bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of serum thymidine kinase 1 activity in neoadjuvant-treated HER2-positive breast cancer: biomarker analysis from the Swedish phase II randomized PREDIX HER2 trial
Authors: Zhu Yajing , Zerdes Ioannis , Matikas Alexios , Cruz Ivette Raices , Bergqvist Mattias , Elinder Ellinor , Bosch Ana , Lindman Henrik , Einbeigi Zakaria , Andersson Anne , Carlsson Lena , Dreifaldt Ann Charlotte , Isaksson-Friman Erika , Hellstrom Mats , Johansson Hemming , Wang Kang , Bergh Jonas C. S. , Hatschek Thomas , Foukakis Theodoros
Published: January 2024

Background

Thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) plays a pivotal role in DNA synthesis and cellular proliferation. TK1 has been studied as a prognostic marker and as an early indicator of treatment response in human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)-negative early and metastatic breast cancer (BC). However, the prognostic and predictive value of serial TK1 activity in HER2-positive BC remains unknown.

Methods

In the PREDIX HER2 trial, 197 HER2-positive BC patients were randomized to neoadjuvant trastuzumab, pertuzumab, and docetaxel (DPH) or trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1), followed by surgery and adjuvant epirubicin and cyclophosphamide. Serum samples were prospectively collected from all participants at multiple timepoints: at baseline, after cycle 1, 2, 4, and 6, at end of adjuvant therapy, annually for a total period of 5 years and/or at the time of recurrence. The associations of sTK1 activity with baseline characteristics, pathologic complete response (pCR), event-free survival (EFS), and disease-free survival (DFS) were evaluated.

Results

No association was detected between baseline sTK1 levels and all the baseline clinicopathologic characteristics. An increase of TK1 activity from baseline to cycle 2 was seen in all cases. sTK1 level at baseline, after 2 and 4 cycles was not associated with pCR status. After a median follow-up of 58 months, 23 patients had EFS events. There was no significant effect between baseline or cycle 2 sTK1 activity and time to event. A non-significant trend was noted among patents with residual disease (non-pCR) and high sTK1 activity at the end of treatment visit, indicating a potentially worse long-term prognosis.

Conclusion

sTK1 activity increased following neoadjuvant therapy for HER2-positive BC but was not associated with patient outcomes or treatment benefit. However, the post-surgery prognostic value in patients that have not attained pCR warrants further investigation.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02568839. Registered on 6 October 2015.
Retain strength, gain ductility: tough and transparent nanopapers by mercerisation
Authors: Mayer Florian , Prado-Roller Alexander , Mautner Andreas , Bismarck Alexander
Published: January 2024

Nanocellulose papers offer high tensile strength and modulus but suffer from drawbacks such as their brittle nature. We show that mercerisation of cellulose nanopapers in strong alkaline media for 2 min to 24 h results in the (partial) transformation of native cellulose I into the more ductile cellulose II allomorph. The strain to failure of mercerised nanopapers tripled compared to the original nanopapers while retaining their tensile strength in excess of 100 MPa at the expense of a slight drop in modulus resulting in a significant increase in toughness (total work of fracture). An additional advantage of mercerisation is a reduction in porosity of the nanopapers and increased transparency.
A positive feedback mechanism? Institutional responsiveness to bribery reporting by citizens in 12 African countries
Authors: Barbabela Letícia
Published: January 2024

Paying bribes to access public services is a common form of corruption faced by citizens worldwide. A standard policy recommendation to address this problem is to create secure channels and encourage citizens to report bribery to authorities. Bribery reporting tools aim to decrease the incidence of bribery, but they could also serve to bolster anti-corruption commitment. Can bribery reporting channels also inspire citizens to fight corruption? This paper tests the claim that institutional responsiveness to bribery reporting triggers a positive feedback mechanism. The positive feedback mechanism refers to the proposition that advertising successful cases of institutional responsiveness not only persuades citizens of institutional commitment to fighting corruption but also inspires them to uptake various anti-corruption activities. The empirical strategy relies on Afrobarometer survey data from 12 countries, specifically focusing on individuals reporting bribery incidents who also answer a survey question about the subsequent actions taken by authorities. The paper assesses the persuasion effect by examining whether institutional responsiveness correlates with more positive perceptions of public institutions. Additionally, the paper assesses the inspiration effect by investigating whether this responsiveness is associated with citizens' willingness to take part in anti-corruption activities. The findings show that, even though those who have observed responsiveness to bribery reporting tend to evaluate public institutions more positively, they do not seem more willing to engage against corruption than those who do not observe responsiveness.
Impact of organised colorectal cancer screening on age-specific population incidences: evidence from a quasi-experimental study in Sweden
Authors: Chauca Strand Gabriella , Strömberg Ulf , Forsberg Anna , Bonander Carl
Published: January 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incurs a significant disease burden globally. Organised CRC screening programmes have been widely implemented for early detection and prevention. To understand the public health impact of these programmes, quantitative evidence of changes in overall and age-specific population incidences is fundamental. We aimed to provide such evidence by exploiting a time lag in the implementation of organised screening in Sweden: two out of 21 regions (these two regions comprise nearly 20% of the total Swedish population) have offered organised screening since 2008; the other regions have offered CRC screening since 2021. Using registry data on diagnosed CRC cases and socio-demographics for all regions in Sweden over the period 1970–2019, Bayesian structural time series modelling and difference-in-differences were applied to analyse the impact of screening on age-specific population incidences over time (CRC cases per 100.000 persons/year). After inviting birth-year cohorts aged 60–69 years for stool-based testing, the incidence rate in the 70–74-year age group decreased significantly over time, with an average reduction of − 44·40 (95% CI − 58·15 to − 31·31) from 2011 to 2019 in the intervention regions. In the overall population aged 60–74 years, there was a net incidence decrease of − 7·99 (95% CI − 13·85 to − 2·39) since the initiation of organised screening in the intervention regions (2008–2019). Organised CRC screening for 60–69-year-olds generated a change in age-specific incidence patterns with a long-lasting incidence decrease in the 70–74-year-old population, implying reductions in the excess mortality and burden of the disease.
Images say more than just words: visual versus text communication to dispel a rent-control misconception
Authors: Brandts Jordi , Busom Isabel , Lopez-Mayan Cristina , Panadés Judith
Published: January 2024

