bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Episodix: a serious game to detect cognitive impairment in senior adults. A psychometric study
Authors: Valladares-Rodriguez Sonia , Fernández-Iglesias Manuel J. , Anido-Rifón Luis , Facal David , Pérez-Rodríguez Roberto
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Assessment of episodic memory is traditionally used to evaluate potential cognitive impairments in senior adults. The present article discusses the capabilities of Episodix, a game to assess the aforementioned cognitive area, as a valid tool to discriminate among mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and healthy individuals (HC); that is, it studies the game’s psychometric validity study to assess cognitive impairment.

Materials and Methods

After a preliminary study, a new pilot study, statistically significant for the Galician population, was carried out from a cross-sectional sample of senior adults as target users. A total of 64 individuals (28 HC, 16 MCI, 20 AD) completed the experiment from an initial sample of 74. Participants were administered a collection of classical pen-and-paper tests and interacted with the games developed. A total of six machine learning classification techniques were applied and four relevant performance metrics were computed to assess the classification power of the tool according to participants’ cognitive status.

Results

According to the classification performance metrics computed, the best classification result is obtained using the Extra Trees Classifier (F1 = 0.97 and Cohen’s kappa coefficient = 0.97). Precision and recall values are also high, above 0.9 for all cognitive groups. Moreover, according to the standard interpretation of Cohen’s kappa index, classification is almost perfect (i.e., 0.81–1.00) for the complete dataset for all algorithms.

Limitations

Weaknesses (e.g., accessibility, sample size or speed of stimuli) detected during the preliminary study were addressed and solved. Nevertheless, additional research is needed to improve the resolution of the game for the identification of specific cognitive impairments, as well as to achieve a complete validation of the psychometric properties of the digital game.

Conclusion

Promising results obtained about psychometric validity of Episodix, represent a relevant step ahead towards the introduction of serious games and machine learning in regular clinical practice for detecting MCI or AD. However, more research is needed to explore the introduction of item response theory in this game and to obtain the required normative data for clinical validity.
Two recently discovered photographs of a thylacine (Thylacinus cynocephalus) at the London Zoo
Authors: Sleightholme Stephen R. , Campbell Cameron R.
Published: September 2018

Two recently discovered lantern slide photographs of a thylacine taken from outside of its enclosure at the London Zoo are published for the first time, and the probable date they were taken and the identity of the thylacine depicted is discussed.
Medical Board Discipline of Physicians for Spreading Medical Misinformation
Authors: Saver Richard S.
Published: November 2024

Importance

False medical information disseminated dangerously during the COVID-19 pandemic, with certain physicians playing a surprisingly prominent role. Medical boards engendered widespread criticism for not imposing forceful sanctions, but considerable uncertainty remains about how the professional licensure system regulates physician-spread misinformation.

Objective

To compare the level of professional discipline of physicians for spreading medical misinformation relative to discipline for other offenses.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study analyzed and coded publicly reported medical board disciplinary actions in the 5 most populous US states. The analysis included data from January 1, 2020, through May 30, 2023, for California, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania and from January 1, 2020, through March 30, 2022, for Texas.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Medical board disciplinary proceedings that resulted in some form of sanction were analyzed. Codes were assigned for the different types of offenses relied on by medical boards for imposing physician discipline.

Results

Among 3128 medical board disciplinary proceedings in the 5 most populous states, spreading misinformation to the community was the least common reason for medical board discipline of physicians (6 [0.1%] of all identified offenses). Two reasons tied for third least common: patient-directed misinformation (21 [0.3%]) and inappropriate advertising or patient solicitation (21 [0.3%]). The frequency of misinformation conduct was exponentially lower than more common reasons for discipline, such as physician negligence (1911 [28.7%]), problematic record-keeping (990 [14.9%]), and inappropriate prescribing (901 [13.5%]). Patient-directed misinformation provided a basis for discipline 3 times as often as spreading misinformation to the community. The frequency of disciplinary actions for any reasons related to COVID-19 care, even if not about misinformation, was also quite low (10 [0.2%]). Sanctions in misinformation actions tended to be relatively light.

Conclusions and Relevance

The frequency of discipline for physician-spread misinformation observed in this cross-sectional study was quite low despite increased salience and medical board warnings since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic about the dangers of physicians spreading falsehoods. These findings suggest that there is a serious disconnect between regulatory guidance and enforcement and that medical boards relied on spreading misinformation to patients as a reason for discipline 3 times more frequently than disseminating falsehoods to the public. These results shed light on important policy concerns about professional licensure, including why, under current patient-centered frameworks, this form of regulation may be particularly ill-suited to address medical misinformation.
Income-Related Disparities in Mortality Among Young Adults With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kim Ji Yoon , Park Sojeong , Park Minae , Kim Nam Hoon , Kim Sin Gon
Published: November 2024

Importance

Previous studies have indicated an inverse association between income and mortality. However, differences in health outcomes according to the income level of young adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) compared with older adults with T2D have not been elucidated.

