bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and Temporal Considerations of Optogenetic Tools in an All-Optical Single-Beam Experiment
Authors: Holder Damaris , Prigge Matthias
Published: February 2023

All-optical experiments promise neuroscientists an unprecedented possibility to manipulate and measure neuronal circuits with single-cell resolution. They rely on highly fine-tuned microscopes with complex optical designs. Of similar importance are genetically encoded optical actuators and indicators that also have to be optimized for such experiments. A particular challenge in these experiments is the detection of natural firing patterns via genetically encoded indicators while avoiding optical cross-activation of neurons that are photon-sensitized to allow optical replay of these patterns. Most optogenetic tools are sensitive in a broad spectral range within the visible spectrum, which impedes artifact-free read-and-write access to neuronal circuits. Nonetheless, carefully matching biophysical properties of actuators and indicators can permit unambiguous excitation with a single wavelength in a so-called single-beam all-optical experiment.

In this chapter, we evaluate the current understanding of these biological probes and describe the possibilities and limitations of those tools in the context of the all-optical single-beam experiment. Furthermore, we review new insights into the photophysical properties of actuators, and propose a new strategy for a single-beam two-photon excitation experiment to monitor activity minimizing cross-activation with the actuators. Finally, we will highlight aspects for future developments of these tools.
A Geostatistical Heterogeneity Metric for Spatial Feature Engineering
Authors: Liu Wendi , Garland Léan E. , Ochoa Jesus , Pyrcz Michael J.
Published: February 2023

Heterogeneity is a vital spatial feature for subsurface resource recovery predictions, such as mining grade tonnage functions, hydrocarbon recovery factor, and water aquifer draw-down predictions. Feature engineering presents the opportunity to integrate heterogeneity information, but traditional heterogeneity engineered features like Dykstra-Parsons and Lorenz coefficients ignore the spatial context; therefore, are not sufficient to quantify the heterogeneity over multiple scales of spatial intervals to inform predictive machine learning models. We propose a novel use of dispersion variance as a spatial-engineered feature that accounts for heterogeneity within the spatial context, including spatial continuity and sample data and model volume support size to improve predictive machine-learning-based models, e.g., for pre-drill prediction and uncertainty quantification. Dispersion variance is a generalized form of variance that accounts for volume support size and can be calculated from the semivariogram-based spatial continuity model. We demonstrate dispersion variance as a useful predictor feature for the case of hydrocarbon recovery prediction, with the ability to quantify the spatial variation over the support size of the production well drainage radius, given the spatial continuity from the variogram and trajectory of the well. We include a synthetic example based on geostatistical models and flow simulation to show the sensitivity of dispersion variance to production. Then we demonstrate the dispersion variance as an informative predictor feature for production forecasting with a field case study in the Duvernay formation.
Methodology for Defining the Optimal Drilling Grid in a Laterite Nickel Deposit Based on a Conditional Simulation
Authors: Neves Claudia Mara Sperandio , Costa João Felipe Coimbra Leite , Souza Leonardo , Guimaraes Fernando , Dias Geraldo
Published: February 2023

In mining projects, the confidence in an estimate is associated with the quantity and quality of the available information. Thus, the closer the data to the targeted location, the smaller the error associated with the estimated value. In the advanced stages of a project (i.e. the pre-feasibility and feasibility phases), it is usual to take samples derived from drillings. Since sampling and chemical analysis involve high costs, it is essential that these costs contribute to a reduction in the uncertainty of estimation. This paper presents a workflow for a case study of a lateritic nickel deposit and proposes a methodology to address the issue of optimising the drilling grid based on uncertainty derived from Gaussian conditional geostatistical simulations. The usefulness of the proposed workflow is demonstrated in terms of saving time and money when selecting a drill hole grid.
LSTM-Based Deep Learning Method for Automated Detection of Geophysical Signatures in Mining
Authors: Balamurali Mehala , Silversides Katherine L.
Published: February 2023

The mining of stratified ore deposits requires detailed knowledge of the location of orebody boundaries. In the Banded Iron Formation (BIF) hosted iron ore deposits located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia the natural gamma logs are useful tool to identify stratigraphic boundaries. However, manually interpreting these features is subjective and time consuming due to the large volume of data. In this study, we propose a novel approach to automatically detect natural gamma signatures. We implemented a LSTM based algorithm for automated detection of signatures. We achieved a relatively high accuracy using gamma sequences with and without added noise. Further, no feature extraction or selection is performed in this work. Hence, LSTM can be used to detect different signatures in natural gamma logs even with noise. So, this system can be introduced in mining as an aid for geoscientists.
Spectral Simulation of Gaussian Vector Random Fields on the Sphere
Authors: Alegría Alfredo , Emery Xavier , Freulon Xavier , Lantuéjoul Christian , Porcu Emilio , Renard Didier
Published: February 2023

Isotropic Gaussian random fields on the sphere are used in astronomy, geophysics, oceanography, climatology and remote sensing applications. However, to date, there is a lack of simulation algorithms that reproduce the spatial covariance structure without any approximation and, at the same time, are parsimonious in terms of computation time and memory storage requirements. This work presents two such algorithms that rely on the spectral representation of isotropic covariances on the sphere. Both algorithms are illustrated with synthetic examples.
Finding Worlds Worth Living in
Authors: Kemmis Stephen , Mahon Kathleen
Published: February 2023

