bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do emerging multinationals achieve sustainable development globally? The enabling mechanism of headquarter‐subsidiary structure in subsidiary sustainability
Authors: Zhou Chao , Xu Guannan , Sun Cong , Chang Xiaoran
Published: October 2023

Despite of the increasing attention on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation, emerging multinational corporations (EMNCs), and their foreign subsidiaries, as the promising contributors and main agents respectively to address SDG issues worldwide, have been rarely noticed in theoretical research. Drawing upon the loose coupling theory, this study seeks to address the unique challenges EMNCs facing in managing their foreign subsidiaries' SDG implementation, and informs on tackling the potential conflicts in meeting multiple SDG requirements of home and host countries. Based on a sample of 295 foreign subsidiaries from Chinese manufacturing firms, this study adopts polynomial quadratic regression with response surface analysis to examine the relationship between headquarter‐subsidiary (HQS) coupling structure and subsidiary sustainable development, as well as the role of parent corporate environmental responsibility (CER) and FDI motives in this process. Our findings demonstrate support for the positive effect of HQS coupling structure on subsidiary sustainable development, and the moderating role of FDI motives is confirmed. This study reveals the key mechanisms and contingencies of SDG implementation at the subsidiary level, and provides theoretical insights for EMNCs to tackle SDG issues globally, obtain legitimacy locally and deepen international expansion accordingly.
What Makes On‐Chip Microdevices Stand Out in Electrocatalysis?
Authors: Luo Wen , Yan Xin , Pan Xuelei , Jiao Jinying , Mai Liqiang
Published: October 2023

Clean and sustainable energy conversion and storage through electrochemistry shows great promise as an alternative to traditional fuel or fossil‐consumption energy systems. With regards to practical and high‐efficient electrochemistry application, the rational design of active sites and the accurate description of mechanism remain a challenge. Toward this end, in this Perspective, a unique on‐chip micro/nano device coupling nanofabrication and low‐dimensional electrochemical materials is presented, in which material structure analysis, field‐effect regulation, in situ monitoring, and simulation modeling are highlighted. The critical mechanisms that influence electrochemical response are discussed, and how on‐chip micro/nano device distinguishes itself is emphasized. The key challenges and opportunities of on‐chip electrochemical platforms are also provided through the Perspective.
Computational aspects of Calogero–Moser spaces
Authors: Bonnafé Cédric , Thiel Ulrich
Published: October 2023

We present a series of algorithms for computing geometric and representation-theoretic invariants of Calogero–Moser spaces and rational Cherednik algebras associated with complex reflection groups. In particular, we are concerned with Calogero–Moser families (which correspond to the $$\mathbb {C}^\times $$

C

×

-fixed points of the Calogero–Moser space) and cellular characters (a proposed generalization by Rouquier and the first author of Lusztig’s constructible characters based on a Galois covering of the Calogero–Moser space). To compute the former, we devised an algorithm for determining generators of the center of the rational Cherednik algebra (this algorithm has several further applications), and to compute the latter we developed an algorithmic approach to the construction of cellular characters via Gaudin operators. We have implemented all our algorithms in the Cherednik Algebra Magma Package by the second author and used this to confirm open conjectures in several new cases. As an interesting application in birational geometry we are able to determine for many exceptional complex reflection groups the chamber decomposition of the movable cone of a $$\mathbb {Q}$$
Q
-factorial terminalization (and thus the number of non-isomorphic relative minimal models) of the associated symplectic singularity. Making possible these computations was also a source of inspiration for the first author to propose several conjectures about the geometry of Calogero–Moser spaces (cohomology, fixed points, symplectic leaves), often in relation with the representation theory of finite reductive groups.
Lessons Learned in Elective Surgeries After 6 Pandemic Waves of SARS‐CoV‐2. A Single European Center Experience
Authors: García‐Botella Alejandra , De la Serna Esteban Sofía , López‐Antoñanzas Leyre , Avellana‐Moreno Rocío , Dziakova Jana , Cano Valderrama Oscar , Martín‐Antona Esteban , Serrano‐García Irene , Torres García Antonio José
Published: October 2023

Background

The reported high surgical morbidity and mortality in patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 prompted preoperative screening and modification of surgical protocols. Although vaccination and treatment of COVID‐19 have resulted in lower hospitalization rates and infection severity, publications on postoperative results have not been updated. The aim of the study was to analyze the outcomes of patients undergoing surgery in two periods with high incidence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, before and after vaccination.

Materials and Methods

This is a prospective cohort study of patients undergoing surgery in two periods: March–June 2020 (Group2020) and December 2021–February 2022 (Group2022) (after massive vaccination).

Results

In total, 618 patients who underwent surgery were included in the analysis (Group2020: 343 vs. Group2022: 275). Significantly more oncological procedures were performed in Group2020, and there were no differences in postoperative complications. Nosocomial SARS‐CoV‐2 infection occurred in 4 patients in Group2020 and 1 patient in Group2022. In Group 2022, 70 patients (25.4%) had COVID‐19 prior to surgery, and 68 (97.1%) were vaccinated. Comparative analysis between patients with past COVID‐19 and those without showed no difference in postoperative morbidity and mortality. According to the time elapsed between SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and surgery (≤ 7 or > 7 weeks), comparative analysis showed no significant differences.

