bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-similar flow behind a shock wave in a gas under the effect of viscosity, heat conduction, and variable ambient density
Authors: Patel Arvind , Pandey Komal
Published: August 2024

Self-similar solutions have been investigated to describe the propagation of planar shock waves in a non-ideal gas generated by a piston under viscous stress and heat flux. The equation of state for non-ideal gas incorporates the correction in pressure and volume of the gas. The piston position and ambient density vary exponentially with time. Newton’s law of viscosity is used for the viscous stress and Fourier’s law of heat conduction is taken for heat flux. The viscosity coefficient is taken as constant whereas the thermal conductivity coefficient varies with temperature and density following the power law. The shock jump conditions have been derived for the viscous non-ideal gas using integral form of conservation laws. The shock Reynolds number Re

s
has been introduced to study the effect of viscosity on shock propagation in non-ideal gas. It is found that similarity solution exists only in an ideal gas under the condition that the ambient density exponent is equal to twice the shock position exponent. This study shows that shock Reynolds number Re

s
and heat conduction parameter Γ
c
can be used to control the variation of the flow variables and piston position significantly. The shock strength decreases with increase in the value of shock Reynolds number Re

s
but is independent of the heat conduction parameter Γ
c
. The pressure, density, and adiabatic compressibility have significant deviations from high to low viscous flow of ideal gas but the velocity and heat flux undergo negligible change. The results do not support the claim of negligible effect of viscosity in earlier studies and establish the impact of viscosity and heat flux on shock propagation in an ideal gas.
Selective discrimination and accurate quantification of five target vapors among multiple vapors using 2D CuO and Co3O4 sensors
Authors: Kulkarni Saraswati , Ghosh Ruma
Published: August 2024

Selective and sensitive detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are critically needed for various applications like environmental sustainability, industrial safety, healthcare, etc Metal oxides are one of the most explored chemiresistive sensing materials because of their high sensitivity, but they lack selectivity. This work reports synthesis of two metal oxides - CuO and Co3O4 using surfactant assisted hydrothermal method. The 2D morphologies of both the metal oxides were ensured through fielded emission scanning electron microscope. The polycrystalline nature of the materials was studied using X-ray diffractometer and bandgaps were found to be 1.72 eV (CuO) and 1.9 and 2.89 eV (Co3O4) through the Kubelka Munk plot. The two metal oxides were employed to detect four different concentrations (6–50 ppm) of five targeted VOCs (lung cancer biomarkers) - acetone, acetonitrile, isopropanol, methanol, and toluene. In addition, response of the sensors for 6–50 ppm of ethyl acetate, hexanal, ammonia, and NO2 were also recorded as these VOCs are naturally produced in the body as a result of metabolic processes. The responses were recorded for 10 min for all the gases with CuO and Co3O4. Despite the intrinsic metal oxides lacking selectivity towards a specific VOC, careful feature selection achieved a classification accuracy of 95% using random forest (RF) algorithm. Subsequent application of RF model on validation dataset yielded a 91% accuracy in identifying target VOCs. Multilinear regression (MLR) algorithm was then employed to quantify the concentrations of the VOCs and low mean absolute error (MAE) values were obtained.
Reflective multi-layer metasurface based on half-wave plate structure for polarization control in the visible-near-infrared region
Authors: Movsisyan Artyom , Manukyan Hasmik , Minasyan Billi , Babajanyan Arsen
Published: August 2024

The precise control of the polarization of the electromagnetic field in the optical range is studied. A numerical simulation was performed, which corresponds to the optical devices operating in the 650–800 nm range and does not present any obstacles for fabrication. According to this, the three-layer system based on metasurfaces was developed, which operates as a half-wave plate consisting of a metal-dielectric-metal structure and takes very small dimensions, more than 3 times smaller than the observed wavelength. This half-wave plate is reflective and exhibits almost ideal behavior with a spectral width of about 10 nm within 735–745 nm. The losses are negligible, and the amplitude ratio of the directly reflected components in almost the entire studied spectrum exceeds 90%. With a spectrum of about 100 nm within 650–800 nm, it is 99%. Also, the system has an advantage characteristic of metasurfaces: regardless of the angle of the incident wave with the normal, it shows high efficiency, and even when the incident wave is below 45°, the polarization conversion ratio (PCR) remains greater than 80%. The system has optimal geometric dimensions, which works especially well, but even if the dimensions change (due to fabrication defects), its effectiveness does not weaken. The proposed system can become a very promising optical device and be used to control the state of electromagnetic waves in the optical range.
An efficient image compression encryption scheme based on BP neural network and DNA mutation
Authors: Cao Yinghong , Liu Zhaocheng , Wang Kaihua , Bi Xiuguo
Published: August 2024