Objective

To estimate the overall and cause-specific mortality risks among patients with T2D according to income and age.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective nationwide cohort study in South Korea included adults aged 20 to 79 years who were diagnosed with T2D between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2013, and followed up until December 31, 2019, and age- and sex-matched controls without diabetes. Data were analyzed between January 1, 2023, and August 27, 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Risks of all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality were estimated according to participants’ income, which was categorized into 3 levels (low, middle, and high) based on the health insurance premium. Logistic regression analyses and Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were performed according to age groups (20-39, 40-59, and 60-79 years).

Results

A total of 1 240 780 adults (604 975 patients with T2D and 635 805 age- and sex-matched controls without diabetes) were included in the analyses. Their mean (SD) age was 56.9 (11.8) years, and 626 176 (50.5%) were men. Overall, the risk of mortality increased with lower income among patients with T2D, as well as in comparison with controls without diabetes. There was an inverse association between income and mortality risk in younger individuals (adjusted hazard ratios of all-cause mortality in the low income vs high income subgroups with T2D were 2.88 [95% CI, 2.25-3.69] in those aged 20 to 39 years, 1.90 [95% CI, 1.81-2.00] in those aged 40 to 59 years, and 1.26 [95% CI, 1.23-1.29] in those aged 60 to 79 years; P < .001 for comparing risk ratios between age groups). The pattern of income-related disparities in younger individuals was observed in cardiovascular mortality but less in cancer mortality.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of 1 240 780 individuals aged 20 to 79 years, the risk of mortality with low income was most prominent among individuals with T2D aged 20 to 39 years. These findings highlight the need for socioeconomic support to reduce income-related health disparities in younger individuals.
Bioinspired Passive Cooling Hydrogel for Visualizing Hygroscopicity and Desorption Process
Authors: Yang Yabi , Zhou Xiaohe , Ji Xiaofan , Liu Wanpeng , Li Qingyun , Zhu Chuanbiao , Li Xiaolong , Liu Shuang , Lu Xiang , Qu Jinping
Published: November 2024

Self‐hygroscopic hydrogels, characterized by high evaporation enthalpy, cooling efficiency, and self‐regulating properties, have garnered significant attention. However, most current research focuses on enhancing the hygroscopic and desorption performance, often overlooking the importance of monitoring the self‐regulation process, which limits its further application. Advanced visualization technologies, such as in situ electrical impedance tomography, low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance, and hyperspectral imaging, offer potential insights into this behavior, yet they often require additional devices, incur high costs, and involve complex sample preparation processes. Therefore, drawing inspiration from nature, humidity‐color‐sensitive hydrogels (HCSHs) strategy is proposed for visualized cooling. Benefiting from the strong polar responsiveness of the aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) molecules, the hydrogel's fluorescence significantly changes with varying interior water content, thereby its self‐regulation process is monitored easily. Further, the obtained hydrogel could be applied in the electronic device cooling owing to the polymer skeletons’ high swelling ratio, strong adhesion, and excellent self‐hygroscopic properties. This strategy overcomes current limitations in the visual technology of self‐hygroscopic materials and provides new insights into intelligent thermal management for electronic devices.
Dual Modulation of Hydroxyl Action on Ruthenium Surface by Single‐Atom Supports for Alkaline H2 Evolution
Authors: Wang Di , Liu Wen , Wang Haining , Lu Shanfu , Li Yunqi , Guo Shaojun , Xiang Yan
Published: November 2024

Ruthenium (Ru)‐based catalysts are known to accelerate the slow kinetics of the alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, enhancing the transfer kinetics of adsorbed hydroxyl (OHad) remains challenging. Herein, a dual‐regulation strategy is presented to alleviate OH blockage on the catalyst surface, using a cluster‐level Ru electrocatalyst supported by single‐atom CoN4 generated in situ on carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Experimental and theoretical studies demonstrate that introducing oxophilic single‐atom CoN4 can mitigate the strong interaction between Ru and OHad by directly competing for OHad on the Ru surface, thereby preventing Ru site poisoning. Meanwhile, single‐atom CoN4 effectively modifies the electronic structure of Ru atomic clusters (ACs), indirectly optimizing the energy barriers for OH desorption at the Ru interface and promoting OHad release. The electronic interaction between Ru ACs and CoN4 also inhibits Ru atom migration, significantly enhancing catalytic stability. The resulting catalyst shows excellent HER activity at 10 mA cm−2 with a low overpotential of 15 mV in alkaline solution and remains stable at 200 mA cm−2 for over 1000 h. An alkaline anion‐exchange membrane water electrolyzer (AEMWE) using this catalyst can exhibit an ultralow potential (1.785 V at 1 A·cm−2) and high stability at 500 mA·cm−2.
Structural Regulation of P2‐Type Layered Oxide with Anion/Cation Codoping Strategy for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Xu , Yang Zixiang , Chen Dongliang , Lu Bin , Zhang Qinghua , Hou Yang , Wu Zhenguo , Ye Zhizhen , Li Tongtong , Lu Jianguo
Published: November 2024

