bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excessive smartphone use increases self-reported auditory and vestibular symptoms
Authors: Söylemez Emre , Dağ Mehmet , Ilgaz Abdulkadir , Korkmaz Bekir , Topçuoğlu Ümit , Koç Ahmet Düha , Ensari Serdar
Published: August 2024

Background

With widespread smartphone use, there is growing concern about their potential impact on human health.

Objective

The effects of smartphone use on self-reported hearing ability, tinnitus, balance, falls, and anxiety level were investigated in this study.

Methods

This study included 682 participants who were divided into 2 groups: a high smartphone use (HSU) group and a low smartphone use (LSU) group. Both groups were evaluated for hearing ability using the Amsterdam inventory for auditory disability and handicap; balance status using the vertigo, dizziness, imbalance symptom scale; anxiety status using the Beck anxiety index; and fall and tinnitus status using the visual analog scale.

Results

The HSU group showed significantly worse hearing ability, tinnitus, balance, falling, and anxiety status results than the LSU group (p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between smartphone addiction severity and auditory impairment, tinnitus, risk of falling, and anxiety, as well as a negative correlation with balance score (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The findings suggest that individuals with excessive smartphone use are more likely to experience hearing, tinnitus, balance, falling, and anxiety problems than those who use smartphones less frequently. Excessive smartphone use may be considered a potential risk factor for these problems.
A new approach in insulin pump education improves glycemic outcomes: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rytter Karen , Hougaard Anette , Skouboe Anne Grynnerup , Serifovski Nermin , Ranjan Ajenthen Gayathri , Nørgaard Kirsten
Published: August 2024

Aims

To address the scarcity of continued education for insulin pump users, we developed and evaluated a new program (NP) for individuals transitioning to a different insulin pump.

Methods

In a randomized, controlled 3-month study, adults with type 1 diabetes and suboptimal HbA1c received either NP or usual care program (UC). The NP was designed in collaboration with representatives of the target group and incorporated technical training, case-based learning, and peer experience sharing – encompassing two group sessions, and two follow-up telephone calls. The UC included a single training session led by the pump company with hotline assistance (clinic) but no structured follow-up. The primary endpoint was the difference in time in range (TIR) (70–180 mg/dL (3.9–10.0 mmol/L)), measured by continuous glucose monitoring from baseline to 3 months post-course. Psychosocial self-efficacy was measured by the Diabetes Empowerment Scale (DES-SF).

Results

Thirty-nine participants (median age 43, 74% female) were included. Mean TIR increased significantly in the NP group and remained unchanged in the UC group (between-group difference in change was 13.5% [95% CI: 4.0 to 22.9], p = 0.0064). Psychosocial self-efficacy improved and HbA1c decreased only significantly in the NP group.

Conclusions

Applying a novel education program at pump transition significantly improved glycemic outcomes and self-efficacy.
Thunderstorm climatology of Slovakia between 1984–2023
Authors: Vido Jaroslav , Borsányi Peter , Nalevanková Paulína , Hanzelová Miriam , Kučera Jiří , Škvarenina Jaroslav
Published: August 2024

Thunderstorms are among the most extreme meteorological phenomena that can cause widespread destruction and loss of life. Their occurrence varies significantly across different regions and times of the year. Despite various studies on thunderstorm activity across Central Europe, direct analyses based on data from the Slovak territory still need to be made available. Given Slovakia’s diverse natural conditions, there is a need for detailed knowledge about the frequency and spatial distribution of thunderstorms in this region. To address this knowledge gap, we analysed the frequency and spatiotemporal distribution of days with thunderstorm occurrences in Slovakia between 1984 and 2023, utilising climatological data from the Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute. We limited our analysis to data of days with close thunderstorms (thunderstorms occurring within 3 km of the monitoring station). Our findings reveal a significant variation in thunderstorm occurrences across Slovakia, with peak activity in the summer, especially in June and July. However, the spatial distribution of thunderstorms differed significantly across the country, with the highest frequency observed in mountainous regions and the east-central part of Slovakia. We found significant deceasing signals of the thunderstorm activity trends during the studied period, including analyses during the colder part of the year. Furthermore, our results underscore the critical role of synoptic situations in shaping these trends, where changes in certain atmospheric patterns were closely aligned with variations in thunderstorm frequency. The interaction between these synoptic conditions and regional topography was particularly evident, reinforcing the notion that topographical and environmental complexities substantially contribute to the observed thunderstorm distribution.
The role of postoperative blood pressure management in early postoperative hemorrhage in awake craniotomy glioma patients
Authors: Demetz Matthias , Krigers Aleksandrs , Uribe-Pacheco Rodrigo , Pinggera Daniel , Klingenschmid Julia , Thomé Claudius , Freyschlag Christian F. , Kerschbaumer Johannes
Published: August 2024