In this paper, an efficient image compression encryption scheme is proposed. Firstly, compressing the image by using BP neural network before encryption, which not only saves the subsequent encryption and decryption time but also minimizes storage and transmission space. Secondly, Chialvo neuron model is used to generate chaotic sequences for the encryption process in the scheme, confusing the compressed image according to a confusion algorithm combining single-plane and cross-plane. Next, diffusing the confused image. Subsequently, the diffused image and chaotic sequences are DNA encoded, performing DNA same or operation (DNA mutual mutations) and DNA mutations (DNA self-mutations). Finally, the DNA mutations results are decoded to obtain the cipher image. Security tests and compression performance analysis show that the scheme can efficiently and securely compress and encrypt images of different sizes with higher reconstruction quality compared to other compression schemes.
A generalized dynamic asymmetric exclusion process: orthogonal dualities and degenerations
Authors: Groenevelt Wolter , Wagenaar Carel
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a generalized version of dynamic asymmetric simple exclusion process (ASEP) is introduced, and it is shown that the process has a Markov duality property with the same process on the reversed lattice. The duality functions are multivariate q-Racah polynomials, and the corresponding orthogonality measure is the reversible measure of the process. By taking limits in the generator of dynamic ASEP, its reversible measure, and the duality functions, we obtain orthogonal and triangular dualities for several other interacting particle systems. In this sense, the duality of dynamic ASEP sits on top of a hierarchy of many dualities. For the construction of the process, we rely on representation theory of the quantum algebra

U

q

(

sl

2

)

. In the standard representation, the generator of generalized ASEP can be constructed from the coproduct of the Casimir. After a suitable change of representation, we obtain the generator of dynamic ASEP. The corresponding intertwiner is constructed from q-Krawtchouk polynomials, which arise as eigenfunctions of twisted primitive elements. This gives a duality between dynamic ASEP and generalized ASEP with q-Krawtchouk polynomials as duality functions. Using this duality, we show the (almost) self-duality of dynamic ASEP.
A numerical study of a multifunctional metamaterial with efficient terahertz absorption and low infrared emission
Authors: Bai Jinjun , Liu Chunxi , Shi Ying , Xu Wei , Chang Shengjiang
Published: August 2024

In this study, a multifunctional metamaterial is proposed to effectively absorb terahertz (THz) radiation and shield against infrared (IR) emissions. The device comprises an IR shielding layer made of ZnS and SiO2, and a terahertz absorbing layer utilizing a ‘graphene—SiO2—gold’ sandwich-like structure. The properties of the metamaterial are investigated using the full-vector finite element method. The results indicate that the emissivity of the device is below 0.1 in the IR atmospheric window (8–14

μ

m

), with absorption reaching 90% and a bandwidth of 2.42 THz in 2–6 THz. Furthermore, the device is certainly tolerant to variations in the angle of incidence. It has a simple structure and a relatively easy preparation process. These advantages make it suitable for applications in the fields of anti-radar stealth in the THz band.
Downhill skiing & climate change adaptation in Wisconsin: perspectives from key stakeholders
Authors: Holland Austin , Chin Natalie , Higgins Hannah
Published: August 2024

Climate change is currently impacting various facets of our local systems with many stakeholders and industries working to adapt to these changing conditions. There is a growing recognition that adaptation practices need to be directed within specific industries, communities, and stakeholders. A key area that is being impacted is the snow sports industry which is facing various challenges due to localized climatic changes. Previous work has indicated that climate change may leave these snow-dependent industries in the U.S. Midwest unviable in the future, so it is imperative to understand how these stakeholders are adapting to climate change and how they view the future of their industry. To do this, we conducted in-depth interviews with owners and operators in Wisconsin to understand 1) the climate change impacts they are facing, 2) their adaptation strategies, and 3) their views of the future of Wisconsin downhill skiing. Our results outline various environmental and social changes that participants associate with climate change and document their current adaptation strategies. Operators are optimistic about the future, but there is a recognition that adaptation practices and planning will likely intensify. This letter concludes with an outline for future research and support for adaptation practices that blend qualitative methods with physical and technological research that can aid this industry’s adaptation strategies.
Identification of nonlinear system model and inverse model based on conditional invertible neural network
Authors: Chen Tian , Zhang Xingwu , Wang Chenxi , Feng Xuedan , Lv Jiaqiao , Deng Jiangtao , You Shangqin , Chen Xuefeng
Published: August 2024

In applications such as adaptive inverse control, internal model control, and active noise control, the identification accuracy of the system model and the inverse model directly affects the performance. However, it is not easy to identify inverse models for nonlinear systems. Moreover, existing methods require two identification calculations to obtain the system model and the inverse model. Therefore, an identification method of nonlinear system model and inverse model based on conditional invertible neural network (cINN) is proposed. The invertible structure of cINN enables simultaneous approximation of complex nonlinear functions and simultaneous acquisition of the corresponding inverse functions. Consequently, both the nonlinear system model and the inverse model can be identified concurrently through cINN. Moreover, the identification performance of the cINN-based method is validated and applied to disturbance cancellation in a classical nonlinear simulation system. Finally, the inverse model of the actuator is identified by cINN, and the inverse model is applied to the nonlinear compensation of the actuator.
Flexible emulation of the climate warming cooling feedback to globally assess the maladaptation implications of future air conditioning use
Authors: Byers Edward , Meng Measrainsey , Mastrucci Alessio , van Ruijven Bas , Krey Volker
Published: August 2024