The highly popular belief that rent-control leads to an increase in the amount of affordable housing is in contradiction with ample empirical evidence and congruent theoretical explanations. It can therefore be qualified as a misconception. We present the results of a preregistered on-line experiment in which we study how to dispel this misconception using a refutational approach in two different formats, a video and a text. We find that the refutational video has a significantly higher positive impact on revising the misconception than a refutational text. This effect is driven by individuals who initially agreed with it and depart from it after the treatment. The refutational text, in turn, does not have a significant impact relative to a non-refutational text. Higher cognitive reflective ability is positively associated with revising beliefs in all interventions. Our research shows that visual communication effectively reduces the gap between scientific economic knowledge and the views of citizens.
The world turned upside down: Can international student mobility contribute towards democratization and human development? Evidence from the Eurograduate pilot survey
Authors: Mihut Georgiana
Published: January 2024

Political, social, environmental, and health challenges have questioned the relevance and sustainability of international student mobility (ISM). Strong critiques towards ISM stem from current global challenges but are also rightfully prevalent among scholars of internationalization. In response to the sustained critique of ISM, this article makes the case that—despite its limitations—ISM can contribute towards important public good outcomes and serve broader institutional and higher education sector aims. Public good is operationalized as referring to markers of democratization—trust in others and political participation—and markers of human development—self-reported competency levels and happiness. Data from eight European countries collected through the Eurograduate 2018 pilot survey is used to test the association between study abroad and democratization and human development markers. By doing so, the paper aims to understand if ISM can help address some of the democratization and human development challenges faced at national, regional, and global levels. The paper also observes how these outcomes vary between international, migrant, and domestic graduates. In this article, the juxtaposition of migrant graduates—an under-researched group in internationalization studies—with international graduates highlights how migrant students and graduates can be better supported. Results offer a complex picture of inequality between international, migrant, and domestic graduates. Findings also show that studying abroad is positively associated with trust in others, political participation, higher self-reported competency levels, and happiness, underlining the public good value of ISM.
Is Immersion in 3D Virtual Games Associated with Mathematical Ability Improvement in Game-Based Learning?
Authors: Christopoulos Athanasios , Mystakidis Stylianos , Kurczaba Justyna , Laakso Mikko-Jussi , Stylios Chrysostomos
Published: January 2024

Previous studies have found positive effects of Game-Based Learning for mathematics. While most studies assume that this effect is explained by the presence of flow/immersion during games, this has not yet been established. The aim of the current study is to verify if immersion indeed is associated with mathematical skills improvement when using a Game-Based Learning intervention. This was tested among 59 Greek high school students, using authentic design. After having received a traditional education module, the students were tested and then engaged for four weeks in a desktop-based 3D Virtual Learning Environment where they could play mathematic minigames. They were subsequently re-tested to verify if they showed a significant increase in mathematical skills. The students showed an improvement in their mathematical skills (Cohen’s d = 1.26), with significant results for functions, geometry, and thinking skills and methods. On the individual level, about half of the students showed a 10% increase in one of the domains (numbers & calculations, functions, geometry, thinking skills and methods, and algorithms and number theory). Immersion was found to be reflected by engagement and presence, but neither one of these aspects was associated with mathematical achievement after the intervention. It is concluded that Game-Based Learning is an effective approach to increasing mathematical skills, yet the underlying mechanisms are not yet understood. The authors discuss several alternative mechanisms based on the literature that can be verified in future studies.
The Infinity Laplacian Eigenvalue Problem: Reformulation and a Numerical Scheme
Authors: Bozorgnia Farid , Bungert Leon , Tenbrinck Daniel
Published: January 2024

