bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluid wetting and penetration characteristics in T-shaped microchannels
Authors: Zhang Huijie , Lippert Anja , Leonhardt Ronny , Tolle Tobias , Nagel Luise , Marić Tomislav
Published: November 2024

A thorough understanding of media tightness in automotive electronics is crucial for ensuring more reliable and compact product designs, ultimately improving product quality. Concerning the fundamental characteristics of fluid leakage issues, the dynamic wetting and penetration behavior on small scales is of special interest and importance. In this work, four T-shaped microchannels with one inlet and two outlets are experimentally investigated in terms of contact angle dynamics and interface movement over time, generating novel insight into the wetting mechanisms and fluid distribution. With a main channel width of 1 mm, a crevice width of $$w = {0.3}\,\hbox {mm}, {0.4}\,\hbox {mm}$$

w
=

0.3

mm
,

0.4

mm

and a rounding edge radius of $$r = {0.1}\,\hbox {mm}, {0.2}\,\hbox {mm}$$

r
=

0.1

mm
,

0.2

mm

, the geometrical effects on the fluid penetration depth in the crevice and the interface edge pinning effect are analyzed quantitatively using an automated image processing procedure. It is found that the measured dynamic contact angles in all parts can be well described by molecular kinetic theory using local contact line velocities, even with local surface effects and abrupt geometry changes. Moreover, a smaller crevice width, a sharper edge and a larger flow velocity tend to enhance the interface pinning effect and prevent fluid penetration into the crevice. The rounding radius has a more significant effect on the interface pinning compared with crevice width. The experimental data and image processing algorithm are made publicly available.
Follow-up and transition practices in esophageal atresia: a review of European Reference Network on rare Inherited and Congenital Anomalies (ERNICA) centres and affiliates
Authors: Durkin Natalie , Pellegrini Marco , Gorter Ramon , Slater Graham , Cross Kate M. K. , Ure Benno , Wijnen Rene , Gottrand Frédéric , Eaton Simon , De Coppi Paolo ,   ERNICA
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to understand the provision and distribution of esophageal atresia (EA) follow-up (FU) and transition services across European Reference Network for rare Inherited and Congenital Anomalies (ERNICA) member and affiliate centers.

Methods

A REDCap questionnaire was sent to clinical leads of 18 ERNICA members and 14 affiliate centers.

Results

29 of 32 centers responded (91%), the majority of which were highly specialized. Two-thirds had a dedicated EA clinic with a specialist multi-disciplinary team (MDT), offered to selected/complex patients only in 40% of centers. ERNICA centers were more likely to offer an MDT FU clinic than affiliates, with lack of resources most cited as a barrier to uptake (67%). Delivery of routine investigations was heterogeneous, particularly provision of three endoscopies over the course of FU (24%). Only 55% had a dedicated transition pathway, more prevalent in ERNICA centers (81% vs. 30%; p < 0.01). Self-reported awareness of ERNICA and European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) guidance for FU and transition was poor (28%).

Conclusion

Despite the existence of European follow-up and transition guidelines, their delivery is not uniform and may be limited by lack of awareness of the guidelines and a lack of resources.
Active piezoelectric bone conduction implant Osia® 2 - evaluation of surgery and one-year audiological and quality of life benefits
Authors: Gawęcki Wojciech , Gibasiewicz Renata , Błaszczyk Magdalena , Wierzbicka Małgorzata , Bartkowiak Ewelina
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To present the surgical outcomes and one-year audiological and quality of life results of implantation of the Osia® 2 active piezoelectric bone conduction implant.

Methods

Twenty adults with mixed and conductive hearing loss were implanted with the Osia® 2 system and followed up for at least one year. The surgical course, healing, and soft tissue condition were assessed. Audiometric tests included pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry and direct bone conduction measurements. Participants completed the APHAB and SSQ questionnaires.

Results

All surgeries were successful. No soft tissue problems were observed. Pure tone audiometry showed a mean functional gain of 47.4 ± 5.6 dB HL (p = 0.000089). The Polish Monosyllabic Word Test showed mean improvements for silent, medium and loud speech of 59.5 ± 1.8%, 46.5 ± 32.3% and 13.3 ± 20.9% in quiet and 38.5 ± 24.4%, 62.0 ± 9.1%, and 36.5 ± 34.4% in noise (all p < 0.05). The Polish Matrix Test indicated a mean SNR improvement of 8.78 ± 2.31 dB SPL (p = 0.000155). BC in situ measurements were significantly better post-implantation compared to preoperative levels with Baha® 6 Max on the Softband. APHAB scores showed significant improvements in global, ease of communication, background noise and reverberation scores (all p < 0.001). SSQ scores improved significantly in speech, spatial and quality subscales (all p < 0.000001).