Rising affluence and a warming climate mean that the demand for air conditioning (AC) is rising rapidly, as society adapts to climate extremes. Here we present findings from a new methodological framework to flexibly couple and emulate these growing demands into a global integrated assessment model (IAM), subsequently representing the positive feedbacks between rising temperatures, growth in cooling demand, and carbon emissions. In assessing global and regional climate change impacts on cooling energy demand, the emulator incorporates climate model uncertainties and can explore behavioural and adaptation-related assumptions on setpoint temperature and access to cooling. It is also agnostic to the emissions and climate warming trajectory, enabling the IAM to run new policy-relevant scenarios (Current Policies, 2 °C and 1.5 °C) with climate impacts that do not follow Representative Concentration Pathways. We find that climate model uncertainty has a significant effect, more than doubling the increase in electricity demand, when comparing the 95th percentile cases to the median of the climate model ensemble. Residential AC cooling energy demands are expected to increase by 150% by 2050 whilst providing universal access to AC would result in the order of a 400% increase. Depending on the region, under current policies and limited mitigation, climate change could bring in the order of 10%–20% higher cooling-related electricity demands by 2050, and approximately 50% by 2100. Set point temperature has an important moderating role—increasing internal set-point from 23 °C to 26 °C, approximately halves the growth in electricity demand, for the majority of scenarios and regions. This effect is so strong that the change in set point temperature to both residential and commercial sectors outweighs the growth in demand that would occur by providing universal access to AC by 2050 to the 40% of the global population who would otherwise not afford it.
Callose deficiency modulates plasmodesmata frequency and extracellular distance in rice pollen mother and tapetal cells
Authors: Somashekar Harsha , Takanami Keiko , Benitez-Alfonso Yoselin , Oishi Akane , Hiratsuka Rie , Nonomura Ken-Ichi
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Fertilization relies on pollen mother cells able to transition from mitosis to meiosis to supply gametes. This process involves remarkable changes at the molecular, cellular and physiological levels, including (but not limited to) remodelling of the cell wall. During the onset of meiosis, the cellulose content in the pollen mother cell walls gradually declines, with the concurrent deposition of the polysaccharide callose in anther locules. We aim to understand the biological significance of cellulose-to-callose turnover in pollen mother cells walls.

Methods

We carried out electron microscopic, aniline blue and renaissance staining analyses of rice flowers.

Key Results

Our observations indicate that in wild-type rice anthers, the mitosis-to-meiosis transition coincides with a gradual reduction in the number of cytoplasmic connections called plasmodesmata. A mutant in the Oryza sativa callose synthase GSL5 (Osgsl5-3), impaired in callose accumulation in premeiotic and meiotic anthers, displayed a greater reduction in plasmodesmata frequency among pollen mother cells and tapetal cells, suggesting a role for callose in maintenance of plasmodesmata. In addition, a significant increase in extracellular distance between pollen mother cells and impaired premeiotic cell shaping was observed in the Osgsl5-3 mutant.

Conclusions

The results suggest that callose-to-cellulose turnover during the transition from mitosis to meiosis is necessary to maintain cell-to-cell connections and optimal extracellular distance among the central anther locular cells. The findings of this study contribute to our understanding of the regulatory influence of callose metabolism during initiation of meiosis in flowering plants.
Regression and alignment for functional data and network topology
Authors: Tu Danni , Wrobel Julia , Satterthwaite Theodore D , Goldsmith Jeff , Gur Ruben C , Gur Raquel E , Gertheiss Jan , Bassett Dani S , Shinohara Russell T
Published: August 2024

In the brain, functional connections form a network whose topological organization can be described by graph-theoretic network diagnostics. These include characterizations of the community structure, such as modularity and participation coefficient, which have been shown to change over the course of childhood and adolescence. To investigate if such changes in the functional network are associated with changes in cognitive performance during development, network studies often rely on an arbitrary choice of preprocessing parameters, in particular the proportional threshold of network edges. Because the choice of parameter can impact the value of the network diagnostic, and therefore downstream conclusions, we propose to circumvent that choice by conceptualizing the network diagnostic as a function of the parameter. As opposed to a single value, a network diagnostic curve describes the connectome topology at multiple scales—from the sparsest group of the strongest edges to the entire edge set. To relate these curves to executive function and other covariates, we use scalar-on-function regression, which is more flexible than previous functional data-based models used in network neuroscience. We then consider how systematic differences between networks can manifest in misalignment of diagnostic curves, and consequently propose a supervised curve alignment method that incorporates auxiliary information from other variables. Our algorithm performs both functional regression and alignment via an iterative, penalized, and nonlinear likelihood optimization. The illustrated method has the potential to improve the interpretability and generalizability of neuroscience studies where the goal is to study heterogeneity among a mixture of function- and scalar-valued measures.
Automated estimation of thoracic rotation in chest X-ray radiographs: a deep learning approach for enhanced technical assessment
Authors: Sun Jiuai , Hou Pengfei , Li Kai , Wei Ling , Zhao Ruifeng , Wu Zhonghang
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aims to develop an automated approach for estimating the vertical rotation of the thorax, which can be used to assess the technical adequacy of chest X-ray radiographs (CXRs).