Postoperative hemorrhage can severely affect the patients’ neurological outcome after awake craniotomy. Higher postoperative blood pressure can increase the risk of postoperative hemorrhage. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of postoperative blood pressure and other common radiological and epidemiological features with the incidence of postoperative hemorrhage. In this retrospective analysis, we included patients who underwent awake surgery at our institution. We assessed the blood pressure both intra- and postoperatively as well as the heart rate for the first 12 h. We compared a cohort with postoperative hemorrhage, who required further treatment (surgical revision or intravenous antihypertensive therapy), with a cohort with no postoperative hemorrhage. We included 48 patients with a median age of 39 years. 9 patients (19%) required further treatment due to postoperative hemorrhage, which was surgery in 2 cases and intensive blood pressure measurements in 7 cases. However, with early treatment, no significant difference in Performance scores at follow-up could be found. Patients with postoperative hemorrhage showed significantly higher postoperative systolic blood pressure during the hours 3–12 (p < 0.05) as well as intraoperatively throughout the procedure (p < 0.05). In ROC and Youden Test, a strong impact of systolic blood pressure over 140mmHg during the early postoperative course could be shown. Postoperative hemorrhage is a rare but possible complication in awake surgery glioma patients. To avoid postoperative hemorrhage, treating physicians should aim strictly on systolic blood pressure of under 140mmHg for the postoperative course.
Guiding the implementation of data privacy with microservices
Authors: Antunes Pedro , Guimarães Nuno
Published: August 2024

Privacy by design is nowadays recognized as essential in bringing data privacy into software systems. However, developers still face many challenges in reconciling privacy and software requirements and implementing privacy protections in software systems. One emerging trend is the adoption of microservices architectures—they bring in some qualities that can benefit privacy by design. The main goal of this study is to adapt privacy by design to the qualities brought by microservices. The main focus is at the architectural level, where the main structural decisions are made. A systematic literature review is adopted to identify a set of privacy models that underscore significant differences in software systems’ protection using microservices. From the literature review, a decision framework is developed. The decision framework provides guidance and supports design decisions in implementing data privacy using microservices. The framework helps select and integrate different privacy models. An illustration of using the framework, which considers the design of an electronic voting system, is provided. This study contributes to closing the gap between regulation and implementation through design, where decisions related to data privacy are integrated with decisions on architecting systems using microservices.
RBPMN: the value of roles for business process modeling
Authors: Skouti Tarek , Seiger Ronny , Furrer Frank J. , Strahringer Susanne
Published: August 2024

Business process modeling is essential for organizations to comprehend, analyze, and enhance their business operations. The business process model and notation (BPMN) is a standard widely adopted for illustrating business processes. However, it falls short when modeling roles, interactions, and responsibilities within complex modern processes that involve digital, human, and non-human entities, typically found in cyber-physical systems (CPS). In this paper, we introduce Role-based BPMN (RBPMN), a standard-compliant extension of BPMN 2.0 that distinctly depicts roles and their interactions within business processes. We underscore the value of RBPMN and a role-based context modeling approach through a modeling example in CPS that facilitates the representation of role-based variations in the process flow, namely a production process in a smart factory. Our findings suggest that RBPMN is a valuable BPMN extension that enhances the expressiveness, variability, and comprehensiveness of business process models, especially in complex and context-sensitive processes.
Satellite-derived measures of habitat structure perform as well as locally recorded measures in predicting predation on artificial nests in central European agricultural landscapes
Authors: Morris Shane D. , Bosseler Larissa , Selimovic Aldin , Bieber Claudia
Published: August 2024

Ground nesting birds have declined throughout Europe, with the reduction of habitat structure in agricultural areas being a key contributing factor. Habitat structure is vital not only for providing food and suitable microclimates for these species but also limits nest predation. Field assessments of habitat structure have, historically, been the most common way of identifying areas of low nest predation. However, they are limited in their applicability over wide areas due to time, money, and logistics. Remotely sensed measures (e.g., recorded by a satellite) can address these issues. Normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) is a measure of the ‘greenness’ of an area and correlates with habitat structure. We conducted an artificial nest experiment over three years (2019, 2020, 2023) in Baden, Austria to test the relationship of NDVI to nest predation in an agricultural landscape. Critically, we compared whether NDVI could predict nest predation as well as locally recorded variables (ground cover, vegetation height, etc, ). We report that NDVI performs equally well at predicting nest predation, with predation decreasing with higher values of NDVI, signifying greater habitat structure. This was supported by our finding that predation probability decreased with greater ground cover (a locally recorded variable). Additionally, we found that areas with greater partridge numbers had higher predation and circumstantial evidence that birds are the primary predator in our study area. Overall, our study shows that satellite-derived measures of habitat structure have untapped potential in identifying areas of high nest predation for European ground nesting birds in agricultural landscapes.
Evaluating EHR-Integrated Digital Technologies for Medication-Related Outcomes and Health Equity in Hospitalised Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Murthi Sreyon , Martini Nataly , Falconer Nazanin , Scahill Shane
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this scoping review is to identify and evaluate studies that examine the effectiveness and implementation strategies of Electronic Health Record (EHR)-integrated digital technologies aimed at improving medication-related outcomes and promoting health equity among hospitalised adults. Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), the implementation methods and outcomes of the studies were evaluated, as was the assessment of methodological quality and risk of bias. Searches through Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL Plus yielded 23 relevant studies from 1,232 abstracts, spanning 11 countries and from 2008 to 2022, with varied research designs. Integrated digital tools such as alert systems, clinical decision support systems, predictive analytics, risk assessment, and real-time screening and surveillance within EHRs demonstrated potential in reducing medication errors, adverse events, and inappropriate medication use, particularly in older patients. Challenges include alert fatigue, clinician acceptance, workflow integration, cost, data integrity, interoperability, and the potential for algorithmic bias, with a call for long-term and ongoing monitoring of patient safety and health equity outcomes. This review, guided by the CFIR framework, highlights the importance of designing health technology based on evidence and user-centred practices. Quality assessments identified eligibility and representativeness issues that affected the reliability and generalisability of the findings. This review also highlights a critical research gap on whether EHR-integrated digital tools can address or worsen health inequities among hospitalised patients. Recognising the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), this review calls for further research on its influence on medication management and health equity through integration of EHR and digital technology.
Inbound friend or foe: how motion bistability is resolved under threat
Authors: Silva Fábio , Magalhães Ana C. , Fidalgo Daniela , Gomes Nuno , Garrido Marta I. , Soares Sandra C.
Published: August 2024