Conclusion

The Osia® 2 implantation is an effective treatment for patients with mixed and conductive hearing loss. The surgery is relatively easy and safe, with no significant postoperative or magnet pressure-related complications. Osia® 2 significantly improves speech understanding in noise and reduces communication problems.
Unravelling the incorporation mechanisms of water in aluminous orthoenstatite: I. First-principles calculations
Authors: Xue Xianyu , Kanzaki Masami
Published: November 2024

We performed first-principles calculations on the energy, and NMR and polarized infrared (IR) spectra for anhydrous and hydrous aluminous orthoenstatite (OEn) models to help clarify the incorporation mechanisms of Al and OH defects in OEn. Our calculations revealed that proton pairs in M2 vacancies ((2H)M2) adjacent to a tetrahedral Al (AlIV) are energetically more favorable than those remote from Al, and may contribute to the observed correlated 1H NMR peaks near 3.7 and 8.0 ppm, and IR bands near 3550–3570 and 3066 cm−1 (A4 band) for aluminous OEn. Coupled substitutions of AlVI (octahedral Al) + H for 2Mg were found to adopt multiple configurations, and may contribute to the observed IR bands near 3520, 3475 and 3320 cm−1. Coupled substitution of AlIV + H for 1Si may contribute to the observed IR band near 3380–3400 cm−1. 4H in SiB vacancies ((4H)SiB) adjacent to an AlVI were found to be energetically more favorable than those remote from Al, and may be the origin for an IR band observed near 3600–3620 cm−1. These results allow the incorporation mechanisms of water in synthetic and natural aluminous orthopyroxenes to be deciphered from the available NMR and IR data, and suggest that both (2H)M2 defects associated with Al and simultaneous coupled substitutions of Al + H for 2Mg and 1Si contribute to the observed correlation between Al and water incorporation, and the nearly unity AlIV/AlVI ratio. (4H)SiB defects associated with Al may also be present in some synthetic OEn and mantle-derived orthopyroxene.
PhenoMATRIX™ for the screening of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) carriage in pregnant women: ready to get rid of the LIM broth?
Authors: Cherkaoui Abdessalam , Renzi Gesuele , Schrenzel Jacques
Published: November 2024

There is a constant need to reduce turn-around times and keep costs as low as possible for the carriage screening of GBS in pregnant patients. Laboratory automation might provide an edge in this field. The objectives of the present study were: i) to compare the performance of the direct chromID™ Strepto B agar (CA) plating against LIM-broth enriched plating on CA for the detection of GBS from vagino-rectal screening-swabs; and ii) to assess the usage of PhenoMATRIX™ for the automated screening of GBS. Between January 2021 and December 2023, 9′107 vagino-rectal specimens were collected from pregnant women at Geneva University Hospitals and were used to address the first objective. There was a small difference in the GBS detection rates between direct CA plating (13.2%; 1′202/9′107) and LIM-broth enriched plating on CA (13.2%; 1′198/9′107). Based on the LIM-broth enrichment results, the sensitivity and specificity of the direct CA plating were 98.3% (95% CI, 97.3%—98.9%) and 99.7% (95% CI, 99.5%—99.8%), respectively. Importantly, for 25 specimens, GBS growth was only detected by direct CA plating. We used a random set of 8′768 CA plate pictures for the machine learning of PhenoMATRIX™. The validation was carried out on an additional set of 830 CA plate pictures. The sensitivity and specificity of PhenoMATRIX™ were 100% (95% CI, 96.6%—100.0%) and 90.2% (95% CI, 87.8%—92.1%), respectively. We established that for GBS screening, the performance of direct CA plating is not inferior to the LIM-broth enriched approach. By relying on PhenoMATRIX™, the negative predictive value for GBS screening reaches 100% (95% CI, 99.4%—100.0%), enabling the automatic release of GBS-negative cases within 24 h.
Lymphadenectomy and chemotherapy are effective treatments for patients with 2023 international federation of gynecology and obstetrics stage IIC-high risk endometrial cancer in Japan
Authors: Tani Yoshinori , Nakamura Keiichiro , Yorimitsu Masae , Seki Noriko , Nakanishi Mie , Itou Hironori , Shimizu Miyuki , Yamamoto Dan , Takahara Etsuko , Masuyama Hisashi
Published: November 2024

Background

In early-stage endometrial cancer (EC), the treatment of aggressive histological subtypes (endometrioid carcinoma grade 3, serous carcinoma, clear-cell carcinoma, undifferentiated carcinoma, mixed carcinoma, and carcinosarcoma) is controversial. We aimed to investigate the treatment of patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IC and stage IIC EC according to the 2023 classification.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients with FIGO 2023 stage IC, IIC-intermediate risk (IIC-I), and IIC-high risk (IIC-H) EC who underwent adjuvant therapy or observation after surgery at eight medical institutions from 2004 to 2023. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier estimates and univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

The PFS and OS were significantly worse in patients with FIGO 2023 stage IIC-H EC than in those with FIGO 2023 stage IIC-I EC (PFS: p = 0.008 and OS: p = 0.006). According to the FIGO 2023 stage IIC-H classification, lymphadenectomy and chemotherapy resulted in better prognoses regarding both PFS and OS (p < 0.001 for both) than other treatments. Our findings suggest that lymphadenectomy and chemotherapy effectively reduced vaginal stump and lymph node metastases in FIGO 2023 stage IIC-H EC (p < 0.001 and p = 0.008, respectively). Furthermore, in the multivariate analysis, not undergoing lymphadenectomy or chemotherapy were independent predictors of recurrence and poor prognoses in patients with FIGO 2023 stage IIC-H EC (p < 0.001 and p = 0.031, respectively).

