bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A data- and knowledge-driven framework for developing machine learning models to predict soccer match outcomes
Authors: Berrar Daniel , Lopes Philippe , Dubitzky Werner
Published: September 2024

The 2023 Soccer Prediction Challenge invited the machine learning community to develop innovative methods to predict the outcomes of 736 future soccer matches. The Challenge included two tasks. Task 1 was to forecast the exact match score, i.e., the number of goals scored by each team. Task 2 was to predict the match outcome as probability vector over the three possible result categories: victory of the home team, draw, and victory of the away team. Here, we present a new data- and knowledge-driven framework for building machine learning models from readily available data to predict soccer match outcomes. A key component of this framework is an innovative approach to modeling interdependent time series data of competing entities. Using this framework, we developed various predictive models based on k-nearest neighbors, artificial neural networks, naive Bayes, and ordinal forests, which we applied to the two tasks of the 2023 Soccer Prediction Challenge. Among all submissions to the Challenge, our machine learning models based on k-nearest neighbors and neural networks achieved top performances. Our main insights from the Challenge are that relatively simple learning algorithms perform remarkably well compared to more complex algorithms, and that the key to successful predictions lies in how well soccer domain knowledge can be incorporated in the modeling process.
Strongly Different Adhesion Reduction for 1D or 2D Random Fractal Roughness, and an Extension of the BAM Model to Anisotropic Surfaces
Authors: Ciavarella M. , Pérez-Ràfols F.
Published: September 2024

The influence of roughness on adhesion has been studied since the time of Fuller and Tabor, but recently there has been debate about how roughness exactly seems to kill (but sometimes enhance!) adhesion, particularly with reference to the accepted model of fractal roughness. We show that the Persson–Tosatti criterion does not depend on anisotropy of the surface for a typical power law PSD if written in terms of rms roughness and magnification. Instead, a very simple extension of the Bearing Area Model (BAM) of Ciavarella to anisotropic fractal surface shows a weak but clear dependence on the anisotropy, with higher adhesion in the 1D case, showing better agreement than the Persson–Tosatti criterion to actual numerical results of Afferrante Violano and Dini. However, neither of the two models permit to capture the strong hysteresis found in experiments between loading and unloading, which is very likely to enhance adhesion more as we move from the isotropic to the full 1D case. This suggests the mechanism of load amplification along contact lines and the associated elastic instabilities, is not captured by either the Persson–Tosatti or the BAM model applied to anisotropic surfaces.
Exploring the wild almond, Prunus arabica (Olivier), as a genetic source for almond breeding
Authors: Brukental Hillel , Doron-Faigenboim Adi , Bar-Ya’akov Irit , Harel-Beja Rotem , Trainin Taly , Hatib Kamel , Aharon Shlomi , Azoulay-Shemer Tamar , Holland Doron
Published: September 2024

During the process of almond (Prunus dulcis) domestication, essential traits, which gave plants the plasticity for facing unstable environmental conditions, were lost. In general, the domestication process often narrows the natural genetic diversity. Modern selections (i.e., breeding programs) dramatically accelerated this genetic bottleneck trend to a few successful almond cultivars, which are presently the founders of most commercial cultivars worldwide. The concept of utilizing wild species as a source for important traits and for the enrichment of the gene pool was deeply discussed in previous studies. However, in almonds and other Prunus species, deliberate utilization of wild species as a genetic resource for breeding programs is quite rare. To address these significant challenges, we generated an interspecific F1 population between the Israeli almond cultivar Um el Fahem (UEF) and a specimen of a local wild almond species, Prunus arabica (P. arabica), originating from the Judea desert. This interspecific F1 population possesses high phenotypic variability, and sixteen segregating traits were phenotyped. Among the segregating traits, we were able to genetically associate six agriculturally important traits, such as leaf chlorophyll content (LCC), flower size, and fruit size. The alleles for Self-Compatibility (SC) and kernel bitterness were previously mapped in almond and were reexamined on the background of the distinctive wild genetic material of P. arabica. Finally, phenotypic interactions between traits were suggested, such as rootstock perimeter and canopy area that were positively correlated with total yield in the F1 population. This study is a first step towards developing a well-characterized almond interspecies genetic population. The availability of such a genetic tool with detailed phenotypic analysis is crucial to address and explore the profound influence of almond wild species in Prunus genetic research and breeding. By using the interspecific population as the infrastructure, we show the advantages and importance of utilizing wild relatives.
Biomechanical Hand Model: Modeling and Simulating the Lateral Pinch Movement
Authors: Lemos A.F. , Rodrigues da Silva L. A. , Nagy B. V. , Barroso P. N. , Vimieiro C. B. S.
Published: September 2024

Background

Hand movements are crucial in daily activities, sparking extensive interest and research in biomechanical models. While existing models offer valuable insights, their complexity and processing costs may limit their suitability for all applications, sometimes impeding research efficiency.

Objectives

This study aimed to develop a biomechanical model of the human hand for analyzing the physiology of lateral pinch movement. Unlike conventional methodologies, this approach focuses on delivering a computationally efficient model while incorporating the trapeziometacarpal joint into the analysis.