Conclusion

The establishment of preoperative screening protocols for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection results in a low incidence of nosocomial infection and optimal postoperative outcomes. Preoperative SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in vaccinated patients was not associated with increased postoperative complications, even in shorter periods after infection. In surgical patients, individualized preoperative evaluation after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection may be more important than strict time limitation.
Collagen peptide supplementation before bedtime reduces sleep fragmentation and improves cognitive function in physically active males with sleep complaints
Authors: Thomas Craig , Kingshott Ruth N. , Allott Kirsty M. , Tang Jonathan C. Y. , Dunn Rachel , Fraser William D. , Thorley Josh , Virgilio Nicolina , Prawitt Janne , Hogervorst Eef , Škarabot Jakob , Clifford Tom
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The primary aim of this study was to examine whether a glycine-rich collagen peptides (CP) supplement could enhance sleep quality in physically active men with self-reported sleep complaints.

Methods

In a randomized, crossover design, 13 athletic males (age: 24 ± 4 years; training volume; 7 ± 3 h·wk1) with sleep complaints (Athens Insomnia Scale, 9 ± 2) consumed CP (15 g·day1) or a placebo control (CON) 1 h before bedtime for 7 nights. Sleep quality was measured with subjective sleep diaries and actigraphy for 7 nights; polysomnographic sleep and core temperature were recorded on night 7. Cognition, inflammation, and endocrine function were measured on night 7 and the following morning. Subjective sleepiness and fatigue were measured on all 7 nights. The intervention trials were separated by ≥ 7 days and preceded by a 7-night familiarisation trial.

Results

Polysomnography showed less awakenings with CP than CON (21.3 ± 9.7 vs. 29.3 ± 13.8 counts, respectively; P = 0.028). The 7-day average for subjective awakenings were less with CP vs. CON (1.3 ± 1.5 vs. 1.9 ± 0.6 counts, respectively; P = 0.023). The proportion of correct responses on the baseline Stroop cognitive test were higher with CP than CON (1.00 ± 0.00 vs. 0.97 ± 0.05 AU, respectively; P = 0.009) the morning after night 7. There were no trial differences in core temperature, endocrine function, inflammation, subjective sleepiness, fatigue and sleep quality, or other measures of cognitive function or sleep (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

CP supplementation did not influence sleep quantity, latency, or efficiency, but reduced awakenings and improved cognitive function in physically active males with sleep complaints.
Epidemiology of acute kidney injury in children: a report from the 26th Acute Disease Quality Initiative (ADQI) consensus conference
Authors: Sutherland Scott M. , Alobaidi Rashid , Gorga Stephen M. , Iyengar Arpana , Morgan Catherine , Heydari Emma , Arikan A. Ayse Akcan , Basu Raj K. , Goldstein Stuart L. , Zappitelli Michael ,   the ADQI 26 Workgroup, Askenazi David J. , Bagshaw Sean M. , Barhight Matthew , Barreto Erin , Bayrakci Benan , Bignall O. N. Ray , Bjornstad Erica , Brophy Patrick , Charlton Jennifer , Chanchlani Rahul , Conroy Andrea L. , Deep Akash , Devarajan Prasad , Dolan Kristin , Fuhrman Dana Y. , Gist Katja M. , Greenberg Jason H. , Hasson Denise , Jetton Jennifer , Krawczeski Catherine , Meigs Leslie , Menon Shina , Morgan Jolyn , Mottes Theresa , Neumayr Tara , Ricci Zaccaria , Selewski David T. , Soranno Danielle , Stanski Natalja , Starr Michelle , Symons Jordan , Tavares Marcelo , Vega Molly , Ronco Claudio , Mehta Ravindra L. , Kellum John , Ostermann Marlies
Published: October 2023

The nephrology and critical care communities have seen an increase in studies exploring acute kidney injury (AKI) epidemiology in children. As a result, we now know that AKI is highly prevalent in critically ill neonates, children, and young adults. Furthermore, children who develop AKI experience greater morbidity and higher mortality. Yet knowledge gaps still exist that suggest a more comprehensive understanding of AKI will form the foundation for future efforts designed to improve outcomes. In particular, the areas of community acquired AKI, AKI in non-critically ill children, and cohorts from low-middle income countries have not been well studied. Longer-term functional outcomes and patient-centric metrics including social determinants of health, quality of life, and healthcare utilization should be the foci of the next phase of scholarship. Current definitions identify AKI-based upon evidence of dysfunction which serves as a proxy for injury; biomarkers capable of identifying injury as it occurs are likely to more accurately define populations with AKI. Despite the strength of the association, the causal and mechanistic relationships between AKI and poorer outcomes remain inadequately examined. A more robust understanding of the relationship represents a potential to identify therapeutic targets. Once established, a more comprehensive understanding of AKI epidemiology in children will allow investigation of preventive, therapeutic, and quality improvement interventions more effectively.
Growing rods in meningomyelocele lead to increased risk for complications in comparison with fusion; a retrospective study of 30 patients treated for at the University Hospital of Uppsala
Authors: Kontakis Michael G. , Pazarlis Konstantinos , Karlsson Thomas , Jonsson Håkan , Schizas Nikos
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To compare the complication rates of two different types of posterior instrumentation in patients with MMC, namely, definitive fusion and fusionless surgery (growing rods).