Methods

Total 800 chest radiographs were used to train and establish segmentation networks for outlining the lungs and spine regions in chest X-ray images. By measuring the widths of the left and right lungs between the central line of segmented spine and the lateral sides of the segmented lungs, the quantification of thoracic vertical rotation was achieved. Additionally, a life-size, full body anthropomorphic phantom was employed to collect chest radiographic images under various specified rotation angles for assessing the accuracy of the proposed approach.

Results

The deep learning networks effectively segmented the anatomical structures of the lungs and spine. The proposed approach demonstrated a mean estimation error of less than 2° for thoracic rotation, surpassing existing techniques and indicating its superiority.

Conclusions

The proposed approach offers a robust assessment of thoracic rotation and presents new possibilities for automated image quality control in chest X-ray examinations.

Advances in knowledge

This study presents a novel deep-learning-based approach for the automated estimation of vertical thoracic rotation in chest X-ray radiographs. The proposed method enables a quantitative assessment of the technical adequacy of CXR examinations and opens up new possibilities for automated screening and quality control of radiographs.
Simple closed-form estimation of a binary latent variable model
Authors: Hu Yingyao , Li Jingrong , Shiu Ji-Liang , Shum Matthew
Published: August 2024

This paper develops a closed-form non-parametric estimator of the conditional distribution function for a binary outcome variable given an unobserved latent variable. This type of function is commonly used in models that involve measurement error and dynamic models with agent-specific unobserved heterogeneity. This paper presents a consistent extremum sieve estimator with the following advantages: (i) it has a closed-form expression for all the sieve coefficients, (ii) it is computationally straightforward, equivalent to computing eigenvalues and eigenvectors of matrices without the use of iterative optimization algorithms. While as flexible as the sieve maximum likelihood estimator previously proposed for this model, our estimator proves computationally simpler. The finite sample properties of the estimator are investigated through a Monte Carlo study, and the developed estimator is applied to a probit model to assess the targeting performance of a social welfare program.
Case report of an ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction-like presentation of an immune checkpoint (PD-1/PD-L1) inhibitor-associated myocarditis
Authors: Declercq Astrid , Verstraete Stefan , Vanwalleghem Lieve , Trenson Sander
Published: August 2024

Background

ICI-associated myocarditis is a rare but severe and potentially life-threatening complication that typically manifests shortly after treatment initiation. It may present in many different ways, ranging from fulminant to non-fulminant, even including clinical and electrocardiographic findings mimicking ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI).

Case summary

A 72-year-old woman with a history of non-small cell lung carcinoma presented at the emergency department with symptoms of general asthenia and chest pain, following recent ICI-therapy initiation. Electrocardiogram showed ST elevation in the lateral leads and led to prompt admission for urgent invasive coronary angiography, which ruled out significant coronary artery disease. Urgent cardiac magnetic resonance had to be aborted due to claustrophobia. Endomyocardial biopsy—performed the day after urgent hospital admission and before starting high-dose corticosteroids—confirmed acute ICI-associated myocarditis. On the sixth day of hospitalization, the patient developed transient complete heart block and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia, necessitating temporary transjugular pacemaker insertion. Cellcept (mycophenolate mofetil) was associated due to rising troponin levels. Following a three-week hospital stay, the patient was discharged with a regimen of gradually tapering steroids and continued Cellcept therapy. Two months post-discharge, the patient was readmitted due to severe pneumonia, ultimately resulting in the patient’s demise.