Anxiety prepares us to deal with unpredictable threats, such as the approaching of an unknown person. Studies have shown our innate tendency to see approaching motion in ambiguous walkers in what was termed facing-the-viewer (FTV) bias. Here we investigated if anxiety states further contributed to this bias, hypothesizing that such states would increase overall FTV biases. Throughout three Experiments, we asked participants to judge the motion direction of ambiguous point-light walkers and measured their respective FTV biases under safe and anxiety-related conditions induced via imagery (Experiment 1), screaming sounds (Experiment 2), and threat of shock (Experiment 3). Across all experiments, we showed that anxiety does not affect our tendency to perceive an approaching behavior in ambiguous walkers. Based on our findings, and the discrepancies found in the literature, we emphasize the need for future studies to paint a clearer picture on the nature and aspects capable of affecting this bias.
Optimizing recovery strategies for winter athletes: insights for Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Games
Authors: Edholm Peter , Ørtenblad Niels , Holmberg Hans-Christer , Sperlich Billy
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This narrative umbrella review evaluates the efficacy of recovery strategies for elite winter sports athletes by comparing their scientific and clinical validity. It aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for coaches and athletes, preparing them for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Games through a critical evaluation of various post-training and competition recovery methods.

Methods

This narrative umbrella review involved a systematic literature search on PubMed, focusing on recent meta-analyses and review articles related to recovery strategies. Special emphasis was placed on their practical applications to ensure the findings are relevant to real-world settings.

Results

The study examined multiple recovery strategies, including sleep, nutrition, and physical methods, revealing a general scarcity of high-quality studies and insufficient  control over placebo effects. A key finding emphasizes the crucial roles of nutrition and sleep in the recovery process, highlighting the need for personalized recovery plans tailored to the athlete's and sport's specific demands. The effectiveness of physical recovery methods varied, with some demonstrating significant benefits in specific contexts (e.g., massage and cold-water immersion to alleviate muscle pain and fatigue), whereas others (e.g., stretching and sauna) lacked robust evidence of their efficacy as recovery methods.

Conclusion

This paper presents recommendations for optimizing recovery strategies in elite winter sports, focusing on the specific demands of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Games. It provides a framework for athletes and coaches aiming to enhance performance recovery and achieve optimal athletic condition.
Disparities and Medical Expenditure Implications in Pediatric Tele-Mental Health Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Mississippi
Authors: Zhang Yunxi , Lal Lincy S. , Lin Yueh-Yun , Swint J. Michael , Zhang Ying , Summers Richard L. , Jones Barbara F. , Chandra Saurabh , Ladner Mark E.
Published: August 2024

Tele-mental health (TMH) services, including both mental and behavioral healthcare (MBH) services, emerged as a cornerstone in delivering pediatric mental healthcare during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, yet their utilization and effects on healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and medical expenditures remain unclear. To bridge the gap, this study aims to investigate the association between TMH utilization and sociodemographic factors and assess its associated HCRU and medical expenditures within a pediatric population in Mississippi. Studying 1,972 insured pediatric patients who accessed outpatient MBH services at the study institution between January 2020 and June 2023, age, race, insurance type, rural residency, and household income were identified as key determinants of TMH utilization. Adjusting for sociodemographics, TMH utilization was associated with 122% more MBH-associated outpatient visits and 36% higher related medical expenditures, but 27% less overall medical expenditures. This study reveals sociodemographic disparities in pediatric TMH utilization, highlights its role in augmenting outpatient mental healthcare access, and shows its potential for cost savings. Future efforts should aim at fostering more digitally inclusive, equitable, and affordable pediatric mental healthcare services.
Fachfremder Vertretungsunterricht von Lehramtsstudierenden – Eine Bestandsaufnahme in Niedersachsen
Authors: Winter Isabelle , Kaiser Till , Nonte Sonja , Bellenberg Gabriele , Reintjes Christian
Published: August 2024

