bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrical Interference in Clinical Practice: A Conceptual and Practical Approach
Authors: Dumitru Daniel , Barkhaus Paul E. , Nandedkar Sanjeev D.
Published: December 2024

Electrical Interference (EI: radiated electromagnetic and/or power line interference) is a common problem in clinical neurophysiology with many causes and thus various conceivable solutions. Although newer digitized electrodiagnostic (EDX) systems have markedly reduced EI issues, it remains a possible impediment in achieving high quality studies. So that the electrodiagnostic medicine consultant (EMC) can problem solve EI, this monograph details the fundamental functional concepts and terminology of electronic amplification and recording electrodes from a practical perspective. This information is then utilized in a proposed standard operating protocol (SOP) to help the EMC address a wide variety of EI sources. Three major EI sources are considered: the EDX system/operator error, the environment, and the patient. The first is a thorough assessment of the recording electrodes from the perspective of clean electrodes, security of attachment, appropriate gel application, proper lead connections to both the patient and instrument, and similarity of electrode composition. Second is how adverse environmental conditions are mitigated through isolating the EDX instrument from nearby large generator sources, unplugging unnecessary equipment, keeping the amplifier close to the patient along with short and braided electrode leads, and utilize filtering (both 60 Hz and total bandwidth) with appropriate caution to avoid unwanted signal distortion. Third, the patient and EMC interaction must be considered. Specifically, all electronic devices that can be removed should be powered down and relocated as far as feasible from the EDX system, including digital watches, cell phones, TENS units, and other such devices. A systematic application of the above proposed protocol should solve the majority of EI issues.
Sequential Maximal Updated Density Parameter Estimation for Dynamical Systems With Parameter Drift
Authors: del‐Castillo‐Negrete Carlos , Spence Rylan , Butler Troy , Dawson Clint
Published: December 2024

We present a novel method for generating sequential parameter estimates and quantifying epistemic uncertainty in dynamical systems within a data‐consistent (DC) framework. The DC framework differs from traditional Bayesian approaches due to the incorporation of the push‐forward of an initial density, which performs selective regularization in parameter directions not informed by the data in the resulting updated density. This extends a previous study that included the linear Gaussian theory within the DC framework and introduced the maximal updated density (MUD) estimate as an alternative to both least squares and maximum a posterior (MAP) estimates. In this work, we introduce algorithms for operational settings of MUD estimation in real‐ or near‐real time where spatio‐temporal datasets arrive in packets to provide updated estimates of parameters and identify potential parameter drift. Computational diagnostics within the DC framework prove critical for evaluating (1) the quality of the DC update and MUD estimate and (2) the detection of parameter value drift. The algorithms are applied to estimate (1) wind drag parameters in a high‐fidelity storm surge model, (2) thermal diffusivity field for a heat conductivity problem, and (3) changing infection and incubation rates of an epidemiological model.
Electromagnetic shielding property and electrical conductivity of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes filled poly(ε‐caprolactone) composites with dense conductive networks: A simulation and experimental study
Authors: Zheng Yu‐Chen , Jiang Ke , Hou Xin , Feng Xue‐Rong , Liu Jiang‐Tao , Wang Ming
Published: December 2024

Electromagnetic shielding properties of conductive polymer composites (CPCs) are dependent on the content of conductive fillers. In this study, electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMW SE) of poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) filled with different content of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared to systematically discuss content‐dependent electromagnetic shielding mechanism via a simulation and experimental study. At low MWCNT loadings, the composites have high absorption coefficients because the MWCNT particles are separated by PCL chains. The shielding performance mainly comes from the polarization loss and conduction loss. However, the composites with high content of MWCNT can form conductive networks which leads to high reflection values, suggesting a reflection‐dominant shielding mechanism. In addition, a conductive mesh model is first introduced to simulate the effect of filler loadings on electromagnetic shielding performance. For electrical conductivity, there is no obvious platform being found in the samples at a high content of MWCNTs. The formation of a denser conductive network within the composites reduces inter‐filler gaps and promotes closer contact. However, according to the experimental and simulation results, upon exceeding the percolation threshold of MWCNT loadings, the EM SE value slightly increases leading to a plateau region. The results are ascribed to the formation of stable shielding networks at high content of MWCNTs.

Highlights

The sample has a high absorption coefficient at a low content of MWCNTs.

All the samples exhibit a reflection‐dominant shielding mechanism.

No obvious platform of conductivity is found at high content of MWCNTs.

Obvious platform of EMW SE values is found in the high content of MWCNTs.