Methods

The model, which operates in a multibody environment, simulates lateral pinching movement by applying external time-varying torques to digit joints, emulating musculature, tendons, and ligaments. Torque estimation was achieved through the Euler-Lagrange approach. The model generates animated representations of the movement, aiding pathology identification and outputting dynamic variables. The model’s was validated through data acquired from asymptomatic subjects via an OptiTrack system.

Results

The average disparity between the expected and obtained joint angular displacements was $$\varvec{6.06~\%}$$

6.06

%

and $$\varvec{1.90~\%}$$

1.90

%

during validation and verification stages, suggesting high fidelity in the model performance. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive linear relationships and robust correlations between the obtained and expected configuration data. Model-generated pinch postures closely resembled expected physiological patterns, with results falling within the range for asymptomatic individuals documented in the scientific literature.

Conclusion

The system efficiently analyzes dynamic variables at a low computational cost, offering animated representations for pathology identification. The model’s potential for rehabilitation solutions and adaptability, coupled with its accuracy and versatility, make it an asset for advancing hand biomechanics research.
Supporting the investigation of health outcomes due to airborne emission by different approaches: current evidence for the waste incineration sector
Authors: Di Maria Francesco , Sisani Federico , Cesari Daniela , Bontempi Elza
Published: September 2024

Life cycle assessment (LCA) along with a survey on epidemiologic and oxidative potential studies was used for analysing the current evidence of the impact of airborne emissions from municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) on human health. The correspondence among investigated health outcomes and pollutants was discussed based on the Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). LCA indicated the ability of MSWI in avoiding human health impact, about − 2 × 10−4 DALY/tonne together with avoided emissions of particulate matter (PM) and resource depletion, about − 2.5 × 10−3 kg Sbeq/tonne and about − 0.11 kg PM2.5 eq/tonne, respectively. Positive emissions were detected for greenhouses (about 900 kg CO2eq/tonne) and ecotoxicity (about 15,000 CTUe/tonne). Epidemiologic studies performed on population exposed to MSWI reported quite contrasting results. In some of these, hazard ratio (HR) ranging from about 0.7 to 2.2 was reported concerning the incidence of stomach, liver, breast and bladder cancer. Larger agreement was detected concerning the incidence of larynx and lung cancer with HR ranging from about 1 to about 2.6. Direct causal nexuses were not definitively identified. Oxidative potential of PM was characterized by a high Pearson correlation > 0.8 to the presence of CrVI, Cu and Zn. These heavy metals were also identified by both CAS and IARC as toxic (i.e. Cu and Zn) and cancerous (i.e. CrVI) substances affecting the organs of both respiratory and digestive apparatus. In general, even if more research is necessary, LCA, oxidative potential and the epidemiologic survey results showed a high level of accordance. This suggests their integrated exploitation for supporting the investigation of both direct and indirect consequences on environment and health related to waste incineration for both retrospective and predictive studies.
The effect of industrial and urban dust pollution on the ecophysiology and leaf element concentration of Tilia cordata Mill.
Authors: Bierza Karolina , Bierza Wojciech
Published: September 2024

The influences of airborne trace elements in urban dust on element concentrations and functional traits of Tilia cordata were examined. For the present study, the unwashed and washed leaves of T. cordata were collected to assess the concentration of metals in Katowice City, Poland, from sites of different traffic intensity and industry activity. The content of Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, Zn, C, and N was measured. Additionally, a number of functional traits such as photosynthetic pigment content, specific leaf area (SLA), leaf dry matter content (LDMC), and diseased areas of the leaves were determined to assess the impact of the polluters on the physiology of the trees and their resources acquisition strategy. We hypothesized that the photosynthetic pigments of T. cordata will decrease with the traffic and industry intensity, and the traits related to the resources acquisition and stress resistance will shift into a more conservative strategy. The Principal Component Analysis and the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation method helped to identify that the Fe, Zn, Al, and Cr were related mainly to traffic intensification and Pb to industrial activities. The results indicate that Katowice is considerably polluted by Zn (up to 189.6 and 260.2 mg kg−1 in washed and unwashed leaves, respectively), Pb (up to 51.7 and 133.6 mg kg−1), and Cd (up to 2.27 and 2.43 mg kg−1) compared to other cities worldwide. Also, a reduction of approximately 27% in the photosynthetic pigments was observed at the high-traffic and industrial sites. The trees from the mainly affected areas with heavy traffic and industry tend to apply a conservative resources strategy with a decrement in SLA and an increment in LDMC. In contrast, the opposite trend was observed at the less affected sites (high SLA, low LDMC). The study showed that unfavourable urban conditions can trigger a plastic response on multiple levels. Knowledge of the possible paths of adaptation to urban conditions of different plant species is nowadays crucial to appropriate urban greenery planning.
Synergistic Effects of Hydroxychloride and Organic Zinc on Performance, Carcass Characteristics, Liver and Tibia Mineral Profiles of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Sadr Vahideh , Nguyen Hoai Thi Thanh , Pineda Lane , Han Yanming , Toghyani Mehdi
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the potential synergism between hydroxychloride and organic zinc (Zn) at different levels on performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. There were seven experimental diets including a negative control diet without any supplemental Zn, and six diets with 80 mg/kg added Zn in the forms of ZnSO4, hydroxychloride Zn (HCZ) and organic Zn (ORZ), and a combination of HCZ and ORZ at 40 mg/kg HCZ + 40 mg/kg ORZ (HCZ40-ORZ40), 55 mg/kg HCZ + 25 mg/kg ORZ (HCZ55-ORZ25), and 70 mg/kg HCZ + 10 mg/kg ORZ (HCZ70-ORZ10). Each diet was replicated eight times with 17 chicks per replicate. On day 35, HCZ70-ORZ10 and HCZ40-ORZ40 diets resulted in the highest body weights (P < 0.05). Throughout the entire production period (1–35 days), all HCZ and ORZ diets significantly improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to PC (P < 0.05), with HCZ40-ORZ40 showing the lowest FCR. Breast meat yield was lower in NC-fed birds, while HCZ80 and HCZ70-ORZ10 groups had the lowest abdominal fat weight (P < 0.05). Liver and gizzard weight, tibia breaking strength, and ash percentage, footpad dermatitis, and hock burns were not affected. Tibia Zn content was higher in HCZ or ORZ-supplemented birds compared to NC (P < 0.05), whereas other minerals in tibia and liver were unaffected. In summary, the absence of supplemental Zn negatively affects growth and carcass characteristics, whereas replacing ZnSO4 with HCZ, ORZ, or their combinations improves bodyweight and FCR. HCZ70-ORZ10 and HCZ40-ORZ40 were identified as optimal combinations for maximizing feed efficiency.
Postmortem CT and autopsy findings in an elevator-related death: a case report
Authors: Aulino Giovanni , Rega Michele , Rossi Vittoria , Zedda Massimo , Oliva Antonio
Published: September 2024

