bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intellectual technologies and modeling for transformation of engineering tools
Authors: Khadueva Yakha , Deunezhev Zalim , Karabitsina Ekaterina
Published: February 2025

This study examines the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on engineering tools, focusing on key areas of innovation and advancement. The integration of AI has revolutionized user experience through seamless interaction and personalization, adapting interfaces to individual preferences and streamlining complex processes. The paper explores how AI, particularly natural language processing, has enhanced human-computer interaction in engineering software, allowing for more intuitive command inputs and intelligent data extraction. Additionally, it investigates AI's role in augmenting problem-solving capabilities, demonstrating its ability to tackle complex engineering challenges with increased efficiency and accuracy. A significant advancement discussed is generative design, which leverages AI algorithms to produce optimized structural configurations within given constraints. While highlighting the substantial benefits of AI in engineering tools, the study also addresses important limitations and challenges, including potential loss of user control, the need for careful prompt engineering, and the technology's limitations in handling novel or ambiguous situations. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for a balanced approach in implementing AI in engineering tools, maximizing its potential while maintaining human oversight and expertise.
Application of the feedback mechanism in systems using a direct current motor
Authors: Stavtsev Dmitry , Provorny Ivan , Chumakov Ivan , Pokushko Mariia , Nikiforov Artur
Published: February 2025

This article focuses on the study and modeling of an electric drive control system using a feedback mechanism. It explores the mathematical models of direct current motor operation under varying load conditions, including the description of patterns of current and angular speed. Special attention is given to algorithm for regulating control voltage and angular speed, as well as their impact on the system's dynamics. The paper presents the results of computer simulations and analyzes transitional processes in various operating modes, including abrupt and gradual load changes. Based on the simulations, conclusions were drawn about the stability and efficiency of the proposed control methods and their adaptability to enhance overall system reliability.
The opportunities and risks of employment under the impact of artificial intelligence
Authors: Guzueva Elina , Ksenofontov Alexander , Aun Danil
Published: February 2025

This paper studies the complex relationship between artificial intelligence and employment, exploring both opportunities and challenges presented by this rapidly evolving technology. As artificial intelligence continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, it is reshaping industries and raising significant concerns about its impact on jobs. The research investigates how artificial intelligence is capable of not only transforming existing roles but also potentially eliminating certain positions entirely. The study analyzes potential challenges posed by artificial intelligence integration in the workforce and proposes possible solutions to prepare for upcoming shifts in the job market. The importance of proactive measures to address challenges and harness opportunities in the evolving landscape of work is emphasized.
EEG-based epileptic seizure detection with a bidirectional long short-term memory deep learning model
Authors: Egorova Lyudmila D.
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a method for detecting epileptic seizures based on electroencephalogram (EEG) analysis using a deep learning model based on Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM). The proposed model architecture allows taking into account temporal dependencies and nonlinear dynamics of EEG signals, which makes it effective for recognizing patterns associated with epileptic seizures. The model uses frequency, dynamic, fractal, correlation and statistical characteristics of the EEG signal as informative features. The study includes the stages of data preprocessing, feature extraction and neural network training. To improve the accuracy of the model, data normalization and regularization methods were used. The experimental results obtained on the publicly available TUH EEG dataset demonstrate high performance of the model in detecting epileptic activity: Sensitivity 96.2, Specificity 99.8, F1-score 0.77, AUC 0.98.
Arzneimitteltherapiesicherheit in deutschen Krankenhäusern: Analyse
der strukturierten Qualitätsberichte
Authors: Kastirke Nadin , Groß Beatrice
Published: February 2025

Für Krankenhäuser stellt die Arzneimitteltherapiesicherheit (AMTS) einen
zunehmend relevanten Teil des Qualitäts- und Risikomanagements dar. Über die
Relevanz spezifischer Maßnahmen zur Sicherstellung der AMTS im
Versorgungsprozess ist bis jetzt wenig bekannt. Es soll daher untersucht
werden, welche Maßnahmen zur AMTS umgesetzt werden und welche Bedeutung
spezifischen Krankenhausmerkmalen zukommt.

Analysiert wurden die Daten der strukturierten Qualitätsberichte von 1.987
Standorten für das Berichtsjahr 2018, die erstmalig Angaben zu 13
Instrumenten und Maßnahmen zur AMTS enthalten. Die relative
Umsetzungshäufigkeit (Umsetzungsquote) wurde sowohl insgesamt als auch für
Subgruppen analysiert, die anhand der Standortmerkmale Standortgröße, dem
Vorhandensein bestimmter Fachabteilungen sowie der Zugehörigkeit zu einem
Universitätsklinikum gebildet wurden. Unterschiede wurden mittels einer
Schwellenwertanalyse auf Relevanz geprüft.