High EMW SE values for CPC only require relatively dense conductive networks.
A Unique Ceruloplasmin Shows Distinct Redox Potentials for the Catalytic and Electron‐Transfer Metal Sites
Authors: Yadav Pramod K. , Barman Soumen , Rajbongshi Jitumani , Mishra Rajeev , Mhaske Sanjay , Sudhamalla Babu , Mazumdar Shyamalava
Published: December 2024

Ceruloplasmin, a multicopper oxidase essential for copper metabolism and oxidative defense, from blood serum of domestic goats (Capra aegagrus hircus) has been purified to homogeneity by using three steps of column chromatography. The purified goat ceruloplasmin (gCP) protein has an estimated molecular weight of approximately 141 kDa as determined by SDS‐PAGE. ICP‐AES analysis indicates that each molecule of the protein contains 5.6 ± 0.2 atoms of copper. The optimum pH of catalysis for gCP was found to be pH 5.5. Using the Hill equation, the Km and Vmax values for gCP are estimated to be 0.41 ± 0.01 mM and 0.35 ± 0.01 μmol/min/mg, respectively. The enzyme has an average of 3.3 ± 0.33 substrate binding sites per molecule. Both, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy studies and computational analysis using PDBsum reveals that gCP is primarily composed of β‐strands distinguishing it from the α‐helix‐rich human ceruloplasmin. Also, computational analysis of gCP reveals six copper‐binding sites, composed of histidine (his), methionine (Met), and cysteine (cys). Cyclic voltammetry studies of gCP immobilized on a glassy carbon electrode indicate the presence of Type 1 and Type 2/3 copper centers within the protein identified by two unique redox potential values of +294 mV and −250 mV versus the normal hydrogen electrode (NHE), respectively. The positive redox potential site that probably acts as the electron‐transfer center had a slightly lower redox potential compared to that reported in other ceruloplasmin. The negative redox potential site of the protein possibly corresponds to the catalytic site containing trinuclear copper center proposed earlier. The redox potential of the Type 1 center aligns closely with azurin, suggesting evolutionary homology and suitability for direct electron transfer (DET). The distinct electrochemical properties of gCP may enhance applications in biofuel cells, biosensors, and other bioelectronic devices due to its efficient electron‐transfer capabilities. This study provides valuable insights into the functional versatility of ceruloplasmin across species and highlights the biotechnological potential of this unique variant.
In Silico Optimization of a Streptomyces sp. Antimicrobial Peptide Against Oncobacteria in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Taj Zarin , Marisamy Vannamathi , Chattopadhyay Indranil
Published: December 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a major public health concern, accounting for more than 90% of all oral malignancies. Pathogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Porphyromonas gingivalis, are closely linked to OSCC and promote chronic inflammation, a key factor in the tumor microenvironment. The increasing incidence of oral malignancies necessitates the development of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with enhanced anticancer activity as targeted therapeutics against bacteria to mitigate their impact on OSCC. A total of 182 Streptomyces genus‐derived AMPs were collected and analyzed in silico to determine their potent antibacterial and anticancer characteristics. Fourteen AMPs were tested for 3D structural alignment prediction and validation, and the most efficient peptide was determined to be sAMP2. A genome‐based analysis of the peptide sourced from Streptomyces globisporus C‐1027 was conducted to explore its evolutionary significance. The cell‐penetrating peptide activity of sAMP2 was optimized to make it more stable and better able to target OSCC host cellular receptors. The peptide Mut_sAMP2 was found to interact with the bacterial virulence proteins DEX of S. mutans, LPS of F. nucleatum, and KGP of P. gingivalis and with OSCC‐associated proteins (TNFα, IL‐6, IL‐8, p38, p53, E‐cadherin, Jak‐1, and PAR2) with greater binding affinity. The peptide Mut_sAMP2 treated OECM‐1 cells showed reduced cell survival by the cytotoxicity activity of IC50 5.4 μg/mL. To the best of our knowledge, our computational study is the first to significantly impact the development of new and effective cancer therapeutics from Streptomyces sp. derived AMPs with a broad spectrum of activity and potential evaluating to combat OSCC progression linked with oral oncobacteria.
Integrating management tactics to mitigate Spodoptera frugiperda resistance in Bt corn: refuge proportions, natural parasitoids, and selective insecticide application
Authors: Tomé Maysa P , Weber Igor D , Garcia Adriano G , Godoy Wesley AC
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Different approaches have been adopted to manage Spodoptera frugiperda resistance to Bt toxins. However, studying the synergism among these practices applied directly in crop fields is a major challenge. We used a computational model to investigate how the proportion of refuge strips [crop area occupied by non‐Bt corn (maize): 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20%] and the presence of naturally occurring parasitoid, affected or not by a pesticide with different selectivities applied in the field, could influence the dynamics of the resistance allele (R) in a S. frugiperda population.

RESULTS

Our model showed that proportions of 15% and 20% of non‐Bt corn, together with parasitism, led to a reduction in the initial frequency of the R allele. However, the efficiency of the parasitoid depended on the selectivity of the insecticide. Simulations with 5% non‐Bt corn and 50% selectivity, or without selectivity (0%), resulted in elimination of the parasitoid. In the absence of selection pressure, S. frugiperda larvae carrying at least one copy of the R allele showed higher susceptibility to parasitization.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that parasitoids can potentially reduce the need for refuge zones, because they offset the reduction of non‐Bt crops. Nevertheless, preservation of these benefical insects hinges upon the implementation of appropriate management practices by producers. Further investigations are warranted to corroborate these results, including the study of additional natural enemies. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
New 5,6‐dihydrobenzo[h]quinoline derivatives as potential demethylase inhibitors (DMIs): design, synthesis, activity evaluation and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Xie Xiansong , Wang Jingwen , Bao Ailing , Deng Ziquan , Wang Deyuan , Chen Wenrui , Jiang Wenjing , Li Weiyi , Tang Xiaorong , Yan Yingkun
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Bipolaris maydis is a serious plant fungus and strongly affects the yield and quality of crops. The main control strategy is the employment of fungicides. To research efficient fungicide with novel structure, a series of novel 5,6‐dihydrobenzo[h]quinoline derivatives were designed and synthesized.