P2‐type layered transition metal oxides are potential cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), but they commonly suffer from severe capacity degradation owing to multiple phase transitions and Na+/vacancy ordering during the extraction/insertion process. An anionic/cationic co‐doping strategy at high sodium contents is proposed to effectively achieve high‐rate and long‐term stability of P2‐Na0.67Ni0.33Mn0.67O2. The resulting Na0.75Mg0.1Ni0.23Mn0.67O1.95F0.05 (NMNMOF) cathode delivers a reversible capacity of 116 mAh g−1 at 75 mA g−1 and maintains an initial capacity of 73% at 1500 mA g−1 after 1000 cycles. The Mg/F anionic/cationic co‐doping strategy impacts the local environment of the surrounding transition metal and oxygen, regulates the electron distribution, and modifies the initial diffusion state of Na sites, enhancing the diffusion ability of Na+. Moreover, the phase transition of P2‐O2 is well suppressed and the decrease in Mn3+ content greatly alleviates the Jahn–Teller effect to enhance structural stability. The full‐cell devices with NMNMOF cathode and hard carbon anode demonstrate a high capacity of 80 mAh g−1 at 10 C and an excellent cycle life of over 500 cycles for applications. The anionic/cationic co‐doping strategy will inspire the rational design of P2‐type layered oxides and provide a new perspective for advanced SIBs.
High‐Yield Bioproduction of Extracellular Vesicles from Stem Cell Spheroids via Millifluidic Vortex Transport
Authors: Thouvenot Elliot , Charnay Laura , Burshtein Noa , Guigner Jean‐Michel , Dec Léonie , Loew Damarys , Silva Amanda K.A. , Lindner Anke , Wilhelm Claire
Published: November 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as novel therapeutics, particularly in cancer and degenerative diseases. Nevertheless, from both market and clinical viewpoints, high‐yield production methods using minimal cell materials are still needed. Herein, a millifluidic cross‐slot chip is proposed to induce high‐yield release of biologically active EVs from less than three million cells. Depending on the flow rate, a single vortex forms in the outlet channels, exposing transported cellular material to high viscous stresses. Importantly, the chip accommodates producer cells within their physiological environment, such as human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) spheroids, while facilitating their visualization and individual tracking within the vortex. This precise control of viscous stresses at the spheroid level allows for the release of up to 30000 EVs per cell at a Reynolds number of ≈400, without compromising cellular integrity. Additionally, it reveals a threshold initiating EV production, providing evidence for a stress‐dependent mechanism governing vesicle secretion. EVs mass‐produced at high Reynolds displayed pro‐angiogenic and wound healing capabilities, as confirmed by proteomic and cytometric analysis of their cargo. These distinct molecular signatures of these EVs, compared to those derived from monolayers, underscore the critical roles of the production method and the 3D cellular environment in EV generation.
Design and Experimental Demonstration of Wavelength‐Selective Metamirrors on Sapphire Substrates
Authors: Matiushechkina Mariia , Evlyukhin Andrey B. , Malureanu Radu , Zenin Vladimir A. , Yezekyan Torgom , Lavrinenko Andrei , Bozhevolnyi Sergey I. , Chichkov Boris N. , Heurs Michèle
Published: November 2024

The increasing demand for novel mirror coating designs for new generation of gravitational wave detectors is stimulating significant research interest in investigations of reflective properties of metasurfaces. Given this strong interest, this article details a systematic methodology for fabricating reflecting metasurfaces (metamirrors) designed to operate at target wavelengths of 1064 or 1550 nm. The proposed metasurfaces consist of silicon cylindrical nanoparticles placed on a sapphire substrate. First, the dimensional parameters of the structures are thoroughly selected through numerical simulations combined with material characterization. The configurations are subsequently analyzed analytically to reveal the mirror effect, which arises from the excitation of electric and magnetic dipole moments. Following this, the metasurfaces are fabricated and experimentally characterized, demonstrating reflectivity exceeding 95% around the design wavelengths, which is in good agreement with theoretical predictions. Overall, the work demonstrates the feasibility and detailed methodology for the fabrication of thin, lightweight metamirrors capable of achieving near‐perfect reflectivity at the specified target wavelengths.
Oriented and Continuous Phase Epitaxy Enabled by A Highly Dendrite‐Resistant Plane Toward Super‐High Areal Capacity Zinc Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Yangyang , Chen Chunxia , Xu Ao , Lv Jiaxin , Huang Miao , Ren Tiantian , Bai Jinbo , Wang Hui , Liu Xiaojie
Published: November 2024