Methods

Single-center retrospective study of 30 MMC patients that underwent posterior instrumentation for deformity (scoliosis and/or kyphosis) treatment from 2008 until 2020. The patients were grouped based on whether they received definitive fusion or a growth-accommodating system, whether they had a complication that led to early surgery, osteotomy or non-osteotomy. Number of major operations, Cobb angle correction and perioperative blood loss were the outcomes.

Results

18 patients received a growing system and 12 were fused at index surgery. The growing system group underwent a mean of 2.38 (± 1.03) surgeries versus 1.91 (± 2.27) in the fusion group, p = 0.01. If an early revision was necessitated due to a complication, then the number of major surgeries per patient was 3.37 (± 2.44) versus 1.77 (± 0.97) in the group that did not undergo an early revision, p = 0.01. Four patients developed a superficial and six a deep wound infection, while loosening/breakage occurred in 10 patients. The Cobb angle was improved from a mean of 69 to 22 degrees postoperatively. Osteotomy did not lead to an increase in perioperative blood loss or number of major operations.

Conclusion

Growing systems had more major operations in comparison with fusion surgery and early revision surgery led to higher numbers of major operations per patient; these differences were statistically significant. Definitive fusion at index surgery might be the better option in some MMC patients with a high-risk profile.
Stroma AReactive Invasion Front Areas (SARIFA) proves prognostic relevance in gastric carcinoma and is based on a tumor–adipocyte interaction indicating an altered immune response
Authors: Grosser Bianca , Heyer Christian M. , Austgen Johannes , Sipos Eva , Reitsam Nic G. , Hauser Andreas , VanSchoiack Alison , Kroeppler David , Vlasenko Dmytro , Probst Andreas , Novotny Alexander , Weichert Wilko , Keller Gisela , Schlesner Matthias , Märkl Bruno
Published: October 2023

Background

Recently, we presented Stroma AReactive Invasion Front Areas (SARIFA) as a new histomorphologic negative prognostic biomarker in gastric cancer. It is defined as direct contact between tumor cells and fat cells. The aim of this study was to further elucidate the underlying genomic, transcriptional, and immunological mechanisms of the SARIFA phenomenon.

Methods

To address these questions, SARIFA was classified on H&E-stained tissue sections of three cohorts: an external cohort (n = 489, prognostic validation), the TCGA-STAD cohort (n = 194, genomic and transcriptomic analysis), and a local cohort (n = 60, digital spatial profiling (whole transcriptome) and double RNA in situ hybridization/immunostaining of cytokines).

Results

SARIFA status proved to be an independent negative prognostic factor for overall survival in an external cohort of gastric carcinomas. In TCGA-STAD cohort, SARIFA is not driven by distinct genomic alterations, whereas the gene expression analyses showed an upregulation of FABP4 in SARIFA-positive tumors. In addition, the transcriptional regulations of white adipocyte differentiation, triglyceride metabolism, and catabolism were upregulated in pathway analyses. In the DSP analysis of SARIFA-positive tumors, FABP4 and the transcriptional regulation of white adipocyte differentiation were upregulated in macrophages. Additionally, a significantly lower expression of the cytokines IL6 and TNFα was observed at the invasion front.

Conclusions

SARIFA proves to be a strong negative prognostic biomarker in advanced gastric cancer, implicating an interaction of tumor cells with tumor-promoting adipocytes with crucial changes in tumor cell metabolism. SARIFA is not driven by tumor genetics but is very likely driven by an altered immune response as a causative mechanism.
Time stationarity, shape and ordinal ranking bias of RCA indexes: a new set of measures
Authors: Stellian Rémi , Ojeda-Joya Jair N. , Danna-Buitrago Jenny P.
Published: October 2023

A new set of tools to measure the time stationarity, shape and ordinal ranking bias of Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) indexes is suggested. The aim is to help select the most consistent RCA index for a given set of countries, products and time periods, which is especially relevant for economic policy based on comparative advantages. The GMM estimation of an AR(1) process based on RCA indexes provides three measures of time stationarity that are more rational than the measures available in the literature. Furthermore, we revise the statistics that are commonly used to capture shape. Finally, with respect to ordinal ranking bias, we modify the use of Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient in Leromain and Orefice (Int Econ 139:48–70, 2014) and generalize the non-parametric measure of Stellian and Danna-Buitrago (J Appl Econ 22(1):349–379, 2019). We discuss different methods of ranking RCA indexes according to all proposed measures. An application to 33 RCA indexes, 67 trade areas and three product classifications shows that, on average, the most accurate RCA indexes are Contribution-to-the-Trade-Balance indexes, Revealed Competitiveness indexes and regression-based indexes.
Epidemiological Characteristics and Factors Associated with Repeat Sexually Transmitted Infections in Barcelona, Spain Over a Decade
Authors: Jacques-Aviñó Constanza , Alarcón Guitiérrez Miguel , Barbera María Jesús , Fuertes Irene , Martin-Ezquerra Gemma , Lopez-Contreras Joaquín , Vives Álvaro , Rodriguez Raquel , Ros Miriam , Rius Cristina , de Olalla Patricia Garcia
Published: October 2023

