bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age‐stratified risk factors of re‐intervention for uterine fibroids treated with high‐intensity focused ultrasound
Authors: Tang Neng‐huan , Fang Chun‐ling , Hu Wen‐hao , Tian Ling , Lin Chuan , Hu Hui‐quan , Shi Qiu‐ling , Xu Fan
Published: November 2023

Objective

To estimate the rate and risk factors of re‐intervention for patients with uterine fibroids (UFs) undergoing high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) at different age distributions.

Method

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in Nanchong Central Hospital, recruiting a total of 672 patients with UFs undergoing HIFU from June 2017 to December 2019. Using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, risk factors for re‐intervention were assessed.

Results

Among 401 patients with UFs who completed the follow‐up visits (median 47 months, range 34–61), 50 (12.46%) patients underwent re‐intervention (such as high‐intensity focused ultrasound, uterine artery embolization, myomectomy and hysterectomy). In the different age distributions, the re‐intervention rate was 17.5% (34/194) in patients aged <45 years and 7.7% (16/207) in those aged ≥45 years. Regarding the younger patient group (aged <45 years), hypo‐ or iso‐intensive fibroids in T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (T2WI) intensity may elevate the risk of re‐intervention for UFs (odds ratio [OR] 2.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37–6.62; P = 0.007). Among the older patient group (aged ≥45 years), preoperative anemic patients had an increased risk of re‐intervention compared with those without anemia (OR 3.30, 95% CI 1.01–10.37; P = 0.041).

Conclusion

The re‐intervention rate of HIFU decreased with increasing age. Among those aged <45 years, T2WI intensity was the independent risk factor for re‐intervention, and among those aged ≥45 years, preoperative anemic status may be related to re‐intervention outcome.
Atmospheric drivers of rainfall events in the Republic of Djibouti
Authors: Waberi Moussa Mohamed , Camberlin Pierre , Pohl Benjamin , Dabar Omar Assowe
Published: November 2023

The Republic of Djibouti is a small country in an arid context coupled with a high variability of rainfall that generates flash floods causing severe damage to the population and infrastructure. The mechanisms controlling extreme rainfall events in this part of the Horn of Africa remain poorly understood. In this study, we document the atmospheric circulation patterns associated with such events. To that end, we use rain‐gauge data (a network of 36 stations on the period 2013–2020), satellite‐based rainfall estimates (CHIRPS, IMERG, MSWEP and RFE) and atmospheric reanalyses (ERA5), all at the daily timescale, over their common period 2001–2020. A multivariate Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering of rainy days in Djibouti (≥10% of grid‐points exceeding 1 mm·day−1, according to all four satellite products) reveal four clusters, which differentiate from each other by the intensity and spatial extent of rainfall. These clusters show a nonhomogeneous seasonal distribution, occurring mainly in the March–April–May (MAM) and July–August–September (JAS) seasons, and more rarely in October–November–December (OND). The atmospheric circulation anomalies associated with the clusters are quite similar and highly season‐dependent. In MAM most clusters display an anomalous trough over the Red Sea, from 700 to 200 hPa. In JAS, an anomalous low over the southern Red Sea drives a thicker than normal monsoon flow at 700 hPa, while upper northerlies prevail at 200 hPa. In OND, most rainy events result from moisture advection from the Western Indian Ocean, favoured by positive phases of the Indian Ocean Dipole. Some highly unusual atmospheric circulation patterns (e.g., associated with tropical cyclones) can also result in intense rainfall events in Djibouti. These findings provide new insights on the physical causes of extreme events in the Horn of Africa, with applications to improved early warning and skill evaluation of climate models for climate change projections.
Challenges in surface‐enhanced Raman scattering signal for ethephon detection: Theoretical and experimental approaches
Authors: Bianchi‐Carvalho Isabela , Martin Cibely S. , Alves Gabriel G. B. , Silva Jaqueline N. , Batagin‐Neto Augusto , Constantino Carlos J. L.
Published: November 2023

Ethephon, a widely used growth regulator in fruits and vegetables, requires careful monitoring because of its toxicity. However, as far as we know, only two works are found in the literature regarding surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) ethephon detection. Indeed, obtaining the SERS signal revealed to be challenging. Therefore, we have evaluated the SERS signal of ethephon using theoretical (as density functional theory and charge‐assisted fragment interaction) and experimental approaches, addressing this limited literature knowledge. Theoretical Raman spectra with Ag or Au atoms at reactive sites exhibited enhanced ethephon SERS signal via AgCl bonding, consistent with the experimental data. Multiple experimental procedures were employed to obtain the SERS signal, including pH variations, salt addition, excitation laser lines, time dependency, and different SERS substrates (Ag colloid and Ag island films). Salt addition (NaCl) improved SERS signal, correlating with Ag colloid aggregation. Analysis in Ag colloid showed the pH 7.0 as optimal for ethephon detection, using freshly prepared Ag colloid + ethephon dispersion with ethephon powder being directly dissolved into Ag colloid. Only the AgCl band intensity improved with time. Ag colloid (wet medium — 633 nm laser line) outperformed Ag island films (dry medium — 785 nm laser line).
DHDDS and NUS1: A Converging Pathway and Common Phenotype
Authors: Williams Laura J. , Waller Sophie , Qiu Jessica , Innes Emily , Elserafy Noha , Procopis Peter , Sampaio Hugo , Mahant Neil , Tchan Michel C. , Mohammad Shekeeb S. , Morales‐Briceño Hugo , Fung Victor S.C.
Published: November 2023

Background

Variants in dehydrodolichol diphosphate synthetase (DHDDS) and nuclear undecaprenyl pyrophosphate synthase 1 (NUS1) cause a neurodevelopmental disorder, classically with prominent epilepsy. Recent reports suggest a complex movement disorder and an overlapping phenotype has been postulated due to their combined role in dolichol synthesis.