Conclusion

Lymphadenectomy and chemotherapy resulted in better prognoses regarding both recurrence and survival in patients with FIGO 2023 stage IIC high-risk EC.
Generalization Limits of Data-Driven Turbulence Models
Authors: Mandler Hannes , Weigand Bernhard
Published: November 2024

Many industrial applications require turbulent closure models that yield accurate predictions across a wide spectrum of flow regimes. In this study, we investigate how data-driven augmentations of popular eddy viscosity models affect their generalization properties. We perform a systematic generalization study with a particular closure model that was trained for a single flow regime. We systematically increase the complexity of the test cases up to an industrial application governed by a multitude of flow patterns and thereby demonstrate that tailoring a model to a specific flow phenomenon decreases its generalization capability. In fact, the accuracy gain in regions that the model was explicitly calibrated for is smaller than the loss elsewhere. We furthermore show that extrapolation or, generally, a lack of training samples with a similar feature vector is not the main reason for generalization errors. There is actually only a weak correlation. Accordingly, generalization errors are probably due to a data-mismatch, i.e., a systematic difference in the mappings from the model inputs to the required responses. More diverse training sets unlikely provide a remedy due to the strict stability requirements emerging from the ill-conditioned RANS equations. The universality of data-driven eddy viscosity models with variable coefficients is, therefore, inherently limited.
The impact of institutionalized representation: creditors' committees and the resolution of corporate liquidation bankruptcies
Authors: Cepec Jaka , Grajzl Peter , Mörec Barbara
Published: November 2024

We utilize micro-level data on corporate liquidation bankruptcies in Slovenia to conduct the first systematic quantitative investigation of the impact of creditors' committees (CCs) on liquidation bankruptcy outcomes. Slovenian law permits, but does not mandate, the establishment of a CC in liquidation bankruptcy proceedings, ensuring variation in CC incidence across cases. To address the non-random formation of CCs, we use propensity score matching and employ a rich set of covariates. Our findings reveal that CCs boost the liquidation value of bankrupt debtors' assets, thereby facilitating recovery, particularly for priority and ordinary unsecured creditors. Additionally, CCs elevate the overall rate of creditors' recovery relative to the value of liquidated assets. However, CCs also prolong the duration of proceedings and increase the likelihood of litigation. Our analysis thus underscores the multifaceted nature of the effect of institutionalized creditor representation on the efficacy of liquidation bankruptcy proceedings.
Extreme value statistics for analysing simulated environmental extremes
Authors: Elsom Henry , Pawley Matthew
Published: November 2024

We present the methods employed by team ‘Uniofbathtopia’ as part of a competition organised for the 13th International Conference on Extreme Value Analysis (EVA2023), including our winning entry for the third sub-challenge. Our approaches unite ideas from extreme value theory, which provides a statistical framework for the estimation of probabilities/return levels associated with rare events, with techniques from unsupervised statistical learning, such as clustering and support identification. The methods are demonstrated on the data provided for the EVA (2023) Conference Data Challenge – environmental data sampled from the fantasy country of ‘Utopia’ – but the underlying assumptions and frameworks should apply in more general settings and applications.
Is transparency furthering clarity in multilateral climate governance? The case of climate finance
Authors: Bergsvik Robert , Gupta Aarti , Weikmans Romain , Möller Ina
Published: November 2024

Developing countries’ ambitious climate action hinges on the provision of climate finance from developed countries. Yet, despite decades of debate and contestation over this, substantial controversies continue to persist over whether and how much climate finance is flowing, including whether it is ‘new and additional’ to existing development assistance, whether it targets climate mitigation or adaptation, and whether it is delivered as grants or loans. In this article, we draw on a little-examined source of self-reporting by countries to shed light on these persisting climate finance controversies. Elaborate transparency arrangements have been set up under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), whereby countries report on climate finance provided and received. We examine transparency reports submitted by 26 countries from 2014 to 2021 by both developed and developing countries, and international review of these reports, to ascertain the extent to which country self-reporting under the UNFCCC sheds light on the nature of climate finance flows between developed and developing countries. We find that both the reports submitted and the international review of these reports are not furthering clarity around climate finance provided and received. This is because of (a) a persisting lack of multilaterally agreed definitions of key aspects of climate finance provided, and a resulting heterogeneity of definitions used by countries to self-report; and (b) because international review of country self-reporting is subject to politically negotiated limitations. We conclude that clarity remains elusive on climate finance provided and received under the UNFCCC, a situation that seems likely to continue under the Paris Agreement’s enhanced transparency framework, due to be implemented in 2024.
Segmentation uncertainty of vegetated porous media propagates during X-ray CT image-based analysis
Authors: Jiang Zhenliang , Leung Anthony Kwan , Liu Jianbin
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Phase segmentation is a crucial step in X-ray computed tomography (CT) for image-based analysis (CT-IBA) to derive soil and root information. How segmentation uncertainty (SU) affects CT-IBA of vegetated soil has never been explored.