Unstable Zn metal anodes with dendrites/side reactions are becoming the main obstacle to the practical application of zinc‐based aqueous batteries. Epitaxial growth has been considered to be an effective strategy for solving these issues, especially for inducing the (002) plane growth. Nonetheless, the (002)‐textured Zn is difficult to achieve highly stable Zn anode under high capacity resulting from its large lattice distortion. Herein, the Cu single atom anchored polymeric carbon nitride (Cu@PCN) is synthesized by a facile thermal polymerization method. Serving as multifunctional protective layer on Zn surface, the Cu@PCN can provide massive nucleation sites at a nano‐level and uniformize the electron distribution through coordination engineering. Optimizing the coordination structures of single Cu and N atoms within the carbon matrix enables a redistribution for electric field and regulates ion flux. More importantly, this coordination strategy with single atoms is first reported to customize oriented and continuous phase epitaxy along highly dendrite‐resistant Zn(101) plane by reducing (101) surface energy. This pattern of oriented dense deposition leads to stable and reversible Zn plating/stripping is achieved, which delivers an extended cycling life of 550 h at 10 A cm−2, 20 mAh cm−2. The practical full cell also displays stable performance for 1200 cycles.
Possibly more favorable short‐term outcomes with minimally invasive surgery than with open surgery in total gastrectomy for locally advanced gastric cancer: A single high‐volume center study
Authors: Ri Motonari , Hayami Masaru , Ohashi Manabu , Makuuchi Rie , Irino Tomoyuki , Sano Takeshi , Nunobe Souya
Published: November 2024

Background

Minimally invasive total gastrectomy (MTG) requires advanced surgical skills and is still associated with a higher rate of postoperative complications than other types of gastrectomy. Additionally, the short‐term outcomes of MTG compared to open total gastrectomy (OTG) for locally advanced gastric cancer have yet to be demonstrated.

Methods

We retrospectively compared short‐term outcomes between MTG and OTG for locally advanced gastric and esophago‐gastric junctional cancer, performed at the Cancer Institute Hospital, Tokyo, during the period from January 2017 to March 2024. Propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted to adjust for potential confounders.

Results

In total, 359 patients were included, with 190 remaining after PSM, resulting in 95 in each group. The MTG group experienced a significantly lower incidence of postoperative complications of Clavien–Dindo classification (C‐D) ≥3 than the OTG group (3.2% vs. 11.6%, p = 0.026). Moreover, the rate of postoperative intra‐abdominal infectious complications (IAIC) was significantly lower in the MTG than in the OTG group (C‐D ≥ 2; 7.4% vs. 17.9%, p = 0.029 and C‐D ≥ 3; 2.1% vs. 9.5%, p = 0.030, respectively). Subgroup analyses showed the odds ratios for IAIC with C‐D ≥ 2 to be more favorable for the MTG than the OTG group in male patients, those ≥70 years of age, patients without esophageal invasion, those without neoadjuvant chemotherapy, those diagnosed with cT≥3, and patients not undergoing combined resection of other organs except for the gallbladder or spleen.

Conclusions

MTG for locally advanced gastric cancer may provide improved short‐term outcomes compared to OTG, when performed or supervised by surgeons with high proficiency in laparoscopic techniques.
Morphy: A Compliant and Morphologically Aware Flying Robot
Authors: De Petris Paolo , Nissov Morten , Alexis Kostas
Published: November 2024

This study introduces a novel compliant and morphologically aware aerial robot called Morphy. The system is small (primary dimension 25.2 cm), lightweight (260 g), and agile (thrust‐to‐weight ratio of 3.3) while simultaneously integrating sensorized flexible joints in its arms. These elastic joints unlock the potential of experiencing flexible deformations, thus enabling the robot to resiliently withstand collisions at high speeds and squeeze through openings more narrow than its nominal dimensions. Extensive analysis of the flexible joints’ behavior under static loads and in free flight is conducted. Driven by the deformations that the robot can experience, adaptive control allocation exploiting real‐time angle deflection feedback from Hall‐effect sensors embedded in the joints is proposed and combined with fixed‐gain control. To demonstrate Morphy's performance, multiple experiments are conducted, including free flight trajectory tracking, impacts with the environment, and flying through narrow passages. As shown, the system can withstand collisions up to 7.6 m s−1 in drop tests and 3 m s−1 midflight while recovering back to hover. Finally, Morphy's capability to passively change its shape and squeeze through openings smaller than its nominal size is showcased both in the horizontal and in the vertical directions.
Energy‐Efficient Hardware Implementation of Spiking‐Restricted Boltzmann Machines Using Pseudo‐Synaptic Sampling
Authors: Kim Hyunwoo , Jang Suyeon , Shin Uicheol , Ishii Masatoshi , Okazaki Atsuya , Ito Megumi , Nomura Akiyo , Hosokawa Kohji , Lee Sung Min , BrightSky Matthew , Kim Sangbum
Published: November 2024