Die Umsetzungsquote zwischen den 13 Maßnahmen variiert stark (lückenlose
Arzneimitteltherapie nach Entlassung mit 71,4%; SOP zur guten
Verordnungspraxis mit 23,5%). Die Umsetzungsquoten steigen mit der
Standortgröße von durchschnittlich 31,5% (unter 50 Betten) auf 61,5% (500
Betten und mehr). Dieses Muster zeigt sich insbesondere für AMTS-Aktivitäten
mit elektronischer und IT-bezogener Komponente. Acht Maßnahmen unterscheiden
sich je nach Vorhandensein bestimmter Fachabteilungen sowie eines
Universitätsstatus bedeutend voneinander, während zwei (AMTS-Schulungen,
Prozessbeschreibung für optimalen Medikationsprozess) mit keinem der
Standortmerkmale variieren.

Unsere Ergebnisse unterstreichen die Bedeutung der standardisierten Erhebung
von Qualitätssicherungsdaten an Krankenhäusern. Durch Analyse dieser Daten
können diejenigen Maßnahmen identifiziert werden, die bereits jetzt
überwiegend Anwendung finden. Die entsprechende Ausführung interdependiert
mit Merkmalen der Krankenhäuser. Zudem scheinen regulatorische Vorgaben
Wirkung zu entfalten. Bemerkenswert ist, dass ein Großteil der Maßnahmen der
AMTS nicht flächendeckend umgesetzt wird. Die teilweise geringen
Umsetzungsquoten könnten durch ökonomische, soziale oder technische
Barrieren erklärt werden. Ihr Ausbau sollte langfristig und über adäquate
Anreizstrukturen erfolgen.
Cyclic Imine-BF3 Complexes as Precursors for Functionalized Azacycles
Authors: Bhatt Kamal , Seidel Daniel
Published: February 2025

Due to the relative instability and low electrophilicity of enolizable alicyclic imines, their functionalization commonly requires cryogenic temperatures and highly reactive nucleophiles such as organolithium compounds. Stable BF3 adducts of these imines streamline the synthesis of functionalized amines and obviate the need for cryogenic temperatures. In favorable cases, these adducts can be stored for over a year. The compatibility of cyclic imine-BF3 complexes with organometallic and radical-centered nucleophiles makes them ideal building blocks for functionalized azacycles.
Zinc-Catalyzed Carbon Dioxide Based Biodegradable Polycarbonate Synthesis
Authors: Liu Yuyu , Yang Shanxiu , Qian Bo , Shi Feng , Li Pan , Wang Hao , Cui Xinjiang
Published: February 2025

Carbon dioxide based degradable polycarbonate can be obtained through the copolymerization reaction of carbon dioxide with epoxide in the presence of a catalyst. This polymer has attracted much attention in recent years owing to its environmentally friendly and sustainable characteristics, and excellent material properties. Due to its unique properties, CO2-based polycarbonate has a wide range of applications in many fields such as electronic and electrical parts, automotive parts, medical devices, aerospace equipment, power electronic equipment, and radiation protection products. Therefore, numerous catalytic systems have been explored for the CO2/epoxide copolymerization process, in which zinc catalyst has the longest history and the greatest variety. In this short review, the significant advances in zinc catalysts for the copolymerization transformation of CO2 with epoxide are demonstrated, covering both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts. Moreover, both benefits and drawbacks of zinc catalytic system are described, and the outlook for large-scale industrial applicati ons in the future is also represented.

1 Introduction

2 Heterogeneous Zinc Catalysts

3 Homogeneous Zinc Catalysts

4 Overview of Heterogeneous and Homogeneous Zinc Catalysts

5 Conclusion
Monitoring Hemostatic Function during Cardiac Surgery with Point-of-Care Viscoelastic Assays: A Narrative Review
Authors: Ong Brandon Jin An , See Tow Hui Xin , Fong Alyssa Tze Wei , Ling Ryan Ruiyang , Shekar Kiran , Teoh Kristine , Ti Lian Kah , MacLaren Graeme , Fan Bingwen Eugene , Ramanathan Kollengode
Published: February 2025