Cases

We describe three patients with heterozygous variants in DHDDS and five with variants affecting NUS1. They bear a remarkably similar phenotype of a movement disorder dominated by multifocal myoclonus. Diagnostic clues include myoclonus exacerbated by action and facial involvement, and slowly progressive or stable, gait ataxia with disproportionately impaired tandem gait. Myoclonus is confirmed with neurophysiology, including EMG of facial muscles.

Literature Review

Ninety‐eight reports of heterozygous variants in DHDDS, NUS1 and chromosome 6q22.1 structural alterations spanning NUS1, confirm the convergent phenotype of hypotonia at birth, developmental delay, multifocal myoclonus, ataxia, dystonia and later parkinsonism with or without generalized epilepsy. Other features include periodic exacerbations, stereotypies, anxiety, and dysmorphisms. Although their gene products contribute to dolichol biosynthesis, a key step in N‐glycosylation, transferrin isoform profiles are typically normal. Imaging is normal or non‐specific.

Conclusions

Recognition of their shared phenotype may expedite diagnosis through chromosomal microarray and by including DHDDS/NUS1 in movement disorder gene panels.
Metabolomic, photoprotective, and photosynthetic acclimatory responses to post‐flowering drought in sorghum
Authors: Baker Christopher R. , Patel‐Tupper Dhruv , Cole Benjamin J. , Ching Lindsey G. , Dautermann Oliver , Kelikian Armen C. , Allison Cayci , Pedraza Julie , Sievert Julie , Bilbao Aivett , Lee Joon‐Yong , Kim Young‐Mo , Kyle Jennifer E. , Bloodsworth Kent J. , Paurus Vanessa , Hixson Kim K. , Hutmacher Robert , Dahlberg Jeffery , Lemaux Peggy G. , Niyogi Krishna K.
Published: November 2023

Climate change is globally affecting rainfall patterns, necessitating the improvement of drought tolerance in crops. Sorghum bicolor is a relatively drought‐tolerant cereal. Functional stay‐green sorghum genotypes can maintain green leaf area and efficient grain filling during terminal post‐flowering water deprivation, a period of ~10 weeks. To obtain molecular insights into these characteristics, two drought‐tolerant genotypes, BTx642 and RTx430, were grown in replicated control and terminal post‐flowering drought field plots in California's Central Valley. Photosynthetic, photoprotective, and water dynamics traits were quantified and correlated with metabolomic data collected from leaves, stems, and roots at multiple timepoints during control and drought conditions. Physiological and metabolomic data were then compared to longitudinal RNA sequencing data collected from these two genotypes. The unique metabolic and transcriptomic response to post‐flowering drought in sorghum supports a role for the metabolite galactinol in controlling photosynthetic activity through regulating stomatal closure in post‐flowering drought. Additionally, in the functional stay‐green genotype BTx642, photoprotective responses were specifically induced in post‐flowering drought, supporting a role for photoprotection in the molecular response associated with the functional stay‐green trait. From these insights, new pathways are identified that can be targeted to maximize yields under growth conditions with limited water.
A review on photochemical effects of common plastics and their related applications
Authors: Huang Zike , Wang Hui
Published: November 2023

The photochemical effects of plastics refer to a series of photochemical reactions of plastics under certain illumination conditions. In order to help researchers understand the research progress of photochemical effects of plastics, we will introduce photochemical effects of seven common plastics and discuss the influence of functional groups of polymers in plastics on the photochemical effects of plastics in this review. Based on this, we discuss the impact of photochemical effects on the properties of plastics and some factors affecting the surface photochemical effects of plastics. Last but not least, although in most cases the photochemical effects of plastics are extremely detrimental to the control of plastic pollution, some applications based on the photochemical effects of plastics will also be introduced in this review. It is believed that this review can provide some new ideas for the development of new and clean processes and some promising materials such as light‐responsive materials.
A hybrid methacrylate‐norbornene‐thiol photopolymerization system with tunable physical and mechanical properties
Authors: Alrefai Masa , Maric Milan
Published: November 2023