In the last few years, the frequency of sexually transmitted infections (STI) has increased, as has the number of people with multiple infections. The aim of our study was to describe the epidemiological characteristics of persons with repeated bacterial STI and to determine the risk factors for these episodes in persons living in Barcelona during the period 2007–2018. We studied all cases of bacterial STI included in the STI registry of Barcelona. Repeated STI were defined as a diagnosis of gonorrhea, syphilis, or lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) after a first episode of one of these infections. Analysis was stratified by sex and place of birth. The factors associated with time to reinfection were determined by Kaplan–Meier estimates, while the factors associated with risk of infection were determined by a Cox proportional hazards model. Of 9927 persons with a diagnosis of bacterial STI, 1690 (17.0%) had at least two episodes of STI during the study period. On multivariate analysis, repeat STI were independently associated with male sex assigned at birth (HR: 3.45; 95%CI 2.22–5.36), age less than 34 years (HR: 1.22; 95%CI 1.10–1.35); gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, and transgender o transsexual woman (GBSMS/Trans) (HR: 4.03; 95%CI 3.24–5.03), having gonorrhea as first diagnosis (HR:1.49, 95%CI 1.34–1.66) or LGV (HR:1.75; 95%CI 1.47–2.08) and coinfection with HIV (HR:1.98; 95%CI 1.78–2.21). Sexual health programs should be strengthened to prevent STI and reinfection in key populations.
The role of social reinforcement in norm transmission and cultural evolution
Authors: Cadenas Haggeo
Published: October 2023

Work on cultural evolution, especially that of Boyd, Richerson, and Henrich, has said little about the role of reinforcement in cultural learning. This is surprising, for reinforcement is an old system, it is found across a diverse array of organisms, and it is a successful concept in various scientific disciplines. The main claim of this paper is that social forms of reinforcement play a role in cultural evolution. More specifically, I argue that starting early in human history, social approval and disapproval of behavior function as reinforcers and punishers; approval and disapproval thereby start a process whereby norms are transmitted. After giving arguments for these claims, I discuss work on social learning strategies—cultural rules specifying who to learn from and how to learn from them (Heyes in Philos Trans R Soc 371(1693):1–8, 2016. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2015.0369). I suggest that the account I develop here can help explain the connection between these learning rules and cultural evolution. I illustrate this point with recent work on divination practices (Hong and Henrich in Hum Nat 32:622–651, 2021. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12110-021-09408-6). My account proposes that forms of social reinforcement can explain the spread and persistence of divination practices. Besides addressing the central question (a role for reinforcement in cultural evolution), my account indirectly touches on developing themes in cultural evolution, namely, normative psychology (Heyes in Perspect Psychol Sci, 2023; Birch Biol Philos 36:4, 2021. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10539-020-09777-9).
Automated NFR testing in continuous integration environments: a multi-case study of Nordic companies
Authors: Yu Liang , Alégroth Emil , Chatzipetrou Panagiota , Gorschek Tony
Published: October 2023

Context

Non-functional requirements (NFRs) (also referred to as system qualities) are essential for developing high-quality software. Notwithstanding its importance, NFR testing remains challenging, especially in terms of automation. Compared to manual verification, automated testing shows the potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of quality assurance, especially in the context of Continuous Integration (CI). However, studies on how companies manage automated NFR testing through CI are limited.

Objective

This study examines how automated NFR testing can be enabled and supported using CI environments in software development companies.

Method

We performed a multi-case study at four companies by conducting 22 semi-structured interviews with industrial practitioners.

Results

Maintainability,reliability,performance,securityandscalability, were found to be evaluated with automated tests in CI environments. Testing practices, quality metrics, and challenges for measuring NFRs were reported.