In this work, we present an alternative formulation of the higher eigenvalue problem associated to the infinity Laplacian, which opens the door for numerical approximation of eigenfunctions. A rigorous analysis is performed to show the equivalence of the new formulation to the traditional one. Subsequently, we present consistent monotone schemes to approximate infinity ground states and higher eigenfunctions on grids. We prove that our method converges (up to a subsequence) to a viscosity solution of the eigenvalue problem, and perform numerical experiments which investigate theoretical conjectures and compute eigenfunctions on a variety of different domains.
Incremental and transformational adaptation to climate change among Indigenous Peoples and local communities: a global review
Authors: Zant Marijn , Schlingmann Anna , Reyes-García Victoria , García-del-Amo David
Published: January 2024

Around the world, Indigenous Peoples and local communities are exposed to different climate change impacts to which they respond in a myriad of ways. Despite this diversity, there are few comparative studies assessing the magnitude of livelihood system change resulting from Indigenous Peoples’ and local communities’ responses to climate change impacts. Drawing on the analysis of 210 peer-reviewed publications, we analyze 3292 Indigenous Peoples’ and local communities’ responses to climate change impacts, focusing on the magnitude of change they entail. Globally, Indigenous Peoples and local communities are actively adjusting their livelihood activities, most frequently applying incremental responses. However, in half of the case studies, communities fully or partially transform their livelihoods to respond to climate change impacts. Both incremental and transformational responses can have adverse impacts on Indigenous Peoples’ and local communities’ lives. Trends in the magnitude of livelihood changes are similar across climates and livelihoods except for responses in (semi-)arid climates, where most intermediate and transformational responses take place, and for responses in cultivation, where most incremental changes take place. When transformational adaptation occurs, Indigenous Peoples and local communities often not only give up their livelihood strategy, but also their culture and way of living.
Attention computing for enhanced visuomotor skill performance: Testing the effectiveness of gaze-adaptive cues in virtual reality golf putting
Authors: Harris David , Donaldson Ross , Bray Max , Arthur Tom , Wilson Mark , Vine Sam
Published: January 2024

This work explored how immersive technologies like virtual reality can be exploited for improved motor learning. While virtual reality is becoming a practical replacement for training that is otherwise expensive, dangerous, or inconvenient to deliver, virtual simulations can also enhance the learning process. Based on the concept of ‘attention computing’, we developed and tested a novel ‘gaze-adaptive’ training method within a virtual putting environment augmented with eye and motion tracking. To our knowledge, this work is the first application of attention computing and adaptive virtual reality to sports skill training. Novice golfers were randomly assigned to either standard putting practice in virtual reality (control) or gaze-adaptive training conditions. For gaze-adaptive training, the golf ball was sensitive to the participant’s gaze and illuminated when fixated upon, to prompt longer and more stable pre-shot fixations. We recorded the effect of these training conditions on task performance, gaze control, and putting kinematics. Gaze-adaptive training was successful in generating more expert-like gaze control and putting kinematics, although this did not transfer to improved performance outcomes within the abbreviated training paradigm. These findings suggest that gaze-adaptive environments can enhance visuomotor learning and may be a promising method for augmenting virtual training environments.
Application of behavioural theories, models, and frameworks in pharmacy practice research based on published evidence: a scoping review
Authors: Nazar Zachariah , Naseralallah Lina Mohammad , Stewart Derek , Paudyal Vibhu , Shafei Laila , Weidmann Anita
Published: January 2024

Background

Pharmacy practice research often focuses on the design, implementation and evaluation of pharmacy services and interventions. The use of behavioural theory in intervention research allows understanding of interventions’ mechanisms of action and are more likely to result in effective and sustained interventions.

Aim

To collate, summarise and categorise the reported behavioural frameworks, models and theories used in pharmacy practice research.

Method

PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science and EBSCO (CINAHL PLUS, British Education index, ERIC) were systematically searched to capture all pharmacy practice articles that had reported the use of behavioural frameworks, theories, or models since inception of the database. Results were filtered to include articles published in English in pharmacy practice journals. Full-text screening and data extraction were independently performed by two reviewers. A narrative synthesis of the data was adopted. Studies were reviewed for alignment to the UK Medical Research Council (MRC) framework to identify in which phase(s) of the research that the theory/model/framework had been employed.

Results

Fifty articles met the inclusion criteria; a trend indicating an increasing frequency of behavioural theory/frameworks/models within pharmacy practice research was identified; the most frequently reported were Theory of Planned Behaviour and Theoretical Domains Framework. Few studies provided explicit and comprehensive justification for adopting a specific theory/model/framework and description of how it underpinned the research was lacking. The majority were investigations exploring determinants of behaviours, or facilitators and barriers to implementing or delivering a wide range of pharmacy services and initiatives within a variety of clinical settings (aligned to Phase 1 UK MRC framework).