Bleeding is a well-known and severe complication of cardiac surgery. Cardiopulmonary bypass, along with heparinization and hemodilution, is thought to affect all pathways of the hemostatic process, leading to excessive bleeding and worsened morbidity and mortality. The traditionally used standard laboratory tests (SLTs) were not designed for the surgical setting, have long turnaround times, and are poor predictors of bleeding. This review aims to give an overview of viscoelastic assays (VEAs), compare VEAs to conventional testing methods, and summarize the evidence for VEAs in cardiac surgery. A search of Medline via Pubmed, Scopus, and Embase yielded 2,868 papers, which we reviewed and summarized the key findings. VEAs such as rotational thromboelastometry and thromboelastography provide a quick turnaround, graphical, global impression of hemostasis in whole blood. VEAs allow for the analysis of specific contributors to the coagulation process and may facilitate cause-oriented hemostatic treatment and the development of treatment algorithms. VEAs have been found to have a high specificity and high negative predictive value for coagulopathic bleeding. Patients treated with VEA-based algorithms have been shown to have lower rates of bleeding, transfusion requirements, and exposure to allogeneic blood products. However, VEA-based algorithms have not demonstrated a mortality benefit and evidence for outcomes such as surgical re-exploration and hospital length of stay remains equivocal. In conclusion, VEAs have been shown to be comparable if not superior to SLTs in cardiac surgery. Further large-scale studies are needed to better evaluate the impact of VEAs on clinical outcomes.
ADALINE generalized integrator based control to mitigate the power quality issues in grid connected solar PV systems
Authors: Nema Priyank , V Sivasankaran
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a control strategy for a grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) system that effectively addresses power quality issues arising from various grid conditions and load types. The proposed controller integrates an ADAptive LInear NEuron (ADALINE) and a Sixth-Order Generalized Integrator-Frequency Locked Loop (SiOGI-FLL) to enhance system performance under non-linear loads, unbalanced loads, and fluctuating solar PV generation. The system is tested under multiple challenging grid voltage scenarios, including unbalanced grid voltage, grid voltage with harmonics, and grid voltage with DC offset conditions. The ADALINE-based control mechanism accurately detects and compensates for harmonics, while the SiOGI-FLL ensures precise extraction of the positive sequence component of the grid voltage. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed controller effectively mitigates power quality issues, ensuring improved power factor, reduced total harmonic distortion, and stable grid operation, thus making it a robust solution for modern grid-connected PV systems.
Senior staff experiences of implementing a reablement model in community care
Authors: Prior Sarah J. , Maxwell Hazel , Bramble Marguerite , Marlow Annette , Doherty Douglass , Campbell Steven
Published: February 2025

Background In 2018, a community care organisation in Northwest Tasmania collaborated with University of Tasmania researchers to develop and implement a strategy for incorporating a reablement-based model of care into their service delivery model as a core organisational approach to care. This study aimed to investigate the long-term outcomes from the initial reablement education to improve our understanding of the needs of staff and clients of community care organisations. Methods The research explored the impact of reablement on client outcomes and how reablement can be translated across organisations. A qualitative research method was utilised to explore experiences of senior staff 2 years after the first reablement education sessions. Two focus groups were held 4 weeks apart. Nine senior staff participated in focus group one and seven in focus group two. Results Three key themes emerged; reablement needs an appropriate governance and organisational strategy; reablement is a beneficial practice; and strong organisational culture supports reablement. Achieving long-term outcomes involves integrating reablement into working practices and this remains challenging due to organisational constraints. Conclusions This study contributes to the growing body of evidence that shifting underlying practices in community care from ‘doing for’ to ‘doing with’ involves a major change of behaviour and practice for individuals and organisations.
Behavioural responses of Australian lizards towards visual cues of feral cats
Authors: Lishmund Owen T. , Nimmo Dale G. , Doherty Tim S.
Published: February 2025

Context Invasive mammalian predators have caused population declines and extinctions of wildlife worldwide. Many of these species exhibit some form of prey naïveté, which heightens their vulnerability to novel predators. In Australia, introduced feral cats (Felis catus) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) have had a particularly negative effect on native fauna, with the impacts of cats on mammals and birds well documented. Although feral cats are known to regularly prey on Australian reptiles, little is known about the behavioural responses of reptiles to cats, including whether native reptiles can recognise cats as a predation risk, and if so, which cues they use. Aims We investigated behavioural responses of two Australian lizard species, the shrubland morethia skink (Morethia obscura) and eastern striped skink (Ctenotus robustus), to the visual cues of feral cats in semiarid, south-eastern Australia. Methods We used arena trials to test lizards for predator recognition by using visual cues of an alien mammal predator (taxidermied cat, Felis catus), a native mammal predator (taxidermied western quoll, Dasyurus geoffroyi) and a mammal non-predator (taxidermied European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus), as well as a procedural control (bucket) and a negative control (nothing). Key results We found little evidence of behavioural change when lizards were exposed to the taxidermied cat. Morethia obscura basked less when exposed to all treatments and C. robustus increased vigilance when in the presence of the taxidermied cat, but overall responses were similar among treatments. Conclusions Our findings suggest that stationary visual cues of cats do not trigger behavioural responses in these two lizard species. Implications Future research should assess behavioural responses to combinations of cat cues (e.g. movement, scent). Developing a deeper understanding of predator recognition systems and prey naïveté in reptile communities will be crucial for conservation of Australian reptiles that are negatively affected by feral cats.
CPROC, a RISC-V processor demonstrator for
monitoring and data processing in HEP
Authors: El Berni A. , Callier S. , Dinaucourt P. , Dulucq F. , Madariaga Q. , Sylla R. , Thienpont D.
Published: February 2025

