bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultivar authentication of olive oil from Ionian islands using volatile compounds and chemometric analyses
Authors: Kopsahelis Nikolaos , Karabagias Ioannis K. , Papapostolou Harris , Eriotou Effimia
Published: May 2024

Two hundred and twenty-three olive samples of different olive cultivars (Koroneiki, Asprolia, Lianolia, Ntopia, Thiaki, Mavrolia, and Others) grown in the Ionian islands (Kefalonia, Kerkyra, Leukada, and Zakynthos) were subjected to headspace solid phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis. The aim of the study was to characterize the aroma pattern of these olive oil cultivars, and track whether specific volatile compounds could be used for olive oil cultivar authentication using chemometrics. Multivariate analysis of variance implemented on the semi-quantitative data of volatile compounds (alcohols, aldehydes, benzene derivatives, esters, hydrocarbons, ketones, and terpenoids), showed that olive cultivar had a significant impact on the volatile composition of olive oil samples. Factor analysis and linear discriminant analysis indicated those specific volatile compounds that could be related to olive oil cultivar and established statistical models for the olive oil cultivar authentication from Ionian islands, thus indicating a characteristic aroma fingerprint of these olive oils.
Autonomic responses in young females with typical vasovagal syncope
Authors: Amir Ben , Lanciano Sapir Barak , Rubinshtein Ronen , Nussinovitch Udi
Published: May 2024

To determine whether young women who have experienced typical vasovagal syncope (tVVS) have altered autonomic response parameters, based on a battery of autonomic tests and maneuvers. Notably, previous studies including small cohorts and a partial list of tests yielded conflicting results. A total of 91 otherwise healthy women were included and divided according to those who had experienced tVVS (39 patients) or not (52 patients). Heart rate variability was evaluated at rest, under strict conditions, during 5 min of standing and during a deep breathing test. Response to Valsalva maneuver and Ewing maneuver were also quantified and compared. Both groups had similar clinical characteristics at baseline. No significant differences were found between the two groups in any of the autonomic parameters evaluated. Autonomic responses in young women who experienced typical vasovagal syncope at baseline were indistinguishable from those who did not. Thus, using non-tilt test autonomic screening tests does not seem to provide diagnostic benefits, and may not be useful in predicting recurrence in this patient population.
Association between serum levels of GDF-15, suPAR, PIVKA-II, sdLDL and clinical outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients
Authors: Molfino Alessio , Anastasi Emanuela , Assanto Eleonora , Toccini Ludovica , Imbimbo Giovanni , Gigante Antonietta , Viggiani Valentina , Farina Antonella , Picconi Orietta , Angeloni Antonio , Muscaritoli Maurizio
Published: May 2024

To quantify the circulating levels of novel serum biomarkers including GDF-15, PIVKA-II, sdLDL, suPAR, and of CRP in hospitalized COVID-19 patients compared with healthy subjects, and to evaluate their association(s) with outcomes in COVID-19. We considered patients with confirmed COVID-19, hospitalized in an Internal Medicine ward. The clinical characteristics were collected, including the number and type of comorbidities. Serum levels of GDF-15, PIVKA-II, suPAR, sdLDL, as well as CRP were measured. As outcomes, we considered Intensive Care Unit (ICU) transfer or death, as well as the length of stay (days) and in-hospital complications. Data were statistically analyzed, as appropriate, and a p value < 0.05 was considered significant. Ninety-three patients and 20 healthy controls were enrolled. COVID-19 patients vs. controls showed higher median levels of GDF-15 (p < 0.0001), PIVKA-II (p < 0.0001) and sdLDL (p = 0.0002), whereas no difference was observed for suPAR. In COVID-19 patients, the most frequent comorbidities were arterial hypertension (62.4%) and cardiovascular disease (30.1%). GDF-15 levels positively correlated with age (r = 0.433, p < 0.0001), and this correlation was confirmed for suPAR (r = 0.308, p = 0.003) and CRP (Rho = 0.40 p < 0.0001), but not for PIVKA-II and sdLDL. Higher GDF-15 levels were associated with a higher number of comorbidities (p = 0.021). The median length of stay was 22 (15; 30) days. During hospitalization, 15 patients (16%) were ICU transferred, and 6 (6.45%) died. GDF-15 serum levels correlated with the length of stay (rho = 0.27 p = 0.010), and were associated with ICU transfer or death (p = 0.003), as well as PIVKA-II (p = 0.038) and CRP (p < 0.001). Moreover, higher GDF-15 and PIVKA-II serum levels were associated with infectious complications (p = 0.008 and p = 0.017, respectively). In this cohort of hospitalized COVID-19 patients, novel inflammatory biomarkers, including GDF-15, suPAR and PIVKA II were associated with some patient’s clinical characteristics, complications, and poor outcomes.
Insufficient Sleep and Behavioral Health in the Military: A 5-Country Perspective
Authors: Alger Sara E. , Bennett Clare , Bennett Neanne , Huebner Matthew G. , Lee Jennifer E. C. , Edge Heather J. McCuaig , Simms Amos , Adler Amy B.
Published: May 2024

Purpose of Review

The goal of this paper was to highlight the degree to which sleep, behavioral health, and leader involvement were interrelated using data from militaries in five English-speaking countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the United States.