Conclusions

This study presents an empirically derived model that shows how data produced by CI environments can be used for evaluation and monitoring of implemented NFR quality. Additionally, the manuscript presents explicit metrics, CI components, tools, and challenges that shall be considered while performing NFR testing in practice.
Analytical fitting of $$\gamma $$–ray photopeaks in germanium cross strip detectors
Authors: Boggs Steven E. , Pike Sean N.
Published: October 2023

In an ideal germanium detector, fully-absorbed monoenergetic $$\gamma $$
γ
–rays will appear in the measured spectrum as a narrow peak, broadened into a Gaussian of width determined only by the statistical properties of charge cloud generation and the electronic noise of the readout electronics. Multielectrode detectors complicate this picture. Broadening of the charge clouds as they drift through the detector will lead to charge sharing between neighboring electrodes and, inevitably, low-energy tails on the photopeak spectra. We simulate charge sharing in our germanium cross strip detectors in order to reproduce the low-energy tails due to charge sharing. Our goal is to utilize these simulated spectra to develop an analytical fit (shape function) for the spectral lines that provides a robust and high-quality fit to the spectral profile, reliably reproduces the interaction energy, noise width, and the number of counts in both the true photopeak and the low-energy tail, and minimizes the number of additional parameters. Accurate modeling of the detailed line profiles is crucial for both calibration of the detectors as well as scientific interpretation of measured spectra.
Cat(0) polygonal complexes are 2-median
Authors: Bader Shaked , Lazarovich Nir
Published: October 2023

Median spaces are spaces in which for every three points the three intervals between them intersect at a single point. It is well known that rank-1 affine buildings are median spaces, but by a result of Haettel, higher rank buildings are not even coarse median. We define the notion of “2-median space”, which roughly says that for every four points the minimal discs filling the four geodesic triangles they span intersect in a point or a geodesic segment. We show that CAT(0) Euclidean polygonal complexes, and in particular rank-2 affine buildings, are 2-median. In the appendix, we recover a special case of a result of Stadler of a Fary–Milnor type theorem and show in elementary tools that a minimal disc filling a geodesic triangle is injective.
Factors influencing Swedish grades 4–6 technology teachers’ choice of teaching and learning material in programming education
Authors: Bjursten Eva-Lena , Nilsson Tor , Jonsson Gunnar
Published: October 2023

There is a recognized need to understand the current state of programming implementation in the Swedish compulsory school system. This study focused specifically on the implementation of programming in the school subject of technology for grades 4–6. In Sweden, the responsibility for choosing teaching and learning material lies with individual teachers. Recent studies have indicated the prevalence of visual programming languages (VPLs) in classrooms. However, no empirical research has specifically investigated why teachers select particular programming learning environments (PLEs) and the challenges they have overcome in this process. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the PLEs used by teachers and the factors influencing their choices. In addition, this study explored the role of pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) and the influence of systemic and situational amplifiers and filters in shaping the programming education landscape, highlighting the importance of understanding these factors for effective implementation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 experienced programming teachers in grades 4–6 to gather insights. The results revealed that VPLs, particularly Scratch, have been widely adopted, but the study also identified three textual programming languages being utilized. Furthermore, the findings indicate that teachers’ previous education plays a significant role in shaping their PLE preferences. This suggests that programming education in both professional development and preservice teacher training is crucial for effective implementation. By investigating PLE choices and the factors influencing them, this study contributes to a better understanding of the current landscape of programming education in Sweden’s compulsory school system.
A parameter map of cavitation from impacts between solids immersed in water
Authors: Cruz S. , Godínez F. A. , Ramos-Garcia R
Published: October 2023

Cavitation when two solids immersed in water collide has been studied theoretically and experimentally. A dimensionless parameter map showing a threshold line that delimits with good agreement the cavitation and non-cavitation zones was constructed. The threshold line was set by a cavitation number established with a lubrication model. Experiments were conducted using a device with a solid steel sphere colliding with a solid aluminum plane for different impact velocities and water column heights. When the impact forces are in the order of 100 to 1000 N, only cavitation generated by the rapid separation of solids in the liquid (CSSL) is observed; however, this type of cavitation along with cavitation due to tensile waves (TWC) are perceived for collision forces greater than 1000 N. In some events in which both types of cavitation (TWC-CSSL regime) appear, light emission also takes place. The kinematic coefficient of restitution and impact speed can be used to determine the cavitation onset, the transition from CSSL to TWC-CSSL regimes and the collision events in which photon production occurs. The obtained map will provide key information to develop potential applications as cavitation machining and surface treatment.
On a variant of Pillai’s problem with factorials and S-units
Authors: Faye Bernadette , Luca Florian , Ziegler Volker
Published: October 2023

Let S be a finite, fixed set of primes. In this paper, we show that the set of integers c which have at least two representations as a difference between a factorial and an S-unit is finite and effectively computable. In particular, we find all integers that can be written in at least two ways as a difference of a factorial and an S-unit associated with the set of primes $$\{2,3,5,7\}$$

{
2
,
3
,
5
,
7
}

.
Feeling Emotions for Future People
Authors: Andina Tiziana , Sacco Giulio
Published: October 2023