Conclusion

This review serves as a useful resource for future researchers to inform their investigations. Greater emphasis to adopt a systematic approach in the reporting of the use of behavioural theories/models/frameworks will benefit pharmacy practice research and will support researchers in utilizing behavioural theories/models/framework in aspects of pharmacy practice research beyond intervention development.
The Assemblage and Dismantling of Access Barriers in Administrative Bureaucracies: Constructing the Problem of Diversity in the German Welfare State
Authors: Petzke Martin
Published: January 2024

The article extends the literature on the construction of “diversity management” by personnel managers in corporate America. Such research has highlighted that Human Resource (HR) specialists draw heavily on social-scientific thinking in implementing various remedies against discrimination. However, it has paid less attention to how such esoteric views of reality, comprising such “things” as “structural barriers” impeding occupational advancement and “diversity sensitivity,” have been successfully established as a self-evident reality in the workplace. In order to more thoroughly investigate how the world of diversity management is established outside the circle of academic specialists, the article employs perspectives from science and technology studies on the ways in which sociotechnical assemblages, i.e., networks of human actors and material devices, enact scientific ontologies. It applies such perspectives to a German case of diversity management, a program of “intercultural opening” that seeks to make bureaucracies of the welfare state more accessible to immigrants. The article delineates the specific ontology behind this version of diversity management, rooted in sociological perspectives on social mobility, and explores the various techniques and instruments through which officers of intercultural opening establish this ontology as a visible reality in municipal administrations.
Straightening the ‘value-laden turn’: minimising the influence of extra-scientific values in science
Authors: Stamenkovic Philippe
Published: January 2024

Straightening the current ‘value-laden turn’ (VLT) in the philosophical literature on values in science, and reviving the legacy of the value-free ideal of science (VFI), this paper argues that the influence of extra-scientific values should be minimised—not excluded—in the core phase of scientific inquiry where claims are accepted or rejected. Noting that the original arguments for the VFI (ensuring the truth of scientific knowledge, respecting the autonomy of science results users, preserving public trust in science) have not been satisfactorily addressed by proponents of the VLT, it proposes four prerequisites which any model for values in the acceptance/rejection phase of scientific inquiry should respect, coming from the fundamental requirement to distinguish between facts and values: (1) the truth of scientific knowledge must be ensured; (2) the uncertainties associated with scientific claims must be stated clearly; (3) claims accepted into the scientific corpus must be distinguished from claims taken as a basis for action. An additional prerequisite of (4) simplicity and systematicity is desirable, if the model is to be applicable. Methodological documents from international institutions and regulation agencies are used to illustrate the prerequisites. A model combining Betz’s conception (stating uncertainties associated with scientific claims) and Hansson’s corpus model (ensuring the truth of the scientific corpus and distinguishing it from other claims taken as a basis for action) is proposed. Additional prerequisites are finally suggested for future research, stemming from the requirement for philosophy of science to self-reflect on its own values: (5) any model for values in science must be descriptively and normatively relevant; and (6) its consequences must be thoroughly assessed.
Assessment of heavy metals at mangrove ecosystem, applying multiple approaches using in-situ and remote sensing techniques, Red Sea, Egypt
Authors: Mohammed Asmaa H. , Khalifa Ahmed M. , Mohamed Hagar M. , Abd El-Wahid Kareem H. , Hanafy Mahmoud H.
Published: January 2024

Mangrove areas are considered the most retention zone for heavy metal pollution as it work as an edge that aggregates land and sea sediments. This study aims to examine if the heavy metals’ existence in the mangrove sediment is related to contamination or natural resources. In addition, it gives an interpretation of the origin of these metals along the Egyptian Red Sea coast. Twenty-two samples of mangrove sediments were collected and then, analyzed for metals (Mn, Ni, Cu, Fe, Cd, Ag, and Pb) using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS). Integration between the in-situ data, contamination indices, and remote sensing and geographical information science (GIS), and multivariate statistical analysis techniques (PCA) were analyzed to assess and clarify the spatial origin of heavy metals in sediment at a regional scale. The average concentration of heavy metals from mangrove sediments were shown to be substantially lower than the referenced value, ranging from moderate to significant except the levels of Ag were very high. The heavy metals concentrations were expected to be naturally origin rather than anthropogenic and that be confirmed by mapping of Red Sea alteration zones spots. These alteration zones are parallel to mangrove sites and rich by several mineralization types including heavy metals that are carried by flooding to the coastline. Remote sensing and GIS techniques successfully contributed to interpreting the pattern of the origin of heavy metals and discharging systems that control the heavy metals concentration along the Red Sea coast.
Efficient, fast, simple, and eco-friendly methods for separation of toxic chromium(VI) ions based on ion exchangers and polymer materials impregnated with Cyphos IL 101, Cyphos IL 104, or D2EHPA
Authors: Witt Katarzyna , Kaczorowska Małgorzata A. , Bożejewicz Daria
Published: January 2024