RESULTS

Thirty‐six novel 5,6‐dihydrobenzo[h]quinoline analogues were designed and synthesized. The assay results showed that most compounds exhibited significant fungicidal activity against Pyricularia oryzae, Bipolaris maydis, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Penicillium digitatum and Valsa mali at 16 μg mL−1. Compounds 4 h, 5e, 6a and 6b showed better antifungal activity than fluquinconazole against B. maydis. Their half maximal effective concentration (EC50) values were 0.732, 0.283, 0.529, 0.644 and 0.826 μg mL−1, respectively. Furthermore, the bioactive compounds were determined against sterol 14α‐demethylase (CYP51). The results indicated that they displayed prominent inhibiting activities, 4 h, 5e, 6a and 6b also had better inhibitory activities than fluquinconazole against CYP51. Their half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were 0.840, 0.315, 0.601, 0.750 and 1.018 μg mL−1, respectively. The fluorescent quenching tests of proteins indicated that the quenching patterns of compounds 5e and 6a were analogous to fluquinconazole. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulations indicated that compound 5e possessed stronger affinity than fluquinconazole to CYP51.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study displayed that novel 5,6‐dihydrobenzo[h]quinoline derivatives could be one scaffold of potential CYP51 inhibitor and will provide some valuable information for the research and development of new fungicides. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mobility as Capital: A ‘Three‐Step’ Education Pathway of Chinese Transnational Migrant Families in Zimbabwe
Authors: An Ning , Li Jin L.
Published: December 2024

Since the raising of China's ‘Going‐Out’ policy, the number of Chinese residing in Africa has increased dramatically, providing these families with greater convenience in cross‐border mobility. This article empirically examines this emerging transnational population of Chinese families in Zimbabwe, focusing on the social reproduction of this relatively understudied group. We identify an educational migration strategy used by these families as a ‘three‐step’ pathway: sending their children back to China for primary school, returning to Zimbabwe for middle school, and ultimately aiming for admission to Western universities. Using Bourdieu's notion of capital, we analyse how these educational decisions facilitate the transformation of family mobility into cultural and social capital, reinforcing transmigrant family strategies of social reproduction. This study bridges the gap between preuniversity educational mobility and lifelong transnational mobility aspirations, highlighting the foundational role of family influence. It broadens the theoretical scope of international education research by examining how Chinese primary education, Zimbabwean secondary education, and Western higher education, each as an imagined community, collectively shape family aspirations and emphasise the enduring impact of family plans on international student mobility.
Investigation of Optical Properties of Pentasodium Trioxoundecafluoro‐Trititanate for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Mbulanga Crispin Munyelele , Erasmus Rudolph , Ahia Chinedu Christian , Nyengeri Hippolyte , Harerimana Donate , Niyomugavyi Kevin Sadock , Meyer Edson Leroy , Botha Johannes Reinhardt
Published: December 2024

A successful application of the Kubelka–Munk model, modified Kubelka–Munk model and unified methodology for estimating the bandgap in semiconducting materials to the analysis of diffuse reflectance spectra for pentasodium trioxoundecafluoro‐trititanate (Na5(Ti3O3F11)) plates grown using a hydrothermal method is reported. The steps involved in interpreting the Kubelka–Munk F(R) function and using it for bandgap determination are presented. Bandgap energy (Eg) calculations are performed after establishing, through an extensive literature review, that (i) values can be obtained by extrapolating a linear fit of the Tauc diagram to zero–using the photon energy axis as the abscissa–for a sample that exhibits negligible absorption of gaps in the sub‐bands, but (ii) if absorption of gaps in the sub‐bands is observed in the Tauc diagram, a linear fit of the Tauc diagram can be performed as in the method described in (i). In addition, another linear line fit is added and used as a new abscissa to replace the photon energy axis used in point (ii). It is established that pentasodium trioxoundecafluoro‐trititanate is a wide‐bandgap material, with bandgap energies of 3.70 eV (p = 1/2) and 4.0 eV (p = 2), respectively.
Unraveling Quercetin's Potential: A Comprehensive Review of Its Properties and Mechanisms of Action, in Diabetes and Obesity Complications
Authors: Yi Ruhan , Liu Yun , Zhang Xu , Sun Xiance , Wang Ningning , Zhang Cong , Deng Haoyuan , Yao Xiaofeng , Wang Shaopeng , Yang Guang
Published: December 2024

The prevalence of diabetes is escalating alarmingly, placing a significant economic burden on the global healthcare system. The use of chemical substances extracted from plants has been demonstrated to be an effective method for the treatment and control of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). New research indicates that natural phytochemicals present in fruits and vegetables are expected to become drugs for the treatment of diabetes and the prevention of related complications. Quercetin, a widely distributed flavonoid, is well‐known for its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. This article provides a comprehensive account of the mechanism of action of quercetin on diabetes and obesity complications in vivo and in vitro. It elucidates the impact of quercetin on various cells. These include hepatocytes, renal cells, skeletal muscle cells, and adipocytes. Furthermore, this article discusses the mechanism of quercetin on organ damage in diabetic mice induced by STZ, alloxan, diet, and spontaneous Type 2 diabetic mice caused by genetic defects. Additionally, it addresses the pharmacokinetics of quercetin and its potential for synergistic effects with existing diabetic drugs.
Current insights and future directions in Peyronie's disease management: A narrative review
Authors: Howell Skyler , Green Travis , Khalafalla Kareim
Published: December 2024