Discussion

We present the case of a fulminant ICI-associated myocarditis. The case illustrates the diagnostic workup and treatment strategies of an (in the end) fatal adverse event from the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Coxiella burnetii protein CBU2016 supports CCV expansion
Authors: Thomas David R , Garnish Sarah E , Khoo Chen Ai , Padmanabhan Bhavna , Scott Nichollas E , Newton Hayley J
Published: August 2024

Coxiella burnetii is a globally distributed obligate intracellular pathogen. Although often asymptomatic, infections can cause acute Q fever with influenza-like symptoms and/or severe chronic Q fever. Coxiella burnetii develops a unique replicative niche within host cells called the Coxiella-containing vacuole (CCV), facilitated by the Dot/Icm type IV secretion system translocating a cohort of bacterial effector proteins into the host. The role of some effectors has been elucidated; however, the actions of the majority remain enigmatic and the list of true effectors is disputable. This study examined CBU2016, a unique C. burnetii protein previously designated as an effector with a role in infection. We were unable to validate CBU2016 as a translocated effector protein. Employing targeted knock-out and complemented strains, we found that the loss of CBU2016 did not cause a replication defect within Hela, THP-1, J774, or iBMDM cells or in axenic media, nor did it affect the pathogenicity of C. burnetii in the Galleria mellonella infection model. The absence of CBU2016 did, however, result in a consistent decrease in the size of CCVs in HeLa cells. These results suggest that although CBU2016 may not be a Dot/Icm effector, it is still able to influence the host environment during infection.
An interdisciplinary forensic approach in a mummified child with evidence of abuse and neglect
Authors: Moravanský Norbert , Masnicová Soňa , Švábová Petra , Kuruc Roman , Gális Branislav , Beňuš Radoslav
Published: August 2024

Mummification of corpses with partial skeletonization is not an uncommon occurrence in daily forensic work. Cooperation between different forensic fields is important in these cases in terms of obtaining the most accurate and forensically relevant results, especially when child abuse and neglect is suspected. In Central Europe, up to 21% of children are exposed to physical and psychological harm, which is mostly perpetrated by family members. This report describes a case of subadult female mummified remains in which interdisciplinary forensic pathology, forensic anthropology, and entomology input was needed to obtain legally relevant results. Entomological analysis of the fly and beetle species present served primarily to estimate the postmortem interval. External examination confirmed advanced postmortem decomposition of the body. The anthropological findings based on radiographs and analysis of selected bones confirmed various antemortem fractures and post-traumatic changes involving the ribs, the distal portion of the humerus, the nasal bones, and the anterior portions of the maxilla and mandible. Furthermore, non-specific findings of growth arrest (Harris) lines in the distal metaphysis of the right tibia indicated growth retardation and, overall, child neglect. The autopsy findings confirmed subdural blood coagulum, part of which formed a clearly moulded plaster mass that had originally been attached to the cranial vault up to the internal lamina. The findings indicated a post-traumatic condition as the underlying cause of death in this child. Interdisciplinary forensic analyses confirmed that the child had been repeatedly exposed to violent assaults throughout her lifetime.

Key points
Alzheimer’s Disease Risk Reduction Health Coaching: Comparative Analysis
Authors: Zanjani Faika , Battle Brian , Richardson Joann
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Recent guidelines point to lifestyle as a tool for decreasing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk. To address the limited practice and availability of AD risk reduction interventions, this study aimed to explore the feasibility of a community-level lifestyle intervention targeting high-risk groups.

Research Design and Methods

Diverse older adults (60+) living in the Richmond, VA, local area, with the following risk factors, incomes below $12,000/year and managing diabetes or cardiovascular disease, were offered weekly lifestyle telephone health coaching for 12 weeks in 2019–2020 (intervention group). The health coaching sessions provided Alzheimer’s disease (AD) lifestyle risk reduction education and goal setting/planning. The intervention sample (n = 40, mean age 68 years (range: 60–76 years), was 90% African American/Black (n = 36) and 45% male (n = 18). Thereafter, in 2021–2022, n = 37 individuals in the same area were recruited as a comparison group and not given health coaching (control group), mean age of 65.5 years (range: 57–83 years), 92% African American/Black (n = 34), and 50% male (n = 18).

Results

Repeated-measures intervention effects were seen for cognitive ability, indicating greater improvement in the intervention group (p < .01). Significant difference scores indicated greater cognitive ability (p < .01) and physical activity (p < .001) gains in the intervention group, with intervention subjects with reported memory problems showed relatively less physical activity gains (p < .05).

Discussion and Implications

This work creates the impetus for future large-scale AD risk reduction investigations to mitigate and improve modifiable risk among diverse older adults. Our positive trends in AD risk reduction support telephone-based health coaching as a feasible AD risk reduction intervention.
Testing a Context-Enriched Model of Successful Aging in Multiple Large Data Infrastructures With Individuals in Advanced Old Age
Authors: Kaspar Roman , Ehni Hans-Jörg , Schweda Mark , Wahl Hans-Werner
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Few people who are ages 80+ meet the criteria of successful aging (SA) proposed by Rowe and Kahn. Going beyond the individual-level conceptualization, we argue that SA always operates in multiple contexts and that context may become most critical in advanced old age. However, we are not aware of any previous study providing an empirical test of how contexts for SA unfold across persons 80 years and older, including those living in institutions.