Photopolymerization of a hybrid methacrylate‐norbornene‐thiol system is used for the solvent‐free synthesis of polymers with tunable physical and mechanical properties. We demonstrate competitive adhesive performance of this system by examining factors such as thiol:ene ratio, thiol functionality, and the incorporation of a methacrylate as a hard monomer. Firstly, ethylene glycol dicyclopentenyl ether methacrylate (EGDEMA) and the di‐functional thiol ethylene bis(3‐mercapto propionate) (EBM) are photopolymerized to produce crosslinked networks with high conversion (up to 100%), high gel content (up to 77%), and low Tg (−2.5 to −13.5°C). Rheological studies found these formulations satisfied the Dahlquist criteria for pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSAs) with the best adhesive/cohesive performance at thiol:ene ratios = 0.5–0.75. Secondly, a tetra‐functional thiol (PEMP) is crosslinked with EGDEMA photochemically, yielding elastomeric polymer films made to high conversion (up to 100%), with comparatively higher Tg (9–17°C), and higher gel content (up to 100%). Finally, isobornyl methacrylate (IBOMA) is incorporated as a hard monomer and crosslinked with a bifunctional thiol to produce thermoplastic polymers with negligible gel content and variable Tg (−12 to 41°C), suitable for application as temporary adhesives. These findings propose the use of the hybrid system in one‐step solventless formulations for UV curable adhesives, depending on component selection.
A high‐throughput multilocus‐amplicon sequencing panel to monitor insecticide resistance in fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Chen Yizhou , Nguyen Duong T , Spafford Helen , Herron Grant A
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is a highly polyphagous crop pest that has spread over the world rapidly and invaded Australia in 2020. Globally, FAW has been reported to be resistant to several insecticides permitted in Australia. Timely resistance diagnosis is critical for integrated pest management‐based control of FAW in Australia.

RESULTS

We developed a multi‐amplicon panel by next‐generation sequencing (multiamplicon‐seq) to identify known insecticide resistance mutations in Australian FAW with high throughput and low cost. The panel included nine known mutations causing insecticide resistance in FAW and four gene mutations causing insecticide resistance in several insect species, not yet reported in FAW.

We sequenced 36 plates (96‐well) in one MiSeq flow cell with easy sequencing library preparation. We found that Australian FAW carried a very high proportion of the F290V mutation in the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) gene that causes resistance to organophosphate and carbamate insecticides. Furthermore, FAW has a GABA‐activated chloride channel mutation, A301Q in the RDL gene.

The sequencing‐based platform provided evidence of a duplication in the AChE gene. Here several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the 476‐bp amplicon of the AChE gene demonstrated 100% heterozygosity across samples and some individuals carried two haplotypes with the F290V mutation.

CONCLUSION

Molecular surveillance by multiamplicon‐seq will increase capacity for early detection and future resistance monitoring in highly dispersed Australian FAW. It can provide timely resistance information and has the potential to play an important role in the resistance management of FAW. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synthesis of 4‐substituted 5‐p‐chlorophenylpyrimidines
Authors: Tsatsaronis G.C. , Kehayoglou A.H. , Andria H.C.
Published: November 2023

The synthesis of 4‐amino‐5‐p‐chlorophenylpyrimidine by the reaction of tris‐formylaminomethane with p‐chlorobenzyl cyanide is described and, from this, by replacement reactions, five new pyrimidine compounds are prepared.
Hydrogen bonding. Part IV: The ground state basicities of N,N‐disubstituted sulfinamides and sulfonamides
Authors: Hovius K. , Zuidema G. , Engberts J.B.F.N.
Published: November 2023

Phenol OH stretching frequency shifts, Δν, have been measured for the hydrogen‐bonded complexes between phenol and a series of N,N‐disubstituted sulfinamides and sulfonamides. The magnitudes of these Δν values indicate that the SO group is the acceptor site. The acceptor properties are interpreted chiefly in terms of inductive effects complemented by resonance effects involving π‐bonding between the sulfur and the nitrogen atom without significant alteration of the sulfur‐oxygen bond order.
Enhanced Mitochondrial Targeting and Inhibition of Pyroptosis with Multifunctional Metallopolyphenol Nanoparticles in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Zhou Hao , Qian Qiuping , Chen Qizhu , Chen Tao , Wu Chenyu , Chen Linjie , Zhang Zhiguang , Wu Ouqiang , Jin Yuxin , Wang Xinzhou , Guo Zhenyu , Sun Jing , Zhang Jun , Shen Shuying , Wang Xiangyang , Jones Morgan , Khan Moonis Ali , Makvandi Pooyan , Zhou Yunlong , Wu Aimin
Published: November 2023

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a significant contributor to low back pain, characterized by excessive reactive oxygen species generation and inflammation‐induced pyroptosis. Unfortunately, there are currently no specific molecules or materials available to effectively delay IVDD. This study develops a multifunctional full name of PG@Cu nanoparticle network (PG@Cu). A designed pentapeptide, bonded on PG@Cu nanoparticles via a Schiff base bond, imparts multifunctionality to the metal polyphenol particles (PG@Cu‐FP). PG@Cu‐FP exhibits enhanced escape from lysosomal capture, enabling efficient targeting of mitochondria to scavenge excess reactive oxygen species. The scavenging activity against reactive oxygen species originates from the polyphenol‐based structures within the nanoparticles. Furthermore, Pyroptosis is effectively blocked by inhibiting Gasdermin mediated pore formation and membrane rupture. PG@Cu‐FP successfully reduces the activation of the nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor family pyrin domain‐containing 3 inflammasome by inhibiting Gasdermin protein family (Gasdermin D, GSDMD) oligomerization, leading to reduced expression of Nod‐like receptors. This multifaceted approach demonstrates higher efficiency in inhibiting Pyroptosis. Experimental results confirm that PG@Cu‐FP preserves disc height, retains water content, and preserves tissue structure. These findings highlight the potential of PG@Cu‐FP in improving IVDD and provide novel insights for future research in IVDD treatments.
Multidimensional progressive single‐cell sequencing reveals cell microenvironment composition and cancer heterogeneity in lung cancer
Authors: Chen Hua , Song Anqi , UL Rehman Faisal , Han Dan
Published: November 2023