In High Energy Physics, ASICs are becoming more and more complex with the integration of many digital processing and monitoring structures. The next generation of System-On-Chips will require reprogrammable logic to let the user change the ASIC behavior after its fabrication. CPROC (Central Processing ReadOut Chip) is a processor demonstrator based on the RISC-V Instruction Set Architecture. It will open the era of FPGASIC with a user-defined program executed by the embedded processor. The CPROC chip was received in May 2024: an introduction to RISC-V, architectural choice and capabilities will be presented.
An investigation of a passive BCI’s performance for different body postures and presentation modalities
Authors: Gherman Diana-Eliza , Klug Marius , Krol Laurens Ruben , Zander Thorsten O.
Published: February 2025

Passive brain-computer interfaces (passive BCIs, pBCIs) enable computers to unobtrusively decipher aspects of a user's mental state in real time from recordings of brain activity, e.g. electroencephalography (EEG). When used during human-computer interaction (HCI), this allows a computer to dynamically adapt for enhancing the subjective user experience. For transitioning from controlled laboratory environments to practical applications, understanding BCI performance in real contexts is of utmost importance. Here, Virtual Reality (VR) can play a unique role: both as a fully controllable simulation of a realistic environment and as an independent, increasingly popular real application. Given the potential of VR as a dynamic and controllable environment, and the capability of pBCIs to enable novel modes of interaction, it is tempting to envision a future where pBCI and VR are seamlessly integrated. However, the simultaneous use of these two technologies – both of which are head-mounted – presents new challenges. Due to their immediate proximity, electromagnetic artifacts can arise, contaminating the EEG. Furthermore, the active movements promoted by VR can induce mechanical and muscular artifacts in the EEG. The varying body postures and display preferences of users further complicate the practical application of pBCIs. To address these challenges, the current study investigates the influence of body posture (sitting vs. standing) and display media (computer screen vs. VR) on the performance of a pBCI in assessing cognitive load. Our results show that these conditions indeed led to some changes in the EEG data; nevertheless, the ability of pBCIs to detect cognitive load remained largely unaffected. However, when a classifier trained in one context (body posture or modality) was applied to another (e.g., cross-task application), reductions in classification accuracy were observed. As HCI moves towards increasingly adaptive and more interactive designs, these findings support the expansive potential of pBCIs in VR contexts.
Creating and Transforming the Twentieth Century, Revised and Expanded
Authors: Smil Vaclav
Published: February 2025

The greatest technical discontinuity in history took place between 1867 and 1914. This era was distinguished by the most extraordinary concatenation of scientific and technical advances, the synergy of which produced bold and imaginative innovations resulting in profound socioeconomic impacts. Detailed examinations of these epoch-making advances start with electricity (dynamos, steam turbines, transformers, light bulbs, electric motors, power plants, transmission) and internal combustion engines (automotive designs by Otto, Diesel, Daimler, Maybach, Benz, Ford, aeroengines) before looking at inventions in material production, from metallurgy (affordable steel, aluminum) and cement to powerful explosives and the synthesis of ammonia, and at advances in information (from papermaking and typesetting to photographs and movies) and communication (from telephones, phonographs and records to radio). Post-World War I inventions and innovations transformed all of these techniques by making them more efficient, durable, reliable, affordable, and environmentally more acceptable and brought new accomplishments in energy conversions (oil and gas industry, gas turbines, nuclear electricity generation), materials (new ways of steel production, plastics, herbicides, pesticides, silicon), rationalized production (automation, robotization, quality control), and transportation (freeways, jetliners, rapid trains, large tankers, container shipping), while advances in solid-state electronics enabled the age of computing, microprocessors, and access to instant global communication and information (personal computers, mobile phones, World Wide Web). The Age of Synergy and the post-1914 technical transformations created a new, increasingly anthropogenic world of high-energy societies whose most worrisome obverse has been large-scale environmental degradation.
New Materials and New Syntheses
Authors: Smil Vaclav
Published: February 2025

Advances in ferrous metallurgy (larger blast furnaces, Bessemer converters, open hearth furnaces, electric arc furnaces) made steel, previously an uncommon and expensive alloy, affordable and led to its massive use in shipbuilding, land transportation (railroads, automobiles), industries, and urban construction (first high-rise buildings). Dynamite was the first of newly formulated powerful explosives, and, in the 1880s, came the discovery of aluminum smelting from bauxite and soon afterward the large-scale production of cement in rotary kilns. By far the most important breakthrough of the pre-World War I era was the synthesis of ammonia from its element: without the Haber-Bosch process we could not have fed the growing global population of the twentieth century.
Communication and Information
Authors: Smil Vaclav
Published: February 2025

The Age of Synergy brought a wealth of advances in printing and in the reproduction of images and sounds. New papermaking processes based on wood pulp produced inexpensive paper, typewriters displaced laborious handwriting, and typesetting was speeded up by linotype machines, which were used to set all books, newspapers, and merchandise catalogs during the first two-thirds of the twentieth century. Photography was popularized thanks to simple cameras and roll film, and movies developed rapidly into a new art form. Sound reproduction advanced from telephones to phonographs to gramophone records to the first radio broadcasts made possible by newly discovered vacuum tubes.
Caseous calcification of the mitral annulus associated with a complete atrioventricular block: a case report
Authors: Kojima Keisuke , Oga Yasuhiro , Nishi Junichiro
Published: February 2025

Background

Caseous calcification of the mitral annulus (CCMA), a subtype of mitral annulus calcification, is rarely encountered. Although most cases of CCMA are asymptomatic and have a benign course, there are several reports of mitral valve dysfunction, stroke, and myocardial infarction. However, few reports have been published on conduction disturbances.