Research Design and Methods

We estimated and compared prevalences of SA based on a classic versus context-enriched understanding of SA in multiple large surveys of older adults, that is, the D80+ study (N = 3.233) and the NRW80+ study (N [baseline] = 1.863). In addition to replication across independent samples, we investigated the stability of context-related SA across time.

Results

Prevalences of SA according to Rowe and Kahn were 9.1% in adults aged 80–84 and 0.7% in persons 90 years or older. However, prevalence rates for those with good contexts at their disposal even if not fulfilling Rowe and Kahn’s criteria were much higher across all age groups (80–84 years: 54.9%, 90 years and older: 44.4%). Greater 2-year stability was observed for contextual compared to individual criteria. Notably, positive effects of context on SA were stronger at onset compared to late fourth age.

Discussion and Implications

Our findings support a contextualized understanding of SA and inform policy that furthering SA in the fourth age requires the optimization of multiple contexts at the community level.
On Splitting Complete Manifolds via Infinity Harmonic Functions
Authors: Araújo Damião J , Magliaro Marco , Mari Luciano , Pessoa Leandro F
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we prove some splitting results for manifolds supporting a non-constant infinity harmonic function which has at most linear growth on one side. Manifolds with non-negative Ricci or sectional curvature are considered. In dimension $2$, we extend Savin’s theorem on Lipschitz infinity harmonic functions in the plane to every surface with non-negative sectional curvature.
Music Therapists’ Job Satisfaction and Related Factors: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Five European Countries and Israel
Authors: Kantor Jiri , Wiess Chava , Dassa Ayelet , Li Jiaoli , Gilboa Avi , Mercadal-Brotons Melissa , Frank-Bleckwedel Eva , Kaczynski Elisabeth , Roelcke Beate , Sabbatella Patricia
Published: August 2024

Studies on the job satisfaction of music therapists are needed for the growth of the profession and their findings may help to improve the well-being of practitioners. The aim of this cross-sectional survey was to explore the levels of satisfaction of music therapists with their profession and to identify the factors influencing their job satisfaction in several countries where this topic is under researched (Israel, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Austria). Descriptive and inferential statistics of data obtained through an online survey of 439 practicing music therapists found the highest levels of job satisfaction were reported in Spain and the lowest levels were reported in Germany. We found significant correlations among job satisfaction, satisfaction with music therapy training, and satisfaction with the perceived status of the profession. Moreover, participants’ views on “what would need to change to improve their satisfaction” with their profession were divided into 3 categories (therapists-self, workplace, and country). Participants seemed to be highly satisfied with their profession, but less satisfied with interactions with other team members, and with the perceived status of the music therapy profession. There is an overarching need for all countries (including those where music therapy is legally established as a profession) to promote the profession inside and outside the practitioners’ work settings.
Deciphering the sex gap in global life expectancy: the impact of female-specific cancers 1990-2019
Authors: Trias-Llimós Sergi , Rentería Elisenda , Rutigliano Roberta , Aggarwal Ajay , Moodley Jennifer , Unger-Saldaña Karla , Soerjomataram Isabelle
Published: August 2024

Background

Females live longer than males, which results in a sex gap in life expectancy. This study examines the contribution of female cancers to this differential by world region and country over the period 1990-2019 with special focus to the 15-69 years age group.

Methods

Cause-specific mortality data for 30 cancers, including 4 female-specific cancers from 238 countries and territories, were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Using life table techniques and demographic decomposition analysis, we estimated the contribution of cancer deaths to the sex gap in life expectancy by age and calendar period.

Results

At ages 15-69 years, females had a higher life expectancy than males in 2019. Countries with the largest sex gaps or the largest female advantage in life expectancy were in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia, Latin America, and Southern Africa. In contrast, countries with the smallest sex gaps were mainly located in Northern Africa, Northern America, and Northern Europe. The contribution of female-specific cancers to sex gaps in life expectancy were largely negative, ranging from -0.15 years in the Western Pacific to -0.26 years in the Eastern Mediterranean region, implying that the disproportionately higher premature cancer mortality among females contributed to a reduction in the female life expectancy advantage.

Conclusion

Female-specific cancers are important determinants of sex gaps in life expectancy. Their negative impact on life expectancy at working and reproductive age groups has far-reaching consequences for society. Increasing the availability and access to prevention, screening, timely diagnosis, and effective treatment can reduce this gap.
Mental health of social media influencers
Authors: Bray Isabelle , Lerigo-Sampson Moya , Morey Yvette , Williams Joanne
Published: August 2024

There is a wide body of research on the effects of social media use on mental health, particularly focusing on young people. However, very little is known about the mental health of social media influencers (SMIs), who also tend to be quite young. This is of growing significance as more of our daily lives is conducted online, and in the context of poor population mental health globally, which declined further as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. We therefore set out to review the mental health of SMIs and, in the absence of literature on SMIs, drew on other similar but more traditional occupational groups, such as the self-employed, to draw conclusions and identify directions for future research.
Social capital in academia: Measuring researchers’ collaboration habits versus preferences
Authors: Zuccala Alesia A , Jensen Maria S , Wærn Emilie K , Hertzum Morten
Published: August 2024