In this study, we present the results of the first comparison of the elimination of toxic Cr(VI) ions, which are hazardous contamination of the environment, from aqueous solutions using ion exchangers (IEs) and polymer materials (PMs) impregnated with D2EHPA or ionic liquids (Cyphos IL 101 and Cyphos IL 104). Sorption of Cr(VI) ions and desorption from the formulated sorption materials were carried out. In comparison, classical solvent extraction was accomplished. Fourier transform infrared-attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) have been used for characterization of the structure of developed IEs and PMs. The highest efficiency of adsorption of Cr(VI) ions was obtained using PMs with ionic liquids (>82%). Desorption from these materials were also very efficient (>75%). On the contrary, the application of IEs allowed for obtaining the best results of both, sorption and desorption processes when using D2EHPA (75% and 72%, respectively). The application of PMs and IEs is part of the green chemistry, and the conducted elimination of chromium(VI) ions using developed materials allows for the conclusion that they can potentially be used on a larger scale, e.g., for the treatment of industrial wastewater rich in Cr(VI) ions.
A bibliometric evaluation and visualization of global solar power generation research: productivity, contributors and hot topics
Authors: Lyu Xiaozan , Ruan Tianqi , Wang Wujun , Cai Xiaojing
Published: January 2024

The demand for sustainable energy is increasingly urgent to mitigate global warming which has been exacerbated by the extensive use of fossil fuels. Solar energy has attracted global attention as a crucial renewable resource. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis based on publication metrics from the Web of Science database to gain insights into global solar power research. The results indicate a stable global increase in publications on solar power generation and a rise in citations, reflecting growing academic interest. Leading contributors include China, the USA, South Korea, Japan, and India, with the Chinese Academy of Sciences emerging as the most prolific institution. Multidisciplinary Materials Science, Applied Physics, Energy and Fuels, Physical Chemistry, and Nanoscience and Nanotechnology were the most used and promising subject categories. Current hot topics include the systematic analysis of photovoltaic systems, perovskite as a solar cell material, and focusing on stability and flexibility issues arising during photovoltaic-grid integration. This study facilitates a comprehensive understanding of the status and trends in solar power research for researchers, stakeholders, and policy-makers.
Characterizing Diploid and Tetraploid Potato Cultivars with Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Marín-Ortiz Juan Carlos , Hoyos-Carvajal Lilliana María , Botero-Fernández Verónica , de Jesús Córdoba-Gaona Oscar , Barrera-Sanchez Carlos Felipe
Published: January 2024

Characterizing potato cultivars is essential for diagnosing the specific production and management requirements. Employing techniques that facilitate rapid, objective, and cost-effective identification of various aspects of plant physiology is crucial for generating this valuable information. In this study, our goal was to identify different potato cultivars across three distinct phenological phases utilizing reflectance spectroscopy within the visible and near-infrared ranges. Reflectance spectra were measured using a portable spectrometer on leaves obtained from five different potato cultivars. We constructed classification models to determine the accurate classification percentages for each cultivar within specific phenological stages. General trends in the reflectance spectra were observed, which were consistent across all five cultivars within the measured range. During the vegetative phase, there was a uniform reflectance of around 5% in the green region. This value experienced a slight decrease during the flowering phase and subsequently rose to approximately 12% during the senescence phase. In the near-infrared (NIR) range, a reduction in reflectance from 50 to 30% was noted during the flowering phase, followed by a cultivar-dependent increase towards senescence. The specific wavelengths identified in the spectra enabled the accurate classification of plants from each cultivar across the vegetative, flowering, and senescence phases. The classification rates were notably high, with a success rate of 87% for Var. Paola, 96% for Var. Paysandú, 93% for Var. Violeta, and 100% for cv. 448 and 440. The Var. Paola exhibited superior correct classification rates, ranging from 85% for Paysandú and Violeta, 90% for cv. 440, to 100% for cv. 448. The characterization of potato cultivars using spectroscopy techniques yields valuable information that serves as fundamental input for precision agriculture systems.
Tortuosity of pore channels in tight rocks as a key parameter in fluid flow ability
Authors: Krakowska-Madejska Paulina
Published: January 2024