Elevator-related fatalities and injuries are rarely discussed. Falls have been identified as the first cause of mortality in the majority of these accidents. Evidence suggests that many elevator accidents may be attributed to inadequate equipment maintenance or malfunctions of the devices. This study examines a case involving an elevator maintenance worker found within an elevator shaft, using postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) along with a full autopsy. The autopsy revealed that the cause of death was severe polytrauma resulting from dragging, compression, and crushing mechanisms, which resulted in a dislocated skull and multiple thoraco-abdominal injuries, including exposed organs and viscera. Detailed examination identified a cranio-encephalic crush, leading to a significant alteration in the physiognomy of the facial structures. Additionally, PMCT revealed complex spinal fractures, such as a Jefferson fracture and a complete Chance fracture at the D6 vertebra, accompanied by spinal deviation proximal to the fracture site. Autopsy findings corroborated these PMCT results. A multidisciplinary approach, including PMCT, is proposed as a strategic method for the comprehensive reconstruction of such accidents, facilitating the collection of extensive data.
The role of molecular biomarkers in recurrent glioblastoma trials: an assessment of the current trial landscape of genome-driven oncology
Authors: van Opijnen Mark P. , de Vos Filip Y. F. , Cuppen Edwin , Geurts Marjolein , Maas Sybren L. N. , Broekman Marike L. D.
Published: September 2024

For glioblastoma patients, the efficacy-targeted therapy is limited to date. Most of the molecular therapies previously studied are lacking efficacy in this population. More trials are needed to study the actual actionability of biomarkers in (recurrent) glioblastoma. This study aimed to assess the current clinical trial landscape to assess the role of molecular biomarkers in trials on recurrent glioblastoma treatment. The database ClinicalTrials.gov was used to identify not yet completed clinical trials on recurrent glioblastoma in adults. Recruiting studies were assessed to investigate the role of molecular criteria, which were retrieved as detailed as possible. Primary outcome was molecular criteria used as selection criteria for study participation. Next to this, details on moment and method of testing, and targets and drugs studied, were collected. In 76% (181/237) of the included studies, molecular criteria were not included in the study design. Of the remaining 56 studies, at least one specific genomic alteration as selection criterium for study participation was required in 33 (59%) studies. Alterations in EGFR, CDKN2A/B or C, CDK4/6, and RB were most frequently investigated, as were the corresponding drugs abemaciclib and ribociclib. Of the immunotherapies, CAR-T therapies were the most frequently studied therapies. Previously, genomics studies have revealed the presence of potentially actionable alterations in glioblastoma. Our study shows that the potential efficacy of targeted treatment is currently not translated into genome-driven trials in patients with recurrent glioblastoma. An intensification of genome-driven trials might help in providing evidence for (in)efficacy of targeted treatments.
Neurotropic Murine β-Coronavirus Infection Causes Differential Expression of Connexin 47 in Oligodendrocyte Subpopulations Associated with Demyelination
Authors: Das Soubhik , Shaw Archana Kumari , Das Sarma Subhajit , Koval Michael , Das Sarma Jayasri , Maulik Mahua
Published: September 2024