Im Kontext der akuten Herausforderung des Lehrkräftemangels manifestiert sich an Schulen vermehrt der Einsatz von Lehramtsstudierenden zur Deckung des Bedarfs (SWK 2023a). Aus dem Mangel resultiert zudem, dass Lehrkräfte fachfremd unterrichten. Der vorliegende Beitrag offeriert auf Grundlage einer explorativen, querschnittlichen Studie einen erstmaligen und nuancierten Einblick in die Tätigkeit von Studierenden an Schulen in Niedersachsen hinsichtlich ihres Einsatzes im fachfremden Unterricht. Die Daten wurden im Rahmen einer freiwilligen Online-Befragung im Wintersemester 2022/2023 an sechs Hochschulen/Universitäten in Niedersachsen erhoben. Aufbauend auf einer umfassenden Bestandsaufnahme einschlägiger (inter-)nationaler empirischer Befunde zum fachfremden Unterrichten sowie Unterrichten neben dem Studium erfolgt die Formulierung von Forschungsfragen sowie eine Darlegung des angewandten Studiendesigns. Nach der Präsentation ausgewählter Befunde zum fachfremden Unterrichten durch studentische Vertretungslehrkräfte schließt der Beitrag mit einer Diskussion der resultierenden Implikationen.
2-methoxyestradiol sensitizes tamoxifen-resistant MCF-7 breast cancer cells via downregulating HIF-1α
Authors: Attia Yasmin M. , Mokhlis Hamada Ahmed , Ismail Ahmed , Doghish Ahmed S. , Sobhy Mohamed H. , Hassanein Sherif S. , El-Dakroury Walaa A. , Mariee Amr D. , Salama Salama A. , Sharaky Marwa
Published: August 2024

The clinical studies for breast cancer (BC) are now assessing the efficacy of 2-Methoxyestradiol (2-ME), a naturally occurring derivative of estradiol. Our study aimed to explore the potential of combining the 2-ME and tamoxifen (TAM) on sensitization of TAM-resistant cells using LCC2 the TAM-resistant cells as a model and comparing the results to the sensitive cells MCF-7. Sulphorhodamine-B (SRB) assay is used to examine the 2-ME chemo-sensitizing impact on the cytotoxicity of TAM on LCC2 cells. Colorimetric assay kits were used to assess the level of the apoptosis-related markers caspases 3, Bcl2, and Bax in cell lysate. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) expression was measured using western blotting. Total cholesterol and triglyceride (TG) levels were examined colorimetrically, using the BIOLABO kit. The use of 2-ME enhanced the cytotoxic effects of TAM and effectively reversed TAM resistance. This was achieved by inhibiting the expression of HIF-1α, while concurrently increasing the levels of apoptotic marker caspase-3, as well as the pro-apoptotic protein Bax. Additionally, there was a reduction in the levels of Bcl2, an anti-apoptotic protein. Furthermore, a reduction in TG and cholesterol levels was noted. Our findings show that HIF-1α plays an important role in TAM resistance and that suppression of HIF-1α by 2-ME-mediated sensitization of BC-resistant cells to TAM. Therefore, the concurrent administration of TAM/2-ME might potentially serve as a viable therapeutic approach to address TAM resistance and enhance the overall therapy efficacy for patients with BC.
Analyzing the implementation of predictive control systems and application of stored data in non-residential buildings
Authors: Savadkoohi Marjan , Macarulla Marcel , Tejedor Blanca , Casals Miquel
Published: August 2024

In non-residential buildings, building energy management systems (BEMS) and the application of data hold significant promise in reducing energy consumption. Nevertheless, BEMS have different levels of complexity, benefit, and limitation. Despite the advanced technologies and improvements in building operation, there is a clear gap in the actual performance of buildings that has been attributed to the adoption of advanced technologies. Consequently, there is an increasing need for researchers and practitioners to study current practices in order to identify and address the challenges that compromise the core objectives of BEMS. For this reason, this paper aims to validate three research questions: (i) to examine the current state of BEMS and its functionalities; (ii) to analyze the type of control used; (iii) and to determine the availability of historical data compiled by BEMS and its application in non-residential buildings. A survey of 676 buildings and interviews with building professionals were conducted. The findings confirmed that most of the buildings applied BEMS with scheduled control. In addition, a lack of digitized data for analysis and predictions was detected. Indeed, only 0.60% of the investigated buildings implemented predictive control. Finally, using hierarchical clustering analysis, responses were grouped to analyze similarities between them. The study findings help to develop targeted actions for implementing predictive control in non-residential buildings.
Outgoing und Incoming
Authors: Mangold Katharina
Published: August 2024