Stochastic sampling is performed to reduce hardware energy consumption and prevent overfitting by reducing parameters, because not all data are required for learning. In this study, a new approach, pseudo‐synaptic sampling (PS2) method, which approximates the conventional synaptic sampling machine (S2M) method through a hardware‐friendly implementation while demonstrating superior efficiency, is introduced. By sampling in front of neurons rather than at each synapse, the PS2 method improves hardware energy efficiency and ensures scalability. Furthermore, it improves energy and area efficiency by eliminating the additional circuit required by other techniques, such as the random walk (RW) method previously used which requires an additional circuit to frequently charge/discharge the membrane potential. Herein, the average firing rate equation for the S2M method is modified to suit the experimental conditions of this study. Through this numerical simulations, it is confirmed that the activation function of the PS2 method aligns with that of the S2M method and verified that the PS2 method can implement stochasticity for restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM) neurons. Experimental validation of the PS2 method, compared to the RW method, for Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology database (MNIST) training and inference on field‐programmable‐gate‐array‐implemented spiking RBM chips reveals promising results. In an MNIST 100‐handwritten digit experiment, the PS2 method exhibits on‐chip training accuracy (92%) comparable to that of the RW method (93%). Furthermore, in the energy consumption analysis, it is shown that the PS2 method reduces power consumption by 94.94% compared to the RW method, highlighting its enhanced power efficiency due to a reduced number of circuit elements. In the investigation into the impact of increasing the frequency at which random bits are generated, it is shown that the RW method experiences accuracy degradation even with slight increases, whereas the PS2 method maintains accuracy over significantly longer periods. This enables further power reduction by allowing for a longer period during random bit generation. In this study, a foundation is laid for maximizing the energy efficiency of spiking neural network processors by optimizing internal noise generation mechanisms.
Morphological characteristics of the unique periodontal structure in dolphins
Authors: Kodera Ryo , Kajinishi Yukiko , Uekusa Yasuhiro , Ito Kai , Kodera Haruto , Ishikawa Misao , Kuroda Noriyuki , Shiozaki Kazunari , Endo Hideki
Published: November 2024

Although toothed whales have dentition peculiar to mammals, little attention has been paid to the periodontal tissues that support these characteristic teeth. In this study, we clarified the anatomical characteristics of the periodontal tissue in several species of Delphinidae through three‐dimensional observation using micro‐computed tomography, histological observations using decalcified sections, and immunohistochemical analysis. The results indicated that the teeth and the periodontal tissues of dolphins are morphologically unique among mammals. The alveolar bone was both crude and spongy. The lamina dura, a radiopaque line observed in the alveolar bone of common mammals, was thin in dolphins, and the teeth were attached to the trabeculae with the periodontal ligament (PDL). The alveolar sockets were massive for the size of the teeth. The PDL, a collagen fiber that fills the periodontal space, was well‐developed and peculiarly divided into two layers. The inner layer fibers radially spread out from the cementum, similar to the PDL in common mammals. However, the outer layer fibers penetrate the spongy bone in a complicated manner. The interstitial space between the inner and outer layers contained nerve fiber bundles that were thicker than those found in the PDL of other mammals. Sensory receptor‐like structures were observed at the terminal ends of the nerve fibers. These findings indicated that the dolphin PDL is more sensitive to dental stimuli than those of other mammals, suggesting that the dolphin dentition plays a functional role as a sensory receptor, similar to tactile hair.
Prepare for the worst: Make evacuation plans accessible
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: November 2024

The 2024 hurricane season had more than its fair share of hurricanes, tornadoes, and tropical storms. Hurricanes Beryl, Debby, Ernesto, Helene, and Milton caused tens of billions of dollars in property damage, including damage to college and university campuses, plus hundreds of deaths. These hurricanes, as well as other natural disasters, serve as a reminder for postsecondary institutions to engage in emergency planning.
Epigenetic Ageing and Breast Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review
Authors: McLennan Emily , Li Danmeng Lily , Southey Melissa C. , Dugué Pierre‐Antoine
Published: November 2024

Background

Age is one of the strongest risk factors for breast cancer. Measures of biological age based on DNA methylation have gained popularity for their strong association with risk of many diseases, including cancer, which may help to identify high‐risk subgroups for targeted prevention.

Methods

We carried out a systematic review of prospective studies that examined the association of methylation‐based markers of ageing with risk of invasive breast cancer in healthy (breast cancer‐free) women, published up to May 2023. The search of three databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science) identified 2913 individual abstracts eligible for screening. Risk of bias assessment was conducted using ROBINS‐E.

Results

Ten prospective studies met the eligibility criteria, and these were heterogeneous in design and findings. The most frequently assessed epigenetic ageing measures were Horvath's first‐generation clock, PhenoAge and GrimAge. Four studies reported mainly positive associations, five null associations and one reported a negative association. These associations were generally weak and the results were not consistent across epigenetic ageing measures.

Conclusion

The summarised evidence is insufficient to support a role for current epigenetic ageing measures to stratify breast cancer risk.

PROSPERO Registration: This systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42023417559)
Long‐term risk of heart failure in patients with postoperative atrial fibrillation following non‐cardiac surgery: Insights from a nationwide cohort
Authors: Karacan Munise N. , Yafasova Adelina , Fosbøl Emil L. , Tas Amine , Al‐Chaer Katia , Gundlund Anna , Gustafsson Finn , Stahl Anna , Schou Morten , Wolsk Emil , Dridi Nadia P. , Køber Lars , Butt Jawad H.
Published: November 2024

Aims

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with heart failure (HF). However, it is unclear if postoperative AF (POAF) following non‐cardiac surgery differs from non‐surgical AF in terms of the risk of HF. We compared the long‐term rate of incident HF in patients developing new‐onset POAF following non‐cardiac surgery with patients who did not develop POAF following non‐cardiac surgery and patients with non‐surgical non‐valvular AF (NVAF).