Many studies concerning social capital in academia have used social network theory and social network analysis as an approach. Social network analysis focuses on a boundary set of actors in a network and what it reveals as an outcome of social capital. However, social capital is also a precursor or catalyst for cooperative work. Here, we investigate researchers’ perceptions of social capital based on the hypothesis that what academics do when they collaborate (as a habit), may not relate to what they actually prefer. We have piloted a questionnaire-survey to test this, focusing on the goal-seeking behavior of publishing new research. Data were collected from 1,092 academics, across 6 faculties at the University of Copenhagen: Health and Medical Science, Science, Social Sciences, Humanities, Law, and Theology. The survey of collaboration habits first revealed significant differences at the level of gender, academic position, years active in publishing, and faculty. Collaboration preferences, interpreted from social capital theory, were also measured according to three interrelated dimensions—i.e. cognitive, relational, and structural. Survey respondents tended to prefer the cognitive-relational aspects of collaboration (i.e. reciprocity and obligation; shared understandings), over certain structural determinants (i.e. linking to networks). Few habits and preferences correlated and did not correlate strongly. Amongst the researchers who indicated a preference for bridging networks (i.e. working with people who have different types of expertise), few confirmed this as a collaboration habit, particularly with experts from organizations outside academia (i.e. the business/public sector).
The relationships between the family impact and distress of the coronavirus disease-19 pandemic, parent insomnia, infant temperamental negative affectivity, and parent-reported infant sleep: a path analysis
Authors: Jiao Nana , Pituch Keenan A , Petrov Megan E
Published: August 2024

Study Objectives

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impact on infant sleep (IS) is understudied. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between family impact and distress from COVID-19 pandemic stressors, parental insomnia symptoms, infant temperamental negative affectivity, and parent-reported IS.

Methods

Parents from the Phoenix metropolitan area with a full-term healthy infant (<1 year) were recruited from February 27, 2021, to August 7, 2021. A sample of 70 parents (baby age 5.5 ± 3.5 months; parental age: 31.7 ± 5.0 years) completed the COVID-19 Exposure and Family Impact Survey (CEFIS) Impact and Distress scales, the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the Infant Behavioral Questionnaire-Revised Negative Affectivity subscale (IBQ-R-NA), and the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire-Revised (BISQ-R). Based on the transactional model of IS, path analyses were conducted to identify the direct effect of CEFIS scores and the indirect effects of parental ISI and infant IBQ-R-NA scores on BISQ-R scores.

Results

The parent sample was predominantly female (94.3%), white (72.9%), and married or in a domestic partnership (98.6%). Although COVID-19 pandemic impact and distress were not directly related to parent-reported IS, pandemic distress was negatively related to parent-reported IS indirectly through infant negative affectivity, including BISQ-R total score (β = −0.14, 95% CI [−0.32, −0.01]) and IS subscale score (β = −0.12, 95% CI [−0.27, −0.01]).

Conclusions

Heightened COVID-19 pandemic family distress was related to poorer parent-reported IS through greater parent-reported infant negative affectivity, suggesting the importance of addressing family stress and emotional regulation during crises.
Serum tumour necrosis factor-alpha as a marker of disease activity in children with nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Gowtham B C , Dawman Lesa , Tiewsoh Karalanglin , Kushwah Sunil , Rawat Amit , Singh Thakurvir , Gupta Aarchie
Published: August 2024

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common glomerular disease in children throughout the world; however, the exact pathogenesis of the disease remains unknown. Several studies have shown that tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a proinflammatory cytokine, plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of NS. The literature lacks sufficient data to establish the relationship between TNF-α and NS. This prospective study was conducted on children aged 1–14 years diagnosed with idiopathic NS. All enrolled individuals were followed up from disease onset or relapse of NS until remission or at least 42 days with steroid therapy if remission was not achieved. Serum TNF-α levels were measured at presentation and remission or after 42 days of steroid therapy if remission was not achieved. The role of TNF-α levels in response to steroid therapy in NS was also assessed. One hundred and twelve children (68% boys) with idiopathic NS were enrolled. The median age (interquartile range) at enrolment was 58.5 (37–84.7) months, while the median age at symptom onset was 47.5 (24–60.7) months. The median TNF-α level at presentation was 7.5 (3.5–12.1) pg/ml, and that at remission was 5.25 (1.62–8.8) pg/ml. The median TNF-α levels among first-episode NS at presentation were 3.98 pg/ml and 1.88 pg/ml (P = .04) at remission, whereas in steroid-resistant NS, it was 6.59 pg/ml at presentation and 9.02 pg/ml at 42 days (P = .45). There was a significant negative correlation between the duration of steroid therapy and TNF-α levels, with a correlation factor of −0.021 and R2 of 0.154 (P≤.001). Serum TNF-α levels decrease with steroid therapy in children with steroid-sensitive NS, which correlates clinically with the achievement of remission.
Effects of Gustatory and Olfactory Stimulation on Feeding Outcomes in Preterm Infants
Authors: Li Xia , Guo Xuemei , Wan Xingli , Hu Yanling
Published: August 2024

Background:

Few primary studies have examined the impact of olfactory and gustatory stimulation on premature infants, and variability exists in reported outcomes.