Tortuosity is a significant parameter in porous materials analysis. Not only, when it comes to rocks or soils but also cellular materials, alloys or cells, the multiple definitions exist for tortuosity and several purposes. Geometrical tortuosity describes the pore network paths; on the other hand thermal, diffusional, electrical and hydraulic tortuosity refers to the transport processes in the pore network. Computed X-ray tomography (CT) is the best solution in tortuosity estimation, thanks to the 3D images. In particular, computed X-ray tomography, together with mercury porosimetry (MICP), pulse- and pressure-decay permeability methods (PDP), as well as electrical parameter measurements (EPM), links and expands the information about the tortuosity into the greater meaning. The geological material was composed of tight, low-porosity and low-permeability gas-saturated rocks cored from the present depth of deposition below 3000 m, containing different lithologies, as sandstones, mudstones, limestones, and dolomites. The research presents the novel approach in the identification and analysis of the main pore channels based on 3D CT images. Algorithm of the central axis identifies and analyzes the whole main flow path and calculates tortuosity. High correlation was observed between the tortuosity and Swanson parameter from mercury porosimetry data. Moreover, the high correlation was detected between the tortuosity and saturation exponent from electrical parameter measurement in analyzed tight low-porosity and low-permeability deposits. Multilinear regression (MLR) allows estimating absolute permeability taking CT, MICP and EPM parameters into consideration. Combination of these parameters in one equation with high determination coefficient gives credence in estimating preliminary absolute permeability (PDP) based on the data which is executed as standard core analysis (MICP and EPM) and data from the non-invasive method (CT).
Survivorship outcomes in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: a scoping review
Authors: Güven Deniz Can , Thong Melissa SY , Arndt Volker
Published: January 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a central part of cancer care. However, the survivorship outcomes in patients treated with ICIs are understudied. Therefore, we conducted a scoping review to evaluate the current status of the field and to establish research gaps regarding survivorship outcomes with ICIs in real-life cohorts.

Methods

We used the Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase databases to systematically filter published studies with real-life cohorts from January 1, 2010, until October 19, 2022. Studies evaluating at least one survivorship outcome in ICI-treated patients were included.

Results

A total of 39 papers were included. Quality of life (QoL) (n = 23), toxicity burden (n = 16), and psychosocial issues (n = 9) were the most frequently evaluated survivorship outcomes. Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 monotherapy and a response to treatment were associated with better QoL. In addition, the ICIs were associated with grade 3 or higher immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in 10–15% and late/long-term irAEs in 20–30% of the survivors. Regarding psychosocial problems, over 30% of survivors showed evidence of anxiety and depression, and 30–40% of survivors reported neurocognitive impairments.

Conclusion

The survivors treated with ICIs have impairments in most survivorship domains. Further research is needed to gather data on the understudied survivorship outcomes like late and long-term effects, fertility, financial toxicity, and return to work in survivors treated with ICIs.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Available evidence demonstrates that a significant portion of survivors treated with ICIs have a significant toxicity burden, lower QoL than the general population, and a high rate of psychosocial problems.
Insomnie in Deutschland – massive Unterversorgung?
Authors: Heidbreder Anna , Kunz Dieter , Young Pitt , Benes Heike , Chalet Francois-Xavier , Vaillant Cedric , Kaskel Peter , Fietze Ingo , Schöbel Christoph
Published: January 2024

Menschen, die unter chronischer Insomnie leiden, haben ein erhöhtes Risiko für körperliche und psychische Erkrankungen. Die Fehlzeitenquote ist bei Personen mit Schlafstörungen in Deutschland mehr als doppelt so hoch wie bei Personen ohne. Daher ist eine angemessene Diagnose und Therapie von Schlafstörungen eine wesentliche medizinische und gesellschaftliche Notwendigkeit.

Ziel dieser prospektiv geplanten Analyse ist die Beschreibung von Selbstauskünften zu Auswirkungen der Insomnie im Alltag und der derzeitigen medikamentösen Behandlungssituation in Deutschland.

Es wurden Daten einer demografisch repräsentativen Stichprobe von Erwachsenen der deutschen Teilnehmenden an der Nationalen Gesundheits- und Wellness Survey 2020 (N = 10.034) analysiert. Informationen von Befragten, die eine seitens einer ärztlichen Fachperson bestätigte Insomnie angaben (N = 532), wurden erfasst. Der Schweregrad der Insomnie zum Zeitpunkt der Befragung wurde mit dem Insomnia-Severity-Index (ISI) ermittelt. Gesundheitszustand und Lebensqualität wurden mittels EQ-5D und SF-36, Arbeitsproduktivität und Arbeitsbeeinträchtigung mittels WPAI erhoben.

Die Krankheitsdauer betrug im Median 5 Jahre. Circa 50 % der Befragten gaben eine mittelschwere bis schwere Insomnie an. Circa 70 % der Betroffenen hatte noch nie ein verschriebenes Medikament gegen ihre Insomnie eingenommen, und die meisten von ihnen gaben an, ärztlicherseits noch nie ein verschreibungspflichtiges Medikament zur Behandlung ihrer Schlafstörung empfohlen bekommen zu haben. Gesundheitszustand, selbstberichtete Morbidität und Lebensqualität der Betroffenen waren im Vergleich zur Allgemeinbevölkerung beeinträchtigt.

