively), both followed-up until 2018. Follow-up was conducted through individual record-linkage with death registries and hospital admissions archives. Exposure to OPA was assigned through an Italian job-exposure matrix (JEM). Relative Risks of both CVD incidence and overall mortality associated with OPA quartiles (IRR) were estimated using Poisson regression models adjusted for socio-demographics and health, and in the national cohort, also for leisure time physical activity, BMI, smoking, diabetes, and hypertension.

Results

Compared to the lowest quartile, the highest OPA quartile was associated in both genders with significantly increased mortality in TLS 2001 (IRR = 1.11 among men, IRR = 1.20 among women) and in TLS 2011 (IRR = 1.27 among men and IRR = 1.73 among women), whereas in the ILS 2005 cohort no association was found. Among women, high OPA was also associated with CVD risk in TLS 2001 and 2011 (IRR = 1.39 and IRR = 1.16 for the highest quartile, respectively), while in the ILS cohort in both genders only the third quartile showed a significantly higher risk.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that OPA does not have a beneficial effect on CVD and mortality, but rather suggest that it may produce deleterious health effects.
Microstructure evolution accounting for crystal plasticity in the context of the multiphase-field method
Authors: Kannenberg Thea , Schöller Lukas , Prahs Andreas , Schneider Daniel , Nestler Britta
Published: December 2023

The role of grain boundaries (GBs) and especially the migration of GBs is of utmost importance in regard of the overall mechanical behavior of polycrystals. By implementing a crystal plasticity (CP) theory in a multiphase-field method, where GBs are considered as diffuse interfaces of finite thickness, numerically costly tracking of migrating GBs, present during phase transformation processes, can be avoided. In this work, the implementation of the constitutive material behavior within the diffuse interface region, considers phase-specific plastic fields and the jump condition approach accounting for CP. Moreover, a coupling is considered in which the phase-field evolution and the balance of linear momentum are solved in each time step. The application of the model is extended to evolving phases and moving interfaces and approaches to strain inheritance are proposed. The impact of driving forces on the phase-field evolution arising from plastic deformation is discussed. To this end, the shape evolution of an inclusion is investigated. The resulting equilibrium shapes depend on the anisotropic plastic deformation and are illustrated and examined. Subsequently, evolving phases are studied in the context of static recrystallization (SRX). The GB migration involved in the growth of nuclei, which are placed in a previously deformed grain structure, is investigated. For this purpose, three approaches to strain inheritance are compared and, subsequently, different grain structures and distributions of nuclei are considered. It is shown, how the revisited method contributes to a simulation of SRX.
Greater pelvic obliquity in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis combined with hip dysplasia
Authors: Zhao Xiaoxiong , Pan Aixing , Hai Yong
Published: December 2023

Background

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a spinal deformity that affects adolescents and poses a challenging public health problem. Compared to the general population, adolescents with AIS have a higher prevalence of hip dysplasia. However, the mechanisms underlying the impact of hip dysplasia on the coronal balance of the spine remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that the combination of AIS with hip dysplasia would exacerbate coronal imbalance.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records and radiographs of adolescents diagnosed with AIS between 2015 and 2020. Participants were divided into two groups: those with hip dysplasia and those without. We recorded parameters related to the coronal deformity of the spine, sacral and pelvic obliquity, and center edge angle (CEA). We investigated differences in these parameters in those with and without hip dysplasia and analyzed their relationships in those with combined AIS and hip dysplasia.