Seit 1964 hat sich das Freiwillige Soziale Jahr (FSJ) vielfältig weiterentwickelt und ausdifferenziert. Nicht nur die Ausweitung an Personenzahl und Trägern, sondern auch die Möglichkeit, das FSJ in verschiedenen Bereichen und im Ausland zu absolvieren, sind Teil dieses Prozesses, ebenso wie die Einführung von Modellprojekten (FSJ INGLOS (2015) sei hier exemplarisch genannt). In diesem Beitrag wird das Freiwillige Soziale Jahr im Internationalen fokussiert und zunächst einige Zahlen und Entwicklungen des FSJ im Ausland und das FSJ Incoming vorstellt. Daran anschließend wird der Incoming-Freiwilligendienst im Fokus stehen und insbesondere Notwendigkeiten und Möglichkeiten der Weiterentwicklung diskutiert.
The Impact of Cultural Values on the Association Between Family Relations and Children’s Life Satisfaction. A Comparison of Children in Two-Parent Families Across 39 Countries
Authors: Hess Stephanie
Published: August 2024

Despite increasing interest in country differences and the identification of macro-societal circumstances that shape children’s well-being, cross-national comparisons of children’s subjective well-being are still rare. This study investigates the effect of family relations on children’s life satisfaction in 39 countries from multiple world regions, with the aims of unveiling differences in average life satisfaction, comparing the effect of family relations on life satisfaction and testing the moderating effect of cultural values, emphasizing differences between collectivist and individualistic countries. Single-country regressions and multilevel modelling are used to analyse data from 129,018 children from two-parent families who participated in the first, second or third wave of the International Survey of Children’s Lives and Well-Being. The results reveal that average life satisfaction is slightly higher in individualistic societies, but that the association between the Individualism Index and life satisfaction is not linear. Good family relations are shown to improve life satisfaction in all countries, but the effect strength differs considerably. The life satisfaction of children from individualistic countries, compared to that of children from collectivist countries, suffers considerably more from the experience of bad family relations. These findings highlight the necessity of considering children’s cultural environment when examining their life satisfaction.
Body Evaluation and Body Ownership in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: the Role of Interoceptive Sensibility and Childhood Maltreatment
Authors: Atanasova Konstantina , Lotter Tobias , Bekrater-Bodmann Robin , Kleindienst Nikolaus , Thomann Anne Kerstin , Lis Stefanie , Reindl Wolfgang
Published: August 2024

Objective

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are accompanied by symptoms that can vastly affect patients’ representations of their bodies. The aim of this study was to investigate alterations in body evaluation and body ownership in IBD and their link to interoceptive sensibility, gastrointestinal-specific anxiety, and history of childhood maltreatment.

Methods

Body evaluation and ownership was assessed in 41 clinically remitted patients with IBD and 44 healthy controls (HC) using a topographical self-report method. Interoceptive sensibility, gastrointestinal-specific anxiety and a history of childhood maltreatment were assessed via self-report questionnaires.

Results

Patients reporting higher interoceptive sensibility perceived their bodies in a more positive manner. Higher gastrointestinal-specific anxiety was linked to a more negative body evaluation particularly of the abdomen in patients with IBD. Childhood maltreatment severity strengthened the positive association between interoceptive sensibility and body ownership only in those patients reporting higher trauma load.

Conclusion

Altered body representations of areas associated with abdominal pain are linked to higher symptom-specific anxiety and lower levels of interoceptive sensibility in IBD. Particularly in patients with a history of childhood maltreatment, higher levels of interoceptive sensibility might have a beneficial effect on the patients’ sense of body ownership.
Evaluation of the Osteogenic Potential of Periodontal Ligament and Tooth-Derived Substrates Effect on Osteogenesis: An In Vitro Pilot Study
Authors: Carvalho Tiago Pinto , Resck Thiago , Kirsch Davi , Sperandio Marcelo , Napimoga Marcelo Henrique , Joly Júlio César , Fernandes Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira , Peruzzo Daiane Cristina
Published: August 2024

Objective

The goal of this in vitro pilot study was to compare the osteogenic potential of different ground human tooth preparations.

Methods

Twelve maxillary third molars were included and divided into four groups: FT (full tooth), containing all dental tissues (enamel, dentin, pulp, cementum, and periodontal ligament); WE, without enamel; WPL, without periodontal ligament; and WEPL, without enamel and periodontal ligament. The teeth were ground to macroscopically homogeneous particles. The new bone formation was the primary variable evaluated. Pre-osteoblastic cells were incubated with protein extracted from this substrate to verify their osteoinductive potential. Cell proliferation, viability assays, mRNA expression of type I Collagen (COL-I), RUNX-2, BMP-2, and mineral nodules were assessed to achieve the main outcome. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey tests, considering alpha = 5%.

Results

The FT group had the lowest proliferation cell rates, whereas WEPL had the highest rates (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was an increased gene expression of all genes studied in the WEPL group and a greater formation of phosphate nodules (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The dental substrate without enamel and periodontal ligament (WEPL) showed better and improved results than the other groups, revealing promising osteogenic potential for use as a biomaterial for grafting.
Response of dissolved organic carbon in streams draining peatbogs to extreme rainfall-runoff events: a case study from Šumava (Bohemian Forest) National Park, Czech Republic
Authors: Matouskova Milada , Fraindova Katerina , Bejckova Marie , Kliment Zdenek , Vlach Vojtech , Vlcek Lukas
Published: August 2024