Peyronie's disease (PD) is an inflammatory and fibrotic disease which results in disfiguring and often distressing penile curvature deformity, affecting up to one in nine men in the United States, and between 0.3% and 13.1% of men globally. It progresses through an acute phase, associated with pain, as the fibrosis develops. In the quiescent phase, penile pain ceases and deformity stabilizes. The precise etiology remains unknown despite ongoing work to elucidate the biological underpinning. The diagnosis is guided by history and physical examination. Except for ultrasonography, imaging is not routinely recommended. Current management is predicated on symptomatic control and slowing progression in the acute phase, and correction of bothersome curvature in the stable phase. Most nonsurgical treatment options are poorly supported by available evidence, with the exceptions of traction therapy and certain intralesional injections. Surgical treatment, considered only after stabilization, is guided by severity and the presence or absence of erectile function and is highly individualized. Investigations are ongoing into several areas, including the exact biological mechanisms leading to plaque formation and failure of resolution; the effects of co‐existing systemic disease; the role of imaging in diagnosis and surgical planning; combination and regenerative nonsurgical therapies; and improvements in surgical techniques. As diagnostic accuracy improves and targeted treatments become available, management of PD will become progressively tailored to an individual's particular disease. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding PD, including etiology and epidemiology, diagnosis, management, cutting‐edge research, and future directions in care of this condition.
IQWiG-Evidenzbericht zum Thema psychische Folgen eines Schwangerschaftsabbruchs
Authors: Endres David , Gowik Julia , Tasar Andrea
Published: December 2024

Das Institut für Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit im Gesundheitswesen (IQWiG) wurde vom Bundesministerium für Gesundheit beauftragt, bei der Weiterentwicklung der S2k-Leitlinie „Schwangerschaftsabbruch im ersten Trimenon“ zu einer S3-Leitlinie zu unterstützen. Dazu wurden von der zuständigen Leitliniengruppe Fragestellungen formuliert, die in Evidenzberichten des IQWiG beantwortet wurden. Für eine dieser Fragestellungen sollte die Evidenz bezüglich der psychischen Folgen eines Schwangerschaftsabbruchs im ersten Trimenon im Vergleich zu keinem Schwangerschaftsabbruch im ersten Trimenon bei Schwangeren mit dem Wunsch nach einem Schwangerschaftsabbruch dargestellt werden. In einer systematischen Recherche wurde eine relevante prospektiv vergleichende Kohortenstudie identifiziert, die Ergebnisse zu den Endpunkten klinisch diagnostizierte Depressionen und klinisch diagnostizierte Angststörungen berichtete. Die Evidenz wurde auf Grundlage der methodischen Vorgaben von „Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation“ (GRADE), konkretisiert durch die IQWiG-Methodik, beurteilt. Es konnten keine signifikanten Unterschiede zwischen den Gruppen zu den genannten Endpunkten festgestellt werden. Die Vertrauenswürdigkeit der Evidenz wurde als sehr niedrig eingestuft, Abwertungen ergaben sich durch Studienlimitationen und fehlende Genauigkeit der Effekte. Prospektive vergleichende Kohortenstudien, die sich der untersuchten Fragestellung nähern, sollten unter anderem eine adäquate Kontrolle für relevante Störgrößen, eine ausreichende Anzahl an Teilnehmerinnen sowie eine sorgfältig geplante Erhebung relevanter Endpunkte aufweisen.
Do we need standardized postoperative radiographs after locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures – A retrospective analysis of 664 patients
Authors: Ketter V. , Kiehne C. , Frink M. , Aigner R. , Ruchholtz S. , Lenz J.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

After surgical treatment of fractures of the distal radius, radiographs in 2 planes are routinely performed postoperatively as a standard procedure to verify anatomic reduction and implant positioning. However, the postoperative radiological examinations rarely has a consequence. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency of treatment plan changes based on standardized postoperative radiographs. Secondarily, abnormalities, already being present in the intraoperative radiographs, were examined.

Methods

Between 2015 and 2019 a total of 664 consecutive patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of a distal radius were evaluated in a retrospective study.

Results

The median age was 60 (range 92 − 16 years). Overall, a treatment plan change was detected in 20 patients. After standardized postoperative radiographs a CT scan was performed in 16 patients and 14 patients underwent early operative revision; in only four of these cases, the revision could be attributed to the postoperative radiograph.