Results

A total of 103 adolescents were included, 36 with hip dysplasia and 67 without. Those with hip dysplasia had significantly higher sacroiliac discrepancy (SID) compared to those without (t = − 2.438, P = 0.017). In adolescents with hip dysplasia, only iliac obliquity angle (IOA) was significantly correlated with SID (r = − 0.803, P < 0.001), with a linear relationship between them (r2 = 0.645, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The incidence of hip dysplasia is higher in the AIS population. In adolescents with combined AIS and hip dysplasia, pelvic obliquity is greater, potentially contributing to the increased prevalence of low back pain.
Genotyping of European Toxoplasma gondii strains by a new high-resolution next-generation sequencing-based method
Authors: Joeres M. , Maksimov P. , Höper D. , Calvelage S. , Calero-Bernal R. , Fernández-Escobar M. , Koudela B. , Blaga R. , Vrhovec M. Globokar , Stollberg K. , Bier N. , Sotiraki S. , Sroka J. , Piotrowska W. , Kodym P. , Basso W. , Conraths F. J. , Mercier A. , Galal L. , Dardé M. L. , Balea A. , Spano F. , Schulze C. , Peters M. , Scuda N. , Lundén A. , Davidson R. K. , Terland R. , Waap H. , de Bruin E. , Vatta P. , Caccio S. , Ortega-Mora L. M. , Jokelainen P. , Schares G.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

A new high-resolution next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based method was established to type closely related European type II Toxoplasma gondii strains.

Methods

T. gondii field isolates were collected from different parts of Europe and assessed by whole genome sequencing (WGS). In comparison to ME49 (a type II reference strain), highly polymorphic regions (HPRs) were identified, showing a considerable number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). After confirmation by Sanger sequencing, 18 HPRs were used to design a primer panel for multiplex PCR to establish a multilocus Ion AmpliSeq typing method. Toxoplasma gondii isolates and T. gondii present in clinical samples were typed with the new method. The sensitivity of the method was tested with serially diluted reference DNA samples.

Results

Among type II specimens, the method could differentiate the same number of haplotypes as the reference standard, microsatellite (MS) typing. Passages of the same isolates and specimens originating from abortion outbreaks were identified as identical. In addition, seven different genotypes, two atypical and two recombinant specimens were clearly distinguished from each other by the method. Furthermore, almost all SNPs detected by the Ion AmpliSeq method corresponded to those expected based on WGS. By testing serially diluted DNA samples, the method exhibited a similar analytical sensitivity as MS typing.

Conclusion

The new method can distinguish different T. gondii genotypes and detect intra-genotype variability among European type II T. gondii strains. Furthermore, with WGS data additional target regions can be added to the method to potentially increase typing resolution.
The elicitation of patient and physician preferences for calculating consumer-based composite measures on hospital report cards: results of two discrete choice experiments
Authors: Emmert Martin , Rohrbacher Stefan , Meier Florian , Heppe Laura , Drach Cordula , Schindler Anja , Sander Uwe , Patzelt Christiane , Frömke Cornelia , Schöffski Oliver , Lauerer Michael
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The calculation of aggregated composite measures is a widely used strategy to reduce the amount of data on hospital report cards. Therefore, this study aims to elicit and compare preferences of both patients as well as referring physicians regarding publicly available hospital quality information

Methods

Based on systematic literature reviews as well as qualitative analysis, two discrete choice experiments (DCEs) were applied to elicit patients’ and referring physicians’ preferences. The DCEs were conducted using a fractional factorial design. Statistical data analysis was performed using multinomial logit models

Results

Apart from five identical attributes, one specific attribute was identified for each study group, respectively. Overall, 322 patients (mean age 68.99) and 187 referring physicians (mean age 53.60) were included. Our models displayed significant coefficients for all attributes (p < 0.001 each). Among patients, “Postoperative complication rate” (20.6%; level range of 1.164) was rated highest, followed by “Mobility at hospital discharge” (19.9%; level range of 1.127), and ‘‘The number of cases treated” (18.5%; level range of 1.045). In contrast, referring physicians valued most the ‘‘One-year revision surgery rate’’ (30.4%; level range of 1.989), followed by “The number of cases treated” (21.0%; level range of 1.372), and “Postoperative complication rate” (17.2%; level range of 1.123)