Methods and results

Using Danish nationwide registries, all patients aged ≥30 years who developed POAF following non‐cardiac surgery (1996–2020) were identified and matched in a 1:3 ratio by age, sex, surgery type (only for the surgery group), selected comorbidities, and inclusion year with patients without POAF following non‐cardiac surgery and individuals with NVAF, respectively. A total of 2270 patients with POAF were matched with 6810 patients without POAF following non‐cardiac surgery, and 1846 patients with POAF were matched with 5538 patients with NVAF. The median follow‐up was 7.2 years. Compared with patients without POAF, those with POAF had a higher associated long‐term rate of incident HF (2.6 vs. 1.2 events per 100 person‐years; adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.06–2.78). Compared with individuals with NVAF, patients with POAF did not have a significantly different rate of incident HF (2.7 vs. 3.0 events per 100 person‐years; adjusted HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.78–1.03).

Conclusion

Patients with new‐onset POAF following non‐cardiac surgery had a higher associated long‐term rate of incident HF compared to those without POAF, with no significant difference in the rate of incident HF when compared to patients with NVAF.
Flattering or embarrassing your boss? An integrated perspective on newcomers' ingratiation, supervisors' responses, and work outcomes
Authors: Wu Shaoxue , Zheng Michelle Xue , Ni Dan , Chen Chong , Wang Manyi , Wu Wen , Zhai Huaiyuan
Published: November 2024

Ingratiation seems to be extremely useful in the initial stage of interpersonal interaction. Recently, scholars have drawn attention to the role of ingratiation in the special context of newcomer socialization, arguing that ingratiation can help newcomers build a positive image in the work setting. In this research, we first propose that two types of ingratiation—excessive ingratiation and seamless ingratiation—can be distinguished and develop a measurement instrument for them. Second, based on affective events theory, we explore how newcomers' excessive ingratiation and seamless ingratiation lead to different socialization outcomes by stimulating distinct emotional and behavioral responses from their supervisors. The results of two experiments and a multisource weekly survey conducted for 10 consecutive weeks reveal that newcomers' excessive ingratiation triggers supervisors' embarrassment and interaction avoidance, and ultimately hinders newcomer socialization; in contrast, seamless ingratiation evokes supervisors' pride and information sharing and ultimately promotes socialization outcomes. Supervisor narcissism weakens the relationship between excessive ingratiation and embarrassment but strengthens the relationship between seamless ingratiation and pride. Theoretical contributions, practical implications, and directions for future research are discussed.
Gut Microbial Metabolites and Future Risk of Parkinson's Disease: A Metabolome‐Wide Association Study
Authors: Zhao Yujia , Lai Yunjia , Darweesh Sirwan K.L. , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Forsgren Lars , Hansen Johnni , Katzke Verena A. , Masala Giovanna , Sieri Sabina , Sacerdote Carlotta , Panico Salvatore , Zamora‐Ros Raul , Sánchez Maria‐Jose , Huerta José María , Guevara Marcela , Vinagre‐Aragon Ana , Vineis Paolo , Lill Christina M. , Miller Gary W. , Peters Susan , Vermeulen Roel
Published: November 2024

Background

Alterations in gut microbiota are observed in Parkinson's disease (PD). Previous studies on microbiota‐derived metabolites in PD were small‐scale and post‐diagnosis, raising concerns about reverse causality.

Objectives

Our goal was to prospectively investigate the association between plasma microbial metabolites and PD risk within a metabolomics framework.

Methods

A nested case–control study within the prospective EPIC4PD cohort, measured pre‐diagnostic plasma microbial metabolites using untargeted metabolomics.

Results

Thirteen microbial metabolites were identified nominally associated with PD risk (P‐value < 0.05), including amino acids, bile acid, indoles, and hydroxy acid, although none remained significant after multiple testing correction. Three pathways were implicated in PD risk: valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation, butanoate metabolism, and propanoate metabolism. PD‐associated microbial pathways were more pronounced in men, smokers, and overweight/obese individuals.

Conclusion

Changes in microbial metabolites may represent a pre‐diagnostic feature of PD. We observed biologically plausible associations between microbial pathways and PD, potentially influenced by individual characteristics. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Sustainable entrepreneurship education: Impacts of the circular economy, health literacy, and well‐being
Authors: Fülöp Melinda Timea , Cifuentes‐Faura Javier
Published: November 2024

Education systems that integrate sustainable entrepreneurship education, digitization, and the circular economy (CE) have an effect on well‐being and provide a holistic approach to the promotion of sustainable development. Higher education institutions have a valuable dual role in disseminating the CE as a new sustainability paradigm through both the teaching of students and the preparation of future teachers toward the incorporation of sustainability into other educational levels. This study focused on new health literacy (health competence) findings, with the aim to analyze the health literacy, well‐being, and socioeconomic status of university students in the era of new normality post‐pandemic (COVID‐19). The analysis was based on the health literacy questionnaire of Van der Vaart, WHO‐5, and the MacArthur Scale of socioeconomic status. The results showed that health literacy among students in Romania tended to improve during the pandemic based on their experience with digital media. This effect was particularly evident in the assessment of health information and digital health competence.
Embracing digital transformation for sustainable development: Barriers to adopting digital twin in asset management within Singapore's energy and chemicals industry
Authors: Zhan Hanzhang , Hwang Bon‐Gang , Krishnankutty Pramesh
Published: November 2024