This chapter discusses diverse views of worlds worth living in, as described by different groups of students, young people, and adults. It also highlights how the project of research and writing that produced this volume is an example of criticalpraxis: history making action directed towards realising the good for humankind. Perhaps, in this, it is an example of what Anna Stetsenko calls a ‘transformative activist stance’. In researching and articulating views of worlds worth living in, the contributors to the volume, and the participants with whom they spoke, not only began to imagine worlds worth living in, they also began to realise them.
Kooperation zwischen Rettungsdienst und kommunaler Altenhilfe: ein Weg zur Entlastung der Notfallversorgung?
Authors: Schönemann-Gieck Petra , Hagner Norbert , Groß Iris , von Schilling Ulrike
Published: February 2023

Hintergrund

Seit Jahren wächst der Druck auf die Notfallversorgung. Rettungsdienste werden zunehmend mit sozialen und pflegerischen Handlungsbedarfen älterer Notrufender konfrontiert. Mangels Alternativen werden diese Personen vielfach, auch ohne akutmedizinischen Handlungsbedarf, in Krankenhäuser transportiert. Ein 2018 in Wiesbaden entwickeltes Kooperationsverfahren zwischen Rettungsdienst und kommunalen Beratungsstellen für selbständiges Leben im Alter zielt darauf ab, Rettungskräften ein Instrument an die Hand zu geben, ältere Personen mit sozialen Bedarfen zu melden und so Krankenhausaufnahmen aufgrund „sozialer Indikation“ zu vermeiden.

Material und Methoden

Es wurden 494 Meldungen der Rettungskräfte ausgewertet und mit den Rückmeldungen der Sozialarbeitenden verglichen. Neben diesen fallbezogenen Daten geht eine Befragung von Rettungskräften zur Bewertung des Verfahrens und der Praktikabilität des Meldeinstruments in die Auswertung mit ein.

Ergebnisse

Die Meldungen durch die Rettungskräfte steigen kontinuierlich; das Verfahren erfährt durch diese Berufsgruppe eine hohe Wertschätzung. Die gemeldeten sozialen Bedarfe der Notrufenden werden durch die Mitarbeitenden der Beratungsstellen größtenteils bestätigt. Häusliche Unterversorgung, soziale Isolation und Verwahrlosung stellen die größten Problembereiche dar. Etwa die Hälfte der Notrufenden konnte zu Hause beraten bzw. mit Unterstützungsangeboten versorgt werden.

Diskussion

Das Kooperationsverfahren ist ein vielversprechender Ansatz zur Entlastung des Rettungsdiensts und der Krankenhäuser. Das Aufgreifen nichtmedizinischer Bedarfe älterer Notrufpatient*innen durch die kommunalen Beratungsstellen ermöglicht eine frühzeitige und bedarfsgerechte Stabilisierung häuslicher Versorgungssituationen und leistet somit einen Beitrag zur Reduzierung von Krankenhauseinweisungen ohne klinisch-medizinische Indikation.
Sex differences in skeletal muscle-aging trajectory: same processes, but with a different ranking
Authors: de Jong Jelle C.B.C. , Attema Brecht J. , van der Hoek Marjanne D. , Verschuren Lars , Caspers Martien P.M. , Kleemann Robert , van der Leij Feike R. , van den Hoek Anita M. , Nieuwenhuizen Arie G. , Keijer Jaap
Published: February 2023

Sex differences in muscle aging are poorly understood, but could be crucial for the optimization of sarcopenia-related interventions. To gain insight into potential sex differences in muscle aging, we recruited young (23 ± 2 years, 13 males and 13 females) and old (80 ± 3.5 years, 28 males and 26 females) participants. Males and females in both groups were highly matched, and vastus lateralis muscle parameters of old versus young participants were compared for each sex separately, focusing on gene expression. The overall gene expression profiles separated the sexes, but similar gene expression patterns separated old from young participants in males and females. Genes were indeed regulated in the same direction in both sexes during aging; however, the magnitude of differential expression was sex specific. In males, oxidative phosphorylation was the top-ranked differentially expressed process, and in females, this was cell growth mediated by AKT signaling. Findings from RNA-seq data were studied in greater detail using alternative approaches. In addition, we confirmed our data using publicly available data from three independent human studies. In conclusion, top-ranked pathways differ between males and females, but were present and altered in the same direction in both sexes. We conclude that the same processes are associated with skeletal muscle aging in males and females, but the differential expression of those processes in old vs. young participants is sex specific.
In vitro establishment and micropropagation of mango (Mangifera indica L.) from cotyledonary nodes
Authors: Conde Francisco , Carmona-Martin Elizabeth , Hormaza Jose I. , Petri Cesar
Published: February 2023