Conclusion

We determined considerable differences between both study groups when calculating the relative value of publicly available hospital quality information. This may have an impact when calculating aggregated composite measures based on consumer-based weighting.
‘Am I to blame because my child is not motivated to do math?’: Relationships between parents’ attitudes, beliefs and practices towards mathematics and students’ mathematics motivation and achievement
Authors: Peixoto Francisco , Mata Lourdes , Campos Mafalda , Caetano Teresa , Radišić Jelena , Niemivirta Markku
Published: December 2023

Research on parental involvement is broad and specifies diverse kinds of parental practices that have specific associations with children’s learning outcomes. However, the involvement of parents in education, the dynamics of parent–child interactions and the actions and practices they employ and their impact on student’s motivation and achievement are intricate processes characterised by numerous intervening variables that require further clarification.

In this study, we aimed to examine the association between parental beliefs and involvement and their children’s motivation and mathematics achievement. Data were collected from 8071 third- and fourth-graders from six European countries and their parents. Students fulfilled the Expectancy-Value Scale, self-reporting on motivational aspects towards mathematics and performed two math tests to assess their performance. Parents also reported on their math attitudes, mindsets and involvement practices with their children.

Data analysis was performed using structural equation modelling. Several theoretically meaningful associations were found in the tested model, showing the detrimental impacts of a fixed mindset on parents’ practices. Furthermore, we found significant relationships between parents’ attitudes towards mathematics, their practices and students’ perceptions of math-related values and cost. Finally, associations between parental practices, the child’s outcomes and the association between children’s mathematics motivation and achievement were also observed. Some implications are presented, particularly concerning interventions with parents.
Associations between students’ reading performance and literacy instruction in first grade: a cross-lagged study
Authors: Ruotsalainen Jenni , Pakarinen Eija , Poikkeus Anna-Maija , Lerkkanen Marja-Kristiina
Published: December 2023

This cross-lagged study examined the classroom-level associations between the reading performance of first-grade students (N = 537) and observed literacy instruction activities in classrooms (N = 30) in the autumn and spring terms. The multilevel analyses indicated that lower average word reading skills in the classrooms (i.e., there were more students who were learning to read) in the autumn were associated with higher amount of activities supporting consolidation of reading and spelling skills in the spring. In contrast, higher average word reading skills in the classrooms in the autumn were associated with higher amount of independent meaning-focused activities in the spring. Higher extent of whole-group meaning-focused activities in the autumn was positively associated with reading comprehension at classroom level in the spring, whereas independent phonological recoding practice in the autumn was negatively associated with reading comprehension in the spring. The study provides novel understanding of the associations between students’ reading performance and literacy instruction especially showing how students’ reading skills at classroom level may inform instruction in the classroom. This information may guide teachers to adapt their instruction at classroom level but also to identify the students needing differentiation. The results also acknowledge the affordances and limitations students’ skills may set for the instruction.
Direct Numerical Simulation of Atomization Characteristics of ECN Spray-G Injector: In-Nozzle Fluid Flow and Breakup Processes
Authors: Li Yongxiang , Ries Florian , Sun Yaquan , Lien Hao-Pin , Nishad Kaushal , Sadiki Amsini
Published: December 2023

In order to sustain applications dealing with various liquid fuels in internal combustion engine (ICE), it is essential to make available prediction methodologies that allow an early evaluation of the potential usefulness of such fuels in terms of favourable mixture preparation process already in realistic configurations. Since the air-mixture formation and subsequent processes are predominantly governed by the fuel injection, a DNS based numerical investigation coupled with VOF as an interface tracking method is carried out in this paper to gain better insight on the fuel injection from an industrial injector "Spray G" configuration. Chosen from Engine Combustion Network (ECN), this is a gasoline direct injector (GDI) featuring 8-holes orifices and operating with high injection pressure (200 bar). Under consideration of the required computational cost associated with DNS, only the 1/8 of the nozzle geometry including one orifice is used. The numerical simulation is accomplished for the quasi-steady injection condition with nozzle needle fully opened. The obtained results are first validated with available experimental data for nozzle mass flow rate and spray spread angle showing a good agreement. Then, a detailed numerical analysis is provided for the in/near nozzle flow evolution especially for flow turbulence, primary and secondary atomization. Furthermore, droplet statistics in terms of droplet shape, and droplet size-velocity distribution together with a breakup regime map are reported. Finally, a 2-D data curation technique is proposed to extract the droplet statistics along selected planes and evaluated by direct comparison with three-dimensional droplet data, which may allow handling of the DNS data in more feasible and economical way especially for time series data with higher frequency. The comprehensive DNS data generated by this DNS-VOF approach enable not only to carry out detailed numerical analysis of in- and near-nozzle physical phenomena for which experimental data are still scarce, but also to provide a hint of more reliable injector boundary conditions useful for lower order spray injection method based on Lagrangian particle tracking.
Quantum-mechanical four-body versus semi-classical three-body theories for double charge exchange in collisions of fast alpha particles with helium targets
Authors: Belkić Dževad
Published: December 2023