Methods

We proposed a new framework enabled by machine learning to measure SU and its propagation from the first to the second-order parameters derived from CT-IBA. Vegetated glass beads of varying moisture contents and plant species were CT scanned. Segmented images were used to determine volumetric fractions and morphological properties of each phase for determining the absolute permeability (K).

Results

Although the root phase is susceptible to SU, its influence on CT-IBA is minimal when the root content is low. However, its SU was magnified when the water phase is present. The grain phase has a lower SU susceptibility, but due to its large volumetric content, the IBA can be affected significantly. Fine roots were found to exhibit higher SU than coarse roots, indicating that root architecture has an effect on the segmentation of the root phase, and thus higher-order properties like K.

Conclusion

Segmentation of the grain phase is sensitive to SU. A small SU will lead to a remarkably erroneous estimation of pore morphological properties and K. To reduce SU, we suggest reducing the water content to a discontinuous state of a cohesionless vegetated porous media specimen before sending it for CT scanning and IBA. However, caution should be taken when fine roots were dried and experienced excessive shrinkage.
The Role of Networks in Mobilization for Ethnic Minority Interest Parties
Authors: Schaaf Rutger , Otjes Simon , Spierings Niels
Published: November 2024

Recently, parties that are run by and for ethnic minority citizens with a migration background have become more prominent. They can be considered a manifestation of ethnic political segregation. A key example of such a party is DENK in the Netherlands. So far, the explanatory literature has focused on how programmatic considerations drives voting for these parties. Other factors, such as the role of social networks in mobilization, have received limited testing and limited exploration in more detail. Furthermore, the literature on social networks is mainly based on majority populations. To inform our understanding of the role of social networks in voting (in general but also particularly among ethnic minority communities and for ethnic minority interest parties) this paper analyzes the voting behavior for DENK focusing on the role of personal, online and religious networks. The paper uses both qualitative interviews (with bicultural youth in the third largest city of the Netherlands in 2022) and quantitative surveys (the 2021 Dutch Ethnic Minority Electoral Study). Our analysis points to the importance of religious and personal networks for voting for DENK, whereas online networks appear to be less relevant.
Leaving a Legacy: Shifting Media Use and American Democratic Attitudes
Authors: Darr Joshua P. , Harman Moriah
Published: November 2024

Local political news is losing consumers over the past decade at a faster rate than other political media, while online news consumption is growing. Previous research shows that local news can slow polarization, encourage political participation, and reduce government and business corruption, but not whether changes over time can affect political attitudes. Is this consequential shift in the media environment associated with changes in Americans’ perceptions of electoral integrity and their system of government? We use a three-wave panel survey from 2012 to 2014 to assess the relationship between changes in self-reported news diets and opinions about American elections and democracy. Switching out of local newspapers is associated with a significant decrease in faith in elections but does not appear to influence support for the broader U.S. system of government. We conclude by discussing the implications of declining local and legacy media news use for Americans’ attitudes toward U.S. elections and democracy in the aftermath of the 2020 elections.
The Implications of Organisational Contexts on Unpaid Workers’ Loyalty: The Interactive role of Perceived Organisational and Supervisor Support
Authors: Usadolo Queen Emwenkeke
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the process through which perceived organisational support (POS) affects volunteers’ affective commitment (AC) by investigating the mediating role of leader-member exchange (LMX) in the relationship between POS and AC of volunteers in five non-for-profit organisations in Queensland, Australia. Data collected from 213 participants with a cross-sectional survey questionnaire were analysed to validate the hypotheses. The result reveals that POS has a significant direct effect on volunteers’ AC, as well as indirect significant effect through LMX. The results of the study provide new knowledge about the importance of a supportive workplace relationship between immediate supervisors and volunteers in enhancing volunteers’ positive organisational experiences that would lead into higher loyalty and involvement.
Philosophy and Poetic Thinking in Teacher Education
Authors: Galea Simone
Published: November 2024