Despite substantial advances in cancer biology and treatment, the clinical outcomes of patients with lung cancer remain unsatisfactory. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a potential target. Using single‐cell RNA sequencing, we could distinguish eight distinct cell types in the lung cancer microenvironment, demonstrating substantial intratumoral heterogeneity in 19 different lung cancer tumor samples. Through the re‐dimensional grouping of cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs), myeloid cells, epithelial cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and T cells, the difference in the TME of lung cancer was revealed. We discovered SFTPB, SFN, and KRT8 as possible predictive biomarkers for lung cancer by assessing the gene expression patterns in epithelial cells. Examining cell‐to‐cell communications showed a robust association between the quantity of matrix CAFs, epithelial cells, and macrophages in the thrombospondin signaling pathway. Additionally, we found that the amyloid precursor protein signaling pathway primarily originated from the matrix, and inflammatory cancer‐associated endothelial and fibroblast cells showed a co‐expression relationship with myeloid cells and B cells. Through cell‐to‐cell correlation analysis, we found positive regulation between NK cells, regulatory T cells, GZMB‐CD8 T cells, and GZMK‐CD8 T cells, which could play a role in developing immune TMEs. These findings support studies on cancer heterogeneity and add to our understanding of lung cancer's cellular microenvironment.
Neurodevelopment at 24 months corrected age in extremely preterm infants treated with dexamethasone alternatives during the late postnatal period: a cohort study
Authors: Melan Nathalie , Pradat Pierre , Godbert Isabelle , Pastor-Diez Blandine , Basson Eliane , Picaud Jean-Charles
Published: November 2023

The administration of dexamethasone has been associated with suboptimal neurodevelopment. We aimed to compare the development of extremely premature infants treated or not with alternatives to dexamethasone: betamethasone, hydrocortisone hemisuccinate. This retrospective cohort study included infants born before 29 weeks of gestational age, treated or not with late (day ≥ 7) postnatal steroids (betamethasone, hydrocortisone hemisuccinate). The neurodevelopment outcome was evaluated at 24 months corrected age, after adjustment on comorbidities of extreme prematurity. In order to analyse their overall development, data about growth and respiratory outcomes were collected. Among the 192 infants included, 59 (30.7%) received postnatal steroids. Suboptimal neurodevelopment concerned 37/59 (62.7%) postnatal steroid-treated and 43/133 (38.1%; p = 0.002) untreated infants. However, in multivariable analysis, only severe neonatal morbidity (p = 0.007) and male gender (p = 0.027) were associated with suboptimal neurodevelopment outcome at 24 months.

  Conclusions: Betamethasone or hydrocortisone hemisuccinate treatment was not an independent risk for suboptimal neurological development, growth and respiratory outcomes assessed at 24 months corrected age in extremely premature infants.

  Registration number: The study was registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov register: NCT05055193.

What is Known:• Late postnatal steroids are used to treat bronchopulmonary dysplasia• Meta-analyses warned against the neurological risk of dexamethasone use during neonatal period. Early or late hydrocortisone hemisuccinate has been evaluated in multiple studies, none of which have reported an adverse effect on neurodevelopment at least to 2 years. Data about the use of betamethasone are scarce.

What is New:• The risk of suboptimal neurodevelopment was higher among extremely premature infants who received postnatal steroids when compared to those who did not.• Betamethasone and hydrocortisone hemisuccinate treatment was not an independent risk factor for suboptimal neurodevelopment at 24 months corrected age.
Psychoonkologische Versorgung in der geriatrischen Onkologie – wie erkennt man den Bedarf und die passende Behandlung?
Authors: Jentschke E. , Rabe A. , Pensel C. , Tatschner K. , Deschler-Baier B.
Published: November 2023

Hintergrund

Ältere Menschen stehen vor spezifischen Herausforderungen, die mit dem Alterungsprozess, dem Altersbild und Veränderungen der Lebensrealität verbunden sind. Im Falle einer zusätzlichen Tumorerkrankung haben jene weniger Ressourcen, um die resultierenden Veränderungen zu bewältigen. Das macht sie anfälliger für Komorbiditäten und Toxizität im Behandlungsverlauf, gleichermaßen kommt zusätzlich Angehörigen eine besondere Rolle in der Therapie zu. Aufgrund der Unterschiedlichkeit vorhandener (sozialer) Ressourcen bedarf es einer gezielten Identifikation von vulnerablen geriatrischen Patient:innen. Diesbezüglich hat sich ein umfassendes geriatrisches Assessment (CGA) als hilfreich erwiesen.

Ziele der Arbeit

Ziele der Arbeit sind die Darstellung des CGA im Rahmen einer laufenden Studie, welches als vulnerabel identifizierte geriatrisch-onkologische Patient:innen erhalten. Der Fokus der folgenden Arbeit liegt auf der Erhebung psychischer Belastungen sowie der Vorstellung möglicher psychoonkologischer Interventionen.

Material und Methoden

Für das zweistufige Vorgehen wird das G8-Screening als Instrument zur Identifikation vulnerabler Patient:innen eingesetzt. Im CGA werden therapierelevante Dimensionen wie Mobilität, Selbstversorgerstatus, Kognition, Emotion und Fatigue erfragt und anschließend bedarfsgerechte Interventionen abgeleitet.