Recent Findings

Many service members reported sleeping fewer than the recommended 7 h/night: 34.9%, 67.2%, and 77.2% of respondents from New Zealand, Canada, and the United States, respectively. Countries reporting shorter sleep duration also reported fewer insomnia-related difficulties, likely reflecting higher sleep pressure from chronic sleep loss. Across all countries, sleep problems were positively correlated with behavioral health symptoms. Importantly, leader promotion of healthy sleep was positively correlated with more sleep and negatively correlated with sleep problems and behavioral health symptoms.

Insufficient sleep in the military is ubiquitous, with serious implications for the behavioral health and functioning of service members. Leaders should attend to these risks and examine ways to promote healthy sleep in service members.
A capabilitarian behavioral economics: what behavioral economics can learn from the capability approach
Authors: Garces-Velastegui Pablo
Published: May 2024

Behavioral economics (BE) accounts for how people actually behave has proven to be very influential in multiple domains. Its insights have dislodged settled assumptions and put forward an improved understanding of human beings and their agency. Although it challenges the conventional approach, advanced by rational choice theory (RCT), because it also formally builds on it, BE shares some of RCT’s advantages as well as its shortcomings. One the one hand, it shares an important focus on freedom. On the other, it is limited to self-interest as the main motivation for human action. The latter is a limitation since human experience is much richer than that. To complement BE’s limitation, this paper suggests Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach (CA). This framework places humans and their quality of life at the locus of attention for the assessment of social states. To do so, it challenges RCT in a more fundamental way and it provides a richer account of human agency, which includes both self-regarding as well as other-regarding motivations. This combination enriches BE’s realism as well as practicality.
Technologies for design-build-test-learn automation and computational modelling across the synthetic biology workflow: a review
Authors: Matzko Richard , Konur Savas
Published: May 2024

Motivated by the need to parameterize and functionalize dynamic, multiscale simulations, as well as bridge the gap between advancing in silico and laboratory Synthetic Biology practices, this work evaluated and contextualized Synthetic Biology data standards and conversion, modelling and simulation methods, genetic design and optimization, software platforms, machine learning, assembly planning, automated modelling, combinatorial methods, biological circuit design and laboratory automation. This review also discusses technologies related to domain specific languages, libraries and APIs, databases, whole cell models, use of ontologies, datamining, metabolic engineering, parameter estimation/acquisition, robotics, microfluidics and touches on a range of applications. The discussed principles should provide a strong, encompassing foundation for primarily dry laboratory Synthetic Biology automation, reproducibility, interoperability, simulatability, data acquisition, parameterization, functionalization of models, classification, computational efficiency, time efficiency and effective genetic engineering. Applications impact the design-build-test-learn loop, in silico computer assisted design and simulations, hypothesis generation, yield optimization, drug design, synthetic organs, sensors and living therapeutics.
Prediction of new-onset atrial fibrillation with the C2HEST score in patients admitted with community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Pastori Daniele , Menichelli Danilo , Romiti Giulio Francesco , Speziale Angela Pia , Pignatelli Pasquale , Basili Stefania , Violi Francesco , Cangemi Roberto
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Patients hospitalized for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) may have a higher risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF). The C2HEST score was developed to evaluate the NOAF risk in the general population. Data on the value of the C2HEST score in acute patients admitted with CAP are lacking. We want to establish the predictive value of C2HEST score for NOAF in patients with CAP.

Methods

Patients with CAP enrolled in the SIXTUS cohort were enrolled. C2HEST score was calculated at baseline. In-hospital NOAF was recorded. Receiver-operating Characteristic (ROC) curve and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analysis were performed.

Results

We enrolled 473 patients (36% women, mean age 70.6 ± 16.5 years), and 54 NOAF occurred. Patients with NOAF were elderly, more frequently affected by hypertension, heart failure, previous stroke/transient ischemic attack, peripheral artery disease and hyperthyroidism. NOAF patients had also higher CURB-65, PSI class and CHA2DS2-VASc score. The C-index of C2HEST score for NOAF was 0.747 (95% confidence interval [95%CI] 0.705–0.786), higher compared to CURB-65 (0.611, 95%CI 0.566–0.655, p = 0.0016), PSI (0.665, 95%CI 0.621–0.708, p = 0.0199) and CHA2DS2-VASc score (0.696, 95%CI 0.652–0.737, p = 0.0762). The best combination of sensitivity (67%) and specificity (70%) was observed with a C2HEST score ≥ 4. This result was confirmed by the multivariable Cox analysis (Hazard Ratio [HR] for C2HEST score ≥ 4 was 10.7, 95%CI 2.0–57.9; p = 0.006), independently from the severity of pneumonia.

Conclusion

The C2HEST score was a useful predictive tool to identify patients at higher risk for NOAF during hospitalization for CAP.