Gap junctions (GJs) play a crucial role in the survival of oligodendrocytes and myelination of the central nervous system (CNS). In this study, we investigated the spatiotemporal changes in the expression of oligodendroglial GJ protein connexin 47 (Cx47), its primary astroglial coupling partner, Cx43, and their association with demyelination following intracerebral infection with mouse hepatitis virus (MHV). Neurotropic strains of MHV, a β-coronavirus, induce an acute encephalomyelitis followed by a chronic demyelinating disease that shares similarities with the human disease multiple sclerosis (MS). Our results reveal that Cx47 GJs are persistently lost in mature oligodendrocytes, not only in demyelinating lesions but also in surrounding normal appearing white and gray matter areas, following an initial loss of astroglial Cx43 GJs during acute infection. At later stages after viral clearance, astroglial Cx43 GJs re-emerge but mature oligodendrocytes fail to fully re-establish GJs with astrocytes due to lack of Cx47 GJ expression. In contrast, at this later demyelinating stage, the increased oligodendrocyte precursor cells appear to exhibit Cx47 GJs. Our findings further highlight varying degrees of demyelination in distinct spinal cord regions, with the thoracic cord showing the most pronounced demyelination. The regional difference in demyelination correlates well with dynamic changes in the proportion of different oligodendrocyte lineage cells exhibiting differential Cx47 GJ expression, suggesting an important mechanism of progressive demyelination even after viral clearance.
The left side of gestures: left perceptual bias for meaningless hand gestures recognition is independent from handedness
Authors: Gobbo Silvia , Pavia Jennifer , Proietti Morgana , Primativo Silvia , Arduino Lisa S. , Martelli Marialuisa , Capirci Olga , Daini Roberta
Published: September 2024

The “Left Perceptual Bias” (LPB) is the effect for which the left side of a picture such as a face is used to a greater extent than its right side as shown in a wide variety of experimental tasks. This effect has been observed for faces, body parts and objects. The present work investigated the presence of a LPB in recognizing hand gestures in two experiments. The role of the side of stimuli presentation (left /right), stimuli orientation (palm/back), participants’ handedness and gender were analyzed. Participants were presented with images of meaningless gestures performed by an actor with the right or left hand, from a palm or a back view. Immediately afterward, participants were shown a drawing and had to discriminate whether it represented the same gesture or not. In the first experiment, the task was administered to a sample of right-handed participants, half males. Results showed shorter response times for stimuli presented on the left side and for those shown from the palm. No gender differences were observed. The second experiment included a sample of left-handed participants and the LPB was replicated. Taken together, our results suggest an interpretation of the bias in terms of asymmetries in perceptual processing rather than the involvement of motor representations.
Disparities in Musculoskeletal Oncology
Authors: Koons Abigail , Smith Elyse , Stephens Jeffrey C. , McKnight Natilyn H. , Barr Jennifer , Ibe Izuchukwu K.
Published: September 2024

Purpose of Review

Disparities within the healthcare system serve as barriers to care that lead to poor outcomes for patients. These healthcare disparities are present in all facets of medicine and extend to musculoskeletal oncology care. There are various tenets to health disparities with some factors being modifiable and non-modifiable. The factors play a direct role in a patient’s access to care, time of presentation, poor social determinants of health, outcomes and survival.

Recent Findings

In musculoskeletal oncologic care, factors such as race, socioeconomic factors and insurance status are correlated to advanced disease upon presentation and poor survival for patients with a sarcoma diagnosis. These factors complicate the proper delivery of coordinated care that is required for optimizing patient outcomes.

Healthcare disparities lead to suboptimal outcomes for patients who require musculoskeletal oncologic care in the short and long term. More research is required to identify ways to address the known modifiable and non-modifiable factors to improve patient outcome.
Randvoorwaarden voor een waardevolle bijdrage van de school aan een gezonder gewicht van kinderen
Authors: Hahnraths Marla T. H. , Dijkstra S. Coosje , Busch Vincent , Verhoeff Arnoud P. , van Engelen Bo H. W. , Winkens Bjorn , Seidell Jaap C. , van Schayck Onno C. P.
Published: September 2024

Samenvatting

Stimulering van een gezonde leefstijl tijdens de kindertijd is essentieel voor korte- en langetermijngezondheidswinst. Interventies zoals Jump-In en de Gezonde Basisschool van de Toekomst laten positieve gezondheidseffecten zien. Maar wat is er nodig om deze structureel te integreren in de basisschoolomgeving? We beschrijven in dit artikel randvoorwaarden die het belang van een systeembenadering benadrukken. Een coherent pakket aan maatregelen is nodig zodat structurele gezondheidsbevordering op scholen een logisch gevolg is van een gezond systeem. In combinatie met een gezonde thuisomgeving, sportomgeving en openbare ruimte kan de schoolomgeving een positieve en duurzame impact hebben op de gezondheid van kinderen.
The effects of market-oriented farming on living standards, nutrition, and informal sharing arrangements of smallholder farmers: the case of African indigenous vegetables in Kenya
Authors: Kubitza Christoph , Hackfort Sarah , Opiyo Arnold , Rauh Cornelia , Stokes Caroline S. , Huyskens-Keil Susanne
Published: September 2024