Within the two-channel distorted wave second-order perturbative theoretical formalism, we study capture of both electrons from helium-like targets by heavy nuclei as projectiles at intermediate and high impact energies. The emphasis is on the four-body single-double scattering (SDS-4B) method and the three-body continuum distorted wave impact parameter method (CDW-3B-IPM). The SDS-4B method deals with the full quantum-mechanical correlative dynamics of all the four interactively participating particles (two electrons, two nuclei). The CDW-3B-IPM is a semi-classical three-body independent particle model (one electron, two nuclei), using a combinatorial calculus to describe double capture by a product of two uncorrelated probabilities, integrated over impact parameters. Both theories share a common feature in having altogether two electronic full Coulomb continuum wave functions. One such function is centered on the projectile nucleus in the entrance channel, whereas the other is centered on the target nucleus in the exit channel. These two methods satisfy the correct initial and final Coulomb boundary conditions in the asymptotic region of scattering, at infinitely large inter-particle separations. Yet, it is presently demonstrated that most of the available experimental data on total cross sections for the double capture from helium by alpha particles distinctly favor the SDS-4B method. This is especially true at intermediate energies. Such energies are critically important in versatile applications under the general umbrella of ion transport in matter, including thermonuclear fusion (plasma physics) and ion therapy (medicine).
Assessing Work Functioning in Patients with Persistent Low Back Pain: Exploring the Structural Validity of the Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire
Authors: Hansen Anders , Mortensen Ole Steen , Escorpizo Reuben , Søgaard Karen , Søndergaard Jens , Schiøttz-Christensen Berit , Lauridsen Henrik Hein
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Assessing work functioning in patients with persistent low back pain (LBP) is important for understanding their ability to engage in work-related activities. This study aims to evaluate the item characteristics, factor structure, and internal consistency of the Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire (WORQ) in patients with persistent LBP.

Methods

Four hundred and twenty-five individuals with LBP completed the WORQ. Item characteristics, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and consistency were performed to identify the underlying factors.

Results

Missing responses were < 2% for each item. The analysis revealed three factors: psychological wellbeing, physical functioning, and cognitive ability. The factors demonstrated strong internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha values ranging from 0.88 to 0.93 and McDonald’s Omega from 0.92 to 0.96. Fifteen items did not fit into any identified factors, suggesting their potential value in screening functioning levels beyond the factors.

Conclusions

The WORQ is a valid instrument for evaluating work limitations in individuals with persistent LBP. Further research should assess its responsiveness to changes from interventions that target workability. Advancing this knowledge has the potential to promote work rehabilitation and improve the quality of life for patients with persistent LBP.
Numerical evaluation of singular integrals on non-disjoint self-similar fractal sets
Authors: Gibbs A. , Hewett D. P. , Major B.
Published: December 2023