Conclusion

Considering the low incidence of treatment plan changes, routinely performed radiographs after surgical treatment of distal radius fractures must be critically questioned.
A scoping review of alopecia areata and its relationship to COVID-19 vaccinations
Authors: Konisky Hailey , Choi Solbie , Valada Aditi , Andriano Tyler M. , Kobets Kseniya
Published: December 2024

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic several vaccines were produced, including novel mRNA and viral vector-based vaccines. Though COVID-19 had its own associated dermatological sequelae, the vaccines were associated with a new set of cutaneous side effects, including hypersensitivity reactions, vasculitis, and autoimmune-mediated reactions. Notably, alopecia areata (AA) was reported in several patients closely following a COVID-19 vaccine, especially in those with a personal or family history of AA. A PubMed and Google Scholar search was conducted in July 2024 which resulted in 26 case reports/case series, 1 prospective study, and 3 cross-sectional retrospective chart reviews. Based on our holistic literature review, there is no evidence to support an increased association between COVID-19 vaccination and AA. Despite recent literature highlighting the incidence of de novo and recurrent AA after COVID-19 vaccines, several large retrospective analyses have shown that the overall incidence of AA in vaccinated individuals does not differ from that of historical controls. The potential for de novo AA after COVID-19 vaccine is low and the benefit of being vaccinated far outweighed the risks, especially within the first few years of COVID-19 vaccine rollout. While the decision to get vaccinated is a personal choice, the threat of developing AA secondary to vaccination should not be a deterrent.
Kreislauforientierte Betrachtung zur Verbesserung der Kompostqualität aus biogenen Abfällen aus der Haushaltssammlung
Authors: Adam Josef , Wellacher Martin , Loidl Alexandra , Kreindl Gernot , Zöscher Andreas , Dvorak Elena , Schmid Verena
Published: December 2024

Die stoffliche Verwertung von biogenen Abfällen aus der Haushaltssammlung bildet einen wesentlichen Baustein für eine funktionierende Kreislaufwirtschaft und stellt einen bedeutenden Faktor zur Erreichung der Recyclingquoten für Siedlungsabfälle dar, die von der EU vorgeschrieben werden. Eine große Hürde besteht in der Störstoffproblematik im Bioabfall, da beispielsweise Kunststoffe, Metalle und Glas als Fehlwürfe in der Sammlung in diesen Abfallstrom gelangen. Um maschinell ein qualitätsgesichertes Kompostprodukt herstellen zu können, soll das Ausgangsmaterial für die Kompostierung eine Störstoffkonzentration von 3 % Feuchtmasse (FM) nicht überschreiten. In der neuen österreichischen Kompostverordnung, die 2025 in Kraft treten soll, wird voraussichtlich ein Grenzwert für Störstoffe bei übernommenen biogenen Abfällen vorgeschrieben. Im Projekt „Plastic Free Compost“ arbeiten acht Partner aus Industrie und Wissenschaft zusammen, um Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Qualität von biogenen Haushaltsabfällen zu erproben. Das Projekt setzt dabei an allen Phasen des Kompostierungskreislaufs, dem Bürger/der Bürgerin, der Sammlung, der Vorbehandlung, der Kompostierung, der Nachbehandlung und dem Qualitätskompost an, um Lösungen für die Störstoffproblematik zu finden.
Early Life Care gewährleistet Kinderschutz und Unterstützung von Familien
Authors: Aigner Gerhild , Metzger Ulrike , Priewasser Beate , Bürgler Elisabeth , Irresberger Christina , Rass Astrid , Fischer Thorsten , Metzger Roman , Weghuber Daniel
Published: December 2024

Die drei Universitätskliniken für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, für Kinder- und Jugendheilkunde sowie Kinder- und Jugendchirurgie, die Pflegedirektion und die Paracelsus Medizinische Privatuniversität (PMU) Salzburg haben sich zum Ziel gesetzt, neben einer bindungsorientierten, familienzentrierten und entwicklungsfördernden Pflege und Versorgung insbesondere Familien in Belastungssituation frühzeitig im Klinikalltag zu identifizieren und ihnen bedarfsgerechte Unterstützung zu vermitteln. Um diesen Herausforderungen zu begegnen, wurde das Konzept der Early Life Care (ELC) angewandt. Dabei handelt es sich um ein interdisziplinäres und integratives Konzept der Gesundheitsförderung und -versorgung mit dem Ziel, möglichst optimale Bedingungen für Familien rund um Kinderwunsch, Schwangerschaft, Geburt und frühe Kindheit zu schaffen. Durch Beratung, Begleitung, Diagnostik, Therapie und Betreuung wird versucht, bereits am Lebensbeginn die besten Voraussetzungen anzubieten.
Early orthodontic treatment need over a 10-year period and evaluation of short-term intervention stability
Authors: Tabellion Maike , Loef Ines Caroline , Linsenmann Constanze Charlotte , Lisson Jörg Alexander
Published: December 2024

Objective

Early orthodontic treatment with cost reimbursement within the framework of the German statutory health insurance (GKV) is only possible for a strictly defined malocclusion group as defined by the orthodontic indication groups (KIG). It is not yet clear whether the application of the KIG criteria and corresponding successful early orthodontic interventions result in no or significantly less need for treatment in the late mixed dentition or in the permanent dentition. This study therefore investigated short-term intervention stability from a 10-year-period.