Clinical Trial Registration

www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01773863)
Theoretical derivation of Planck’s constant based on brownian motion model and uncertainty relation
Authors: Nagasaka Hideo , Mori Takahiro
Published: May 2024

In stochastic mechanics, one of the interpretations of realistic quantum mechanics, the Schrödinger equation can be derived by assuming the Brownian motion (BM) of minute particles. In this study, we theoretically derive Planck’s constant (h), a fundamental constant of quantum physics, by assuming same BM. Einstein investigated the BM of a resonator caused by photons in a black body; meanwhile, in this study, BM is considered to be caused by the particle and wave natures of light. As a result, as the functional form of h,$${h}_{N}=\frac{4\pi {e}^{2}}{c{\varepsilon }_{0}}\frac{1}{\beta }$$

h
N

=

4
π

e

2

c

ε
0

1
β

(e: elementary charge, $${\varepsilon }_{0}$$

ε
0

: permittivity, c: speed of light) was derived, where the undetermined coefficient $$\frac{\beta }{2}$$

β
2

represents the probability that the interaction between electrons and electromagnetic waves becomes particle-like absorption in one cycle of oscillation. The theoretical value of h was calculated to be $$\frac{4\pi {e}^{2}}{c{\varepsilon }_{0}}\pi \sqrt{3}$$

4
π

e

2

c

ε
0

π

3

by obtaining β from the transition conditions of the BM model and uncertainty relation. This theoretical value is within 0.3% of the most recent value of h. Besides, Nelson’s assumed diffusion coefficient in the stochastic mechanics, which is essential in obtaining Schrödinger’s equation, was proved to be obtained from the BM model and the uncertainty relation. This finding and the conclusion that the Planck’s constant can be mathematically derived, provide support for Nelson’s stochastic mechanics.
Use of Geogrid for Improved Performance of Ballasted Tracks: Experimental and DEM Approaches
Authors: Ngo Trung , Indraratna Buddhima
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a study on the enhanced performance of ballasted tracks through the implementation of geogrids. A series of large-scale direct shear tests and impact tests was conducted with three distinct types of geogrids. The behavior of ballast was evaluated in terms of shear stress–strain responses and stress concentration using stress sensing sheets. Additionally, a micromechanical analysis utilizing the discrete element method was simulated on ballast assemblies with different geogrid reinforcements. The shear stress–strain responses of ballast simulated from DEM are comparable with those measured from large-scale direct shear tests, indicating that the inclusion of geogrid can enhance the performance of ballast by increasing its shear strength, as well as reducing the vertical displacement and the load distribution with depth. Micromechanical analysis was performed to investigate the influences of geogrids on contact force distribution, coordination number and orientation of contact which could not be captured in a laboratory environment. The use of geogrids in ballasted tracks certainly shows promise for sustainable and efficient railway infrastructure, as evidenced by the experimental and DEM-based findings, offering valuable insights into optimizing track stability and longevity.
Experimental and numerical simulation investigation of the deformation characteristics of vertical boreholes under non-uniform horizontal principal stress
Authors: Fang Xinxin , Ma Sijie , Wang Yunhong , Li Fengling
Published: May 2024

To study borehole deformation under non-uniform horizontal principal stress in the deep strata, a prediction method for horizontal principal stress was developed based on the morphological parameters of boreholes, the deformation trajectory equation for the standard circular borehole was derived based on elasticity theory, and the morphological characteristics of boreholes were analyzed. Additionally, a quantitative relationship between the geometric parameters of elliptical boreholes and horizontal principal stress was established. Subsequently, uniaxial tests on borehole deformation were conducted to verify elliptical deformation under non-uniform horizontal principal stress. A combined deductive, experimental, and numerical simulation approach to borehole deformation analysis was adopted, and the impact factors of borehole deformation were obtained. The results indicated as following: (1) the deformation morphology of borehole under non-uniform horizontal principal stress was elliptical; (2) for the given lithology, the greater the difference in horizontal principal stress, the greater were the ellipticity and elliptical deformation of borehole; (3) for given stress background, rock strength was inversely proportional to ellipticity. Additionally, the smaller the Young’s modulus and compressive strength, the larger was the Poisson’s ratio and the larger was the ellipticity. For example, the ellipticity of mudstone and coal was greater than that of limestone and sandstone; (4) with an increase in load, the displacement of borehole wall exhibited three stages: initial micro-deformation, accelerated deformation, and stable deformation; (5) horizontal principal stress can be calculated by using the morphological parameters (long and short axes) of an elliptical hole. Furthermore, a horizontal principal stress method theory can be developed based on the morphological parameters of boreholes. The results of our study can provide new ideas and methods for the measurement of in situ stress in deep boreholes and a theoretical basis for the development of equipment for measuring elliptical boreholes.
Experimental study on the influence of external fluids on the pore structure of carbonaceous shale
Authors: Yang Ying , Wei Jianguang , Liu Yinhua , Zeng Quanshu , Lin Jingde , Li Jiangtao
Published: May 2024