Mango is the fifth most important fruit crop in the world in terms of production with an increasing demand for high-quality plant material for new plantings. Compared to other fruit tree crops, vegetative propagation in mango is slow and allows only a relatively limited production of plant material. To date, efficient procedures for in vitro establishment and micropropagation are not yet available in mango. This work aims at filling this gap. Germination of mango seeds in vitro, compared with ex vitro conditions, significantly increased the germination rate for the monoembryonic genotype tested (‘Irwin’). In vitro germination also increased the number of developed embryos for the two polyembryonic genotypes analysed, ‘Ataulfo’ and ‘Gomera-4’. Regarding the use of shoot tips for in vitro establishment and micropropagation, our results confirmed that this explant is not adequate for this purpose. We report for the first time the use of cotyledonary nodes as initial explants in mango. Axillary shoots were obtained in all the genotypes tested (‘Ataulfo’, ‘Sabre’, ‘Gomera-4’, ‘Irwin’ and ‘Keitt’), although the regeneration rate was highly genotype-dependent. Thidiazuron induced high-frequency regeneration patterns. The best results were observed with ‘Keitt’. When 3.0 mg l−1 thidiazuron was added to the medium, a 63.15% regeneration rate was reached and about 4 shoots per regenerating explant were obtained. Subsequently, microshoots excised from the cotyledonary nodes were successfully rooted in vitro and acclimatized to ex vitro conditions. Our results show that the use of cotyledonary nodes is efficient for mango mass propagation and, consequently, represents a qualitative advance for in vitro propagation of this recalcitrant species.
The Morality of Kidney Sales: When Caring for the Seller’s Dignity Has Moral Costs
Authors: Reese Alexander , Pies Ingo
Published: February 2023

Kidney markets are prohibited in principle because they are assumed to undermine the seller’s dignity. Considering the trade-off between saving more lives by introducing regulated kidney markets and preserving the seller’s dignity, we argue that it is advisable to demand that citizens restrain their own moral judgements and not interfere with the judgements of those who are willing to sell a kidney. We also argue that it is advisable not only to limit the political implications of the moral argument of dignity concerns toward a market-based solution but also to re-evaluate the dignity argument itself. First, if the dignity argument is to be given normative force, it must also consider the dignity violation of the potential transplant recipient. Second, there seems to be no compelling notion of dignity that demonstrates why it is morally permissible to donate but not to sell a kidney.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative: Ambiguous Model Veiled in Straightforward Pragmatism
Authors: Kallio Jyrki
Published: February 2023

This article discusses the ideational motivations behind China’s connectivity projects, most notably the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and aims to explore which values these infrastructure projects seek to promote. The article is based on various published sources, including Chinese official, and public policy statements. Specifically, those statements and policy papers are qualitatively analyzed through a reflection of their manifested message against the background of Chinese International Relations-related discussions on Chinese worldviews. Based on this analysis, the article argues that China’s connectivity projects may be perceived as part of China’s ideational competition with the West, culminating in the presentation of “Chinese values” as a viable alternative to “universal values.”
Natural fractures characterization by integration of FMI logs, well logs and core data: a case study from the Sarvak Formation (Iran)
Authors: Mazdarani Amir , Kadkhodaie Ali , Wood David A. , Soluki Zohreh
Published: February 2023

Carbonate reservoirs in Iran are the most important and main sources of oil and gas production. Hydrocarbon flow rates from carbonate reservoirs heavily rely on the development of natural fractures. This study focuses on the role of natural fractures on reservoir quality considering the Sarvak carbonate reservoir (southwest Iran) as the second most important oil reservoir of Iran. To identify small-scale fractures around the borehole walls, cores description and image logs were utilized. Due to high cost of coring, lack of orientation and low core recovery in fractured zones indirect methods based on image logs and conventional well logs were exploited for fracture characterizations. For this purpose, a complete set of well data including image logs (FMI), well-log-derived porosity and permeability data together with petrophysical logs were employed. Interpretation of image logs allows different types of natural structures such as open, vuggy, partly-filled and filled fractures, bedding planes and stylolites to be identified. Comparisons between the petrophysical-log and image-log interpretations provide useful relationships with reservoir characteristics. Neutron and sonic logs show a direct relationship with fracture porosity, while the density log displays an inverse correlation with fracture porosity. Neutron-density and neutron-sonic cross-plots show that the dominant lithology of the studied well is limestone with minor fractions of dolomite and shale. Total porosity ranges from 2 to 30%, while the contribution of secondary porosity, on average, is below 3%. Relationships between fracture-frequency diagrams and reservoir permeability show that high permeability zones are well correlated with the high frequencies of open and vuggy fractures and zones that have flowed oil and associated gas in production tests. Natural fracture characterization based on systematic and integrated interpretations of image logs and petrophysical data can play an important role in optimizing field development, resource recovery and production from the Sarvak reservoir. Once calibrated, this method also offers potential as an exploration tool.
MicroRNA in lung cancer—a novel potential way for early diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Frydrychowicz Magdalena , Kuszel Łukasz , Dworacki Grzegorz , Budna-Tukan Joanna
Published: February 2023

Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. One of the reasons of poor prognosis and high mortality of lung cancer patients is the diagnosis of the disease in its advanced stage. Despite innovative diagnostic methods and multiple completed and ongoing clinical trials aiming at therapy improvement, no significant increase in patients’ long-term survival has been noted over last decades. Patients would certainly benefit from early detection of lung cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to find new biomarkers that can help predict outcomes and tumor responses in order to maximize therapy effectiveness and avoid over- or under-treating patients with lung cancer. Nowadays, scientists’ attention is mainly dedicated to so-called liquid biopsy, which is fully non-invasive and easily available method based on simple blood draw. Among common liquid biopsy elements, circulating tumor nucleic acids are worth mentioning. Epigenetic biomarkers, particularly miRNA expression, have several distinct features that make them promising prognostic markers. In this review, we described miRNA’s involvement in tumorigenesis and present it as a predictor of cancer development and progression, potential indicator of treatment efficacy, and most importantly promising therapeutic target.
Entropy Optimization and Slant MHD Mixed Convection Hybrid Nanofluid Flow Within an Oblique Irregular Lid-Driven Enclosure Contains Baffles: Local Thermal Non-equilibrium Model
Authors: Mansour M. A. , Ahmed S. E. , Mahdy A.
Published: February 2023

This paper explores the heat transfer by mixed convection within double lid-driven enclosures filled with Cu–Al$$_2$$

2

O$$_3$$

3

hybrid nanofluids. The domain contains T-shaped baffles and is filled with local thermal non-equilibrium (LTNE) porous medium. The wavy boundaries are partially cooled, while the inner baffles have constant heat flux conditions. Mathematical formulations for the system irreversibility in cases of LTNE, constant heat flux conditions and double diffusive are presented and analyzed. The solution methodology is depending on the finite volume scheme in case of non-orthogonal grids. The major results revealed that the alteration of the undulation number $$\lambda $$
λ
from 1 to 5 gives an augmentation in values of $$\theta _\text {f,max}$$

θ
f,max

up to 4.57%. Also, the increase in the lengths of the baffles causes a reduction in the flow, while $$\theta _\text {f,max}$$

θ
f,max

is rising. Furthermore, the alteration in Ri from 0.5 to 10 gives an augmentation in $$\theta _\text {f,max}$$

θ
f,max

up to 12.97%.
A Review on Vibrations in Electric and Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Krishna Keerthan , Mahesha G T , Hegde Sriharsha , Satish Shenoy B
Published: February 2023

Electric vehicles (EVs) are promising solutions to the problems faced by combustion engine-propelled automobiles. The futuristic transportation system would be majorly catered by battery EVs, hybrid EVs, and fuel cell EVs with a different combination of energy sources that could successfully meet the requirements of different categories of vehicle propulsion systems. However, to execute such vehicle systems with a high level of safety and comfort for the transportation of people and products, a few difficulties must be resolved. EVs of today face problems such as noise-vibration-harshness, energy storage difficulties, torque fluctuation/ripple in the power train, inadequate range, and some others. The present review paper comprehends major noise and vibration issues existing in EVs and attempts made by the researchers to find solutions to such problems. The major problem faced by the vehicle as well as by the passengers is vibration and discomfort. These vibrations if continued for a longer period might cause severe damages to the vehicle structure as well as to the passenger’s body. These issues must be thoroughly addressed by researchers to increase ride comfort, which is a crucial requirement of the hour as well.
New method for solving non-homogeneous periodic second-order difference equation and some applications
Authors: Taher R. Ben , Lassri M. , Rachidi M.
Published: February 2023

In the present study, we are interested in solving the nonhomogeneous second-order linear difference equation with periodic coefficients of period$$ p\ge 2$$p≥2, by bringing two new approaches enabling us to provide both analytic and combinatorial solutions to this family of equations. First, we get around the problem by converting this kind of equations to an equivalent family of nonhomogeneous linear difference equations of orderpwith constant coefficients. Second, we propose new expressions of the solutions of this family of equations, using our techniques of calculating the powers of product of companion matrices and some properties of generalized Fibonacci sequences. The study of the special case$$ p=2 $$p=2is provided. And to enhance the effectiveness of our approaches, some numerical examples are discussed.
The Horizontal Mode Natural Frequency of a Floating Pile in Layered Soil: Full-Scale Field Test Vs Mathematical Models
Authors: Varghese Ramon , Nigesh S. R. Varun , Banerjee Subhadeep , Boominathan A.
Published: February 2023

Pile supported structures can be subjected to a variety of man-made and naturally occurring dynamic loads. Dynamic loads such as those from rotating machinery include a considerable lateral component. The natural frequency of a pile in the horizontal mode becomes a key parameter in the design of dynamically sensitive equipment foundations. It is not uncommon for structural engineers to estimate the natural frequency of piles using quick linear methods using available soil investigation data before advanced laboratory tests on soil samples can be performed to calibrate nonlinear numerical models. This paper presents results from free and forced vibration tests on a full-scale single pile, designed for a high-speed compressor unit, in Hazira, India. Two different fast mathematical models, one following the Beam on Dynamic Winkler Foundation (BDWF) method, and another involving an FEM–BEM based numerical method were used in predictions against experimental results. The BDWF method was found to produce a preliminary estimate of pile stiffness at low strain levels. However, the selection of soil stiffness and damping models are crucial for the accuracy of BDWF models. It was found that the FEM–BEM model was able to simulate the nonlinear pile response with a moderate overestimation of vibration amplitudes.
Leader–follower formation control of four-legged robots with discrete-valued inputs
Authors: Izumi Shinsaku , Xin Xin
Published: February 2023