Case Summary

We encountered a case of an atrioventricular block, which is a rarely reported complication, in a 70-year-old woman who presented with heart failure. The patient’s anatomy suggested a conduction disturbance caused by CCMA extending from the posterior apex of the mitral annulus to the ventricular septum. Our heart team discussed whether surgical resection should be performed. We concluded that bradycardia was the most likely cause of the current symptoms and that resection of the extensively infiltrated calcification was risky; therefore, we decided to proceed with pacemaker implantation followed by careful observation of the mass. The patient had undergone permanent pacemaker implantation and has been asymptomatic ever since.

Discussion

Few reports on conduction abnormalities caused by CCMA have been published. A mass involving the left ventricular septum and posterior mitral annulus may lead to conduction abnormalities, such as a complete atrioventricular block, in the future. We suggest that careful follow-up is required for CCMA, as it has been determined that surgical intervention is not required.
Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma of the Heart: A rare case report of an Aggressive Cardiac sarcoma Mimicking Myxoma
Authors: Ahmad Youssef , Abdallah Tumodir , AlAli Modar , Adeeb Monaza , Alhammoud Majdi
Published: February 2025

Background

Primary cardiac tumors are rare, with an incidence ranging from 0.001% to 0.03%. Among these, Sarcomas constitute the majority of malignant cases, with malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) being one of the least commonly reported and most aggressive forms.

Case Summary

We present the case of a 40-year-old female who experienced nonspecific symptoms, including malaise, dyspnea, and recurrent chest pain. Initial investigations, including echocardiography, revealed a large mass in the left atrium, initially diagnosed as a myxoma. However, histopathological examination following surgical resection confirmed the diagnosis of malignant fibrous histiocytoma. Despite surgical intervention and chemotherapy, the tumor recurred, resulting in the patient's death two months after surgery.

Discussion

Cardiac sarcomas, particularly malignant fibrous histiocytoma, pose significant diagnostic challenges due to their rarity and nonspecific symptoms. These malignant tumors often mimic benign conditions, clinically and diagnostically, in modalities such as transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). While advanced imaging techniques are critical for accurate diagnosis, socioeconomic factors may limit access. Histopathological examination remains the gold standard for definitive diagnosis. The aggressive nature of these tumors, characterized by rapid recurrence and poor prognosis, highlights the need for improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Future research should focus on targeted therapies and immunotherapy, which promise to improve outcomes in managing these malignancies.
Machine-learning phenotyping of patients with functional mitral regurgitation undergoing transcatheter edge-to-edge repair - the MITRA-AI study
Authors: D’Ascenzo Fabrizio , Angelini Filippo , Pancotti Corrado , Bocchino Pier Paolo , Giannini Cristina , Finizio Filippo , Adamo Marianna , Camman Victoria , Morici Nuccia , Perl Leor , Muscoli Saverio , Crimi Gabriele , Boretto Paolo , de Filippo Ovidio , Baldetti Luca , Biondi-Zoccai Giuseppe , Conrotto Federico , Petronio Sonia , Giordano Arturo , Estévez-Loureiro Rodrigo , Stolfo Davide , Templin Christian , Chiarito Mauro , Cavallone Elena , Dusi Veronica , Alunni Gianluca , Oreglia Jacopo , Iannaccone Mario , Pocar Marco , Pagnesi Matteo , Pidello Stefano , Kornowski Ran , Fariselli Piero , Frea Simone , la Torre Michele , Raineri Claudia , Patti Giuseppe , Porto Italo , Montefusco Antonio , Raposeiras Roubin Sergio , De Ferrari Gaetano Maria
Published: February 2025

Background

Severe functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) may benefit from mitral Transcathter Edge to Egde Repair (TEER), but selection of patients remains to be optimised.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to use Machine-Learning (ML) approaches to uncover concealed connections between clinical, echocardiographic, and hemodynamic data associated with patients’ outcomes.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing TEER from 2009 to 2020 were included in the MITRA-AI registry. The primary endpoint was a composite of cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalisation at one year. External validation was performed on the Mitrascore cohort.

Results

822 patients were included. The composite primary endpoint occurred in 250 (30%) patients. Four clusters with decreasing risk of the primary endpoint were identified (42%, 37%, 25% and 20% from cluster 1 to cluster 4, respectively). Clusters were combined into a high-risk (clusters 1 and 2) and a low-risk phenotype (clusters 3 and 4). High-risk phenotype patients had larger LVs (> 107 ml/m2), lower LVEF (< 35%) and more prevalent ischemic aetiology compared to low-risk phenotype patients. Within low.risk groups, permanent atrial fibrillation amplified that of HF hospitalizations. In the Mitrascore cohort, the incidence of the primary endpoint was 48%, 52%, 35% and 42% across clusters.