Shale reservoirs have complex mineral compositions and are rich in micro-scale pores. It is of great scientific and engineering significance to explore the mechanism of external fluids on the pore throat structure of shale. In this paper, pure carbonaceous shale is taken as the research object, and the mechanism of the influence of slip water and reflux fluid on the pore throat structure is analyzed by using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology. Then, the sensitivity of different types of shale to external fluids is comparatively analyzed and summarized. The results show that (1) the oil slick has a certain effect on the total porosity of different types of shale. The rate of change is shown as carbonaceous shale (− 7.1%) > pure shale (− 1.6%). (b) For slickwater, the average reduction of macro- and micro/nanopores in carbonaceous shale is 90.0% and 5.0%, respectively, while the average reduction of macro- and mesopores in pure shale is 17.7% and 6.8%, respectively. (c) Total porosity of different shale types is insensitive to refluxing fluids. The average increase in macro-, meso-, and small pores of carbonaceous shale is 31.8%, 23.6%, and 20.2%, respectively; the average increase in macro- and small pores of pure shale is 17.1%.
Neural lasso: a unifying approach of lasso and neural networks
Authors: Curbelo Ernesto , Delgado-Gómez David , Carreras Danae
Published: May 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in establishing bridges between statistics and neural networks. This article focuses on the adaptation of the widely used lasso algorithm within the context of neural networks. To accomplish this, the network configuration is first designed. After that, in order to estimate the network weights, three optimization algorithms are considered. The first one, called standard neural lasso, employs the conventional procedure for training neural networks. The second optimization algorithm, termed restricted neural lasso, mimics traditional lasso to establish a connection between statistics and machine learning. Finally, a third optimization algorithm, called voting neural lasso was developed. Voting neural lasso offers a novel way of estimating weights by considers the significance of variables across the cross-validation scenarios. Results showed that the conventional approach of training neural networks resulted in a lower performance when the validation set is not sufficiently representative. It was also observed that restricted neural lasso and the traditional lasso obtained equivalent results, which shows the convergence of the neural technique with the statistical one. Finally, the developed voting neural lasso algorithm outperformed the traditional lasso. These results were obtained across diverse training sets, encompassing observations ranging from as few as 47 to as many as 4000, with the number of predictors varying from 9 to 200.
Hamiltonian formulation of general relativity and post-Newtonian dynamics of compact binaries
Authors: Schäfer Gerhard , Jaranowski Piotr
Published: May 2024

Hamiltonian formalisms provide powerful tools for the computation of approximate analytic solutions of the Einstein field equations. The post-Newtonian computations of the explicit analytic dynamics and motion of compact binaries are discussed within the most often applied Arnowitt–Deser–Misner formalism. The obtention of autonomous Hamiltonians is achieved by the transition to Routhians. Order reduction of higher derivative Hamiltonians results in standard Hamiltonians. Tetrad representation of general relativity is introduced for the tackling of compact binaries with spinning components. Compact objects are modeled by use of Dirac delta functions and their derivatives. Consistency is achieved through transition to d-dimensional space and application of dimensional regularization. At the fourth post-Newtonian level, tail contributions to the binding energy show up for the first time. The conservative dynamics of binary systems finds explicit presentation and discussion through the fifth post-Newtonian order for spinless masses. For masses with spin Hamiltonians are known through (next-to)$$^3$$

3

-leading-order spin-orbit and spin-spin couplings as well as through next-to-leading order cubic and quartic in spin interactions. Parts of those are given explicitly. Tidal-interaction Hamiltonians are considered through (next-to)$$^2$$

2

-leading post-Newtonian order. The radiation reaction dynamics is presented explicitly through the third-and-half post-Newtonian order for spinless objects, and, for spinning bodies, to leading-order in the spin-orbit and spin1-spin2 couplings. The most important historical issues get pointed out.
Measurement of information content of Perovskite solar cell’s synthesis descriptors related to performance parameters
Authors: Vélez Jeison , Botero L. Mónica A. , Sepulveda Alexander
Published: May 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSC) are formed by different layers composed of thin films of various materials, in which the properties of every thin layer affect the performance of the cell. The identification of those most relevant properties (or descriptors) has a significant impact on the optimization and cost reduction of the Perovskite solar cell. This relevance is typically evaluated by adjusting a model using subsets of features, but in the present work, we propose to use the mutual information measure to quantify the statistical association between input descriptors and Perovskite solar cell performance parameters (Voc, Jsc, FF, PCE). As a result, it is found that ion X is the factor that most impacts the performance of the solar cell. On the other hand, variables such as band gap, Perovskite layer thickness, and A and B ions are also important. In this work, we identify some of the most important factors affecting Perovskite solar cells’ performance, and it could help to improve the efficiency of Perovskite solar cells. In addition, this proposed method could also be applied to other types of functional coatings, thin films, and surfaces.
Prescriber's Guide – Children and Adolescents
Authors: Stahl Stephen M.
Published: May 2024

This extensively revised second edition provides a user-friendly step-by-step manual on the range of psychotropic medications prescribed for children and adolescents by clinicians and nurse practitioners. Boasting nearly double the medications of the first edition, it features new sections related to pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenetics in children and adolescents alongside algorithms for addressing frequently encountered disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and OCD. Based on the best-seller, Stahl's Prescriber's Guide, and using a full-color template-driven navigation system, it combines evidence-based data with clinically informed guidance to support prescribers in the field. Each drug is presented in the same classic design format with illustrated guidance on dosing, titration, and pharmacogenetics/metabolism. Color-coded sections distinguish clearly the information presented on therapeutics, safety and tolerability, dosing and use, what to expect, and the art of psychopharmacology, and are followed by updated and new key references. A must-have guide for all mental health professionals.
From Ritual to God in the Ancient Near East
Authors: Laneri Nicola
Published: May 2024