This paper addresses a leader–follower formation control problem for four-legged robots under discrete-valued input constraints. Four-legged robots are more suitable for rough terrain missions than wheeled robots because the tip positions of their legs can be changed depending on the terrain. However, it is difficult to control these robots through continuous-valued inputs because they are steered by switching between specific movements (i.e., discrete-valued signals). Motivated by this fact, we have proposed controllers that achieve fixed formations of four-legged robots using discrete-valued inputs, but moving formations, which are necessary for some applications, have not been considered yet. Herein, we present a solution to the above leader–follower formation control problem based on the combination of PD-like formation controllers and dynamic quantization. We further introduce a performance index to evaluate the difference between two systems whose inputs are quantized and unquantized and analyze the index for the feedback system with the presented controllers. As a result, an upper bound of the performance index is derived as a function of the system parameters. This is useful to evaluate the impact of the quantization on the behavior of the feedback system and to provide a theoretical guarantee of the stability of the system.
The association between night eating syndrome and health-related quality of life in Korean adults: a nationwide study
Authors: Kim Woorim , Ju Yeong Jun , Lee Soon Young
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Quality of life may be influenced by the presence of eating disorders. This study investigated the association between night eating syndrome (NES) and health-related quality of life in the general population.

Methods

Data were from the 2019 Korea Community Health Survey. The presence of NES was determined using the Night Eating Questionnaire. Health-related quality of life was measured using the 3-level EuroQoL-5 Dimension Index. Multivariable linear regression analyses assessed the association between NES and health-related quality of life. Subgroup analyses were performed based on daily sleep duration.

Results

A total of 34,434 individuals aged 19 years or older were included in the study population. Participants with NES (β = − 4.85,p < 0.001) reported poorer health-related quality of life scores than those without NES. Decreases in health-related quality of life scores among those with NES were greatest in those who slept over 8 h daily (β = − 12.03,p = 0.004), followed by those who slept less than 6 h (β = − 5.90,p = 0.006) and participants who slept between 6 and 8 h (β = − 3.40,p = 0.026) daily.

Conclusion

Individuals with NES were more likely to have a lower health-related quality of life than those without NES. These findings highlight the potential importance of considering NES in investigating the health-related quality of life.

Level of evidence

Level III, well-designed case–control analytic studies.
Exploring the moderating role of mindfulness, mindful eating, and self-compassion on the relationship between eating-disordered quality of life and orthorexia nervosa
Authors: Kalika Eliza , Hussain Misba , Egan Helen , Mantzios Michail
Published: February 2023

Orthorexia nervosa (ON) is characterised by an obsessive focus on healthy eating, following restrictive dietary practices and dietary restrictions escalating over time. The aim of this study was to explore mindfulness, mindful eating, self-compassion and quality of life in a female population. Two hundred eighty-eight participants completed Orthorexia, Self-Compassion, Mindful eating, Mindfulness and Eating Disorder Quality of Life scales. The results indicated that there was a negative relationship between ON and mindfulness, self-compassion and mindful eating. Furthermore, the present study found a positive relationship between lower quality of life and ON, while findings indicated that self-compassion and the awareness facet of mindfulness moderated the relationship between ON and QOL. The present results contribute to a better understanding of orthorexic eating behaviours in a female population, and identify the moderating capacity of self-compassion and mindfulness. Further implications and future directions are discussed.

Level of evidence Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.
Food avoidance in anorexia nervosa: associated and predicting factors
Authors: Di Lodovico L. , Vansteene C. , Poupon D. , Gorwood P. , Duriez P. ,   the FFAB, Godart Nathalie , Guillaume Sébastien , Lambert Sylvain , Chevallier-Latreuille F. , Remy Brigitte , Barrois Q. , Delorme M. , Massoubre Catherine , Dodin Vincent , Lavoisy Guillaume , Criquillion Sophie , Iceta Sylvan , Fayollet C. , Nubukpo Philippe , Bat Florat
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Qualitative food avoidance is a significant issue in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and restoring diet diversity is an important part of the treatment process. We aimed to identify clinical factors which drive food avoidance and predict its maintenance in patients with AN.

Methods

In this multicentre longitudinal study, 130 female outpatients with AN were assessed before and after 4 months of care in clinical centres specialized in AN. We assessed levels of avoidance of 16 food items, as well as body mass index (BMI), eating disorder severity, symptoms of depression and anxiety, emotional state, daily-life functioning, and body image perception.

Results

We found that qualitative food avoidance was associated with the clinical severity of AN, anxiety and mood dimensions, and BMI- and body image-related factors. A younger age at onset predicted the maintenance of food avoidance after 4 months of treatment. Additional exploratory analyses suggested that anxiety and negative affect caused food avoidance more than the opposite.