In the era of Industry 4.0, digital twin has the potential to revolutionize asset management and contribute to the sustainable development of the energy and chemicals industry. This study aims to investigate barriers to adopting digital twin in asset management within Singapore's energy and chemicals industry through a literature review and interviews. It identified five categories of barriers: resource constraints, data management issues, technical challenges, lack of government and industry support, and strategic and cultural barriers. The five categories of barriers presented unique implications, mutually reinforcing their negative impact on digital twin adoption. The analysis of interviews revealed that the most prevalent barriers, as mentioned by the interviewees, were lack of successful use cases (78.6%), high investment (71.4%), and lack of effective data analysis techniques (64.3%). Lack of successful use cases hinders return‐on‐investment justification, high investment requirements compete with other operational priorities, and data analysis challenges impede the realization of digital twin's full potential. The findings provide organizations with a comprehensive understanding of early stage barriers to formulate targeted strategies, driving the industry towards increased competitiveness and sustainable growth.
Regulating Entanglement Networks of Fibrillatable Binders for Sub‐20‐µm Thick, Robust, Dry‐Processed Solid Electrolyte Membranes in All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Yoon Seokyoon , Kang Seok Hun , Choi Jaecheol , Kim Ju Young , Lee Young‐Gi , Park Young‐Sam , Shin Dong Ok
Published: November 2024

Despite significant advancements in all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs), the reliance on thick solid electrolyte (SE) membranes hinders their commercial viability. Although the dry process using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) binder is proposed for thin SE membranes, a comprehensive understanding of the correlation between PTFE fibrillation and SE membrane quality remains lacking. Here an important guidance is provided for producing durable SE membranes that can be reduced to sub‐20‐µm thickness by regulating the entanglement networks of PTFE. While establishing fabrication parameters; shear time and shear temperature, a dominant effect of the number‐average molecular weight (Mn) on PTFE fibrillation is revealed for the first time. Moreover, the degree of PTFE fibrillation is quantified using systematic X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The SE membrane utilizing the high‐Mn PTFE binder that achieves a maximum fibrillation degree (≈98%) and thus forms highly entangled fibrous PTFE network interweaving SE particles, exhibited superior toughness. Consequently, the 18 µm thick SE membrane with 0.5 wt% high‐Mn PTFE shows a considerably higher areal conductance. The ASSB using this durable, ultrathin SE membrane outperforms its counterparts that used flimsy SE membranes or pure SE pellets. Finally, uniquely thin ASSBs demonstrate significantly improved cell‐level energy densities, showcasing the promising potential for practical ASSB fabrication.
Advances in Electrically Conductive Hydrogels: Performance and Applications
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Xu Chenggong , Chen Xionggang , Huang Jinxia , Guo Zhiguang
Published: November 2024

Electrically conductive hydrogels are highly hydrated 3D networks consisting of a hydrophilic polymer skeleton and electrically conductive materials. Conductive hydrogels have excellent mechanical and electrical properties and have further extensive application prospects in biomedical treatment and other fields. Whereas numerous electrically conductive hydrogels have been fabricated, a set of general principles, that can rationally guide the synthesis of conductive hydrogels using different substances and fabrication methods for various application scenarios, remain a central demand of electrically conductive hydrogels. This paper systematically summarizes the processing, performances, and applications of conductive hydrogels, and discusses the challenges and opportunities in this field. In view of the shortcomings of conductive hydrogels in high electrical conductivity, matchable mechanical properties, as well as integrated devices and machines, it is proposed to synergistically design and process conductive hydrogels with applications in complex surroundings. It is believed that this will present a fresh perspective for the research and development of conductive hydrogels, and further expand the application of conductive hydrogels.
Soft Colloidal Electrode Enabled by Water Distribution Control for Ultra‐Stable Aqueous Zn–I Batteries
Authors: Zhang Kaiqiang , Wu Chao , Wang Luoya , Ma Changlong , Ye Jilei , Wu Yuping
Published: November 2024

Designing effective electrode material is crucial for developing ultra‐long lifetime batteries, thereby reducing daily battery costs. Current electrode materials are typically solid or liquid state, with an intermediate colloidal state offering the advantages of fixed redox‐active species, akin to solid‐state materials, and the absence of rigid atomic structure, akin to liquid‐state materials, while avoiding the particle pulverization and uncontrolled migration. Herein, an aqueous Zn||Pluronic F127 (PF127)/ZnI2 colloid battery is developed utilizing the inherent water molecular control effect of ZnSO4. In this system, ZnSO4 in the electrolyte acts as a water molecular valve, regulating the water content within the PF127 polymer to form a PF127 colloid. The resulting aqueous Zn||PF127/ZnI2 colloid battery exhibits an ultra‐long cycling lifetime and compatibility with various simulated and practical operating conditions, highlighting its potential for practical applications. Additionally, this battery design concept offers a platform for constructing ultra‐stable aqueous batteries.
Resource shocks, firm obstacles, and local business in Africa
Authors: Pavlik Jamie Bologna , Ross Amanda
Published: November 2024