Teacher education has sought to combine the practice of teaching with the practice of thinking and most popularly through reflective practice. This refers to reflection on and in action that leads to thoughtful practical doing; praxis. In spite of its intention to develop teachers’ practical wisdom, reflective practice has become instrumentalised for the efficient achievement of educational ends without questioning whether the means of achieving them are conducive to living a good, meaningful life. Standardised modes of thinking have all the more estranged teachers from thinking Being and from exploring meanings of who they are as teachers. To address this issue, this paper explores possibilities offered by poetic thinking and metaphorical thinking with reference to the thoughts of Heidegger and Arendt. The analysis of the problem of the abandonment of thinking Being by philosophical traditions as well as Aristotle’s notion of praxis and poesis have been originally addressed by Heidegger. Poesis, the act of making and bringing something forth has also been discussed by Arendt in her thoughts about metaphorical thinking and its potential for becoming something new. I argue that poetic forms of thinking enrich the debate about the relation between philosophy and teaching and are insightful for doing philosophy for teachers. They encourage teachers to make use of language in an original way to bring themselves forth as unique Beings. To practically explore the poetic possibilities in teachers’ quests for meaning, I refer to a student teacher’s writing as an example of how Being teacher can be poetically revealed.
Enhancement of nutritional and functional qualities of tropical leaf meal as feed ingredients in chickens through the use of fermentation technology
Authors: Ogbuewu I. P. , Mbajiorgu C. A.
Published: November 2024

The poultry industry in developing countries is challenged by the high cost of conventional protein and energy feed ingredients. This problem has burdened researchers to use cheap and readily non-conventional feed ingredients such as tropical leaf meals (TLMs) to reduce the cost of feed. Tropical leaf meals are high in nutrients and important bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and polyphenols. These important bioactive compounds in TLMs are responsible for their health promoting effects in animals. Research has shown that inclusion of moderate quantities of TLMs in livestock feed improves chicken performance and health. However, the inclusion of high levels of TLMs in poultry diets reduced chicken performance, which may be attributed to low palatability, high fibre content, poor digestibility, and the presence of antinational factors (ANFs) in TLMs. The potential of fermentation to enhance the nutrient content of feedstuffs high in fibre has been reported. Therefore, the objective of this research was to review the current knowledge on the effect of fermentation on nutritional and functional properties of TLMs and their feeding value on broiler chicken and laying hen performance.
Application of QuEChERS extraction and LC–MS/MS for determination of pharmaceuticals in sewage sludges sampled across the Czech Republic
Authors: Landová Pavlína , Mravcová Ludmila , Poláková Šárka , Kosubová Petra
Published: November 2024

The use of pharmaceuticals entails a significant risk of environmental contamination. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are considered to be the main contributors to contamination as they ineffectively eliminate these compounds from wastewater. Simultaneously, they produce solid waste, sludge, which often contains a variety of retained pollutants, including pharmaceuticals. Since sewage sludge is frequently applied to agricultural soil due to its rich nutrient content, pollutants are introduced into the environment in this way. Only a few studies have been carried out on the topic of the analysis of pharmaceuticals in sludge. Therefore, information on the occurrence of pharmaceuticals in sludge is limited. The present study employed quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) extraction and liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis to establish a simple and reliable procedure for determining 16 pharmaceuticals (antibiotics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants and β-blockers) in sewage sludge. The method has been thoroughly validated, and parameters such as linear range, accuracy, precision, matrix effects and detection and quantification limits were assessed. Our method achieved low limits of quantification (0.5–9.0 µg kg−1) and satisfactory recoveries (51–101%). Forty sludge samples from different WWTPs across the Czech Republic were analysed. Fourteen compounds were detected and quantified in most samples, with antidepressants having the highest detection frequency and overall content. Sertraline, with a mean concentration of 521.0 µg kg−1, was notably prevalent alongside its metabolite norsertraline (mean concentration 204.9 µg kg−1). The antibiotic azithromycin was also found at higher levels (mean concentration 185.1 µg kg−1).
Counting Cherry Reduction Sequences in Phylogenetic Tree-Child Networks is Counting Linear Extensions
Authors: Coronado Tomás M. , Pons Joan Carles , Riera Gabriel
Published: November 2024

Orchard and tree-child networks share an important property with phylogenetic trees: they can be completely reduced to a single node by iteratively deleting cherries and reticulated cherries. As it is the case with phylogenetic trees, the number of ways in which this can be done gives information about the topology of the network. Here, we show that the problem of computing this number in tree-child networks is akin to that of finding the number of linear extensions of the poset induced by each network, and give an algorithm based on this reduction whose complexity is bounded in terms of the level of the network.
Combined healthy lifestyle factors and psychosocial outcomes among cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Chunsu , Lian Zhiwei , Arndt Volker , Thong Melissa S. Y.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This systematic review aims to summarize the associations between combined healthy lifestyles and psychosocial outcomes (health-related quality of life (HRQOL), depression, anxiety, psychological distress (PD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)) among cancer survivors.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were searched for observational and interventional studies examining healthy lifestyle scores (HLS, calculated by a combination of at least three lifestyles) and psychosocial outcomes among cancer survivors from inception to April 2024. A minimum of two studies with the same study design were pooled using random effects models.

Results

Twenty-one studies (44,812 survivors) were included. Of all studies, 16 of which were included in meta-analysis. The pooling of cross-sectional evidence shows significant association between HLS and overall, physical, and psychosocial HRQOL. Significance was only observed for overall and physical HRQOL but not for psychosocial HRQOL in cohort studies. The estimations and 95% confidence interval (CI) with 1-point increase in HLS were 1.47 (0.83–2.12) and 1.42 (0.19–2.65) for overall and physical HRQOL, respectively. The evidence from interventional studies also indicated that interventions on multiple lifestyles have positive effects on the physical but not psychosocial HRQOL. Despite the limited number of studies, significant associations were found between HLS and depression, anxiety, PD, and PTSD.