Human belief systems and practices can be traced to ca. 10,000 BCE in the Ancient Near East, where the earliest evidence of ritual structures and objects can be found. Religious architecture, the relics of human skeletons, animal symbolism, statues, and icons all contributed to a complex network into which the spiritual essence of the divine was materially present. In this book, Nicola Laneri traces the transformation of the belief systems that shaped life in ancient Near Eastern communities, from prehistoric times until the advent of religious monotheism in the Levant during the first millennium BCE. Considering a range of evidence, from stone ceremonial enclosures, such as as Göbleki Tepe, to the construction of the first temples and icons of Mesopotamian polytheistic beliefs, to the Temple of Jerusalem, the iconic center of Israelite monotheism, Laneri offers new insights into the symbolic value embodied in the religious materiality produced in the ancient Near East.
Masking for COVID-19 and other respiratory viral infections: implications of the available evidence
Authors: Halperin Daniel T. , Doron Shira , Hodgins Stephen , Bailey Robert C. , Baral Stefan , Bhatia Rajiv , Noble Jeanne , Gandhi Monica , Hearst Norman
Published: May 2024

The use of face masks has been widely promoted and at times mandated to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The 2023 publication of an updated Cochrane review on mask effectiveness for respiratory viruses as well as the unfolding epidemiology of COVID-19 underscore the need for an unbiased assessment of the current scientific evidence. It appears that the widespread promotion, adoption, and mandating of masking for COVID-19 were based not primarily on the strength of evidence for effectiveness but more on the imperative of decision-makers to act in the face of a novel public health emergency, with seemingly few good alternatives. Randomized clinical trials of masking for prevention of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses have so far shown no evidence of benefit (with the possible exception of continuous use of N95 respirators by hospital workers). Observational studies provide lower-quality evidence and do not convincingly demonstrate benefit from masking or mask mandates. Unless robust new evidence emerges showing the effectiveness of masks in reducing infection or transmission risks in either trials or real-world conditions, mandates are not warranted for future epidemics of respiratory viral infections.
Breaking the misery wheel? Fertility control, social mobility, and biological well-being in rural Spain (1835–1959)
Authors: Marco-Gracia Francisco J. , González-Esteban Ángel Luis
Published: May 2024

Fertility control strategies became widespread in rural Spain through the twentieth century: a significant number of parents decided to reduce their marital fertility once the advantages of control strategies became widely known. This paper explores the impact of those practices on children through a comparative study of the heights and occupations of grandparents, parents, and children. We analyze more than 1,200 individuals from three different generations born between 1835 and 1959 in 14 rural Spanish villages, studying whether the advantages associated with fertility control were maintained over time favoring a better family status or whether they were diluted in the next generation. The largest increases in height were among children whose parents controlled their fertility by stopping having children before the mother's 36th birthday. However, it does not seem that this increase in biological well-being was accompanied by major episodes of upward social mobility.
From the Womb to the Cosmos: A Feminist Investigation into Porphyry's Interpretation of the Cave of the Nymphs
Authors: Çimen Ünsal
Published: May 2024

Porphyry wrote an interpretation of a passage from the Odyssey under the title On the Cave of the Nymphs; this passage talks about a cave sacred to the water nymphs, which has two gates. Inside the cave, there are stone amphoras where bees store honey; stone looms where sea-purple clothes are woven, and a spring from where water flows ceaselessly. Porphyry interpreted this cave as a symbol of the cosmos; however, caves represent the womb of a goddess in the matriarchal tradition. In this paper, I aim to show how patriarchal transition takes place in Porphyry's interpretation of seeing caves as a symbol of the cosmos. From a philosophical perspective, I will also show that Porphyry attributes to the noetic principle a qualification which puts matter into form, while he sees matter as the source of ignorance, an attitude that is compatible to the feminist critique of reason in which rationality is associated with masculinity rather than femininity.
A network analysis of depressive symptoms in adults with and without diabetes: findings from the Irish longitudinal study on ageing
Authors: Byrne Brendan , McInerney Amy M. , Deschênes Sonya S.
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

This study aimed to estimate networks of depressive symptoms among Irish adults with and without diabetes at two time points and compare between the two groups at each time point using data from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA).

Methods:

Participants were from Wave 1 (2009–2011) and Wave 4 (2016) of TILDA, with n = 639 participants with diabetes and n = 7,837 without diabetes at Wave 1, and n = 1,151 with diabetes and n = 4,531 without diabetes at Wave 4. Depressive symptoms were measured using the 8 items of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Network psychometric analysis was used to examine symptom centrality, symptom-level associations, and network comparisons at each time point.

Results:

Stable, strongly connected networks emerged for people with and without diabetes at both time points. The symptoms of feeling depressed, feeling like everything’s an effort, not enjoying life, feeling sad, and couldn’t get going were the most central nodes in all networks, which did not differ between people with and without diabetes. However, for people with diabetes, the network was more densely connected at Wave 4, when the sample was predominately people with newly diagnosed diabetes. Furthermore, the relationship between ‘felt lonely’ and ‘couldn’t get going’ and between ‘not enjoying life’ and ’sad’ was significantly stronger for people with diabetes than for those without.