We consider the numerical evaluation of a class of double integrals with respect to a pair of self-similar measures over a self-similar fractal set (the attractor of an iterated function system), with a weakly singular integrand of logarithmic or algebraic type. In a recent paper (Gibbs et al. Numer. Algorithms 92, 2071–2124 2023), it was shown that when the fractal set is “disjoint” in a certain sense (an example being the Cantor set), the self-similarity of the measures, combined with the homogeneity properties of the integrand, can be exploited to express the singular integral exactly in terms of regular integrals, which can be readily approximated numerically. In this paper, we present a methodology for extending these results to cases where the fractal is non-disjoint but non-overlapping (in the sense that the open set condition holds). Our approach applies to many well-known examples including the Sierpinski triangle, the Vicsek fractal, the Sierpinski carpet, and the Koch snowflake.
Dynamics of Students’ Career Choice: a Conceptual Framework–Based Qualitative Analysis Focusing on Primary Care
Authors: Pfarrwaller Eva , Maisonneuve Hubert , Laurent Camille , Abbiati Milena , Sommer Johanna , Baroffio Anne , Haller Dagmar M.
Published: December 2023

Background

Increasing primary care’s attractiveness as a career choice is an important task of socially accountable medical schools. Research has broadly studied influences on medical students’ career choice. However, a deeper understanding of the processes behind career decision-making could support medical schools in their efforts to promote primary care careers.

Objective

To explore the dynamics of career choice during medical school with a focus on primary care, based on a previously developed conceptual framework.

Approach

Qualitative study using a phenomenological, inductive-deductive approach

Design and Participants

Individual interviews were conducted from May 2019 to January 2020 with 14 first-year postgraduate trainee physicians, graduates of the Faculty of Medicine in Geneva, Switzerland, purposively sampled based on their interest in primary care during undergraduate studies. The interview guide was developed to elicit narratives about career-related decision-making. Two authors coded the transcripts. Thematic analysis alternated with data collection until thematic saturation was reached. Emerging themes were discussed and refined within the research team.

Key Results

Two main themes emerged: (1) developing professional identity, expressed as a changing professional image from unprecise and idealistic to concrete and realistic; priorities changed from content-based to lifestyle-based preferences; (2) individual trajectories of career-related decision-making, determined by different stages of refining professional interests; students navigated this process by employing various strategies, ranging from active exploration to passive behaviors.

Conclusions

This study’s narrative approach illustrates the dynamic nature of career choice and refines elements of a conceptual framework previously developed by the authors. Its findings underline the importance of exploration, for which personal experiences and observations of physicians’ work are crucial. To advance efforts to make primary care a more attractive career, students must be sufficiently exposed to primary care in a safe and individualized environment and should be supported in all stages of their career choice process.
Exploratory analyses of treatment subgroup interaction by PD-L1 status and according to PD-L1 expression in the JAVELIN Bladder 100 trial
Authors: Climent Miguel Ángel , Álvarez Carlos , Morales Rafael , Maroto Pablo , Rodríguez-Vida Alejo , Méndez-Vidal María José , del Muro Xavier García , Puente Javier , Láinez Nuria , Vázquez Sergio , Castellano Daniel , Lang Carmen Gómez , Wang Jing , di Pietro Alessandra , Davis Craig , Sanz-Castillo Belén , Bolós M. Victoria , Valderrama Begoña P.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Post hoc analysis of the JAVELIN Bladder 100 trial of avelumab maintenance in locally advanced/metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) to determine the interaction by programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) status for overall survival (OS), and additional analyses of survival per a different PD-L1 expression cutoff of ≥ 1% in tumor cells or immune cells (TC/IC).

Methods

JAVELIN Bladder 100 data were used for the analysis of the interaction by PD-L1 status (per cutoff used in the trial) for OS and, additionally, OS and progression-free survival (PFS) analyses per a different ≥ 1% TC/IC PD-L1 expression cutoff (Ventana SP263 assay).