Conclusions

Although evidence is limited, we found that the combination of multiple healthier lifestyles is associated with better psychosocial outcomes in cancer survivors.

Implications for cancer survivors

This review underscores the potential for adhering to multiple healthy lifestyles to improve psychosocial outcomes and enhance HRQOL for cancer survivors.
Application of norepinephrine in the treatment of septic shock: a meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Qiu Ying , Jin Yan Hong , Fu Li , Li Ying Ying
Published: November 2024

Objective

To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of norepinephrine in the treatment of septic shock.

Methods

Literature retrieval of eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on norepinephrine in the treatment of septic shock was performed in three English databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Medline from database establishment to October 1, 2023. The Cochrane risk bias tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included literature. RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 14 RCTs were included in this study, and the risk of bias was low. Our meta-analysis showed that the norepinephrine group had significantly better outcomes in reducing the 28-day mortality rate (RR = 0.92; 95% CI, 0.86 ~ 0.99; P = 0.03), the incidence of arrhythmia (RR = 0.54; 95% CI, 0.45 ~ 0.64; P < 0.0001), and the length of stay in intensive care unit (ICU) (MD =  − 1.03; 95% CI, − 1.85 to approximately − 0.21; P = 0.01) than those of the control group. However, there were no statistically significant differences in in-hospital mortality rate (RR = 0.97; 95% CI, 0.90 ~ 1.04; P = 0.4), the 90-day mortality rate (RR = 1.07; 95% CI, 0.97 ~ 1.18; P = 0.15), length of hospital stay (MD = 0.03; 95% CI, − 1.13 ~ 1.18; P = 0.96), and the rate of achieving target MAP (RR = 1.27; 95% CI, 0.72 ~ 2.26; P = 0.41) between the norepinephrine group and the control group.

Conclusion

Norepinephrine has the advantages of improving 28-day mortality, shortening ICU hospitalization time, and reducing the incidence of arrhythmia. It is a more effective choice for the treatment of septic shock than other vasopressors, and the incidence of arrhythmia is low.
Artificial Intelligence for Clinical Management of Male Infertility, a Scoping Review
Authors: Naik Noopur , Roth Bradley , Lundy Scott D.
Published: November 2024

Purpose of Review

Infertility impacts one in six couples worldwide, with male infertility contributing to approximately half of these cases. However, the causes of infertility remain incompletely understood, and current methods of clinical management are cost-restrictive, time-intensive, and have limited success. Artificial intelligence (AI) may help address some of these challenges. In this review, we synthesize recent literature in AI with implications for the clinical management of male infertility.

Recent Findings

Artificial intelligence may offer opportunities for proactive, cost-effective, and efficient management of male infertility, specifically in the areas of hypogonadism, semen analysis, and interventions such as assisted reproductive technology.

Patients may benefit from the integration of AI into a male infertility specialist’s clinical workflow. The ability of AI to integrate large volumes of data into predictive models could help clinicians guide conversations with patients on the value of various treatment options in infertility, but caution must be taken to ensure the quality of care being delivered remains high.
Optimal threshold of portal pressure gradient for patients with ascites after covered TIPS: a multicentre cohort study
Authors: Xia Yifu , Tie Jun , Wang Guangchuan , Wu Hao , Zhuge Yuzheng , Yuan Xulong , Huang Guangjun , Li Zhen , Zhang Linhao , Cai Zihao , Tang Chengwei , Zhang Chunqing
Published: November 2024

Background

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is recommended for treating recurrent and refractory ascites. However, determining the target portal pressure gradient (PPG) has been inconclusive. This multicentre cohort study explored the post-TIPS PPG potential range associated with improving survival.

Methods

The study enrolled 276 patients, all of whom underwent covered TIPS for ascites treatment across four medical centers. The cumulative incidences of clinical outcomes were compared among groups categorized by potential PPG thresholds.

Results

During the whole follow-up period with a medium follow-up of 21.6 (7.5, 41.6) months, 122 (44.2%) experienced liver-related death, and 73 (26.4%) patients experienced a recurrence of ascites. Multivariable analysis revealed PPG < 7 mmHg (p = 0.007) and the recurrence of ascites (p = 0.033) are independent risk factors for survival, while the PPG ≥ 11 mmHg was an independent risk factor for the recurrence of ascites (p = 0.012). Patients with ≥ 7 mmHg had a lower rate of liver-related death than patients with post-TIPS PPG < 7 mmHg (51.0% vs 66.6%, p = 0.004), while those with post-TIPS PPG ≥ 11 mmHg exhibited a higher cumulative incidence of ascites compared to those with post-TIPS PPG < 11 mmHg (44.6% vs 33.7%, p = 0.023). The robustness of the results was confirmed.