Conclusions:

This study provides a more detailed understanding of the structure of depressive symptoms at two time points in older Irish adults with and without type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
Before Biodiversity: Trajectories of National Parks in Latin America (1930s–1980s)
Authors: Freitas Frederico , Leal Claudia , Wakild Emily
Published: May 2024

Almost a century ago, long before biodiversity expressed a scientific value for nature, Latin American countries began establishing national parks. Today, they represent over 6 percent of Latin America’s landmass. By considering national park creation across a broad regional span and six crucial decades, this article explains a mode of state formation focused on caring for nature instead of just exploiting it. It examines how national parks expanded in the region by identifying three consequent trajectories: the use of these conservation units for frontier development in Argentina and as part of a broader project seeking social justice in Mexico; the formation of more haphazard park initiatives in various countries, taking Brazil and Chile as main examples; and the development of ecologically coherent park systems through the cases of Peru and Colombia. The article also addresses the role of science (especially forestry) and international cooperation in shaping national parks. In this manner, it uncovers the paths that faded from view after the idea that parks intend to protect biodiversity took hold and illustrates a rarely acknowledged aspect of state expansion.
Linguistic hostility, social exclusion, and the agency of African migrants in Hong Kong
Authors: Gu Jiapei , Ho Janet
Published: May 2024

Long an immigrant society, whether Hong Kong welcomes ethnic minorities remains debatable. Combining Wesselmann and colleagues’ (2016) social exclusion framework, raciolinguistics, and interview data, this study investigates the social exclusion experience of Hong Kong's African economic and student migrants. The findings show that African immigrants who lack linguistic capacity are ostracised in different areas of life. Impolite language usage stigmatises them as poor and ghost-like and stereotypes them as refugees. Taking a raciolinguistic perspective, however, this study finds that race, rather than language, is the root cause of social exclusion. Lastly, the study shows that African migrants manifest agency in ameliorating marginalisation through various activities, revealing the bidirectional nature of social exclusion. Overall, this study empirically enriches the current understanding of Africans’ social exclusion experiences in Hong Kong through the lens of language. It theoretically contributes to the current discussion on raciolinguistics by extending it to the Asian context. (Social exclusion, Hong Kong, African immigrants, verbal rejection, non-verbal rejection, racism, raciolinguistics)*
Association between consumption of small fish and all-cause mortality among Japanese: the Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort Study
Authors: Kasahara Chinatsu , Tamura Takashi , Wakai Kenji , Tamada Yudai , Kato Yasufumi , Kubo Yoko , Okada Rieko , Nagayoshi Mako , Hishida Asahi , Imaeda Nahomi , Goto Chiho , Otonari Jun , Ikezaki Hiroaki , Nishida Yuichiro , Shimanoe Chisato , Oze Isao , Koyanagi Yuriko N , Nakamura Yohko , Kusakabe Miho , Nishimoto Daisaku , Shimoshikiryo Ippei , Suzuki Sadao , Watanabe Miki , Ozaki Etsuko , Omichi Chie , Kuriki Kiyonori , Takashima Naoyuki , Miyagawa Naoko , Arisawa Kokichi , Katsuura-Kamano Sakurako , Takeuchi Kenji , Matsuo Keitaro ,   for the J-MICC Study Group
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Although small fish are an important source of micronutrients, the relationship between their intake and mortality remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the association between intake of small fish and all-cause and cause-specific mortality.

Design:

We used the data from a cohort study in Japan. The frequency of the intake of small fish was assessed using a validated FFQ. The hazard ratio (HR) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) for all-cause and cause-specific mortality according to the frequency of the intake of small fish by sex were estimated using a Cox proportional hazard model with adjustments for covariates.

Setting:

The Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort Study.

Participants:

A total of 80 802 participants (34 555 males and 46 247 females), aged 35–69 years.

Results:

During a mean follow-up of 9·0 years, we identified 2482 deaths including 1495 cancer-related deaths. The intake of small fish was statistically significantly and inversely associated with the risk of all-cause and cancer mortality in females. The multivariable-adjusted HR (95 % CI) in females for all-cause mortality according to the intake were 0·68 (0·55, 0·85) for intakes 1–3 times/month, 0·72 (0·57, 0·90) for 1–2 times/week and 0·69 (0·54, 0·88) for ≥ 3 times/week, compared with the rare intake. The corresponding HR (95 % CI) in females for cancer mortality were 0·72 (0·54, 0·96), 0·71 (0·53, 0·96) and 0·64 (0·46, 0·89), respectively. No statistically significant association was observed in males.