The presented study investigates the dynamics of DOC concentrations in headwater peatbog areas with respect to the extreme rainfall-runoff (R-R) events hydrometeorological catchment preconditions (23 variables in total). The main data sources were automatic devices for monitoring of groundwater level, discharges and rainfalls providing data in 10 min steps installed in the Vydra River catchment and one automatic water sampler ISCO in sub-catchment of the Rokytka River basin in the Šumava (Bohemian Forest) National Park. The study period was 2018–2021, in which 18 R-R events were analysed. Data of DOC variability and catchment conditions were analysed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient, Principal Component Analysis and DOC/Q hysteresis loops. Changes in groundwater level and discharges had the greatest influence on DOC concentrations. Higher mean and maximum DOC were measured during events after a longer period without an extreme R-R event. The greater lag time of maximum DOC after peak flow and the higher mean DOC during the event were primarily due to hydrometeorological preconditions of the catchment. The highest DOC was in autumn after the previous summer period with low discharges and low groundwater levels. DOC was also positively correlated with air and water temperatures.
Achsensymmetrisch?! Praktiken, soziale und sozio-mathematische Normen der Begründung der Achsensymmetrie ebener Figuren in der Grundschule
Authors: Häsel-Weide Uta , Wallner Melina
Published: August 2024

Soziale Aushandlungsprozesse sind wesentlicher Bestandteil des Unterrichts. In ihnen konstituieren sich geteilte Erkenntnisse, aber auch Erwartungen, z. B. darüber, was bei einer Lösung oder Begründung erwartet wird und als akzeptabel und vollständig gilt. Dieser Beitrag befasst sich mit dem fachlichen Gegenstand Achsensymmetrie und analysiert, welche sozialen, sozio-mathematischen Normen und Praktiken sich bei der Überprüfung und der Begründung von Achsensymmetrie bei ebenen Figuren im Klassengespräch etablieren. Die Daten stammen aus Design-Experimenten einer fachdidaktischen Entwicklungsforschungsstudie mit dritten Klassen im Lehr-Lern-Labor an der Universität Paderborn. Basis ist eine Lernumgebung mit Fokus auf der Klassifikation quadratischer achsensymmetrischer und nicht achsensymmetrischer Figuren.

Als Ergebnis der Studie in Form lokaler Theorien zeigt sich, dass sich ein Begründungsbedarf einer Klassifikation als soziale Norm nur durch Einforderung einer Begründung durch die Lehrkraft ergibt. Des Weiteren zeigen sich die Praktiken des Verweisens auf ein Überprüfungsverfahren und das Kontrastieren als bedeutsam, bedingt durch die sich etablierenden sozio-mathematischen Normen zum Beleg für die Achsensymmetrie einer Figur, einen empirischeren Beleg anzuführen oder ein begriffsbestimmendes Merkmal zu erläutern. Zudem konnten Erwartungen an die Vollständigkeit einer Begründung sichtbar gemacht werden. Inwiefern sich Praktiken etablieren, scheint wesentlich davon abzuhängen, ob und wie Begründungsbedarf angezeigt wird.
Active thymus in adult with lung cancer: preliminary results from the Adult Thymic Project
Authors: Sobrero Simona , Patrucco Enrico , Napoli Francesca , Ragazzini Roberta , Milazzo Rachele , Vaisitti Federico , Ambrogio Chiara , Bonfanti Paola , Rena Ottavio , Ruffini Enrico , Righi Luisella , Leo Francesco
Published: August 2024

Thymus is considered a non-functional remnant in adults, but some evidence suggest that it may harbor residual activity. Lung cancer patients represent the ideal model to study thymic residual activity, as their thymus can be easily harvested during surgery. This study was designed to confirm the presence of residual thymic activity both in adult mice (step 1) and in humans (step 2). In step 1, lung cancer was induced by activating k-ras mutation in a cohort of 20 young and adult mice. After killing, thymus and lungs were analyzed. Thymus was considered active when medullary was evident, cortico-medullary ratio was 50:50 or higher and adipose involution was present. In step 2, a cohort of 20 patients, undergoing surgery for lung cancer, had biopsy of pericardial fat pad, site of ectopic thymus. Thymus was considered present if Hassall’s bodies were detected. In mice, active thymus was detected in a high proportion of cases, without significant difference between adult and young (70% vs 44.4% respectively). Two cases without evidence of lung tumor had a fully functional thymus. In humans, ectopic thymus was detected in the pericardial fat pad in 2 cases (10.5%), confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Signs of previous thymic activity were detected in 8 additional patients. Results confirmed thymus activity in animal models and humans with lung cancer, providing the rationale for future systematic mediastinal thymic biopsy. The comprehension of interactions between thymus, lymphocytes and tumor may open a new potentially targetable perspective in lung cancer.
To each Technology Its Own Ethics? A Reply to Sætra & Danaher (and Their Critics)
Authors: Pareto Júlia , Torras Carme
Published: August 2024