Materials and methods

Between 2009 and 2019, n = 661 patients were diagnosed with indication groups D (increased overjet), M (reversed overjet), B (scissors bite), K (crossbite), or P (lack of space) including orthodontic treatment need. N = 70 patients (35 female, 35 male) met the inclusion criteria of the study and had received early orthodontic treatment with a mean duration of 15.44 ± 2.20 months. Orthodontic indication groups (KIG) were evaluated at the beginning (aged 7.99 ± 1.44 years) and the end of early orthodontic treatment (aged 9.63 ± 1.49 years) and at a voluntary control or the beginning of additional orthodontic treatment (aged 11.85 ± 1.72 years). The evaluation included established procedures for categorization of orthodontic indication groups and their respective classification. Statistics included Chi-square test and Kendall´s tau-b. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

The results showed reversed overjet in 44.3% and crossbites in 41.4% of the patients as most common indication for early orthodontic treatment. At the end of early orthodontic treatment, no orthodontic treatment need was present in 87.1%. At the late mixed dentition, the treatment result of early orthodontic treatment was stable in N = 61 out of N = 70 patients.

Conclusions

The results of our study confirm preventive benefits of early orthodontic treatment, especially in patients with transverse anomalies or reversed overjet.

Clinical relevance

A short-term orthodontic intervention with correct indication during primary or early mixed dentition can prevent or reduce further treatment need during late mixed or permanent dentition, and should therefore not be postponed.
Density and distribution of the flat mite (Brevipalpus yothersi) (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) on four Hibiscus varieties: do leaves tell the full story?
Authors: Roda Amy , Nachman Gösta , Scheiner Katrina , Carrillo Daniel
Published: December 2024

The flat mite, Brevipalpus yothersi (Baker, 1949) is widely distributed in the southern United States. This mite is associated with a citrus leprosis virus ((CiLV-C2) Cilevirus colombiaense strain hibiscus) infecting ornamental hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) in Florida and Hawaii. Because hibiscus is a highly traded ornamental plant, CiLV-C2 has the potential to spread. In laboratory experiments, the abundance and distribution of B. yothersi were studied on four varieties of tropical hibiscus. Plants, grown from cuttings, were infested with female mites, and held in environmental chambers (25 °C, 75% RH). After 3 months, the plants were divided into strata representing the top, middle and bottom of the plant. All mites (including eggs) found on the leaves and woody parts (main stems and side branches) were counted, and the surface area of each part calculated. The number and surface area of leaves and woody parts varied between hibiscus varieties; however, the differences between varieties with respect to total number of mites/plant and mites/cm2 were not statistically significant. There were twice as many mites on the woody parts than on the leaves. Most mites were found in the bottom stratum of the plants, and they showed an aggregated spatial distribution. The implications of mite distributions for assessing population sizes of B. yothersi were analyzed with the purpose of optimizing sampling without damaging the plant. The efficient sampling protocol developed is an important tool for managing the vector and thereby the disease.
Architecture in school practice: possible tools for supporting spatial literacy
Authors: Strand Ingri , Nielsen Liv Merete
Published: December 2024

Laypeople’s participation in the planning of built environments is dependent on their spatial literacy, and it is therefore important to develop this through general education. In Norway, architectural assignments in the subject of Art and crafts are aimed at enhancing spatial literacy, but not all activities are equally educative. The use of Virtual Reality (VR) can contribute to students’ understanding of and engagement with spatial properties, but few studies have been conducted at the lower secondary school level. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore how pupils in a Norwegian lower secondary school reflect upon and use floor plan drawings, digital 3D models, and VR in architectural assignments aiming to support their spatial literacy. Although VR has the potential to facilitate activities that support the pupils’ spatial literacy, the pupils in this study tended to use VR to a lesser extent, mostly towards the end of their projects. We suggest that the finished look of the VR visualisations, conceptualised herein as ‘perceived finishedness’, may have contributed to this. This highlights the use of VR as a visualisation tool rather than a design process tool.
A Bayesian model for portfolio decisions based on debiased and regularized expert predictions
Authors: Heikkinen Risto , Karvanen Juha , Miettinen Kaisa
Published: December 2024

Expert predictions of future returns are one source of information for educated stock portfolio decisions. Many models for the mathematical aggregation of expert predictions assume unbiased predictions, but in reality, human predictions tend to include biases, and experts’ competence may vary. We propose a Bayesian aggregation model that includes a regularization process to eliminate the influence of experts who have not yet shown competence. The model also includes a debiasing process that fits a linear model to predicted and realized returns. We applied the proposed model to real experts’ stock return predictions of 177 companies in the S&P500 index in 37 industries. We assumed that the decision-maker allocates capital between the industry index and the most promising stock within the industry with the Kelly criterion. We also conducted a simulation study to learn the model’s performance in different conditions and with larger data. With both the real and simulated data, the proposed model generated higher capital growth than a model that ignores differences between experts. These results indicate the usefulness of regularizing incompetent experts. Compared to an index investor, the capital growth was almost identical with real data but got higher when applied only to industries that were estimated to have multiple competent experts. The simulation study confirmed that more than two competent experts are necessary for the outstanding performance of the presented model.
Beyond the urban shift: towards a relational degrowth spatial politics
Authors: Varvarousis A. , Kallis G. , Catanneo C. , Sekulova F. , Tsagkari M. , Slamersak A. , Conde M. , Dalisa G. , Hanacek K. , Roy B.
Published: December 2024