The shift from subsistence to more market-oriented agriculture is viewed as essential to increase smallholder farmers’ welfare. However, its impact on farmers’ nutrition and informal sharing arrangements and associated solidarity within African farming communities remains uncertain. To analyse these trade-offs, we study the growing commercialization of African indigenous vegetables (AIV) in Kenya. These vegetables are an essential component of local diets in rural areas but also of informal sharing arrangements that provide access to food outside of markets. This article combines quantitative data from a 2016–2022 panel survey of farmers with qualitative data from focus group discussions. Results based on household fixed-effects models show a significant increase in households’ non-food expenditures due to selling AIV. The results suggest that selling AIV did not negatively affect nutrition outcomes but did not improve them either. Informal AIV sharing between households decreased further with growing market participation. Panel data models indicate, however, inconsistent and insignificant changes in associated solidarity indicators. We attribute this to the multiple and sometimes opposing effects of market-oriented farming on solidarity, as revealed by focus group discussions. While some farmers perceive reduced solidarity due to less informal AIV sharing, others perceived this traditional solidarity to be partially forced. Other forms of social interaction have also emerged, such as cooperatives and more intensive knowledge sharing. Despite concerns about the loss of informal sharing and community solidarity and limited improvements in nutrition outcomes, the tangible income gains generated by selling AIV are likely to foster further growth in the AIV sector.
The role of fault pathways for modern and deep recharge to a semi-confined aquifer: revised analysis of modern water leakage pathways in the Davis wellfield, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
Authors: Towell J. , Larsen D. , Schoefernacker S. , Waldron B. , Villalpando-Vizcaino R. , Leslie D.
Published: September 2024

Hydrologic tracer, borehole log and geophysical data provide new insight into recharge sources and pathways to the semi-confined Memphis aquifer in the Davis wellfield, Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.A. New data and recent studies highlight the importance of faults as potential pathways for the migration of modern water into the Memphis aquifer, an important regional public, industrial, and agricultural water supply. Geochemical and environmental tracer data collected over the past 28 years, combined with hydrologic, stratigraphic, and structural data, were used to evaluate changes in water quality and different recharge pathways to the Memphis aquifer. Assessment of stratigraphic and structural relationships argue for the wellfield being bound by a fault along the bluff line (west) and another fault or faults along the eastern and southeastern margins. Modern water recharge (< 60 years old) occurs through the fault along the western boundary of the wellfield, whereas modern water and, seasonally, deep-seated (helium-bearing) fluids recharge along the fault on the southeastern margin. Each recharge source and pathway present different vulnerabilities, suggesting that the role of faults in wellfields within active tectonic regions needs to be assessed.
Can dry rivers provide a good quality of life? Integrating beneficial and detrimental nature’s contributions to people over time
Authors: Nicolás-Ruiz Néstor , Suárez María Luisa , Vidal-Abarca María Rosario , Quintas-Soriano Cristina
Published: September 2024

Although dry rivers only flow after heavy rainfall, recent studies have evidenced that they provide benefits to people. However, part of society undervalues these benefits, raising the question of whether they contribute to a good quality of life (GQL). We hypothesised that the benefits of dry rivers contribute to GQL of local communities as long as these benefits are not altered by human disturbance. Local communities closely associated with three dry rivers in Murcia (Spain) were interviewed. The relationships between benefits and GQL, and between detriments and GQL were described. Different benefits and detriments have different impacts on GQL dimensions. Social perceptions of the contribution of benefits and detriments to GQL vary between communities and individuals, and change over time. This implies the development of social studies to ensure inclusive management. Incorporating detriment co-production into research can raise people’s awareness of the role that human activities play in maintaining GQL.
Semi-Riemannian structures for symmetric Galilean spacetimes
Authors: de la Fuente Daniel , Pelegrín José A. S. , Rubio Rafael M.
Published: September 2024

We introduce semi-Riemannian structures well-adapted to certain fields of observers in a Galilean spacetime. The Levi-Civita connection of such a semi-Riemannian metric will allow us to obtain variational characterizations of the Galilean geodesics as well as global results on the topological and differentiable structure of the spacetime. Moreover, these new semi-Riemannian metrics provide a new way to compare the studied Newton–Cartan models with their relativistic counterparts.
Bicycle Set-Up Dimensions and Cycling Kinematics: A Consensus Statement Using Delphi Methodology
Authors: Priego-Quesada Jose Ignacio , Arkesteijn Marco , Bertucci William , Bini Rodrigo R. , Carpes Felipe P. , Diefenthaeler Fernando , Dorel Sylvain , Fonda Borut , Gatti Anthony A. , Holliday Wendy , Janssen Ina , Elvira Jose L. López , Millour Geoffrey , Perez-Soriano Pedro , Swart Jeroen , Visentini Paul , Zhang Songning , Encarnación-Martínez Alberto
Published: September 2024