Conclusion

Qualitative food avoidance can be an indicator of illness severity. During treatment, focusing on reducing anxiety and negative affect may be a way to indirectly reduce food avoidance and restore diet diversity.

Level of evidence

Level III: Evidence obtained from cohort or case-control analytic studies.
Development and validation of an intrinsic capacity composite score in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam: a formative approach
Authors: Koivunen Kaisa , Hoogendijk Emiel O. , Schaap Laura A. , Huisman Martijn , Heymans Martijn W. , van Schoor Natasja M.
Published: February 2023

Background

Intrinsic capacity (IC) defined by the WHO refers to the composite of five domains of capacities. So far, developing and validating a standardized overall score of the concept have been challenging partly because its conceptual framework has been unclear. We consider that a person’s IC is determined by its domain-specific indicators suggesting a formative measurement model.

Aims

To develop an IC score applying a formative approach and assess its validity.

Methods

The study sample (n = 1908) consisted of 57–88-year-old participants from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA). We used logistic regression models to select the indicators to the IC score with 6-year functional decline as an outcome. An IC score (range 0–100) was constructed for each participant. We examined the known-groups’ validity of the IC score by comparing groups based on age and number of chronic diseases. The criterion validity of the IC score was assessed with 6-year functional decline and 10-year mortality as outcomes.

Results

The constructed IC score included seven indicators covering all five domains of the construct. The mean IC score was 66.7 (SD 10.3). The scores were higher among younger participants and those who had lower number of chronic diseases. After adjustment for sociodemographic indicators, chronic diseases, and BMI, a one-point higher IC score was associated with a 7% decreased risk for 6-year functional decline and a 2% decreased risk for 10-year mortality.

Conclusions

The developed IC score demonstrated discriminative ability according to age and health status and is associated with subsequent functional decline and mortality.
A Systematic Review of Culture-Based Methods for Monitoring Antibiotic-Resistant Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, and Pseudomonas as Environmentally Relevant Pathogens in Wastewater and Surface Water
Authors: Milligan Erin G. , Calarco Jeanette , Davis Benjamin C. , Keenum Ishi M. , Liguori Krista , Pruden Amy , Harwood Valerie J.
Published: February 2023

Purpose of Review

Mounting evidence indicates that habitats such as wastewater and environmental waters are pathways for the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and mobile antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). We identified antibiotic-resistant members of the genera Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, and Pseudomonas as key opportunistic pathogens that grow or persist in built (e.g., wastewater) or natural aquatic environments. Effective methods for monitoring these ARB in the environment are needed to understand their influence on dissemination of ARB and ARGs, but standard methods have not been developed. This systematic review considers peer-reviewed papers where the ARB above were cultured from wastewater or surface water, focusing on the accuracy of current methodologies.

Recent Findings

Recent studies suggest that many clinically important ARGs were originally acquired from environmental microorganisms. Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, and Pseudomonas species are of interest because their ability to persist and grow in the environment provides opportunities to engage in horizontal gene transfer with other environmental bacteria. Pathogenic strains of these organisms resistant to multiple, clinically relevant drug classes have been identified as an urgent threat. However, culture methods for these bacteria were generally developed for clinical samples and are not well-vetted for environmental samples.

The search criteria yielded 60 peer-reviewed articles over the past 20 years, which reported a wide variety of methods for isolation, confirmation, and antibiotic resistance assays. Based on a systematic comparison of the reported methods, we suggest a path forward for standardizing methodologies for monitoring antibiotic resistant strains of these bacteria in water environments.
Management clinico e terapia sostitutiva dell’insufficienza ovarica primaria
Authors: Federici Silvia , Bonomi Marco , Persani Luca
Published: February 2023

Sommario

L’insufficienza ovarica prematura è caratterizzata da un esaurimento dell’attività ovarica prima dei 40 anni, con conseguente ipoestrogenismo, amenorrea e infertilità e interessa l’1% delle donne. L’importanza clinica di questa condizione è notevolmente aumentata nel corso degli ultimi decenni per diversi motivi. Una diagnosi tempestiva, una terapia sostitutiva e un management adeguato sono quindi fondamentali. La terapia estrogenica sostitutiva, condotta con regime terapeutico ottimale, ha molteplici obiettivi, tra cui il trattamento dei sintomi da ipoestrogenismo e la riduzione delle complicanze a lungo termine.
What feeds on what? Networks of interdependencies between culture and institutions
Authors: von Jacobi Nadia , Amendolagine Vito
Published: February 2023