Contemporary ethics is currently ramifying into different sub-ethics specific to each type of technology. Although this trend has been very timely and rightly called into question by Sætra and Danaher, both these authors and their critics Llorca Albareda and Rueda leave the matter unsolved from a discipline point of view. In this commentary, we clarify the statute of the ethics of technology, which corresponds to that of a subsidiary applied ethics, and show how it is precisely that, what renders the creation of an ethics for each technology inappropriate. We thus provide a disciplinary reason to support Sætra and Danaher’s concern on tech ethics proliferation and to refute Llorca Albareda and Rueda’s relativization of it. In turn, we conclude by drawing some guidelines for tech ethics in practice.
Performance evaluation of a combination Plasmodium dual-antigen CRP rapid diagnostic test in Lambaréné, Gabon
Authors: Alabi Ayodele , Musangomunei Fungai P. , Lotola-Mougeni Fabrice , Bie-Ondo Juste C. , Murphy Kristin , Essone Paulin N. , Kabwende Anita L. , Mahmoudou Saidou , Macé Aurélien , Harris Victoria , Ramharter Michael , Grobusch Martin P. , Yazdanbakhsh Maria , Fernandez-Carballo B. Leticia , Escadafal Camille , Kremsner Peter G. , Dittrich Sabine , Agnandji Selidji T.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The consequent use of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) preceding a treatment decision has improved the global management of malaria. A combination RDT, including an inflammation marker to potentially guide antibiotic prescription, could improve the management of acute febrile illness (AFI).

Methods

We performed a prospective, cross-sectional study in Gabon evaluating the STANDARD Malaria/CRP DUO (S-DUO) RDT. Participants aged 2 to 17 years with fever at presentation and/or a history of fever < 7 days were enrolled. Expert microscopy, SD Bioline Malaria Ag P.f/Pan test for malaria detection, and NycoCard CRP device for CRP were used as comparators. AFI cases were classified on a spectrum encompassing bacterial vs. non-bacterial infection.

Results

415 participants with AFI were enrolled. S-DUO RDT sensitivity and specificity for malaria detection vs. microscopy were 99·1% (95·2–100%) and 72·7% (64·3–80·1%); and for CRP detection (20 mg/L and above) 86·9% (80–92%) and 87% (79·2–92·7%), respectively. The difference in CRP levels between bacterial infection (mean = 41·2 mg/L) and other causes of fever, measured from our study population using the Nycocard device, was statistically significant (p < 0·01); CRP precision-recall AUC to distinguish bacterial infection class vs. non-bacterial classifications was 0·79.

Conclusion

S-DUO RDT is suitable for malaria detection in moderate-to-high malaria transmission settings such as in Lambaréné; however, a CRP band detection limit > 40 mg/L is more adequate for indication of antibiotic prescription for AFI cases in Gabon.
Dynamic control simulation of a new joint model with energy recovery during walking, using magnetorheological fluids, for lower limb prosthesis
Authors: Vladu Ionel Cristian , Pană Cristina Floriana , Copilusi Cristian , Cojocaru Dorian , Manta Liviu Florin , Mariniuc Alexandru Marin
Published: August 2024

Researchers can now utilize new materials to create innovative models for lower limb prostheses and explore novel ways to use them for efficient dynamic control. To achieve user-friendliness, one area of research focuses on recovering and reusing kinetic walking energy for dynamic control. This paper proposes a new design for a magnetorheological (MR) valve, along with a rotary actuator which offers a dynamic control for a lower limb prosthesis. The design will allow the storage of the energy during heel and mid-foot contact phases and to utilize it during toe support to lift the foot off the ground and establish a balance for the lower limb prosthesis. The energy is transferred through a magnetorheological hydraulic circuit and stored using a pneumatic system. The speed of energy transfer is regulated by magnetorheological valves. A series of MR valve designs were proposed and evaluated experimentally, which allowed the identification of the most suitable variant in the targeted application context. The design of the lower limb prosthesis was simulated using SolidWorks, and its dynamic behavior was analyzed in ANSYS.
Incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury after traumatic hemorrhagic shock: A 10-year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhao Xiujuan , Xue Haiyan , Fu Chun , Li Shu , Wang Zhenzhou , Xiao Ziyan , Ye Jingjing , Cai Jie , Yang Yucun , Zhao Qiong , Zhu Fengxue , Wang Tianbing , Huang Wei
Published: August 2024

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of traumatic hemorrhagic shock. The risk factors for AKI after traumatic hemorrhagic shock remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors for AKI after traumatic hemorrhagic shock.

Methods

This was a ten-year retrospective cohort study of patients who experienced traumatic hemorrhagic shock between January 2013 and April 2023. Patient characteristics and clinical data were recorded for 417 patients. The outcome was the occurrence of AKI, defined as a serum creatinine increase of ≥ 0.3 mg/dL (≥ 26.5 μmol/L) within 48 h, or an increase to 1.5 times the baseline, or a urine volume of < 0.5 mL/(kg h.). Risk factors for AKI were tested by logistic regression models.