Degrowth is coming of age, and its analysis of what can be called degrowth spatial politics is advancing rapidly. In this article, we attempt to unravel the history of spatial thought in the degrowth literature to reveal its tendencies, tipping points, and blank spots. We argue that the more recent degrowth spatial literature overly focuses on the big urban scale by reversing what has purportedly been one of the weak spots of degrowth scholarship: its focus and preference for small-scale, relocalization, and decentralized communities. While we see the merit of this shift, first, we try to contextualize it in the broader sustainability discourse, and second, we contend that it has not been without problems and omissions. We see three predicaments stemming from it: first, a deficit of the degrowth spatial literature in recognizing and engaging with unsustainable rural transformations such as rural depopulation and shrinkage, as well as rural dispossession and depeasantisation. Second, a difficulty to account for urban and rural interconnectedness and engage with new epistemological frames that emerge in urban studies, such as planetary urbanization. Third, the urban shift may affect the capacity of degrowth to remain pluriversal, anti-colonial, and grassroots-fueled, or what Chertkovskaya et al. (Towards a political economy of degrowth. Rowman & Littlefield, 2019. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=PuXaDwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=info:c45bQLgYCfYJ:scholar.google.com&ots=5LsDF9Y_Er&sig=buZn4ogpUN4octi3_WFJf1mO9Lg) called nomadic utopianism. Finally, in the concluding part, we set the stepstones for a relational degrowth spatial politics, focusing on a solidary connection of space and place across the urban and rural and in multiple scales. This approach avoids the pitfalls of both degrowth proposals for relocalization and those who put excessive trust in urban transformations alone.
From the Passivation Layer on Aluminum to Lithium Anode in Batteries
Authors: Qi Yue , Liu Jialin , Feng Min , Tantratian Karnpiwat , Chen Lei , Xiao Xingcheng , Sachdev Anil K.
Published: December 2024

Many low-density metals are also reactive. This article draws inspiration from the passivation oxide layer formed on aluminum to the design of electrochemically stable surface layers on lithium metal electrodes in batteries. First, reactive molecular dynamics simulations are used to compare the oxide layer formation on lithium and aluminum metal surfaces. While a uniform dense aluminum oxide layer forms on aluminum, vertical cracks in the lithium oxide layer lead to a deformed lithium oxide layer. These observations are consistent with the empirical Pilling–Bedworth Ratio (PBR) that uses the molar volume ratio of oxide to metal to determine whether a metal is likely to passivate in dry air by creating a protective oxide layer. A passivation layer needs to form on the lithium metal surface in the presence of electrolytes. The PBR concept is thus extended to the multiple compounds found in the spontaneously formed solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). It is suggested that a mixture of LiF/Li2CO3 or LiF/Li2O or replacing Li2O with Li2S can effectively create a PBR that is in the 1 to 1.3 range for better passivation. While these analyses are consistent with some experimental evidence, a seeding layer concept is proposed to further prevent dendrite growth and simplify the battery manufacturing process. The role of metallic nanoparticles in the metal–carbon nanocomposite seeding layer to control lithium nucleation and growth is investigated by an atomically informed phase field model (AI-PFM). The model predicts the formation of a Li-rich phase with Ag nanoparticles but non-uniform lithium metal nucleation on Au nanoparticles, showing the AI-PFM model to be a desired design tool to evaluate which metallic nanoparticles can be used to control the Li deposition morphology. These results collectively emphasize the need for highly coupled electrochemical–mechanical modeling to solve the challenges of designing a multifunctional passivation layer for metal electrodes in batteries.
A survey of dynamic graph neural networks
Authors: Zheng Yanping , Yi Lu , Wei Zhewei
Published: December 2024

Graph neural networks (GNNs) have emerged as a powerful tool for effectively mining and learning from graph-structured data, with applications spanning numerous domains. However, most research focuses on static graphs, neglecting the dynamic nature of real-world networks where topologies and attributes evolve over time. By integrating sequence modeling modules into traditional GNN architectures, dynamic GNNs aim to bridge this gap, capturing the inherent temporal dependencies of dynamic graphs for a more authentic depiction of complex networks. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the fundamental concepts, key techniques, and state-of-the-art dynamic GNN models. We present the mainstream dynamic GNN models in detail and categorize models based on how temporal information is incorporated. We also discuss large-scale dynamic GNNs and pre-training techniques. Although dynamic GNNs have shown superior performance, challenges remain in scalability, handling heterogeneous information, and lack of diverse graph datasets. The paper also discusses possible future directions, such as adaptive and memory-enhanced models, inductive learning, and theoretical analysis.
The Quislings
Authors: Seemann Anika
Published: December 2024

The Norwegian 'treason trials' were the most extensive post–Second World War 'reckoning' with wartime collaboration in all of Europe. Following the war, tens of thousands of Norwegians were sentenced for their wartime actions, including the notorious leader of Norway's collaborationist party Nasjonal Samling, Vidkun Quisling. And yet many wartime actions also went unpunished, including, in the vast majority of cases, violence perpetrated against Norway's Jewish minority. The Quislings examines how the Norwegian authorities planned, implemented and interpreted this reckoning between 1941 and 1964. In doing so, it looks at the broader political purposes the treason trials served, how these changed over time and the mechanisms that brought these changes about. This wide-ranging study argues that the trials were not driven by the agenda of any one institution or group. Instead, their ﬁnal shape was the result of a complex process of weighing up demands for legal form and consistency against a fast-changing political and social environment.
Writing for the Reader's Brain
Authors: Douglas Yellowlees
Published: December 2024