Bicycle set-up dimensions and cycling kinematic data are important components of bicycle fitting and cyclist testing protocols. However, there are no guidelines on how bicycles should be measured and how kinematic data should be collected to increase the reliability of outcomes. This article proposes a consensus regarding bicycle set-up dimensions and recommendations for collecting cycling-related kinematic data. Four core members recruited panellists, prepared the document to review in each round for panellists, analysed the scores and comments of the expert panellists, reported the decisions and communicated with panellists. Fourteen experts with experience in research involving cycling kinematics and/or bicycle fitting agreed to participate as panellists. An initial list of 17 statements was proposed, rated using a five-point Likert scale and commented on by panellists in three rounds of anonymous surveys following a Delphi procedure. The consensus was agreed upon when more than 80% of the panellists scored the statement with values of 4 and 5 (moderately and strongly agree) with an interquartile range of less than or equal to 1. A consensus was achieved for eight statements addressing bicycle set-up dimensions (e.g. saddle height, saddle setback, etc.) and nine statements for cycling kinematic assessment (e.g. kinematic method, two-dimensional methodology, etc.). This consensus statement provides a list of recommendations about how bicycle set-up dimensions should be measured and the best practices for collecting cycling kinematic data. These recommendations should improve the transparency, reproducibility, standardisation and interpretation of bicycle measurements and cycling kinematic data for researchers, bicycle fitters and cycling related practitioners.
Reading Colonial Transitions: Archival Evidence and the Archaeology of Indigenous Action in Nineteenth-Century California
Authors: Panich Lee M. , Flores Gustavo , Wilcox Michael , Arellano Monica V.
Published: September 2024

Archaeologists in North America and elsewhere are increasingly examining long-term Indigenous presence across multiple colonial systems, despite lingering conceptual and methodological challenges. We examine this issue in California, where archaeologists and others have traditionally overlooked Native persistence in the years between the official closing of the region's Franciscan missions in the 1830s and the onset of US settler colonialism in the late 1840s. In particular, we advocate for the judicious use of the documentary record to ask new questions of Indigenous life during this short but critical period, when many Native Californians were freed from the missions and sought new lives in their homelands or in emerging urban areas. We offer examples from our individual and collective research—undertaken in collaboration with the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe—regarding long-term Native persistence in the San Francisco Bay Area to demonstrate how archival evidence can illuminate four interrelated areas of daily life that could be investigated archaeologically, including resistance, freedom, servitude, and personal adornment. By using the written record to regain a sense of subjective time, these topics and others could stimulate new, interdisciplinary, and collaborative research that more firmly accounts for Indigenous people's enduring presence across successive waves of Euro-American colonialism.
Changing Politics for Changing Times: Rethinking Research Stakeholders and Strategies for Environmental Education
Authors: Gough Annette
Published: September 2024

The history of environmental education in Australia is political, and fraught with power battles. Indeed, environmental education in Australia (as in many places elsewhere) has always been political. The early calls for environmental education came as a response to the perceived growing environmental crises on the 1960s. At this time, it was seen as a scientific and social priority by scientists, environmentalists and academics, but it was not seen as an educational priority by education departments. Rather, environmental educators were treated as yet another adjectival education lobby group wanting space in an already overcrowded curriculum. There was a time when most state education authorities were engaging with environmental education, but the politicisation of the placement of sustainability as (an optional) cross-curriculum priority has enabled avoidance of the politics of environmental issues and thereby a political stance that is tacitly supporting the status quo of the current neoliberal political systems. This article argues that the times have changed and so has the nature of politics and power bases, and it is time to rethink approaches to environmental education research and recognise that the politics of the past may not be the politics of the future as the generations grow different.
First-language interference without bilingualism? Evidence from second language vowel production in international adoptees
Authors: Norrman Gunnar
Published: September 2024

The ability to acquire the speech sounds of a second language has consistently been found to be constrained with increasing age of acquisition. Such constraints have been explained either through cross-linguistic influence in bilingual speakers or as the result of maturational declines in neural plasticity with age. Here, we disentangle these two explanations by investigating speech production in adults who were adopted from China to Sweden as toddlers, lost their first language, and became monolingual speakers of the second language. Although we find support for predictions based on models of bilingual language acquisition, these results cannot be explained by the bilingual status of the learners, indicating instead a long-term influence of early specialization for speech that is independent of bilingual language use. These findings are discussed in light of first-language interference and the theory of maturational constraints for language acquisition.
Is dialect proficiency associated with improved executive function?
Authors: Privitera Adam John
Published: September 2024

A broad and extensive literature has investigated the cognitive consequences of bilingualism on cognitive control. Results from these studies, while controversial, support the conclusion that speaking a second language confers non-linguistic benefits. Whether other related linguistic experiences, such as dialect use, confer similar benefits remains an underexplored and open question. The common use of a diverse range of local dialects across China provides ideal conditions under which to explore this question. Using a dialectally heterogeneous sample of Mandarin-English bilingual young adults (n = 74), the present study investigated whether differences in dialect proficiency impacted on inhibition and attentional control while accounting for variation in language experience. Dialect proficiency was not associated with improved performance on the Simon task, Attention Network Test, or Flanker task, suggesting no benefits in inhibition or attentional control. Considerations for future studies investigating the influence of Chinese dialect experience on cognitive control are discussed.
Strengthening ecologically based rodent management in the Philippines using maximum entropy (MaxEnt) predictions
Authors: Castillo Diane Shiela C. , Higa Motoki
Published: September 2024