Culture and institutions both matter in shaping trajectories for socioeconomic progress. As the debate on causal directionalities between culture and institutions is still ongoing, we recast its perspective: a complex network of symbiotic relationships ties a multitude of cultural and institutional factors together. We blend the institutional complementarities literature with symbiosis theory, and place it into the context of a data-driven approach that extends correlation network analyses. We frame each single interdependence between a cultural and an institutional factor as an asymmetric symbiotic relationship in which a ‘host’ feeds a ‘symbiont’: the latter is more dependent on the former. In our computed network, each relation locates within a broader context of pathways and network constellations. We apply our approach to Brazilian municipal data. Our results confirm high complexity in the coevolution of culture and institutions and suggest an emerging pattern in which cultural factors are more likely to be hosts than institutions or social capital. In the Brazilian municipal reality, the institutional innovation of participatory councils bears the potential of game-changer in the system, while tax collection strongly depends on cultural factors i.e. the (in)formality of the economy and family ties.
Effect of initial pore pressure on the hydraulic fracturing of tight sandstone: an experimental study
Authors: Ma Dongdong , Wu Yu , Yin Jiadi , Lu Jingjing , Hu Dawei , Zhou Hui
Published: February 2023

Pore pressure is a crucial factor affecting reservoir stimulation, especially in unconventional reservoirs, because it can control crack initiation and propagation. However, studies on the effect of initial pore pressure on hydraulic fracturing in low-permeability reservoirs are lacking, and fracturing mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, we conducted hydraulic fracturing tests under initial pore pressure, and proposed an improved fracturing initiation criterion to elucidate the fracturing mechanism of tight sandstone. The results demonstrated that the breakdown pressure increased with the initial pore pressure by 8 to 24%, and its evolution was identified approximately by the improved initiation criterion, which resulted in the complicated, invisible and intense features of the macroscopic fracture morphology and microscopic crack. The finding was mainly due to the viscous stress induced by fracturing disturbance under initial pore pressure and represented the dual interaction between rock structure and work fluid viscosity. As a result, the change in microporous diameter in micropores and a high pressure to failure can be obtained. Accordingly, the initial pore pressure in tight sandstone may not only induce n effective stress on the skeleton but also be responsible for the double effect on the fracturing mechanism with high pressure and intense failure features, which should be given attention in unconventional reservoir stimulation.
The persistent homology of genealogical networks
Authors: Boyd Zachary M. , Callor Nick , Gledhill Taylor , Jenkins Abigail , Snellman Robert , Webb Benjamin , Wonnacott Raelynn
Published: February 2023

Genealogical networks (i.e. family trees) are of growing interest, with the largest known data sets now including well over one billion individuals. Interest in family history also supports an 8.5 billion dollar industry whose size is projected to double within 7 years [FutureWise report HC-1137]. Yet little mathematical attention has been paid to the complex network properties of genealogical networks, especially at large scales. The structure of genealogical networks is of particular interest due to the practice of forming unions, e.g. marriages, that are typically well outside one’s immediate family. In most other networks, including other social networks, no equivalent restriction exists on the distance at which relationships form. To study the effect this has on genealogical networks we use persistent homology to identify and compare the structure of 101 genealogical and 31 other social networks. Specifically, we introduce the notion of a network’s persistence curve, which encodes the network’s set of persistence intervals. We find that the persistence curves of genealogical networks have a distinct structure when compared to other social networks. This difference in structure also extends to subnetworks of genealogical and social networks suggesting that, even with incomplete data, persistent homology can be used to meaningfully analyze genealogical networks. Here we also describe how concepts from genealogical networks, such as common ancestor cycles, are represented using persistent homology. We expect that persistent homology tools will become increasingly important in genealogical exploration as popular interest in ancestry research continues to expand.
Mendelian explorations
Authors: Marengo Luigi , Settepanella Simona , Valente Marco
Published: February 2023

In his most recent book, Daniel Levinthal develops a theory of strategy and organization centred around a “Mendelian executive” who consciously seeks new strategic opportunities but is constrained by path dependence to search in spaces adjacent to the current state of affairs. Building upon this intuition, we present a simple model of exploration and exploitation in complex landscapes showing that path dependence modifies the usual predictions of arm bandit models, especially when agents search in complex spaces where correlation of performance among adjacent alternative is low.
Characteristics of Statically Indeterminate Symmetric Flexure Structures
Authors: Qin Yan-Ding , Shi Yue-Yang , Shirinzadeh Bijan , Tian Yan-Ling , Zhang Da-Wei
Published: February 2023

Statically indeterminate symmetric (SIS) flexure structures are symmetric structures with “clamped-clamped” boundary conditions. The static indeterminacy and topological symmetry significantly attenuate the parasitic motions associated with statically determinate flexure structures. Hence, SIS flexure structures feature decoupled linear and angular motions, improved motion accuracy, high stiffness, and high stability. Although SIS flexure structures have been more frequently utilized as prismatic joints, they can also be utilized as revolute joints. This study systematically investigates the characteristics of SIS flexure structures. Based on the unified compliance models of a single flexure hinge, analytical compliance models of two fundamental types of SIS flexure structures are established. In 1-degree-of-freedom or planar applications, multiple SIS-based structures can also be integrated into various configurations to transmit linear or angular motions. Corresponding stiffness models are also established. The characteristics and possible applications of the SIS flexure structures are computationally investigated through case studies. Ultimately, several SIS prototypes are manufactured, and the modeling accuracy of the established stiffness models is experimentally verified.
Lernen auf Distanz während der Coronapandemie
Authors: Knauf Helen
Published: February 2023