It is more difficult to feel emotions for future generations than for those who currently exist, and this seems to be one of the reasons why we struggle to care for the future. According to a number of authors, who have recently focused on the psychological flaws that prevent us from dealing with transgenerational issues, the main problem is “future discounting”. Challenging this common view, we argue that the main reason we struggle to care about future generations lies in two features of our daily emotions: the «identified victim effect» and the decrease in empathy for people who are different from us. These traits give rise to two puzzles we call the problem of the indeterminateness of future persons and the problem of dissimilarity. After having analyzed these problems of our moral psychology, we show how they allow us to account for some differences in affectivity towards a number of entities that do not currently exist, such as future generations, past generations and fictional characters. Bearing in mind the real limits of our emotions when dealing with future people, we sketch an alternative proposal on how to develop emotions to provide citizens of liberal democracies with a motivation to act in favor of future generations.
Atypical ductal hyperplasia on vacuum-assisted breast biopsy: a scoring system to predict the risk of upgrade to malignancy
Authors: Rella Rossella , Conti Marco , Borghetti Alberto , Belli Paolo , Morciano Francesca , Rossati Claudia , Caneva Andrea , Di Leone Alba , Franceschini Gianluca , Gori Elisabetta , Fornasa Francesca , Tommasini Oscar , Romanucci Giovanna
Published: October 2023

Rationale and objectives

Our multicentric study analysed clinical, radiologic and pathologic features in patients with atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) diagnosed with vacuum-assisted biopsy (VAB), to identify factors associated with the risk of upgrade, to develop a scoring system to support decision making.

Materials and methods

Patients with ADH on VAB under stereotactic/tomosynthesis guidance (2012–2022) were eligible. Inclusion criteria were availability of surgical histopathological examination of the entire lesion or radiologic follow-up (FUP) ≥ 24 months. VAB results were compared with surgical pathological results or with imaging FUP evolution to assess upgrade. A backward stepwise linear regression was used to identify predictors of upgrade. The discriminatory power of the model was calculated through the area under the receiver operating curve (ROC–AUC); the Hosmer–Lemeshow test was used to assess model calibration. The points system was developed based on the selected risk factors, and the probability of upgrade associated with each point total was determined.

Results

112 ADH lesions were included: 91 (91/112, 81.3%) underwent surgical excision with 20 diagnosis of malignancy, while 21 (21/112, 18.7%) underwent imaging FUP with one interval change (mean FUP time 48 months). Overall upgrade rate was 18.7% (21/112). Age, menopausal status, concurrent breast cancer, BIRADS classification and number of foci of ADH were identified as risk factors for upgrade. Our model showed an AUC = 0.85 (95% CI 0.76–0.94). The points system showed that the risk of upgrade is < 2% when the total score is ≤ 1.

Conclusion

Our scoring system seemed a promising easy-to-use decision support tool for management of ADH, decreasing unnecessary surgeries, reducing patients’ overtreatment and healthcare costs.
Differential scanning calorimetry as a tool to assess the oxidation state of cold-pressed oils during shelf-life
Authors: Islam Mahbuba , Kaczmarek Anna , Tomaszewska-Gras Jolanta
Published: October 2023

Cold-pressed oils are highly prone to the peroxidation process, which causes a rapid decline in quality. Thus, there is a need to develop instrumental methods instead of conventional chemical analysis consuming large quantities of harmful chemicals. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is a valuable analytical tool for assessing the oxidative stability of oils. Cold-pressed flaxseed, camelina and hemp seed oils from different cultivars, which had been stored for six months in room conditions under natural light exposure, were tested. Chemical methods for measuring changes in oxidative stability during storage of oils included determination of peroxide value (PV), p-Anisidine value (p-AV), total oxidation value (TOTOX) value and acid value (AV). Parameters like oxidation induction time (OIT) in isothermal mode (120, 140 °C) and onset temperature (Ton) in non-isothermal mode (heating rate 2, 5 °C/min) were established from DSC curves. Data for OIT and Ton plotted against time showed a strong, significant (p ≤ 0.05) descending trend for all oils. However, flaxseed and hempseed oils revealed a more rapid deterioration during storage compared to camelina seed oils. All DSC results showed promising repeatability of the oxidative characteristics for three types of cold-pressed oils, regardless of their origins in different cultivars. However, the most suitable for monitoring the deteriorative changes in oils during storage was the isothermal test carried out at a temperature of 120 °C, for which the correlations with chemical indicators (PV, p-AV, TOTOX) were highly significant (p ≤ 0.0001). Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) based on the DSC results revealed, that the first discriminating function significantly separated the fresh oils from stored oils. The study showed that, based on a starting point defined for fresh oils, the DSC technique can be used to effectively and ecologically monitor the deterioration of oils by oxidation, instead of harmful chemical analyses.
Emerging Medical Therapies for the Treatment of Obesity in Women with Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Behrooz Leili , Lenneman Carrie G. , Hamburg Naomi M.
Published: October 2023

Purpose of Review

In this review, the impact of obesity on cardiovascular disease in women and emerging anti-obesity pharmacologic treatments are discussed.

Recent Findings

Robust evidence demonstrates the burden of obesity across the lifespan in women and links obesity to a diverse set of cardiovascular diseases. Female-specific risk factors including sex hormones and pregnancy factors intersect with obesity and cardiovascular risk. Sustained weight loss has potential for cardiovascular benefits. Recent trials demonstrate cardiovascular benefits of emerging agents with weight loss effects including GLP-1 RA and SGLT2 inhibitors in women.