Conclusions

A ML analysis identified meaningful clinical phenotypic presentations in FMR undergoing TEER, with significant differences in terms of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalizations, confirmed in an external validation cohort.
Caring for people with dementia: Mapping the experience and journey from diagnosis
Authors: Brookman Ruth , Lipson-Smith Ruby , Maurice Olivia , Mcllwain Nina , Hofstaetter Lukas , DiGiacomo Michelle , Ní Chróinín Danielle , Cannings Madeleine J , Harris Celia B
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

Family care partners of people with dementia are not typically the focus of healthcare and aged care providers. They experience unmet needs, missed opportunities for support, and barriers to wellbeing that impact the dyad. This longitudinal study aimed to understand the experience of care partners, mapping their journey as they navigated healthcare and aged care systems as well as other supports.

Research Design and Methods

Fifteen family care partners participated in this longitudinal, qualitative study. For 6 months they recorded details (provider, date, purpose, outcome, and satisfaction rating) of interactions with health and aged care services. Monthly semi-structured interviews reviewed experiences, prompted by logbooks. Thematic analysis identified factors that influenced care partners’ experiences and mapped the typical journey.

Results

Data indicated that participants’ needs fluctuated with three key time points of heightened need: dementia diagnosis, in-home care, and transition into residential care. Thematic analysis identified three corresponding themes of carer need and risk: ‘psychological support/ distress’, ‘social connection/social isolation’, and ‘knowledge/disempowerment'.

Discussion and Implications

Findings suggest a critical role of time in dementia care journeys, impacting the support that care partners need from healthcare and aged care systems. The potentially foreseeable, time-based nature of unmet needs suggests that education and training can highlight needs for knowledge, support, and connection, and the importance of prioritising them differentially according to the stages of the carer journey.
Safety using public buses in naturally occurring retirement communities: An exploratory study in two North American cities
Authors: Chippendale Tracy , Sangrar Ruheena , Rotenberg Shlomit , Curl Angela , Baig Natisha , Suzuki Lisa
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

Safe community mobility is critical to support aging-in-place. For older adults living in low-and moderate-income urban settings, driving may not be an option due to costs associated with car ownership or a lack of driving history. Some older adults retire from driving due to changes in their health. Public transportation is critical to support community engagement. However, little is known about transportation challenges in naturally occurring retirement communities (NORC). Therefore, the purpose of this Ecological theory informed study was to explore supports and limitations regarding safe public bus use in NORCs.

Research Design and Methods

A multiple qualitative case study design was used with purposive sampling of representative cases consisting of four bus routes in NORC neighborhoods. Field observations and in-depth semi-structed interviews were conducted. Participants were: 1) Age 60 and older 2) English speaking 3) Ride the bus on average 2 or more times per month 4) Ambulatory with or without a walking aid and 5) Residents of one of the four NORC neighborhoods. A descriptive, thematic approach was used for data coding and analyses, and data was organized according to the Framework Method.

Results

Seventeen NORC residents were interviewed, and 45 hours of field observations were conducted. Results revealed four major themes: Impact of other people’s behavior, Obstructed passageways, Older riders impact their own safety, and Space and time orientation. Several subthemes were also uncovered.

Discussion and Implications

Results suggest education and policy changes are needed to increase the safety of older adults who use public buses.
Space Perception and Binocular Vision
Authors: Wolfe Jeremy M. , Levi Dennis M. , Holt Lori L. , Bartoshuk Linda M. , Herz Rachel S. , Klatzky Roberta L. , Merfeld Daniel M.
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores the mechanisms behind our perception of three-dimensional space, beginning with monocular cues such as occlusion, size, and perspective, which allow depth inference from single-eye input. It transitions to triangulation cues, where depth is deduced from motion parallax and vergence, demonstrating the integration of dynamic spatial information. The chapter then examines the role of binocular vision and stereopsis, highlighting how the brain exploits binocular disparities to create a vivid depth perception, relying on geometric and physiological foundations. It emphasizes combining depth cues, explaining how the visual system merges monocular and binocular information for a coherent spatial understanding. Finally, it addresses the development of binocular vision and stereopsis, detailing how early visual experiences shape depth perception and how therapies can recover or enhance stereopsis later in life.
Attention and Scene Perception
Authors: Wolfe Jeremy M. , Levi Dennis M. , Holt Lori L. , Bartoshuk Linda M. , Herz Rachel S. , Klatzky Roberta L. , Merfeld Daniel M.
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores the complex mechanisms of attention and visual scene perception, emphasizing selective processes essential for managing the overwhelming influx of sensory information. It examines spatial attention, highlighting experiments such as the Posner cueing paradigm, which reveals how cues direct focus and improve reaction times. Temporal attention explores phenomena like rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) and the attentional blink, demonstrating that processing one stimulus impairs the detection of subsequent stimuli. The chapter also discusses the physiological basis of attention, detailing neural mechanisms like enhanced activity in specific brain regions and how attention alters single-neuron responses to facilitate selective processing. Finally, it addresses disorders such as visual neglect and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), showcasing how damage or dysfunction in attentional systems impacts perception, behavior, and the ability to engage effectively with visual scenes.
The Mind’s Machine
Authors: Watson Neil V. , Breedlove S. Marc
Published: February 2025