Fazit

Durch das vorgeschaltete G8-Screening stellt das zweistufige Assessment ein ressourcensparendes Vorgehen zur Identifikation und bedarfsorientierten Unterstützung vulnerabler Patient:innen dar.
Digital gender gaps in Students’ knowledge, attitudes and skills: an integrative data analysis across 32 Countries
Authors: Campos Diego G. , Scherer Ronny
Published: November 2023

The digital gender divide is one of the most critical issues in education today. Digital gender gaps can exist in students’ access to and use of ICT, attitudes toward technology, and digital knowledge and skills. However, previous research has primarily examined these divides in isolation and largely ignored their interdependencies. Using student data from the 2013 and 2018 International Computer and Information Literacy Study (ICILS), this study examines how these gaps are related. Specifically, we synthesize evidence on gender gaps in digital knowledge and skills, controlling for differences in ICT access and technology attitudes. In addition, we examine the role that technology attitudes play in the gender gap in digital knowledge and skills. Our findings suggest that (a) girls outperform boys in digital knowledge and skills ($$\upbeta$$
β
= -0.11 to -0.29); (b) gender differences in attitudes toward technology partially explain gender differences in digital knowledge and skills; (c) the variability within and between countries in the gender gap in students' digital skills is partly explained by the type of digital skill and the country's socio-economic development and gender inequality. Overall, this research shows a relationship between the gender gaps in students’ digital knowledge and skills and the gender gaps in students’ attitudes toward technology. We conclude that the first- and second-level gender digital divides are connected.
Exploring PAH kinetics in wild vs. transplanted triploid and diploid oysters at a contaminated field site using immunological techniques
Authors: Prossner Kristen M. , Harvey Ellen , Unger Michael A.
Published: November 2023

Crassostrea virginica is a well-established bivalve species for biomonitoring persistent organic pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in aquatic environments. Differing biomonitoring methods employing either wild oysters inhabiting sites of interest or naïve cultured oysters deployed to sites for extended periods can be used for site evaluations. However, important differences in total contaminant concentrations accumulated have been observed between the wild and transplanted groups. Furthermore, although rearing cultured triploid oysters is widely popular in commercial farming, the difference in contaminant bioaccumulation potential between triploid and diploid cultured oysters is vastly understudied, particularly for organic contaminants such as PAH. This study explores differences in PAH kinetics between transplanted triploid and diploid cultured oysters and wild oysters at a PAH-impacted site during a 6-week field exposure study using novel immunological techniques: antibody-based biosensor technology and immunofluorescence visualization. Conventional chemical analysis of oyster tissue was also conducted for comparison. While differences were observed in the oyster interstitial fluid between the wild and transplanted oysters throughout the study, whole tissue analysis revealed differing trends at each time point. Our findings suggest that insufficient equilibration time may contribute to the differences observed between groups. Furthermore, when combined with visual evidence via immunofluorescence, internal partitioning of contaminants may be an important determinant for total concentrations measured. A better understanding of the differences observed between wild and transplanted oyster groups is necessary for improved biomonitoring. Our study highlights the value in employing novel immunological techniques to explore possible mechanisms driving these differences.
Can We Rely on Projections of the Immigrant Population? The Case of Norway
Authors: Keilman Nico
Published: November 2023

Demographic forecasters must be realistic about how well they can predict future populations, and it is important that they include estimates of uncertainty in their forecasts. Here we focus on the future development of the immigrant population of Norway and their Norwegian-born children (“second generation”), grouped by three categories of country background: 1. West European countries plus the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand; 2. Central and East European countries that are members of the European Union; 3. other countries. We show how to use a probabilistic forecast to assess the reliability of projections of the immigrant population and their children. We employ the method of random shares using data for immigrants and their children for 2000–2021. We model their age- and sex-specific shares relative to the whole population. Relational models are used for the age patterns in these shares, and time series models to extrapolate the parameters of the age patterns. We compute a probabilistic forecast for six population sub-groups with immigration background, and one for non-immigrants. The probabilistic forecast is calibrated against Statistics Norway’s official population projection. We find that a few population trends are quite certain: strong increases to 2060 in the size of the immigrant population (more specifically those who belong to country group 3) and of Norwegian-born children of immigrants. However, prediction intervals around the forecasts of immigrants and their children by one-year age groups are so wide that these forecasts are not reliable.
The Use of Microbial Modifying Therapies to Prevent Psoriasis Exacerbation and Associated Cardiovascular Comorbidity
Authors: Reali Eva , Caliceti Cristiana , Lorenzini Antonello , Rizzo Paola
Published: November 2023