Conclusion

Our study highlighted the existence of an optimal post-TIPS PPG range in patients with recurrent and refractory ascites. Patients may experience improved survival and ascites control with a post-TIPS PPG of 7–11 mmHg.

Graphical Abstract
Localhost detour from public to private networks: Vulnerabilities and mitigations
Authors: Israeli Dor , Noy Alon , Afek Yehuda , Bremler-Barr Anat
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a new localhost browser based vulnerability and corresponding attack that opens the door to new attacks on private networks and local devices. We show that this new vulnerability may put hundreds of millions of internet users and their IoT devices at risk. We demonstrate the viability of the attack on a real product, "Folding@Home", of which we did a responsible disclosure of the specific vulnerability . Following the attack presentation, we suggest three new protection mechanisms to mitigate this vulnerability, across the different entities of the attack (broswer, localhost server, and attacked IOT). This new attack bypasses recently suggested protection mechanisms designed to stop browser-based attacks on private devices and local applications (Chromium and Rigoudy 2021, Afek et al. 2019), of which we also did a responsible disclosure.
The Paradox of Impossible to Know Assertion
Authors: Palczewski Rafał , Popławski Patryk
Published: November 2024

We show that taking together the principle ‘Ought’ Implies ‘Can’ (OIC) and The Knowledge Norm of Assertion (KNA) leads to a contradiction as long as we assume that there are situations in which we ought to assert what we cannot know. We call this The Paradox of Impossible to Know Assertion (PIKA) and argue that this is a genuine problem. At the end, we point out a generalization of PIKA.
The Unity of Consciousness and the Practical Ethics of Neural Organoid Research
Authors: Hayashi Yoshiyuki , Sato Ryoji
Published: November 2024

This article investigates a critical yet underexplored structural aspect of consciousness in the context of the practical ethics of neural organoid research: the unity of consciousness. We advocate for the necessity of the unified field, which has garnered substantial support from both philosophical and empirical standpoints, although the debate remains unresolved. We highlight the brainstem as a potential source of the unified conscious field, a structure already under scrutiny in neural organoid research in relation to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and post-COVID-19 syndromes. We argue that if unity is a necessary feature of consciousness, consciousness is contingent upon a specific biological system without which consciousness cannot arise, thereby narrowing the range of neural organoids of ethical concern. Furthermore, the transplantation of neural organoids into animals has emerged as a practical concern, with ethical implications varying based on the necessity of the unity of consciousness. We argue that transplantation evades a significant ethical dilemma if unity is necessary and if the organoids to be transplanted lack the neural basis for the unified field of consciousness.
POLQ knockdown inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion by inducing cell cycle arrest in colorectal cancer
Authors: Yao Qing , Gao Shuyang , Sun Qiannan , Liuhua Wang  , Ren Jun , Wang Daorong
Published: November 2024

Background

Polymerase θ (POLQ) is an error-prone translesion synthesis polymerase that participates in the repair of DNA double-strand breaks. Previous studies have reported that the level of POLQ expression is distinctly upregulated in colorectal cancer (CRC), but little attention has been given to its function and regulation of CRC progression. This study aimed to explore the specific function of POLQ in CRC.

Methods

Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting analysis were used to assess the transcription and translation levels of POLQ. Then, POLQ was stably silenced using small interfering RNA in SW480 and HCT116 cells. Afterwards, the function of POLQ in CRC cells was proven via Cell Counting Kit‑8, scratch wound healing, colony formation, and Boyden chamber assays. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of POLQ on the cell cycle signaling pathway that obtained from biological pathway enrichment analysis and further verified by activating the signaling pathway.

Results

The results showed that POLQ was highly expressed in CRC tissues and cells and was associated with poor clinical outcomes of patients. Knockdown of POLQ significantly reduced the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells. Additionally, POLQ knockdown markedly decreased the expression levels of MMP2 and MMP9, and blocked cell cycle progression by inhibiting the expression of G1/M and S/M phases proteins.

Conclusions

POLQ knockdown restrained the progression of CRC by blocking the cell cycle signaling pathway.
Socioeconomic Factors' Impact on Survivorship in Patients with Cervical Cancer: A Study from the Tertiary Cancer Center in Muzaffarpur, North Bihar, India
Authors: Rai Chanda , Singh Ravikant , Jha Ambey , Kumar Nishant
Published: November 2024

Objective

To ascertain the survivorship among cervical cancer patients and the factors responsible for early death. In India, cervical cancer ranks second among cancer-related deaths among women. Estimating the survivability rate of patients with cervical cancer who come to our tertiary cancer care center was imperative, as was figuring out.

What was causing the greater death rate.

Method

The present study is a retrospective audit of cervical cancer registered at our hospital-based cancer registry from 2021 till date.

Result

The three-year survival rate among women with late-stage cervical cancer was 45%, while 100% of women with early-stage care were alive at the end of three years. The survival rate was also poor among women belonging to middle and low socioeconomic status and illiterate women.