Treatment and prevention strategies for cardiovascular disease in obese women should include integration of weight management strategies including the targeted use of emerging pharmacologic therapies.
Time-weighted motion history image for human activity classification in sports
Authors: Komori Hideto , Isogawa Mariko , Mikami Dan , Nagai Takasuke , Aoki Yoshimitsu
Published: October 2023

Vision-based human activity classification has remarkable potential for various applications in the sports context (e.g., motion analysis for performance enhancement, active sensing for athletes, etc.). Recently, learning-based human activity classifications have been widely researched. However, in sports scenes in which more detailed and player-specific classifications are required, this is a quite challenging task; in many cases, only a limited number of datasets are available, unlike daily movements such as walking or climbing stairs. Therefore, this paper proposes a time-weighted motion history image, an effective image sequence representation for learning-based human activity classification. Unlike conventional MHI based on the assumption that “the newer frame is more important,” our method generates importance-aware representation so that the predictor can “see” the frames that contribute to analyzing the specific human activity. Experimental results have shown the superiority of our method.
A risk score model based on lipid metabolism-related genes could predict response to immunotherapy and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma: a multi-dataset study and cytological validation
Authors: Lei Yangyang , Zhou Boxuan , Meng Xiangzhi , Liang Mei , Song Weijian , Liang Yicheng , Gao Yushun , Wang Minghui
Published: October 2023

Background

Lipid metabolism is a key factor in tumorigenesis and drug resistance, and models related to lipid metabolism have shown potential to predict survival and curative effects of adjuvant therapy in various cancers. However, the relationship between lipid metabolism and prognosis and treatment response of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are still unclear.

Methods

We enrolled seven bulk RNA-sequence datasets (GSE37745, GSE19188, GSE30219, GSE31547, GSE41271, GSE42127, and GSE72094) from the GEO database and one single-cell RNA-sequencing dataset (GSE117570) from the TISCH2 database. Non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) was utilized to construct the risk score model based on lipid score calculated by GSVA algorithm. Phs000452.v3, PMID: 26359337, PMID: 32472114, PRJEB23709 datasets were used to test the response to immunotherapy. Drug sensitivity analysis was assessed according to the GDSC database, and immunotherapy response was evaluated using the Wilcoxon test. Cellular function assays including clone formation, EDU assays and flow cytometry were implemented to explore the phenotype alteration caused by the knockdown of PTDSS1, which is one of key gene in risk score model.

Results

We analyzed both bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing data to establish and validate a risk score model based on 18 lipid metabolism-related genes with significant impact on prognosis. After divided the patients into two groups according to risk score, we identified differences in lipid-related metabolic processes and a detailed portrait of the immune landscapes of high- and low-risk groups. Moreover, we investigated the potentials of our risk score in predicting response to immunotherapy and drug sensitivity. In addition, we silenced PTDSS1 in LUAD cell lines, and found that the proliferation of the cells was weakened, and the apoptosis of the cells was increased.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the crucial roles of lipid metabolism in LUAD and provides a reliable risk score model, which can aid in predicting prognosis and response to immunotherapy. Furthermore, we investigated the roles of PTDSS1 in LUAD carcinogenesis, which showed that PTDSS1 regulated proliferation and apoptosis of LUAD cells.
Overconfidence: the roles of gender, public observability and incentives
Authors: Amirkhanyan Hayk , Krawczyk Michał , Wilamowski Maciej , Bokszczanin Paweł
Published: October 2023

In this project, we manipulate the public observability of forecasts and outcomes of a physical task. We explore how these manipulations affect overconfidence (OC). Participants in the experiment are asked to hold a weight after predicting how long they think they could do it for. Comparing the prediction and outcome times (in seconds) yields a measure of OC. We independently vary two dimensions of public observability (of the outcome and of the prediction). Additionally, we manipulate incentives to come up with an accurate prediction. This design allows us to shed light on the mechanism behind male and female OC. Following the existing literature, we formulate several hypotheses regarding the differences in predictions and outcomes for males and females in the presence of the public observability of predictions and outcomes. Our experimental data do not provide support to most of the hypotheses: in particular, there is no evidence of a gender gap in overconfidence. The most robust finding that emerges from our results is that incentives on making correct predictions increase participants’ forecasts on their own performance (by about 24%) and their actual performance as well, but to a lower extent (by about 8%); in addition, incentives to predict correctly in fact increase error for females (by about 33%).
Some properties of the extremal function for the Fuglede p-modulus
Authors: Ciska-Niedziałomska Małgorzata
Published: October 2023

We deal with the Fuglede p-modulus of a system of measures, focusing on three aspects. First, we combine results concerning Badger’s criterion for the extremal function, i.e., the function which realizes the p-modulus, and plans with barycenter in $$L^q$$