Rattus species pose a significant threat to the Philippines, causing substantial economic losses in agriculture and posing health risks to humans. While Ecologically Based Rodent Management (EBRM) has been developed to mitigate rodent outbreaks, its implementation is challenging, particularly in the face of climate and land use changes. In this study, we aimed to potentially enhance EBRM strategies by utilizing a high-performing modelling approach, MaxEnt, to predict the habitat suitability for Rattus species in the Philippines. This study revealed that forested areas exhibit high suitability for R. tanezumi, R. exulans, and R. everetti, with a notable degree of similarities in their habitat suitability. Furthermore, the model predicted that R. argentiventer, a species with no records in the mainland of Luzon, could potentially find suitable habitats in some areas of these regions, particularly in Central Luzon. Conversely, R. norvegicus was predicted to be highly suitable for areas with high-human population density, such as urban cities. The predictive model deepens our understanding of the interactions between Rattus species and their environments across the Philippines, which is crucial for identifying high-risk areas that require immediate intervention. These results have the potential to enhance the EBRM approach more effectively on a national scale. The EBRM strategy based on the predictive outcomes of the MaxEnt model is not only crucial for the Philippines but also serve as a guiding framework for other regions facing similar challenges with rodent populations.
PRODUCTION OPTIMIZATION FOR AGENTS OF DIFFERING WORK RATES
Authors: HIGGINS PETER M.
Published: September 2024

We devise schemes for producing, in the least possible time, p identical objects with n agents that work at differing speeds. This involves halting the process to transfer production across agent types. For the case of two types of agent, we construct schemes based on the Euclidean algorithm that seeks to minimize the number of pauses in production.
Spatiotemporal Facility‐Level Patterns of Summer Heat Exposure, Vulnerability, and Risk in United States Prison Landscapes
Authors: Ovienmhada Ufuoma , Hines Mia , Krisch Michael , Diongue Ahmed T. , Minchew Brent , Wood Danielle R.
Published: September 2024

Heat is associated with increased risk of morbidity and mortality. People who are incarcerated are especially vulnerable to heat exposure due to demographic characteristics and their conditions of confinement. Evaluating heat exposure in prisons, and the characteristics of exposed populations and prisons, can elucidate prison‐level risk to heat exposure. We leveraged a high‐resolution air temperature data set to evaluate short and long‐term patterns of heat metrics for 1,614 prisons in the United States from 1990 to 2023. We found that the most heat‐exposed facilities and states were mostly in the Southwestern United States, while the prisons with the highest temperature anomalies from the historical record were in the Pacific Northwest, the Northeast, Texas, and parts of the Midwest. Prisons in the Pacific Northwest, the Northeast, and upper Midwest had the highest occurrences of days associated with an increased risk of heat‐related mortality. We also estimated differences in heat exposure at prisons by facility and individual‐level characteristics. We found higher proportions of non‐white and Hispanic populations in the prisons with higher heat exposure. Lastly, we found that heat exposure was higher in prisons with any of nine facility‐level characteristics that may modify risk to heat. This study brings together distinct measures of exposure, vulnerability, and risk, which would each inform unique strategies for heat‐interventions. Community leaders and policymakers should carefully consider which measures they want to apply, and include the voices of directly impacted people, as the differing metrics and perspectives will have implications for who is included in fights for environmental justice.
On the Spirality of the Asymmetric Rain Field of Tropical Cyclones Under Vertical Wind Shear
Authors: Lau K. H. , Toumi R.
Published: September 2024

The downshear‐left enhancement of tropical cyclone rainfall has been demonstrated previously, but the radial dependence of this effect was not analyzed in detail. This study quantifies the progressive upwind shift of the wavenumber‐1 maximum rain position with radius relative to the vertical wind shear direction. This shift is visualized as a distinctive upwind spiral of the maximum. It is shown that this spiral pattern is generally observed across various storm intensities, shear strength, and ocean basins. Detailed examination revealed that the maximum downwind deflection angle of the wavenumber‐1 rain maximum relative to the shear direction is smaller for tropical storms than hurricanes, but insensitive to hurricane intensity. It is proposed that the spirality is produced by a continuous decline in angular advection of air parcels with radius. The stability of the deflection angle in hurricanes may be accounted for by a corresponding increase in vertical ascent under strengthening angular flow.
Neurofilament light chain associates with IVH and ROP in extremely preterm infants
Authors: Sjöbom Ulrika , Öhrfelt Annika , Pivodic Aldina , Nilsson Anders K. , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Hellström William , Danielsson Hanna , Gränse Lotta , Sävman Karin , Wackernagel Dirk , Hansen-Pupp Ingrid , Ley David , Hellström Ann , Löfqvist Chatarina
Published: September 2024

Background

Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is known for indicating adult brain injury, but the role of NfL in extremely preterm infants is less studied. This study examines the relationship between NfL and neurovascular morbidities in these infants.

Methods

A secondary analysis of the Mega Donna Mega trial was conducted on preterm infants <28 weeks gestational age (GA). The study measured NfL levels and proteomic profiles related to the blood-brain barrier in serum from birth to term-equivalent age, investigating the association of NfL with GA, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), and blood-brain barrier proteins.

Results

Higher NfL levels were seen in the first month in infants with severe IVH and for those born <25 weeks GA (independent of ROP or IVH). Additionally, infants born at 25–27 weeks GA with high NfL were at increased risk of developing severe ROP (independent of IVH). NfL was significantly associated with the proteins CDH5, ITGB1, and JAM-A during the first month.

Conclusion

NfL surges after birth in extremely preterm infants, particularly in those with severe IVH and ROP, and in the most immature infants regardless of IVH or ROP severity. These findings suggest NfL as a potential predictor of neonatal morbidities, warranting further validation studies.