Conclusion

Among women who have cervical cancer, those with early-stage cancer, who are literate and those who belong to above middle socioeconomic status have higher survivorship than their counterparts.
MHD Casson flow across a stretched surface in a porous material: a numerical study
Authors: Irshad Sadia , Jahan Shah , Machado José Mendes , Śliwiński Paweł , kedzia Krzysztof , Jan Ahmed Zubair
Published: November 2024

In this study, we examine the nature of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Casson flow of fluid across a stretched surface in a porous material. It studies how the behaviour of Casson fluids is affected by a number of variables, including thermal radiation, chemical processes, Joule heating, and viscosity dissipation. The Keller box strategy, based on the finite difference method (FDM), is used to tackle the complex numerical problem. Graphical representations are used to show the effects of different system parts. Comprehensive tables displaying surface transfer of mass, heat, and drag rates are given for your convenience. The study focuses on how particle motion transforms kinetic energy into heat. Increased Brownian motion leads to a higher temperature profile and a reduced concentration profile. Thicker concentration profiles are created by increased Lewis number (

$$Le$$

Le

) values and rates of chemical reactions, resulting in changes in mass transfer across fluids. This in-depth investigation focuses on the complicated interactions between various variables and how they influence the Casson fluid's behaviour in the system under study.
"Water conflicts: more than conflicts over distribution? Assessing conflict structures with cases from Germany."
Authors: Brauner Simon
Published: November 2024

Conflicts tend to be complex and, in many cases, multi-faceted. However, by adapting an approach by Vuković, this study illustrates a method for structuring such conflicts, which can facilitate insights that are more profound by dividing them into relevant dimensions of the problem. Given that some conflicts are ongoing and new ones may emerge in certain cases, this study also assesses the potential of using the adapted methodology as a structured basis for constructing scenario analyses. In this study, two cases from Germany on the topic of water are analysed. The first case explores a pair of conflicts that arose within a short period involving a chemical company called Currenta. These conflicts are about a controversial wastewater discharge and an attempt to obtain more water rights, despite the possible future water stress. The second case concerns the Nordheide region, which is favoured for its groundwater reservoir. In recent decades, there has been a growing dispute between the water company and the residents of Nordheide about the possible harmful effects of further water extraction. Both cases illustrate the evolving nature of water conflicts, indicating that they can extend beyond a dispute over distribution. In addition to this key finding, the cases demonstrate the diverging concerns of the actors, as well as the significance of decision-makers involved in these conflicts. A nuanced assessment of water conflicts prior to further action, such as conflict resolution, is therefore encouraged by this study.
Race and Inequality in American Politics
Authors: Hajnal Zoltan L. , Hutchings Vincent L. , Lee Taeku
Published: November 2024

Authored by three of the USA's most well-known scholars on American politics, this undergraduate textbook argues that racial considerations are today-and have always been since the nation's founding-central to understanding America's political system writ large. Drawing on decades of teaching experience and compelling original research, Hajnal, Hutchings, and Lee present an up-to-date and comprehensive survey of race's role in American democracy, spanning topics as wide-ranging as public opinion, voting behavior, media representation, criminal justice, social policy, and protest movements. The reader will examine the perspectives of multiple racial groups, learn how to bring empirical analysis to bear on deeply divided viewpoints, and debate solutions to the many problems of governance in an America that is polarized by party, riven by race, and divided by inequality. Chapters open with a vignette to introduce the core issues and conclude with discussion questions and annotated suggested readings. Full color photos, figures, and boxed features elaborate on and reinforce important themes. Instructor resources are available online.
Weakening Induced by Phase Nucleation in Metamorphic Rocks: Insights From Numerical Models
Authors: Baïsset M. , Yamato P. , Duretz T.
Published: November 2024

Metamorphic transformations involve important changes in material properties that can be responsible for rheological alterations of rocks. Studying the dynamics of these changes is therefore crucial to understand the weakening frequently observed in reactive rocks undergoing deformation. Here, we explore the effects of reaction dynamics on the mechanical behavior of rocks by employing a numerical model where nucleation kinetics and reaction product properties are controlled over time during deformation. Different values are tested for nucleation kinetics, density, viscosity, proportion and size of the reaction products, and pressure‐strain rate conditions relative to the brittle‐ductile transition. Our results, in good agreement with laboratory and field observations, show that rock weakening is not just a matter of the strength of the reaction products. Both density and viscosity variations caused by the transformation control local stress amplification. A significant densification can by itself generate sufficient stresses to reach the plastic yield of the matrix, even if the nuclei are stronger than their matrix. Plastic shear bands initiate in the vicinity of the newly formed inclusions in response to local stress increases. Coalescence of these shear bands are then responsible for strain weakening. We show that heterogeneous nucleation controlled by mechanical work has an even greater impact than the intrinsic properties of the reaction products. Propagation of plastic shear bands is enhanced between closely spaced nuclei that generate significant stress increases in their vicinity. This study highlights the importance of transformational weakening in strong rocks affected by fast reaction kinetics close to their brittle‐ductile transition.