Results

The incidence of AKI after traumatic hemorrhagic shock was 29.3% (122/417 patients). Multivariable analysis revealed that the independent risk factors for AKI included age (OR, 1.048; 95% CI, 1.022–1.074; p < 0.001), B-type natriuretic peptide (OR, 1.002; 95% CI, 1.000–1.004; p = 0.041), sepsis (OR, 4.536; 95% CI, 1.651–12.462; p = 0.030) and acute myocardial injury (OR, 2.745; 95% CI, 1.027–7.342; p = 0.044). Road traffic accidents (OR, 0.202; 95% CI, 0.076–0.541; p = 0.001), mean arterial pressure (OR, 0.972; 95% CI, 0.950–0.995; p = 0.017), and base excess (OR, 0.842; 95% CI, 0.764–0.929; p = 0.001) were negatively correlated with AKI. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for prediction by this model was 0.85 (95% CI, 0.81–0.90).

Conclusion

The incidence of AKI after traumatic hemorrhagic shock was 29.3% in our series. Indicators of blood perfusion, sepsis and acute myocardial injury may be independent risk factors for AKI after traumatic hemorrhagic shock. Early detection and effective intervention on these risk factors could reduce the occurrence of AKI and improve outcomes.

Graphical abstract
Alzheimer’s disease and immunotherapy
Authors: Qin Wei , Pang Yana , Nie Shuya , Quan Meina , Jia Jianping
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, characterized by neuropathological features such as amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tau tangles, and neurodegeneration. Immunotherapy offers a promising potentially disease-modifying treatment for AD. We review recent advances in AD immunotherapy, specifically focusing on Aβ, tau, and neuroinflammation-targeted approaches, and gain insights from randomized controlled trials to propose disease-modifying directions.
Worried (and) sick: how environmental hazards affect Americans’ health-related risk attitudes
Authors: Dvir Rotem , Vedlitz Arnold , Ye Xinyue
Published: August 2024

This study explores risk attitudes towards environmental hazards by adapting the Comprehensive Conceptual Risk Perception Model (CCRPM) and applying it in the context of health-related implications of these hazards. We argue that personal experience and a deeper understanding of environmental hazards increase risk perceptions, while a strong social context reduces health concerns. Utilizing data from a national survey (N = 1207), our findings reveal higher health-related risk perceptions among individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Additionally, those with greater knowledge of environmental threats exhibit heightened concern about health complications. Conversely, individuals in communities with robust social ties report lower risk attitudes. An in-depth analysis further indicates that residents of high-risk communities, characterized by higher levels of air pollution, have increased risk perceptions compared to those in less polluted areas. These findings reinforce the dimensions described in the CCRPM and highlight the significance of structural conditions in shaping individuals' risk perceptions.
Artificial intelligence and computer-mediated communication: the text analysis and undergrad’s class observation
Authors: Baskota Prateet , Poudel Tikaram
Published: August 2024

The term “computer-mediated communication” (CMC) describes the transmission of messages and information using computer technology. With the extensive use of email, instant messaging, social media, and other digital platforms in Nepal in recent years, this style of communication has grown in popularity. The article examines how computer-mediated communication (CMC) and artificial intelligence (AI) have grown in significance in Nepal’s undergrad English education. This article allows students to collaborate on projects and tasks, which improves their learning experience, by examining the potential of AI and CMC. The facts of Nepal’s education have been examined using the four different basic literature reviews. Despite the need for further literature on artificial intelligence and computer-mediated communication in Nepal’s English classes for undergrads between 2018 and 2023, the studies reviewed shed light on the possibilities of technology and AI in language acquisition. Undergraduate class observation, self-administered text analysis, social information processing theory and experimental research, which involves adjusting variables to see how they affect learning results, were used to gather data. The study’s findings also demonstrate how using CMC platforms encourages students to practice their digital literacy. They gain knowledge on how to move through online spaces, efficiently communicate with a variety of digital tools, and assess the reliability of information sources. Students can communicate with their teachers outside of the classroom via video conferencing software and online discussion boards. This may result in more in-depth discussions and debates as well as greater student engagement.
Information ecosystems in early academic career building: how do researchers in the social sciences and humanities learn the tricks of the trade?
Authors: Vanholsbeeck Marc , Šinkūnienė Jolanta , Lendák-Kabók Karolina , Gekić Haris
Published: August 2024

Early career investigators (ECIs) in the Social Sciences and Humanities need to receive adequate information so that they will be empowered to progress in their academic career and deal with the various evaluation processes that constitute an essential part of their professional development. This article relies on an informational-ecosystemic approach originally developed in the context of resilience studies and crisis communication and uses it as a theoretical framework to analyse and understand the “early academic career building information ecosystems” (EACBIEs), into which ECIs professionally develop. The characteristics of these ecosystems are then refined through the analysis of interviews conducted with ECIs from all around Europe in the framework of the European Network for Research Evaluation in Social Sciences and Humanities (ENRESSH), European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Action. The analysis reveals the remarkable heterogeneity of the information ecosystems into which early career researchers have to build their career in Europe, articulating a diversity of formal, non-formal and informal learning environments, and several related information channels, as well as showing a geographical spread that covers institutional, national and international levels. Furthermore, although the diverse information channels at hand and geographical levels at which they operate appear in some cases to be complementary, and even mutually reinforcing, they can also, in other cases, be dysfunctional, fragmented and unfair to some extent.