The Mind's Machine presents coverage of contemporary research, clinical cases, experiments, and up-to-date examples in the field of behavioral neuroscience. The text offers an introduction to the interdisciplinary topics of introductory behavioral neuroscience. The first chapter looks at the structure and function of neuroanatomy and research methods that are associated with it. Then the text turns to topics such as neurophysiology, neurotransmitters and neuropharmacology, the development of the brain, and the sensorimotor system. Next, chapters looks at hearing, balance, taste, smell, and vision. Then the text considers hormones and homeostatis. It also delves into biological rhythms and sleep, emotions, aggression, and stress. Finally, it covers behavioral disorders, memory, learning, and attention and higher cognition.
Structure and Function
Authors: Watson Neil V. , Breedlove S. Marc
Published: February 2025

This chapter highlights the nervous system's reliance on specialized cells, including neurons for processing information and glial cells for support, which collectively enable functions ranging from reflexes to cognition. It describes how the nervous system extends throughout the body, with the central and peripheral divisions coordinating sensory input, motor output, and autonomic processes. The brain's regional specialization is central to its ability to perform distinct roles, such as memory, emotional regulation, and decision-making, with protection provided by layers like the meninges, cerebrospinal fluid, and the blood-brain barrier. Researchers use advanced techniques, including brain imaging and subtractive analysis, to study the nervous system's structure and function, isolating specific activities during cognitive tasks. The chapter underscores the importance of rigorous experimental design in behavioral neuroscience, demonstrating how controlled methods drive progress in understanding complex neural networks.
The Chemistry of Behavior
Authors: Watson Neil V. , Breedlove S. Marc
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores the intricate processes of synaptic transmission, where neurons actively communicate through complex electrochemical mechanisms. Researchers discovered acetylcholine as the first neurotransmitter, uncovering how neurons use chemical signals to complement electrical impulses. Neurotransmitters operate with unique chemical compositions and anatomical distributions, enabling them to regulate diverse brain functions, while drugs directly influence each stage of neural conduction and synaptic activity by acting as molecular keys. Some drugs actively ease mental illnesses or alter consciousness, while others exacerbate substance use disorders, creating global challenges. The chapter then highlights how medical interventions target these disorders and emphasizes the critical role of ongoing research in addressing their societal impact.
Homeostasis
Authors: Watson Neil V. , Breedlove S. Marc
Published: February 2025

This chapter delves into the intricate homeostatic systems that sustain a stable internal environment vital for survival, using body temperature regulation as an entry point. These systems rely on mechanisms like negative feedback and redundancy to adjust variables such as water, salt, and nutrient levels, ensuring optimal functioning. Fluid balance is tightly controlled between intracellular and extracellular compartments, with the brain orchestrating responses to osmotic thirst and hypovolemic thirst. Nutrient intake regulation involves hormonal signals, including insulin, leptin, and ghrelin, which converge on hypothalamic centers to balance hunger and satiety. Despite evolutionary advancements, obesity and eating disorders highlight the complexity of these systems and the challenges in developing effective treatments for modern health crises.
Language and Lateralization
Authors: Watson Neil V. , Breedlove S. Marc
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores the functional differences between the brain's left hemisphere and right hemisphere, revealing their specialized roles. Researchers use techniques like reversible shutdowns of one hemisphere to identify unique capabilities; for instance, right-hemisphere damage impairs spatial cognition and facial recognition, while left-hemisphere damage often causes aphasia, disrupting language production and comprehension. Studies utilizing noninvasive stimulation mapping have refined our understanding of the brain's language networks, showing detailed organization and functional overlaps. Human languages, despite their diversity, share universal features such as grammar and phonemes, with language acquisition depending on a sensitive developmental period. Recovery from brain damage, including trauma from contact sports, relies on stabilization, neural reorganization, and innovative therapies, highlighting the brain's remarkable plasticity.
Suggested solutions for Chapter 2
Authors: Clayden Jonathan , Greeves Nick , Warren Stuart
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides solutions to the problems posed in Chapter 2 of Clayden, Greeves & Warren Organic Chemistry, second edition, on organic structures.
Suggested solutions for Chapter 14
Authors: Clayden Jonathan , Greeves Nick , Warren Stuart
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides solutions to the problems posed in Chapter 14 of Clayden, Greeves & Warren Organic Chemistry, second edition, on stereochemistry.
Suggested solutions for Chapter 18
Authors: Clayden Jonathan , Greeves Nick , Warren Stuart
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides solutions to the problems posed in Chapter 18 of Clayden, Greeves & Warren Organic Chemistry, second edition which provides a review of spectroscopic methods.
Suggested solutions for Chapter 31
Authors: Clayden Jonathan , Greeves Nick , Warren Stuart
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides solutions to the problems posed in Chapter 31 of Clayden, Greeves & Warren Organic Chemistry, second edition, on saturated heterocycles and stereoelectronics.
Suggested solutions for Chapter 32
Authors: Clayden Jonathan , Greeves Nick , Warren Stuart
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides solutions to the problems posed in Chapter 32 of Clayden, Greeves & Warren Organic Chemistry, second edition, on stereoselectivity in cyclic molecules.
Cognitive Control and Working Memory
Authors: Chun Marvin M. , Most Steven B.
Published: February 2025