Personen mit Insomnie weisen einen schlechteren Gesundheitszustand als solche ohne Insomnie auf. Einem erheblichen Anteil der Betroffenen werden derzeit keine verschreibungspflichtigen Medikamente zur Behandlung angeboten. Auch wenn sich die Gründe für diese Unterversorgung anhand der Selbstauskünfte nicht eindeutig ermitteln lassen, weisen die Daten auf eine inadäquate und relevante Versorgungslücke bei chronischer Insomnie in Deutschland hin.
The impact of stainless steel flakes as a novel multifunctional pigment for wood coatings
Authors: Calovi Massimo , Rossi Stefano
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this research was to determine the influence of three different amounts of stainless steel flakes on the aesthetic features and durability of a waterborne wood paint. Colorimetric measurements and optical microscope observations were employed to assess the impact of this novel pigment on the overall appearance of the coatings. The effect of the different amounts of metallic flakes on the durability of the layers was evaluated by subjecting the samples to UV-B radiation and cyclic thermal shocks, performing infrared spectroscopy analysis, colorimetric inspections, and adhesion test. In addition, the influence of the filler concentration on the coating barrier efficiency was assessed through the liquid resistance and water uptake tests. Moreover, Buchholz hardness indentation test and the scrub test were conducted to quantify the impact of the flakes on the mechanical characteristics of the coatings, such as hardness and abrasion resistance. Finally, the thermal test evidenced a specific role of the flake amount in altering the thermal behavior of the coatings. Ultimately, this work highlights the attractive effect of stainless steel flakes, which are capable of providing an intense coloring and specific aesthetic features to the paint, preserving the surface's barrier-protective properties, increasing the abrasion resistance of the composite layer, and influencing the thermal behavior of the coating.
Evidence-based interventions targeted at behavioral inhibition, shyness, and anxious withdrawal during the preschool years: A rapid review
Authors: Maia Rita , Santos Ana Filipa , Veríssimo Manuela , Santos António J. , Guedes Maryse
Published: January 2024

High and stable behavioral inhibition (BI) during early childhood may place individuals at increased risk of experiencing anxiety during the COVID-19 crisis. Prior knowledge syntheses showed that selective prevention interventions were effective in reducing child BI and anxiety. However, the effectiveness of preschool-based universal and selective prevention interventions targeted at BI to improve child social outcomes remains unclear. Due to the vulnerability of highly inhibited children, this rapid review aimed to (1) synthetize the characteristics of evidence-based interventions targeted at BI, and (2) summarize intervention outcomes in domains of child individual and social functioning. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), published between january 1991 and december 2021, conducted with highly inhibited children aged 3 to 5 years, were included in the review. Thirteen RCTs on four evidence-based interventions targeted at BI were retained. Most studies were conducted in samples of married/cohabitating and highly educated mothers and almost half of them described parent-only interventions. Three pilot RCTs on child-only and multimodal interventions found significant post-intervention improvements in observed child social competence and positive peer interactions. Pre-to-post intervention changes in parent and teacher ratings on child social outcomes were less consistent across studies. Further large-scale RCTs with medium-to-long term follow-ups are needed to examine intervention outcomes in domains of child social functioning, using a multi-informant and multi-method approach. After the COVID-19 crisis, preschool-based universal interventions targeting BI may enhance the engagement of inhibited children from diverse communities and contribute to the generalization of intervention effects to naturalistic peer settings.
Finite difference based stress integration algorithm for crystal plasticity finite element method
Authors: Noh Donghwan , Yoon Jeong Whan
Published: January 2024

In this study, we present a Finite Difference Method (FDM)-based stress integration algorithm for Crystal Plasticity Finite Element Method (CPFEM). It addresses the complexity of computing the first derivative of resolved shear stress in the Euler backward stress integration algorithm with Newton-Raphson method. The proposed FDM-based model was verified by evaluating its accuracy, convergence and computational efficiency through single-element simulations. The developed FDM-based model can be easily applied to various constitutive models for CPFEM, overcoming the problem of deriving complex derivative regardless of constitutive models. Additionally, the proposed FDM-based model was validated with the reduced texture approach using AA 2090-T3. Specific parameters including crystallographic orientations were calibrated and the plastic anisotropy was successfully described. In addition, the earing profiles were compared using various stress integration methods. As a result, the proposed FDM-based model can be used as an alternative to the Euler backward method using analytic derivatives with the compatible accuracy, convergence, computational efficiency along with easy implementation within the CPFEM framework.
Integrative approaches to the study of animal management practices during the Neolithic of South Iberian Peninsula: the case of El Toro cave (Antequera, Málaga, Spain)
Authors: Navarrete Vanessa , Sierra Alejandro , Alcàntara Roger , Camalich Maria Dolores , Martín-Socas Dimas , Saña Maria
Published: January 2024