Psoriasis has emerged as a systemic disease characterized by skin and joint manifestations as well as systemic inflammation and cardiovascular comorbidities. Many progresses have been made in the comprehension of the immunological mechanisms involved in the exacerbation of psoriatic plaques, and initial studies have investigated the mechanisms that lead to extracutaneous disease manifestations, including endothelial disfunction and cardiovascular disease. In the past decade, the involvement of gut dysbiosis in the development of pathologies with inflammatory and autoimmune basis has clearly emerged. More recently, a major role for the skin microbiota in establishing the immunological tolerance in early life and as a source of antigens leading to cross-reactive responses towards self-antigens in adult life has also been evidenced. Gut microbiota can indeed be involved in shaping the immune and inflammatory response at systemic level and in fueling inflammation in the cutaneous and vascular compartments. Here, we summarized the microbiota-mediated mechanisms that, in the skin and gut, may promote and modulate local or systemic inflammation involved in psoriatic disease and endothelial dysfunction. We also analyze the emerging strategies for correcting dysbiosis or modulating skin and gut microbiota composition to integrate systemically existing pharmacological therapies for psoriatic disease. The possibility of merging systemic treatment and tailored microbial modifying therapies could increase the efficacy of the current treatments and potentially lower the effect on patient’s life quality.
Behavior and surface properties of microalgae indicate environmental changes
Authors: Ivošević DeNardis N. , Novosel Vlašić N. , Mišić Radić T. , Zemła J. , Lekka M. , Demir-Yilmaz I. , Formosa-Dague C. , Levak Zorinc M. , Vrana I. , Juraić K. , Horvat L. , Žutinić P. , Gligora Udovič M. , Gašparović B.
Published: November 2023

We conducted a microcosm experiment under near-natural conditions to investigate the effects of environmental stressors temperature and salinity on the response of three microalgal species. The response of microalgae to increased temperature and altered salinity is species-specific, with cell barrier complexity playing an important protective role. At decreasing salinity, the green flagellate cells of Dunaliella tertiolecta vibrate around the point and become stiff while their physiological activity is at its highest, which may indicate that organic matter is being released into the medium. At the highest salinity, Tetraselmis suecica showed the highest growth rate along with the hydrophobic behavior of the cells, which is a favorable condition for the formation of aggregates. Under these conditions, the cells could enter the cyst stage, while the content of polar lipids could mediate cell adhesion to the natural interfaces. Cylindrotheca closterium, a diatom with an organosilicate cell wall, also showed the highest physiological activity at decreasing salinity. However, the cells were softest and exhibited hydrophilic behavior, implying that released organic material could alter the surface properties of the diatom. This study provides insight into the behavioral, mechanical, and molecular changes of microalgae under near-natural conditions, which may contribute to a fundamental understanding of how biochemistry and mechanics interact to control the functional behavior of microalgal cells in climatically altered aquatic systems.
Formation of aluminum nitride nanofibers using electrospinning and their application to thermal conductive sheets
Authors: Hossain Md. Shakhawat , Takahashi Kazuya , Ohgoshi Akiyoshi , Nakane Koji
Published: November 2023

Aluminum nitride (AlN) nanofibers were formed by heating polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/boehmite precursor nanofibers at various temperatures in nitrogen gas flow. We designed AlN nanofiber as an effective thermal conductive filler to create long linear heat-transfer pathways in the resin. Aligned AlN nanofiber mats were fabricated using electrospinning of PVA/boehmite composite aqueous solution and were impregnated with polyvinyl butyral (PVB) solutions. The obtained sheets containing the aligned AlN nanofiber 47, 52, and 54 vol% had excellent thermal conductivity, 22, 21, and 19 W/(m·K), for aligned nanofibers direction in the sheet. The PVB/AlN nanofibers composite sheet also showed good electrical insulating properties below 1.0 × 1012 Ω/cm2.

Graphical Abstract
Life Satisfaction during the Second Lockdown of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Germany: The Effects of Local Restrictions and Respondents’ Perceptions about the Pandemic
Authors: Schmid Lisa , Christmann Pablo , Oehrlein Anne-Sophie , Stein Annika , Thönnissen Carolin
Published: November 2023

This study examines the consequences of the pandemic on subjective well-being. First, we investigate to what extent regional and temporal differences in COVID-19 restrictions can explain individuals’ life satisfaction in Germany. Second, we examine to what extent “subjective” evaluations of the pandemic are related to life satisfaction. Third, we examine whether these relationships vary with gender, parenthood, and partnership status, or whether relationships changed regarding specific sub-populations (i.e., mothers, fathers, childless women/ men). Merging representative survey data from the German Family Demography Panel Study (FReDA) and contextual data on COVID-19 restrictions (i.e., the stringency index), we analyze a sample of 32,258 individuals living in Germany in their regional settings on the NUTS-3 level during the “second lockdown” in spring 2021. Furthermore, we use the FReDA field period between April and June 2021 to assess temporal variations in COVID-19 restrictions and their association with life satisfaction. To answer our research questions, we compare aggregated means and use variance decomposition and multivariate regression models. Our results show strong regional and temporal differences in COVID-19 restrictions, but neither temporal nor regional differences in “subjective” perceived pandemic burden or in life satisfaction at the aggregated level. At the individual level, we find substantive negative associations between perceived pandemic burden and life satisfaction, which are particularly strong among mothers. Our study shows that individuals’ negative perceptions of the pandemic are an important correlate to life satisfaction, whereas regional differences or temporal changes in COVID-19 restrictions appear to be irrelevant for the period under investigation.
How backsliding governments keep the European Union hospitable for autocracy: Evidence from intergovernmental negotiations
Authors: Winzen Thomas
Published: November 2023