Results

No significant interaction between treatment and PD-L1 status was observed for OS. Clinically meaningful and robust survival data were observed in favor of avelumab using the different ≥ 1% TC/IC PD-L1 expression cutoff.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the benefit of avelumab maintenance in la/mUC regardless of PD-L1 expression, consistent with approved labels.
Relationship of personality traits with degree of subjective learning and satisfaction in different class formats among Japanese university students
Authors: Yamamoto Mana , Tokita Gaku , Sato Yusuke , Fukami Masashi , Takashina Terue
Published: December 2023

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent shift to online instruction, many universities have been exploring hybrid approaches that leverage the benefits of both face-to-face and online learning. In this study, we examined the relationship of personality traits with degree of subjective learning and satisfaction in different class formats among Japanese university students. The results revealed that loneliness and extraversion were associated with evaluations of face-to-face classes, while self-control, anxiety about conversations with classmates, and anxiety about speaking and giving presentations were associated with evaluations of real-time interactive classes. Computer anxiety and anxiety about speaking and giving presentations were related to evaluations of on-demand classes. These findings suggest that the different personality traits of university students may influence their degree of subjective learning and satisfaction depending on the class format.
Status and occurrence of the non-indigenous dwarf surf clam Mulinia lateralis (Say, 1822) in the central Wadden Sea (southern North Sea)—a systematic survey
Authors: Gismann Lynn , Wenke Lennart-Kilian , Uhlir Carolin , Martínez Arbizu Pedro , Wehrmann Achim
Published: December 2023

The species Mulinia lateralis (Say, 1822) is native to the western North Atlantic Ocean and was first documented in European coastal waters in 2017. Since then, M. lateralis was reported several times in large abundances in the coastal waters of the Netherlands, Belgium, and more scattered in Germany. While the introduction vector is still unclear, we assume that dispersal in the southern North Sea is driven by larval drift related to anti-clockwise residual tidal currents. To test this hypothesis and to document its current status in the central Wadden Sea, individuals were sampled systematically from intertidal flats along 10 transects ranging from the outer Ems River estuary in the west to the outer Elbe River estuary in the east (German North Sea coast) between February and May 2022. In total, 897 specimens of M. lateralis were sampled from 392 stations (mean abundance 2.3 ± 5.0 ind./m2). The shell length ranged between 4.0 and 23.6 mm. Regarding the increasing number of records of M. lateralis at multiple sites in Europe since 2017 and based on the data of this study, the species can be considered as established in the western and central Wadden Sea.
Agglomeration: when folded proteins clump together
Authors: Romero-Romero M. L. , Garcia-Seisdedos H.
Published: December 2023

Protein self-association is a widespread phenomenon that results in the formation of multimeric protein structures with critical roles in cellular processes. Protein self-association can lead to finite protein complexes or open-ended, and potentially, infinite structures. This review explores the concept of protein agglomeration, a process that results from the infinite self-assembly of folded proteins. We highlight its differences from other better-described processes with similar macroscopic features, such as aggregation and liquid-liquid phase separation. We review the sequence, structural, and biophysical factors influencing protein agglomeration. Lastly, we briefly discuss the implications of agglomeration in evolution, disease, and aging. Overall, this review highlights the need to study protein agglomeration for a better understanding of cellular processes.
Farm forests, seasonal hunger, and biomass poverty: Evidence of induced intensification from panel data in the Ethiopian Highlands
Authors: Morrow Nathan , Mock Nancy B. , Gatto Andrea , Colantoni Andrea , Salvati Luca
Published: December 2023