Conclusions:

Intake of small fish may reduce the risk of all-cause and cancer mortality in Japanese females.
How far does culture go?
Authors: Nativ Assaf , Marom Nimrod , Reshef Hagar , Shimelmitz Ron
Published: May 2024

Focusing on the late prehistoric southern Levant, we recently suggested that the diffused low-frequency distribution of large predator bones (lion, leopard and bear) coalesces into a coherent temporal pattern when observed at a sufficiently long timescale. While in the previous research we sought to determine what sort of sociocultural mechanism might explain this pattern, effectively drawing it into the orbit of the familiar, in this brief provocation, we push in the other direction, towards the unfamiliar: how can a process or phenomenon be culturally significant yet meaningless at the human and societal levels? How is a phenomenon substantial in the long term and insubstantial in the short term?
TwinsMX: Exploring the Genetic and Environmental Influences on Health Traits in the Mexican Population
Authors: García-Vilchis Brisa , Román-López Talia V. , Ramírez-González Diego , López-Camaño Xanat J. , Murillo-Lechuga Vanessa , Díaz-Téllez Xóchitl , Sánchez-Moncada C. Itzamná , Espinosa-Méndez Ian M. , Zenteno-Morales Diego , Espinosa-Valdes Zaida X. , Pradel-Jiménez Sofia , Tapia-Atilano Andrea , Zanabria-Pérez Ana V. , Livas-Gangas Federica , Aldana-Assad Oscar , Caballero-Sánchez Ulises , Dominguez-Frausto César A. , Rentería Miguel E. , Medina-Rivera Alejandra , Alcauter Sarael , Ruiz-Contreras Alejandra E.
Published: May 2024

TwinsMX registry is a national research initiative in Mexico that aims to understand the complex interplay between genetics and environment in shaping physical and mental health traits among the country’s population. With a multidisciplinary approach, TwinsMX aims to advance our knowledge of the genetic and environmental mechanisms underlying ethnic variations in complex traits and diseases, including behavioral, psychometric, anthropometric, metabolic, cardiovascular and mental disorders. With information gathered from over 2800 twins, this article updates the prevalence of several complex traits; and describes the advances and novel ideas we have implemented such as magnetic resonance imaging. The future expansion of the TwinsMX registry will enhance our comprehension of the intricate interplay between genetics and environment in shaping health and disease in the Mexican population. Overall, this report describes the progress in the building of a solid database that will allow the study of complex traits in the Mexican population, valuable not only for our consortium, but also for the worldwide scientific community, by providing new insights of understudied genetically admixed populations.
Effects of Transient Obliquity Tides Within Mimas' Warm, Icy Interior Preserved as a Frozen Fossil Figure
Authors: Gyalay S. , Nimmo F. , Downey B. G.
Published: May 2024

Mimas has a high eccentricity and an anomalously high physical libration like its neighbor, Enceladus, but does not appear to have a geologically active surface. We investigate Mimas' interior with a technique that infers spatial variations in tidal heating from its global shape. To account for its hydrostatic shape, we find Mimas' normalized moment of inertia is 0.375 ± 0.0025, indicating a relatively undifferentiated world. Its remaining topography is consistent with a ∼30 km thick conductive ice shell in Airy isostasy atop a weakly convecting ∼30 km thick layer that itself mantles a ∼140 km radius ice‐rock interior. The convective shell's density must be closer to the interior density to satisfy our moment of inertia and provide a denser compensating layer for Airy isostasy. This ice‐rock interior is elongated along the Mimas‐Saturn axis, which can match Mimas' observed physical libration without appealing to an ocean. The inferred ice shell thickness variations indicate a high obliquity (≈1.7°). We suggest that the obliquity damped rapidly, after which topography froze in when internal heat was conducted out of Mimas quicker than isostatic ice shell thickness variations could relax. We speculate on several possible explanations for this transient high obliquity, including excitation by ring‐forming material following the recent tidal disruption of an eccentric satellite. We cannot rule out a young Mimantean ocean, but our inferred moment of inertia favors a Mimas that was solid when it experienced a period of high obliquity, did not significantly melt during a recent resonance with Enceladus, and is solid today.
Power Spectral Characteristics of In‐Situ Irregularities and Topside GPS Signal Intensity at Low Latitudes Using High‐Sample‐Rate Swarm Echo (e‐POP) Measurements
Authors: Mohandesi Ali , Knudsen David J. , Skone Susan , Langley Richard B. , Yau Andrew W.
Published: May 2024