Purpose:

To explore the effects of olfactory and gustatory stimulation on feeding outcomes in preterm infants.

Data Sources:

A literature search was conducted in 4 databases (CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL) from the inception of the databases to May 2024.

Study Selection:

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs to explore the effects of olfactory and gustatory stimulation on feeding outcomes in preterm infants were included.

Data Extraction:

Two reviewers independently extracted data from the included studies and completed the form designed for data extraction.

Results:

Eleven RCTs and quasi-RCTs comprising 1009 preterm infants were included. Meta-analysis found that olfactory and gustatory stimulation significantly shortened the time to reach full oral feeds (days) (mean difference [MD]: −2.52, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.88 to −1.16, P = .0003), while they had no significant differences in time to achieve full enteral feeds (days), postmenstrual age (PMA) at the removal of the nasogastric tube (weeks), weight at discharge (grams), weight gain (grams), head circumference at discharge (cm), length at discharge (cm), total duration of parenteral nutrition (days), necrotizing enterocolitis, hospitalization duration (days), PMA at discharge (weeks).

Implications for Practice and Research:

Large sample, multicenter studies are needed to demonstrate the effectiveness of olfactory and gustatory stimulation on feeding outcomes in preterm infants.
Malignant Proliferating Pilar Tumor With Sarcomatous Transformation (“Carcinosarcoma”): Case Report With Molecular Profile
Authors: Moran Jakob M. T. , Hoang Mai P. , Mariño-Enríquez Adrian , DeSimone Mia S.
Published: August 2024

Malignant proliferating pilar tumors (MPPTs) are rare, unique cutaneous adnexal tumors. Sarcomatous transformation in MPPTs is even rarer (4 previous cases reported). Here, we report an extraordinary case of a MPPT with sarcomatous transformation occurring on the scalp of a 63-year-old man with an in-depth molecular profile along with histologic, immunohistochemical, and follow-up data. Shared mutations in the epithelial and sarcomatous components included a loss-of-function TP53 mutation. An inactivating TP53 mutation was only identified in the epithelial component, and an inactivating CDKN2A mutation was only identified in the sarcomatous component. Copy number variations previously reported in MPPT were also identified, including 6p21.1 loss, 6q arm loss, and 15q21.1-q26.3 gain [epithelial], and 6p22.2-p22.3 loss [sarcoma]. Histologically, the tumor demonstrated juxtaposed areas of proliferating pilar tumor, carcinoma with clear cell change, and sarcomatous areas that did not stain for AE1/AE3, p40, CD34, S100 protein, and smooth muscle actin  by immunohistochemistry. The patient is alive at 2 years without evidence of recurrence or metastasis.
Association Between Food Insecurity and Developmental Delay and Behavioral Problems in US Children 2 to 5 Years of Age
Authors: Savant Devina , Gjelsvik Annie , Yatchmink Yvette , High Pamela
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

To investigate the relationship between food insecurity and developmental delay and/or behavior problems (DD/PB) in US children aged 2 to 5 years before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

Data from 14,464 children aged 2 to 5 years from the National Survey of Children's Health from 2016 to 2017 were analyzed. Children with food insecurity came from families reporting they sometimes or often could not afford nutritious meals. Diagnosis of DD/PB by a professional was obtained through a caregiver report.

Results:

A quarter of children aged 2 to 5 years lived in food insecure homes, and 9% were diagnosed with DD/PB. Children in food insecure households were more likely to be from minoritized populations publicly insured, with single parents, without high school education, living =< 130% Federal poverty line, and receiving supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) benefits (all p < 0.001). Adjusting for age, sex, race, ethnicity, poverty, family structure, and parent education, children in food insecure households had 1.57 times the odds of being diagnosed with DD/PB compared with children in food secure households. In similarly adjusted models excluding poverty and stratified by SNAP use, homes not receiving SNAP maintained this association between food insecurity and diagnosis of DD/PB, whereas in homes receiving SNAP, the association was not significant.

Conclusion:

In this population-based study, US children aged 2 to 5 years in food insecure households were more likely to be diagnosed with DD/PB compared with those in food secure households. When stratified, there was no association between food insecurity and DD/PB among those receiving SNAP; the association remained for those not receiving SNAP. The potential long-term impact of this safety net program on our most vulnerable citizens must be considered as policymakers contemplate federal spending priorities.