What makes one sentence easy to read and another a slog that demands re-reading? Where do you put information you want readers to recall? What about details you need to reveal but want readers to forget? Drawing on cognitive neuroscience, psychology and psycholinguistics, this book provides a practical, how-to guide on how to write for your reader. It introduces the five 'Cs' of writing – clarity, continuity, coherence, concision, and cadence – and demonstrates how to use these to bring your writing to life. It also shows you how to do all this whilst also making the writing process speedier and more efficient. Brimming with examples, this humorous, surprisingly irreverent book provides writers with the tools they need to master everything from an email to a research project. If you believe good writers are simply born that way, Writing for the Reader's Brain will change your mind – and, quite possibly, your life.
The Physics of Bacteria
Authors: Waigh Thomas Andrew
Published: December 2024

Bacteria are the most ubiquitous life-forms on Earth, and are studied extensively to gain insight into their function and understand how they interact with their environment. In recent years, bacterial biophysics has added a new dimension to this research by using the tools of physics to investigate the quantitative principles that underpin these cellular systems. This book provides a modern and cohesive introduction to bacterial biophysics, with a focus on biofilms, slimes and capsules. In the first of three sections, key techniques and models from the physical sciences that can be applied to bacterial problems are presented. Section 2 then provides a bacterial microbiology primer for physical scientists and an examination of single-cell phenomena. The final section explores interacting bacteria and biofilms from a physical perspective. Ideal for physics graduates interested in this important field, this book is also relevant for researchers in physical chemistry, bioengineering, mathematics and microbiology.
Democracy in Trouble
Authors: Williamson Myles , Akor Christopher , Edgell Amanda B.
Published: December 2024

This Element investigates the process of executive aggrandizement to identify factors associated with democratic resilience. We focus on five democracies that showed resilience in the face of incumbent-led autocratization. To understand how these cases survived, we pair them with similar cases where incumbents successfully dismantled democracy from within. Through structured focused comparisons, our inductive exercise provides insights into how the process of executive aggrandizement unfolds. The case narratives reveal similar patterns, with incumbents often targeting the media, civil society, and judiciary and using shared tactics to weaken democratic institutions. Where democracies survived, anti-democratic incumbents made critical errors, including major policy blunders and miscalculations, which ultimately cost them their positions and allowed democracy to rebound. Where democracy broke down, incumbents were largely able to avoid or mitigate such errors, often through ethnopopulist appeals.
Climate Activism, Digital Technologies, and Organizational Change
Authors: Eilstrup-Sangiovanni Mette , Hall Nina
Published: December 2024

Non-governmental and civil society organizations have long been recognized as crucial players in climate politics. Today, thanks to the internet, social media, satellite, and more, climate activists are pioneering new organizational forms and strategies. Organizations like Fridays for Future, 350.org, and GetUp! have used social media and other digital platforms to mobilize millions of people. Many NGOs use digital tools to collect and analyze 'big data' on environmental factors, and to investigate and prosecute environmental crimes. Although the rise of digitally based advocacy organizations is well documented, we know less about how digital technologies are used in different aspects of climate activism, and with what effects. On this basis, we ask: how do NGOs use digital technology to campaign for climate action? What are the benefits and downsides of using technology to push for political change? To what extent does technology influence the goals activists strive for and their strategies.
Pain into Purpose
Authors: Gayles Prisca
Published: December 2024

Pain into Purpose is a groundbreaking exploration of Argentina's Movimiento Negro (Black resistance movement). Employing a multi-year ethnography of Black political organizing, Prisca Gayles delves deep into the challenges activists face in confronting the erasure and denial of Argentina's Black past and present. She examines how collective emotions operate at both societal and interpersonal levels in social movements, arguing that activists strategically leverage societal and racialized emotions to garner support. Paying particular attention to the women activists who play a crucial role in leading and sustaining Argentina's Black organizations, the book showcases the ways Black women exercise transnational Black feminist politics to transform pain into purpose.
The Many Lives of Täsfa Ṣeyon
Authors: Salvadore Matteo , De Lorenzi James , Woldetsadik Deresse Ayenachew
Published: December 2024

This Element examines the life and legacy of the sixteenth-century Ethiopian intellectual Täsfa Ṣeyon. It reconstructs his formative years in the Horn of Africa and his diasporic life in the Holy Land and Italian peninsula, where he emerged as a prominent intermediary figure at Santo Stefano degli Abissini, an Ethiopianmonastery within the Vatican. He became a librarian, copyist, teacher, translator, author, and community leader, as well as a prominent advisor to European humanist scholars and Tridentine Church authorities concerned with the emerging field of philologia sacra as it pertained to Ethiopian Orthodox (täwaḥedo) Christianity. The Element reconstructs his wide-ranging contacts with the Roman Curia and emerging orientalist academy, and then scrutinizes his editio princeps of the Ge'ez Gospels. A final section traces his modern influence, erasure, and rediscovery by later generations of European, Ethiopian, and Eritrean intellectuals.