The European Union (EU) is a democratic organization but faces severe cases of democratic backsliding. The literature deems the EU a hospitable environment for and reluctant to reign in backsliding. This study focuses on the tactics that backsliding governments employ to preserve this hospitable environment and the conditions under which they succeed. I argue that backsliding governments seek to repurpose the practice of accommodation that permeates EU decision-making for the protection of their backsliding projects. Doing so promises backsliders an escape from their precarious bargaining position in a democratic organization but comes with constraints. Backsliders must limit opposition carefully to a subset of EU competences, backsliding-inhibiting competences, that threaten their backsliding projects the most. Moreover, they can only rely on accommodation in the Council if the democratic member states perceive opposition as justified and remain insulated from political accountability by Europe’s parliaments. I present evidence based on quantitative and qualitative analyses of bargaining positions, processes, and outcomes in EU decision-making. The results have implications for understanding the EU’s autocratic predicament, the opportunities of backsliding governments, and the role of autocracies in regional and international organizations.
Factors associated with child marriage during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia
Authors: Liem Andrian , Julianto Very , Kamsi  , Haq Arini , Shofa Raydinda Laili , Kamilatissa’adah
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study is to investigate factors associated with the applications of child marriage dispensation submitted to the Religious Courts during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia, particularly in 2019–2021. The number of child marriage dispensation cases was analyzed together with other socioeconomic variables, including poverty and jobless rates, junior and senior high school completion rates, number of cerai talak (a divorce initiated by the husband) and cerai gugat (a divorce initiated by the wife) applications, number of COVID-19 positive cases, and number of deaths by COVID-19. The differences between 2021 and 2019 were analyzed using the paired t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). The relationship between variables was analyzed using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. Hierarchical multiple regression with the entering method was used to determine the predictors of the number of child marriage dispensation cases in the years 2019, 2020, and 2021 and the change from 2019 to 2021. New dispensation underage marriage applications in 2019, 2020, and 2021 were 24,457 (M =843, SD =1519), 63,391 (M = 2186, SD = 4085), and 62,167 (M = 2144, SD = 4058), which were significantly different (F(1.0, 28.6) = 7.63, p = .01) and positively correlated with poverty rate, jobless rate, cerai talak, cerai gugat, COVID-19 positive cases, and COVID-19 death cases. The multiple regression analysis for the change of dispensation underage marriage applications in the pandemic and before (years 2021–2019) was statistically significant, (F(6,22) = 117.62, p < .001), which the final model was able to account for 97% of the variance in new dispensation underage marriage applications. Collaborative multi-sector works are needed to decrease the skyrocketing child marriage numbers, especially in a crisis situation like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Introduction: Mapping the Research Field on the Democracy–Sustainability Nexus
Authors: Dietz Thomas , Fuchs Doris , Schäfer Armin , Vetterlein Antje
Published: November 2023

With each new report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the urgency to address climate change seems to increase. As the pressure to act rises, debates are intensifying regarding whether democracies can move toward sustainability fast enough. In this introduction to the special issue, we argue that current debates about the democracy–sustainability nexus revolve around the question of who should decide. Much of the recent debate can be structured along three opposites: experts versus laypersons, less versus more participation, and state versus market/private actor solutions. The first distinction asks whether climate change necessitates a shift of decision-making powers to scientists and experts rather than politicians or citizens. In the second debate, those who favor more participation in environmental policymaking face those who demand less. For example, whereas some promote new forms of deliberative forums, others doubt that these can be effective. Finally, there is a debate on whether markets and private actor networks might provide more efficient and effective ways to deal with the climate crisis than state regulation. While these perspectives are highly diverse and even contradictory, they are united in the belief that standard procedures of liberal democracy are insufficient to achieve sustainability.
Multi-modal MRI of hippocampal morphometry and connectivity after pediatric severe TBI
Authors: Guerrero-Gonzalez Jose M. , Kirk Gregory R. , Birn Rasmus , Bigler Erin D. , Bowen Katherine , Broman Aimee T. , Rosario Bedda L. , Butt Warwick , Beers Sue R. , Bell Michael J. , Alexander Andrew L. , Ferrazzano Peter A. ,   ADAPT MRI Biomarkers Investigators, Chima Ranjit , Clark Robert , Ferguson Nikki , Hilfiker Mary , LaRovere Kerri , Macintosh Iain , Miles Darryl , Morris Kevin , O’Brien Nicole , Pineda Jose , Robertson Courtney , Walson Karen , West Nico , Willyerd Anthony , Zimmerman Jerry , Zielinski Brandon
Published: November 2023

This investigation explores memory performance using the California Verbal Learning Test in relation to morphometric and connectivity measures of the memory network in severe traumatic brain injury. Twenty-two adolescents with severe traumatic brain injury were recruited for multimodal MRI scanning 1–2 years post-injury at 13 participating sites. Analyses included hippocampal volume derived from anatomical T1-weighted imaging, fornix white matter microstructure from diffusion tensor imaging, and hippocampal resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging connectivity as well as diffusion-based structural connectivity. A typically developing control cohort of forty-nine age-matched children also underwent scanning and neurocognitive assessment. Results showed hippocampus volume was decreased in traumatic brain injury with respect to controls. Further, hippocampal volume loss was associated with worse performance on memory and learning in traumatic brain injury subjects. Similarly, hippocampal fornix fractional anisotropy was reduced in traumatic brain injury with respect to controls, while decreased fractional anisotropy in the hippocampal fornix also was associated with worse performance on memory and learning in traumatic brain injury subjects. Additionally, reduced structural connectivity of left hippocampus to thalamus and calcarine sulcus was associated with memory and learning in traumatic brain injury subjects. Functional connectivity in the left hippocampal network was also associated with memory and learning in traumatic brain injury subjects. These regional findings from a multi-modal neuroimaging approach should not only be useful for gaining valuable insight into traumatic brain injury induced memory and learning disfunction, but may also be informative for monitoring injury progression, recovery, and for developing rehabilitation as well as therapy strategies.
Non-Dipping Blood Pressure or Nocturnal Hypertension: Does One Matter More?
Authors: Tang Amber , Yang Eugene , Ebinger Joseph E.
Published: November 2023