L
q

, which give an alternative—in a sense, probabilistic—approach to p-modulus. It seems that the correlation of these results has not yet been established. Second, we deal with families of measures for which the integral of the extremal function is one. On such a family, the p-modulus as well as the optimal plans are concentrated. We consider closures of these families and relate them with generic families of measures for which the extremal function exists. Finally, we compute the p-modulus and extremal function for finite families of measures.
Comparing Optimization Methods for Radiation Therapy Patient Scheduling using Different Objectives
Authors: Frimodig Sara , Enqvist Per , Carlsson Mats , Mercier Carole
Published: October 2023

Radiation therapy (RT) is a medical treatment to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. To manually schedule patients for RT is a time-consuming and challenging task. By the use of optimization, patient schedules for RT can be created automatically. This paper presents a study of different optimization methods for modeling and solving the RT patient scheduling problem, which can be used as decision support when implementing an automatic scheduling algorithm in practice. We introduce an Integer Programming (IP) model, a column generation IP model (CG-IP), and a Constraint Programming model. Patients are scheduled on multiple machine types considering their priority for treatment, session duration and allowed machines. Expected future arrivals of urgent patients are included in the models as placeholder patients. Since different cancer centers can have different scheduling objectives, the models are compared using multiple objective functions, including minimizing waiting times, and maximizing the fulfillment of patients’ preferences for treatment times. The test data is generated from historical data from Iridium Netwerk, Belgium’s largest cancer center with 10 linear accelerators. The results demonstrate that the CG-IP model can solve all the different problem instances to a mean optimality gap of less than $$1\%$$

1
%

within one hour. The proposed methodology provides a tool for automated scheduling of RT treatments and can be generally applied to RT centers.
Exploring Disparities in Self-Reported Mental Health Symptoms Across Professional Categories in Spain’s Emergency Medical Services: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Martínez-Caballero Carmen M. , Matellán-Hernández M. Paz , Polo-Portes Carlos Eduardo , Reques-Marugán Ana María , Soto-Cámara Raúl , Cardaba-García Rosa María , Thuissard Israel John , Navalpotro-Pascual Susana
Published: October 2023

Objective:

This study aimed to analyze stress, anxiety, depression, and self-efficacy levels among Spanish out-of-hospital emergency medical professionals from February 1, 2021, to April 30, 2021.

Methods:

A nationwide survey was completed by 1666 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers. The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE) were used. Data analysis used chi-squared, análisis of variance (ANOVA), and logistic regressions.

Results:

The sample comprised 833 (50%) men, with an average age of 44.3 ± 9.9 y (range: 19-67 y). Occupational distribution included 453 (27.2%) physicians, 474 (28.4%) nurses, and 739 (44.4%) emergency medical technicians (EMTs). EMTs exhibited higher odds of severe or extremely severe depression compared with physicians (odds ratio [OR]: 1.569; 95% confidenceinterval [95% CI]: 1.213-2.030) and nurses (OR: 1.561; 95% CI: 1.211-2.012). EMTs also displayed higher probabilities of severe or extremely severe anxiety compared with nurses (OR: 1.944; 95% CI: 1.529-2.701). Furthermore, EMTs demonstrated elevated probabilities of severe or extremely severe stress compared with physicians (OR: 1.387; 95% CI: 1.088-1.770). However, no significant differences were found in self-efficacy, with a median value of 73 [20].

Conclusions:

Out-of-hospital EMS workers experienced mental health challenges, showing varying levels of depression, stress, and anxiety across different occupational groups. EMTs were particularly affected.
Continental Breakup Shot Pink Diamonds to Earth’s Surface
Authors: Besl J.
Published: October 2023

What was once the world’s most prolific pink diamond mine has always been an anomaly. New research suggests that the end of an ancient supercontinent helped rocket its precious gems to the surface.
The First Slow-Slip Events Seen off Southern Costa Rica
Authors: Fritts Rachel
Published: October 2023

Five events observed off the Osa Peninsula shed new light on the role that these small, slow earthquakes can play in strain accumulation and tsunami hazards along subduction zones.
Oligocene Orogen‐Parallel Extension in Southern Tibet During Indian Continental Subduction
Authors: Xue Weiwei , Hu Xiumian , Ma Anlin , Garzanti Eduardo , Liang Wendong , Hao Lulu , Wang Qiang
Published: October 2023

The controversial history of Indian subduction beneath Asia is crucial to understand the Himalayan orogeny and more in general the geodynamic process of continental subduction. New key information is here presented from the Oligocene‐Pliocene Shiquanhe Basin located in the southwestern Tibetan Plateau. The alluvial‐fan, lacustrine, and braided‐river sediments of the Oligocene Rigongla Formation were non‐conformably deposited onto the Upper Cretaceous Gangdese granitoid rocks and fed from erosion of the batholith itself and of associated Paleogene Linzizong volcanic rocks. Stratigraphic evidence testifies to the development of an orogen‐parallel intracontinental rift along the retro‐side of the Gangdese arc in the Oligocene, at the same time as the Kailas basin formed along the pro‐side of the Gangdese arc. The subsidence of these twin basins may have been caused by steepening of the subducting Indian continental slab or by the passage of a wave of dynamic topography during continuing subduction.