The introduction and adoption of livestock played a pivotal role in shaping subsistence strategies of populations in the southern Iberian Peninsula during the Neolithic. However, there is lack of information regarding animal management strategies, such as grazing areas and changes in foddering strategies, and their correlation with the environmental characteristics, type of site and use of the settlement. The study of feeding strategies of domesticates provides a crucial information about the interaction between the management of the environment, husbandry systems and the exploitation of animal products. In this study, we use the archaeozoological data and the δ13C and δ15N stable isotope composition of the faunal bone collagen to understand herding systems and management strategies during the Neolithic in Phases IV and IIIB at El Toro cave (Antequera, Málaga). Archaeozoological and isotopic results revealed diverse husbandry practices and feeding strategies in El Toro cave during the Neolithic. The variability in δ13C and δ15N values suggests the access of domesticates to different grazing areas and foddering strategies. This study contributes new insights into husbandry practices during the Neolithic and opens new perspectives for analysing animal management in mountain areas.
Thermodynamics of Liquid Alloys and Vapor–Liquid Equilibrium in the Antimony–Tellurium System
Authors: Volodin Valeriy , Trebukhov Sergey , Nitsenko Alina , Linnik Xeniya , Tulegenov Azamat
Published: January 2024

The partial and integral thermodynamic functions of formation and evaporation of antimony-tellurium melts were calculated based on the vapor pressure values of the components in the Sb–Sb2Te3 and Sb2Te3–Te systems. It is shown that integral functions of evaporation enthalpy and entropy insignificantly change in value from the alloy corresponding to the Sb2Te3 composition and slightly decrease in the direction of antimony and tellurium on the state diagram. However, they can be described by a linear dependence in the entire concentration interval of solutions existence within the experiment error. The boundaries of liquid and vapor coexistence fields at atmospheric pressure (101.3 kPa) and in vacuum (0.9 kPa) were calculated based on the partial pressure values of melt components. It is shown that the separation of antimony alloys with tellurium by distillation into elements at atmospheric pressure is difficult because of high boiling temperatures of antimony-based alloys. It would require a significant number of condensate re-evaporation cycles in a vacuum. The results aim at creating the fundamental physical and chemical foundations of the distillation technologies for processing melted chalcogenide systems. The second aim is to issue effective practical recommendations necessary for developing and improving the process of extracting rare metals from polymetallic mattes by vacuum-thermal method.

Graphical Abstract
Enhancing Deliberation with Digital Democratic Innovations
Authors: Mikhaylovskaya Anna
Published: January 2024

Democratic innovations have been widely presented by both academics and practitioners as a potential remedy to the crisis of representative democracy. Many argue that deliberation should play a pivotal role in these innovations, fostering greater citizen participation and political influence. However, it remains unclear how digitalization affects the quality of deliberation—whether digital democratic innovations (DDIs) undermine or enhance deliberation. This paper takes an inductive approach in political theory to critically examine three features of online deliberation that matter for deliberative democracy: scale, transparency, and the facilitation of equality. It argues that the enhancement of equality should be given special attention when designing and implementing deliberative DDIs. Equality is a basic democratic value that is crucial for the intrinsic quality of deliberation. One way of enhancing equality through digital deliberative practices is via AI facilitation, which can assist human facilitators and help mitigate power dynamics, often present in non-digital settings.
Men with chronic urinary retention: treatments, complications, and consequences
Authors: Bos Bernies J. , van Merode N. A. M. , Steffens M. S. , Witte L. P. W.
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to explore treatment options for chronic urinary retention (CUR) in men, including complications and consequences. Male patients diagnosed with a non-neurogenic, symptomatic and/or high-risk, CUR > 150 mL were included. Data for treatments, complications, and consequences were recorded and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) calculated. We enrolled 177 patients, most initially received a urethral catheter (74%) and some form of catheterization as final treatment (87%), 49 (28%) underwent de-obstructive prostate surgery. Catheterization was more likely to be stopped after surgery (16/49 patients), compared with non-surgical cases (8/128 patients) (IRR 4.18; p < 0.001). Urinary tract infection (IRR 3.68; p < 0.001) and macroscopic hematuria (IRR 5.35; p < 0.001) were more common with catheterization, but post-renal problems were more likely in patients without catheterization (IRR 25.36; p < 0.001). The lowest complication rate was with clean intermittent catheterization. In conclusion, most patients received catheterization for CUR, with clean intermittent catheterization preferred due to its comparatively lower complication risk. De-obstructive prostate surgery increases the chance of stopping catheterization.
Selling French Sex
Authors: Camiscioli Elisa
Published: January 2024

Selling French Sex is an illuminating account of the cultural, social, and economic history of the sale of 'French sex'. It explores the discourses and experiences surrounding the early twentieth century debate on sex trafficking, which mobilized various international reform movements to combat the coerced prostitution of young women abroad. According to popular legend and empirical studies, French women were present in brothels all over the world, where they were the most desired and best paid in the business. But were they trafficking victims or willing migrants? In this timely book, Elisa Camiscioli reconstructs the networks and mechanisms of cross-border migrations for sexual labor; elucidates women's motives for leaving and staying; and explains why French migrant sexual labor occupied such a prominent place in the underworld of prostitution, as well as in the imaginaries of anti-trafficking campaigners, immigration officials, and ordinary consumers of vice.