Seasonal hunger is the most common food insecurity experience for millions of small dryland farmers. This study tests the relationships between food insecurity, farm forests, and biomass poverty using a longitudinal dataset from the Amhara region of Ethiopia. These data form part of the Ethiopia Socioeconomic Survey, which collected panel data over three survey rounds from 530 households between 2011 and 2016. This dataset represents a collection of unique socioeconomic, wellbeing, and micro-land use measures, including farm forests. Hierarchical mixed effect regression models assessed the relationship between food insecurity and farm forests as well as the conditional effects of biomass poverty among the poorest farmers and women-headed households. Over a six-year study period, farmers reported increased stress from smaller land holdings, higher prices, and climate-related shocks. A clear trend towards spontaneous dispersed afforestation is observed by both researchers and satellite remote sensing. Model results indicate, dedicating approximately 10% of farm area to forest reduces months of food insecurity by half. The greatest reductions in food insecurity from farm forests are reported by ultra-poor and crop residue-burning households, suggesting that biomass poverty may be a major constraint to resilient food security on these farms. This research provides novel quantitative evidence of induced intensification and food security impacts of farm management preserving and building stores of biomass value as green assets. The results reported here have important implications for nature-based solutions as a major strategy to achieve sustainable development in some contexts.
General stability for a Cohen–Grossberg neural network system
Authors: Kassim Mohammed D. , Tatar Nasser-Eddine
Published: December 2023

Of concern is a Cohen–Grossberg neural network (CGNNs) system taking into account distributed and discrete delays. The class of delay kernels ensuring exponential stability existing in the previous papers is enlarged to an extended class of functions guaranteeing more general types of stability. The exponential and polynomial (or power type) type stabilities becomes particular cases of our result. This is achieved using appropriate Lyapunov-type functionals and the characteristics of the considered class.
Advances in Wireless, Batteryless, Implantable Electronics for Real-Time, Continuous Physiological Monitoring
Authors: Kim Hyeonseok , Rigo Bruno , Wong Gabriella , Lee Yoon Jae , Yeo Woon-Hong
Published: December 2023

This review summarizes recent progress in developing wireless, batteryless, fully implantable biomedical devices for real-time continuous physiological signal monitoring, focusing on advancing human health care. Design considerations, such as biological constraints, energy sourcing, and wireless communication, are discussed in achieving the desired performance of the devices and enhanced interface with human tissues. In addition, we review the recent achievements in materials used for developing implantable systems, emphasizing their importance in achieving multi-functionalities, biocompatibility, and hemocompatibility. The wireless, batteryless devices offer minimally invasive device insertion to the body, enabling portable health monitoring and advanced disease diagnosis. Lastly, we summarize the most recent practical applications of advanced implantable devices for human health care, highlighting their potential for immediate commercialization and clinical uses.
Two photons are better than one: continuous flow synthesis of ꞵ-lactones through a doubly photochemically-activated Paternò-Büchi reaction
Authors: Minuto Federica , Farinini Emanuele , De Negri Serena , Leardi Riccardo , Ravelli Davide , Solokha Pavlo , Basso Andrea
Published: December 2023

In this paper we report a [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction between ketenes and benzils, characterized by an unusual double photochemical activation triggered by visible light. Employment of a flow system and optimization of reaction conditions through Design of Experiments resulted in moderate to good yields of the corresponding β-lactones. A thorough computational analysis allowed to elucidate the mechanism of the reaction and justify the observed diastereoselectivity. The reaction was also successfully tested with mixed benzils, showing complete regioselectivity.

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Exploring the effects of a short-term, nature-based preschool experience: a mixed-methods investigation
Authors: Scogin Stephen C. , D’Agostino Sophia R. , Dykstra Josie , Veine Cameryn , Schuen Abbey
Published: December 2023

Gaining access to early childhood education can be challenging for some families, but summer programs may provide more opportunities for children of all backgrounds. In the USA, some of these expanded opportunities have come by way of an increased number of nature-based preschool programs. This study investigated a short-term, nature-based summer preschool program. Using an ecological systems perspective, researchers determined how the program affected children’s social-emotional skills, if children from the program demonstrated appropriate academic growth, and if children showed stronger connections to nature after participation. Multiple data streams were analyzed using a mixed methods approach, including data from observation instruments, literacy skills tests, surveys, and caregiver interviews. Findings from 69 preschoolers and 15 caregivers indicated positive increases in children’s social-emotional skills, appropriate academic development, no significant changes in connections to nature, and caregivers who felt the program positively contributed to readiness. However, it is also clear from this study that additional research is needed on these kinds of preschool programs to determine the specific factors contributing to positive outcomes.