Ionospheric density structures at low latitudes range in size from thousands of kilometers down to a few meters. Radio frequency (RF) signals, such as those from global navigation satellite systems, that propagate through irregularities suffer from rapid fluctuations in phase and intensity, known as scintillations. In this study, we use the high‐sample‐rate measurements of the Swarm Echo (CASSIOPE/e‐POP) satellite's GPS Occultation (GAP‐O) receiver taken after its antenna was re‐oriented to vertical‐pointing, simultaneously with e‐POP Ion Mass Spectrometer surface current observations as a proxy for plasma density, to obtain the spectral characteristics of GPS signal intensity and in‐situ irregularities at altitudes from 350 to 1,280 km. We show that the power spectra of both measurements can generally be characterized by a power law. In the case of density irregularities, the spectral index with the highest occurrence rate is around 1.7, which is consistent with previous studies. Also, all the power spectra of GPS signal intensity in this study show a single spectral index near 2. Moreover, roll‐off frequencies estimated in this work range from 0.4 to 2.5 Hz, which is significantly higher than Fresnel frequencies calculated from ground GPS receivers at low latitudes (between 0.2 and 0.45 Hz). Part of this increase is due to the 8 km/s orbital velocity of Swarm Echo near perigee. Another key difference is that variations in the GPS signals in this study are dominated by the topside ionosphere, whereas GPS signals received from ground are affected mostly by the relatively dense F‐region plasma in the 250–350 km altitudinal range.
Misfolded protein deposits in Parkinson’s disease and Parkinson’s disease-related cognitive impairment, a [11C]PBB3 study
Authors: Matarazzo Michele , Pérez-Soriano Alexandra , Vafai Nasim , Shahinfard Elham , Cheng Kevin Ju-Chieh , McKenzie Jessamyn , Neilson Nicole , Miao Qing , Schaffer Paul , Shinotoh Hitoshi , Kordower Jeffrey H. , Sossi Vesna , Stoessl A. Jon
Published: May 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is associated with aggregation of misfolded α-synuclein and other proteins, including tau. We designed a cross-sectional study to quantify the brain binding of [11C]PBB3 (a ligand known to bind to misfolded tau and possibly α-synuclein) as a proxy of misfolded protein aggregation in Parkinson’s disease (PD) subjects with and without cognitive impairment and healthy controls (HC). In this cross-sectional study, nineteen cognitively normal PD subjects (CN-PD), thirteen cognitively impaired PD subjects (CI-PD) and ten HC underwent [11C]PBB3 PET. A subset of the PD subjects also underwent PET imaging with [11C](+)DTBZ to assess dopaminergic denervation and [11C]PBR28 to assess neuroinflammation. Compared to HC, PD subjects showed higher [11C]PBB3 binding in the posterior putamen but not the substantia nigra. There was no relationship across subjects between [11C]PBB3 and [11C]PBR28 binding in nigrostriatal regions. [11C]PBB3 binding was increased in the anterior cingulate in CI-PD compared to CN-PD and HC, and there was an inverse correlation between cognitive scores and [11C]PBB3 binding in this region across all PD subjects. Our results support a primary role of abnormal protein deposition localized to the posterior putamen in PD. This suggests that striatal axonal terminals are preferentially involved in the pathophysiology of PD. Furthermore, our findings suggest that anterior cingulate pathology might represent a significant in vivo marker of cognitive impairment in PD, in agreement with previous neuropathological studies.
Measuring burden of disease in both asthma and COPD by merging the ACQ and CCQ: less is more?
Authors: Cuperus Liz J. A. , van Zelst Cathelijne M. , Kerstjens Huib A. M. , Hendriks Rudi W. , Rutten-van Molken Maureen P. M. H. , Muilwijk-Kroes Jacqueline B. , Braunstahl Gert-Jan , in ’t Veen Johannes C. C. M.
Published: May 2024

Symptoms of asthma and COPD often overlap, and both diseases can co-exist in one patient. The asthma control questionnaire (ACQ) and clinical COPD questionnaire (CCQ) were developed to assess disease burden in respectively asthma or COPD. This study explores the possibility of creating a new questionnaire to assess disease burden in all obstructive lung diseases by integrating and reducing questions of the ACQ and CCQ. Data of patients with asthma, COPD and asthma-COPD overlap (ACO) were collected from a primary and secondary care center. Patients completed ACQ and CCQ on the same day. Linear regression tested correlations. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used for item reduction. The secondary cohort with asthma and COPD patients was used for initial question selection (development cohort). These results were reproduced in the primary care cohort and secondary cohort of patients with ACO. The development cohort comprised 252 patients with asthma and 96 with COPD. Correlation between ACQ and CCQ in asthma was R = 0.82, and in COPD R = 0.83. PCA determined a selection of 9 questions. Reproduction in primary care data (asthma n = 1110, COPD n = 1041, ACO = 355) and secondary care data of ACO patients (n = 53) resulted in similar correlations and PCA-derived selection of questions. In conclusion, PCA determined a selection of nine questions of the ACQ and CCQ: working title ‘the Obstructive Lung Disease Questionnaire’. These results suggest that this pragmatic set of questions might be sufficient to assess disease burden in obstructive lung disease in both primary as secondary care.
Intra-Individual Paired Mass Spectrometry Dataset for Decoding Solar-Induced Proteomic Changes in Facial Skin
Authors: Camillo-Andrade Amanda C. , Santos Marlon D. M. , Nuevo Patrícia S. , Lajas Ana B. L. , Sales Lucas A. , Leyva Alejandro , Fischer Juliana S. G. , Duran Rosario , Carvalho Paulo C.
Published: May 2024

Photoaging is the premature aging of the skin caused by prolonged exposure to solar radiation. The visual alterations manifest as wrinkles, reduced skin elasticity, uneven skin tone, as well as other signs that surpass the expected outcomes of natural aging. Beyond these surface changes, there is a complex interplay of molecular alterations, encompassing shifts in cellular function, DNA damage, and protein composition disruptions. This data descriptor introduces a unique dataset derived from ten individuals, each with a minimum of 18 years of professional experience as a driver, who are asymmetrically and chronically exposed to solar radiation due to their driving orientation. Skin samples were independently collected from each side of the face using a microdermabrasion-like procedure and analyzed on an Exploris 240 mass spectrometer. Our adapted proteomic statistical framework leverages the sample pairing to provide robust insights. This dataset delves into the molecular differences in exposed skin and serves as a foundational resource for interdisciplinary research in photodermatology, targeted skincare treatments, and computational modelling of skin health.