This chapter examines the mechanisms of cognitive control and working memory, which are essential for goal-directed thought and behaviour. Cognitive control enables individuals to plan, make decisions, and manage competing demands by employing proactive strategies and reactive strategies. Working memory temporarily stores and manipulates information, as illustrated by Baddeley's model, which identifies components such as the central executive, phonological loop, and visuospatial sketchpad. The chapter highlights how multitasking, emotional regulation, and stress can impair or enhance these cognitive functions, revealing their adaptability and limitations. Lastly, by investigating these processes, the chapter offers practical insights into optimising mental performance and addressing challenges such as anxiety, cognitive decline, and task overload.
Social Cognition
Authors: Chun Marvin M. , Most Steven B.
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores the distinctive role of social cognition within cognitive psychology, examining how humans process social information differently due to our profound need for social connection. It considers whether our brains are uniquely wired for this, as studies reveal our natural inclination to perceive social dynamics even in abstract settings. Addressing the cognitive challenges of navigating a complex social world, it highlights mechanisms like in-group/out-group divisions and first impressions, which simplify processing but often perpetuate biases. Furthermore, the chapter delves into motivated reasoning, showing how emotional biases and cognitive biases hinder mutual understanding by skewing information interpretation to align with pre-existing beliefs. Finally, the chapter considers the intricate interplay between cognition and social behaviour, which has implications for empathy, stereotyping, and intergroup relations.
Multiple defense is an effective antipredator strategy in dinoflagellates
Authors: Park Gihong , Dam Hans G
Published: February 2025

Phytoplankton have evolved myriad defenses against predators, yet studies that simultaneously test for defense fitness costs and benefits are rare. We tested for relative fitness costs and benefits of defense in the marine dinoflagellate Alexandrium catenella using a framework that relates growth rates of prey genotypes (strains) that differed in constitutive toxin production (low, moderate, and high) to predator (copepod) concentration. Our approach is based on a novel molecular technique that allows one to disentangle the effect of predation mortality from the cell growth reduction due to toxin production. Results show that the strain with the highest constitutive toxin production was the only one that expressed inducible toxin production– a strategy that paid off as its fitness benefit outweighed its cost. Surprisingly, the moderate toxin strain that derived the highest relative fitness benefit increased cell division rate (akin to compensatory growth) and decreased cell size, while keeping its volume-specific toxin production constant in response to predation. These results suggest an effective antipredator defense portfolio.
Determination of tramadol and its metabolite O-desmethyltramadol in vitreous humor. Is it helpful in forensic casework?
Authors: Vasileiou Kalliopi , Nikolaou Panagiota , Dona Artemisia , Papadodima Stavroula , Athanaselis Sotirios , Spiliopoulou Chara , Papoutsis Ioannis
Published: February 2025

In recent years, there has been increasing interest on the use of alternative biological materials in forensic toxicology. Vitreous humor is one of them, which, due to the closed cavity it is contained, has a low degree of contamination and high purity that makes it ideal for use in post-mortem specimens. The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of tramadol and its active metabolite O-desmethyltramadol in vitreous humor and the usefulness of using this alternative biological matrix in tramadol-related forensic cases. For this purpose, a GC/MS method for the determination of the two analytes in blood and vitreous humor samples, which included solid phase extraction and derivatization using N,O-Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide with 1% trimethylsilyl chloride, was developed. The method was fully validated according to international guidelines and was applied to blood and vitreous humor samples from 12 forensic cases. Both substances were found to be readily distributed in vitreous humor, since even in cases of very low concentrations of the analytes in blood, their detection was also possible in vitreous humor. In addition, the vitreous humor to blood concentration ratios were calculated for both substances and the mean values were found to be 0.91 for tramadol and 0.94 for O-desmethyltramadol. The results of our study indicate that the information that can be extracted from the analysis of vitreous humor samples is particularly useful during the investigation of tramadol related cases. Nevertheless, the need for further study of this alternative material to establish therapeutic and toxic limits becomes apparent.