Purpose of Review

Nocturnal hypertension and non-dipping are both associated with increased cardiovascular risk; however, debate remains over which is a better prognosticator of cardiovascular outcomes. This review explores current literature on nocturnal hypertension and non-dipping to assess their relationship to cardiovascular disease and implications for clinical practice.

Recent Findings

While current data remain inconclusive, some suggest that nocturnal hypertension is a more reliable and clinically significant marker of cardiovascular risk than non-dipping status. Importantly, reducing nocturnal HTN and non-dipping through chronotherapy, specifically evening dosing of antihypertensives, has not been conclusively shown to provide long-term cardiovascular benefits.

Recent data suggests that non-dipping, compared to nocturnal hypertension, may be falling out of favor as a prognostic indicator for adverse cardiovascular outcomes. However, additional information is needed to understand how aberrant nighttime blood pressure patterns modulate cardiovascular risk to guide clinical management.
Effect of CO2 dilution on laminar burning velocities, combustion characteristics and NOx emissions of CH4/air mixtures
Authors: Dong Wenlong , Xiang Longkai , Gao Jian , Qiu Bingbing , Chu Huaqiang
Published: November 2023

The laminar combustion characteristics of CH4/air premixed flames with CO2 addition are systemically studied. Experimental measurements and numerical simulations of the laminar burning velocity (LBV) are performed in CH4/CO2/Air flames with various CO2 doping ratio under equivalence ratios of 1.0–1.4. GRI 3.0 mech and Aramco mech are employed for predicting LBV, adiabatic flame temperature (AFT), important intermediate radicals (CH3, H, OH, O) and NOx emissions (NO, NO2, N2O), as well as the sensitivity analysis is also conducted. The detail analysis of experiment and simulation reveals that as the CO2 addition increases from 0% to 40%, the LBVs and AFTs decrease monotonously. Under the same CO2 doping ratio, the LBVs and AFTs increase first and then decrease with the increase of equivalence ratio, and the maximum of LBV is reached at equivalence ratio of 1.05. The mole fraction tendency of important intermediates and NOx with equivalence ratio and CO2 doping ratio are similar to the LBVs and AFTs. Reaction H + O2 ⇔ O + OH is found to be responsible for the promotion of the generation of important intermediates and NOx under the equivalence ratios and CO2 addition through sensitivity analysis. The sensitivity coefficients of elementary reactions that the increasing of CO2 doping ratio promotes or inhibits formation of intermediate radicals and NOx decreases.

Graphical abstract
Management, Abklärung und Nachsorge bei bariatrischer/metabolischer Chirurgie
Authors: Felsenreich Daniel Moritz
Published: November 2023

Adipositas und assoziierte Begleiterkrankungen wie Diabetes mellitus Typ 2, arterielle Hypertonie, Schlafapnoe, Hyperlipidämie und Erkrankungen des Bewegungs- und Stützapparats nehmen stetig zu. Dabei stellt bariatrische/metabolische Chirurgie die derzeit effizienteste Methode dar, um die Komorbiditäten zu verbessern und das Gewicht langfristig zu reduzieren. Laut neuen Guidelines kann bariatrische/metabolische Chirurgie ab einem Body Mass Index (BMI) von ≥ 35 kg/m2 empfohlen werden, unabhängig davon, ob eine Komorbidität vorliegt oder nicht. Ab einem BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 und bei Bestehen mindestens einer der genannten Komorbiditäten kann eine Operation ebenfalls in Erwägung gezogen werden. Vor jeder adipositaschirurgischen Operation sind verschiedene Untersuchungen und Gutachten durchzuführen, um den/die Patient:in bestmöglich auf die Op. und die Zeit danach vorzubereiten. Weiters kann dadurch das Operationsrisiko eingeschätzt werden und für jeden/jede Patient:in die individuell am besten passende bariatrische/metabolische Operation gewählt werden. Während des Aufenthalts sind verschiedene Maßnahmen eines Fast-Track-Konzepts sinnvoll, um eine frühzeitige Rekonvaleszenz zu erreichen. Dazu gehören neben der minimal-invasiven Operation eine opiatfreie Narkose und postoperative Schmerztherapie, frühzeitige Mobilisierung und schneller Kostaufbau. Für langanhaltenden Erfolg ist eine enge Anbindung an ein Zentrum mit adipositaschirurgischer und diätologischer Erfahrung unerlässlich. Weiters muss eine tägliche Vitamineinnahme sowie eine engmaschige Kontrolle der Blutwerte (Vitamine, Spurenelemente, Elektrolyte etc.) lebenslang erfolgen.