Während der Coronapandemie mussten Eltern intensiver als sonst das Lernen ihrer Kinder begleiten und unterstützen. Zusätzliche Herausforderungen ergaben sich dadurch, dass die Ausnahmesituation nicht nur auf wenige Wochen begrenzt war, sondern sich über mehr als ein Jahr hinzog. Die hier vorgestellte Studie geht der Frage nach, welche Ressourcen und Probleme es aus Sicht von Eltern beim Lernen auf Distanz gab. Dazu wurden Eltern von Grundschülerinnen und -schülern an zwei verschiedenen Zeitpunkten während der Pandemie mit Interviews befragt. Durch das Längsschnitt-Design konnten Veränderungen und Kontinuitäten erfasst werden. Die Untersuchung zeigt, dass für die Bewältigung der Situation sowohl Charakteristika der Familie als auch Merkmale der Schule eine zentrale Rolle spielten. Gerade für Familien mit geringen eigenen Ressourcen spielten unterstützende Schulfaktoren eine zentrale Rolle. Diese lagen vor allem in einer schülerorientierten Unterrichtgestaltung, die die Kinder befähigte, Aufgaben selbstständig zu bearbeiten.
Metabolomic Profiling and Cytotoxic Activity of Launaea nudicaulis: Molecular Docking with Topoisomerases
Authors: Elhawary Seham , Hassan Marwa H. A. , El-desoucky Shimaa Ibrahim , Elwekeel Ahlam , Mohamed Enas I. A. , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan , Hassan Hossam M. , Mohammed Rabab
Published: February 2023

Launaea nudicaulis (L.) Hook. f., Asteraceae, is a wild plant growing in Egypt, used traditionally for treatment of many diseases. LC-HRMS analysis of different polarity soluble extracts allowed the annotation of fifteen compounds: three alkaloids, four flavonoids, three phenolic acids, three coumarins, one sphingolipid, and one triterpene. Chemical investigation led to isolation and identification of caffeic acid, luteolin, luteolin7-O-glucoside, lupeol, β-sitosterol, and palmitic acid. Cytotoxic evaluation for hexane, CH2Cl2, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol extracts using MTT assay against three cancer cell lines HL-60, HT-29, and MCF-7 showed a remarkable cytotoxic activity for the CH2Cl2-soluble extract against HL-60 and HT-29 with IC50 5.8 and 8.26 µg/ml, respectively, as well the n-butanol extract showed good activity against HL-60 and HT-29 with IC50 11.6 and 9.6 µg/ml, respectively. Docking study was performed on topoisomerase enzymes (I, IIα, and IIβ) and provided a rationale for the biological outcomes where three natural compounds in the plant strongly bound to the proteins, particularly, luteolin-7-(6″-malonylneohesperidoside) with binding affinities of − 11.341, − 10.866, and − 10.111 kcal/mol, respectively, and kaempferol-3-O-[6″-malonyl-β-d-apiofuranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranoside] with binding affinities of − 10.796, − 10.102, and − 9.916 kcal/mol, respectively. Also, luteolin-7-O-β-d-glucopyranoside docked with higher binding affinity to topoisomerase I (− 10.367 kcal/mol) compared to topoisomerases IIα and IIβ.

Graphical Abstract
Delay in timing and spatial reorganization of rainfall due to urbanization- analysis over India’s smart city Bhubaneswar
Authors: Swain Madhusmita , Nadimpalli Raghavendra Raju , Mohanty Uma Charan , Guhathakurta Pulak , Gupta Akhilesh , Kaginalkar Akshara , Chen Fei , Niyogi Dev
Published: February 2023

Bhubaneswar is the first designed ‘smart city’ in India and has experienced rapid urbanization since 2000. The question undertaken in this study is to assess if there is a change in the rainfall over this rapidly urbanizing region, and if so, what are the characteristics of the change? The broader intent is to understand if the change in urbanization and rainfall are interlinked? The India Meteorological Department (hourly station and daily gridded) and Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission (3-hourly) datasets are analyzed for the 1980–2018 period (39 years) for different seasons separately. Wavelet and trend analysis reveal that precipitation intensity has increased over the study period. The assessments of the hourly rainfall data show an interesting feature. There is a decrease in the midnight to early-morning rain, with a corresponding increase in the late-afternoon to midnight rainfall. The increase in the rainfall is preferentially downwind and on the east side of the city. A supervised classified land use land cover map of the Bhubaneswar region is developed for 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2019 using Landsat imagery to compute the urban sprawl. The urban area and population density over Bhubaneswar is increasing with time. Analysis of the LULC and rainfall data indicates that the rainfall over urban regions and the shift in the timing of rains to evenings is highly correlated with the urban sprawl.
Deadly Decision in Beijing
Authors: Su Yang
Published: February 2023

Three decades after 1989, historical materials are now available for understanding the Tiananmen protests in a new light. In a play-by-play account of the elite politics that led to the military crackdown, Yang Su addresses the repression of the protest in the context of political leadership succession. He challenges conventional views that see the military intervention as a necessary measure against a revolutionary mobilization. Beneath the political drama, Deadly Decision in Beijing explores the authoritarian regime's perpetual crisis of leadership transition and its impact on popular movements.