The negative correlation between growth and natural resource abundance is widely studied in the resource curse literature. We add to this literature by examining the heterogeneous effect of resource rents on the obstacles faced by different sized firms. We find small firms experience more setbacks across a range of categories—including corruption—in response to positive exogenous resource shocks while large firms tend to benefit. These results are robust across a number of specifications as well as a placebo analysis where resource shocks are randomly assigned. Our findings contribute to our understanding of how resource rents exacerbate the existing difficulties faced by small firms in the developing world.
Effect of nano‐SiO2 dispersion on the mechanical properties and frost resistance of modified cement paste
Authors: Pei Xiaofang , Zhang Xiaowei , Zhao Sheng , Shi Haoran , Wu Linsong
Published: November 2024

The dispersion of nano‐SiO2 (NS) in cement plays a critical role in enhancing the properties of cementitious materials. In this study, the combination of ultrasonic dispersion and polycarboxylic acid water reducing agent (PCE) was used to significantly improve the dispersion of NS. The effects of ultrasonic dispersion time, NS content, and PCE content on dispersion quality were investigated, alongside their impact on mechanical properties, electrical resistivity, and frost resistance. The results demonstrated that this synergistic method optimized the dispersion of NS, leading to superior mechanical properties and frost resistance. With an ultrasonic dispersion time of 40 min, NS content of 1.0 wt.%, and PCE content of 0.75 wt.%, the cement paste achieved its optimal performance. Compared to non‐dispersed samples, compressive strength increased by 33.7%. After 75 freeze–thaw cycles, the mass loss was 2%, the relative dynamic elastic modulus was 99.15%, and the strength loss was 13.74%.
Suspected hepatic hydrothorax secondary to cirrhosis in a dog
Authors: Russell Oliver Luke , Guy Bethany , Constantino‐Casas Fernando , Kortum Andre
Published: November 2024

An 8‐year‐old, entire, female labrador retriever presented with a 2‐week history of abdominal distension. Biochemistry identified hepatic dysfunction (elevated hepatobiliary markers, hypocholesterolaemia). Abdominal ultrasonography documented an irregular liver and a large volume of anechoic peritoneal effusion, which laboratory analysis confirmed as a protein‐poor transudate. Thoracic computed tomography identified a moderate volume of pleural effusion with a similar composition to the peritoneal fluid. Hepatic histopathology was consistent with cirrhosis secondary to chronic hepatitis and, in the absence of another cause for the pleural effusion, hydrothorax secondary to the hepatic disease was suspected. The patient was started on ciclosporin for treatment of the underlying liver disease, but developed signs consistent with disseminated intravascular coagulopathy 24 hours later and was humanely euthanased. As reported in humans, hydrothorax may therefore occur secondary to cirrhosis in dogs and should be considered as a differential diagnosis for pleural effusion in patients with advanced hepatic disease and concurrent peritoneal effusion.
Digital Constitutionalism, EU Digital Sovereignty Ambitions and the Role of the European Declaration on Digital Rights
Authors: Celeste Edoardo
Published: November 2024

The European declaration on digital rights and principles represents the latest EU contribution to the complex process of constitutionalisation of the digital society. The Declaration, similar to many other Internet bills of rights emerged in the past few decades, shares the objectives of digital constitutionalism. It aims to update the constitutional normative framework to face the challenges of the digital revolution. To this end, the Declaration aspires to make rights and principles that should guide EU actors in the context of the digital transformation more visible. Its mission is twofold: programmatic and educative. On the one hand, it is a political document, aiming to set the objectives and commitments that the Union and its Member States should pursue to implement EU values in the digital society where we live. On the other hand, it is an educational tool: it aims to disseminate the EU visions for the digital transformation both internally, to raise societal awareness on digital rights, and externally, to promote the EU digital model in the world. The chapter reconstructs the legislative history of the Declaration, positions this initiative within the EU regulatory and policy framework in the digital field, assesses the overall degree of innovation of its content, re-contextualises this initiative within EU digital sovereignty strategies and evaluates its potential contribution to the agenda of digital constitutionalism.
Enough of Fairness: Pre-Emption and the DMA
Authors: Nowag Julian , Patiño Carla Valeria
Published: November 2024

This chapter looks at the DMA through the prism of pre-emption and the relationship between EU and national law. It explains the fundamentals of pre-emption in EU law and shows the consequences for the DMA and national rules that are to ensure fairness in the digital market space. It argues that fairness in the digital market with regard to business users and consumers has been exhaustively regulated by the DMA. Thus, existing and future national rules that aim to address additional fairness matters are pre-empted and cannot be applied to gatekeepers. The only option Member States have is to introduce further fairness related matters into their competition laws which elevates the well-known debates about the relationship between competition law and fairness to a new level.