Impact statement

This study shows that higher NfL levels are related to neurovascular morbidities in extremely preterm infants.

The degree of immaturity seems important as infants born <25 weeks gestational age exhibited high postnatal serum NfL levels irrespective of neurovascular morbidities.

Our findings suggest a potential link between NfL and neurovascular morbidities possibly affected by a more permeable blood-brain barrier.
Epigenetic modification of CD4+ T cells into Tregs by 5-azacytidine as cellular therapeutic for atherosclerosis treatment
Authors: Zhu Ling , Liu Zhongwei , Cui Qianwei , Guan Gongchang , Hui Rutai , Wang Xiqiang , Wang Junkui , Zhang Yong , Zhu Xu
Published: September 2024

Recent research has explored the potential of the demethylating drug 5-azacytidine (Aza) as therapy for a range of diseases. However, the therapeutic efficacy of Aza for patients of atherosclerosis remains unclear. This study investigates the therapeutic application of Aza to atherosclerosis in order to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. We generated induced Tregs (iTregs) from CD4+ T cells by using Aza in vitro, and this was followed by the intravenous infusion of iTregs for the treatment of atherosclerosis. The adoptive transfer of Aza-iTreg significantly increased peripheral blood Treg cells, suppressed inflammation, and attenuated atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice. Furthermore, we observed a notable demethylation of the Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3)-regulatory T cell-specific demethylated region (TSDR) and an upregulation of Foxp3 expression in the CD4+ T cells in the spleen of the ApoE−/− mice following the transfer of Aza- iTregs. We also demonstrated that Aza converted naive CD4+ T cells into Tregs by DNA methyltransferase 1 (Dnmt1)-mediated Foxp3-TSDR demethylation and the upregulation of Foxp3 expression. Conversely, the overexpression of Dnmt1 in the CD4+ T cells attenuated the Aza-induced Foxp3-TSDR demethylation and upregulation of Foxp3 expression. Our results reveal that Aza converts naive CD4+ T cells into functional Tregs by inhibiting Dnmt1, and the transfer of Aza-iTregs suppresses atherosclerosis in mice.
FALCON: Fourier Adaptive Learning and Control for Disturbance Rejection Under Extreme Turbulence
Authors: Lale Sahin , Renn Peter I. , Azizzadenesheli Kamyar , Hassibi Babak , Gharib Morteza , Anandkumar Anima
Published: September 2024

Controlling aerodynamic forces in turbulent conditions is crucial for UAV operation. Traditional reactive methods often struggle due to unpredictable flow and sensor noise. We present FALCON (Fourier Adaptive Learning and Control), a model-based reinforcement learning framework for effective modeling and control of aerodynamic forces under turbulent flows. FALCON leverages two key insights: turbulent dynamics are well-modeled in the frequency domain, and most turbulent energy is concentrated in low-frequencies. FALCON learns a concise Fourier basis to model system dynamics from 35 s of flow data. To address sensor limitations, FALCON models dynamics using a short history of actions and measurements. With this approach, FALCON applies model predictive control for safe and efficient control. Tested in the Caltech wind tunnel under highly turbulent conditions, FALCON learns to control the underlying nonlinear dynamics with less than 9 min of data, consistently outperforming state-of-the-art methods. We provide guarantees for FALCON, ensuring stability and robustness.
Correction: Bioreducible and acid-labile polydiethylenetriamines with sequential degradability for efficient transgelin-2 siRNA delivery
Authors: Wang Pengchong , Yan Yan , Sun Ying , Zhang Rui , Huo Chuanchuan , Li Lu , Wang Ke , Dong Yalin , Xing Jianfeng
Published: September 2024

Correction for ‘Bioreducible and acid-labile polydiethylenetriamines with sequential degradability for efficient transgelin-2 siRNA delivery’ by Pengchong Wang et al., J. Mater. Chem. B, 2019, 7, 6994–7005, https://doi.org/10.1039/C9TB01183H.
Advances in metal–organic frameworks for optically selective alkaline phosphatase activity monitoring: a perspective
Authors: Andrade Eduarda , Almeida Paz Filipe A. , Figueira Flávio
Published: September 2024

MOFs can play three essential roles in ALP monitoring: they can serve as fluorescent probes, function in oxidation or peroxidation mechanisms, or combine both processes.
First-principles-based microkinetic modeling of methanol steam reforming over Cu(111) and Cu(211): structure sensitive activity and selectivity
Authors: Zhang Xinyi , Yang Bo
Published: September 2024

The primary reaction mechanisms and reaction kinetics of methanol steam reforming over the Cu(111) and Cu(211) surfaces are studied using density functional theory calculations and microkinetic simulations.
A wearable DC tribovoltaic power textile woven by P/N-type organic semiconductor fibers
Authors: Fan Beibei , Liu Guoxu , Dai Yiming , Dong Zefang , Luan Ruifei , Gong Likun , Zhang Zhi , Wang Zhong Lin , Zhang Chi
Published: September 2024

A high-performance, wearable tribovoltaic DC power supply textile was prepared using a traditional weaving process. The WDPs have high flexibility, excellent environmental robustness, lower internal resistance, and washability.