bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary relationship and taxonomic revision of the Asplenium exiguum complex (Aspleniaceae) based on integrated evidence
Authors: Liang Si‐Qi , Zhang Xian‐Chun
Published: September 2024

Asplenium is one of the most species‐rich genera of ferns. While ubiquitous polyploidy and hybridization events, as well as vast distribution ranges, contribute to its remarkable diversity, these facts also lead to extreme classification difficulties. The A. exiguum complex is a natural morphological assemblage of taxa sharing part or all ancestral genomes due to polyploidy and hybridization. Consisting of 4 to 13 taxa mainly distributed in the Sino‐Himalayan region, taxonomic issues of this complex have been debatable for a long time. Here, we collected 49 samples representing the majority of the recognized taxa and reconstructed phylogenetic trees using two plastid loci (rbcL, rpl32‐trnP) and three nuclear loci (pgiC, SQD1, nrDNA). Evidence from ploidy, macro‐ and micromorphology, geographical pattern, and ecological niche was also integrated to illuminate the species boundaries and evolutionary history within the complex. According to our investigation, six taxa, including two diploid species (A. barkamense, A. lushanense), three tetraploid species (A. exiguum, A. glenniei, A. nesii), and one triploid nothospecies (A. ×mickelii), are accepted. Asplenium barkamense, which used to be treated as a synonym of A. nesii in Flora of China, is an independent species and the common diploid progenitor of autotetraploid A. nesii and allotetraploid A. glenniei. Moreover, A. glenniei (= A. yunnanense), widespread in the subtropical and temperate regions of East Asia and occasionally seen in the southwestern United States, Mexico, and northern Guatemala of North America, is an allotetraploid originated from A. barkamense and A. lushanense, whereas A. exiguum, known with a narrow distribution in tropical Asia, is a putative autotetraploid offspring of A. lushanense. Therefore, A. glenniei is restored as an independent species from A. exiguum. Asplenium ×mickelii is supported as a sterile hybrid of A. lushanense and A. glenniei. In addition, our study suggests that the majority of speciation events in the complex probably took place in the Hengduan Mountains, where complicated orogenic activities and climatic oscillations facilitate geographic isolation and polyploid establishment. The two tetraploids, A. nesii and A. glenniei, adapted to distinct climate conditions and colonized wider ranges compared to their parents.
Euro area inflation differentials: the role of fiscal policies revisited
Authors: Checherita-Westphal Cristina , Leiner-Killinger Nadine , Schildmann Teresa
Published: September 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive empirical analysis of the role of discretionary fiscal policy for inflation differentials across the 19 euro area countries over the period 1999–2019. The results confirm existing (older) literature that it is difficult to find robust evidence of the fiscal policy stance or impulse impacting directly on inflation differentials. We do find, however, support for an indirect effect of discretionary fiscal policy on inflation differentials working through the output gap channel. There is also some evidence that fiscal policy may be especially potent in influencing inflation differentials—with fiscal tightening cooling (and fiscal expansion increasing) inflation pressures—when the economy is above its potential. Finally, going from the overall fiscal stance or impulse to individual fiscal instruments, we find that value added tax rate changes and public wage growth are statistically significant determinants of inflation differentials in our sample.
Sex-Differences in Post-Procedural Pain Experiences After Thermal Liver Ablations for Liver Tumors: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Knapen R. R. M. M. , Homberg M. C. , Balthasar A. J. R. , Jans K. , Van Kuijk S. M. J. , de Boer S. W. , Bouman E. A. C. , Van der Leij C.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Literature shows differences in pain experiences between sexes. The exact influence of thermal liver ablation on experienced pain is still not well-known. This study aims to investigate the maximum pain intensity at the recovery between men and women after percutaneous thermal liver ablation.

Methods

Patients treated with percutaneous thermal liver ablation (radiofrequency or microwave ablation) in Maastricht University Medical Center + between 2018 and 2022 for primary or secondary liver tumors were included retrospectively. Outcomes included maximum numerical rating scale (NRS, scale:0–10) score at the recovery room, prevalence of post-procedural pain (defined as NRS score ≥ 4), duration of anesthesia, length of stay at recovery, and complications. Regression analyses were adjusted for age, ASA-score, BMI, tumor type, maximum diameter of lesion, chronic pain in patients’ history, and history of psychological disorder.

Results

183 patients were included of which 123 men (67%). Results showed higher average maximum NRS scores in women patients compared to men (mean:3.88 versus 2.73), but not after adjustments (aß:0.75, 95%CI:−0.13–1.64). Women suffered more from acute post-procedural pain (59% versus 35%; aOR:2.50, 95%CI:1.16–5.39), and needed analgesics more often at the recovery room (aOR:2.43, 95%CI:1.07–5.48) compared to men. NRS score at recovery arrival did not significantly differ (aß:0.37, 95%CI:-0.48–1.22). No differences were seen in the length of stay at the recovery, duration of anesthesia, procedure time, and complication rate. Location of the tumor (subcapsular or deep), total tumors per patient, and distinction between primary and secondary tumors had no influence on the NRS.

Conclusion

This retrospective single-center study shows higher post-procedural pain rates after thermal liver ablation in women, resulting in higher analgesics use at the recovery room. The results suggest considering higher dosage of analgesics during thermal liver ablation in women to reduce post-procedural pain.

Level of Evidence 3

Non-controlled retrospective cohort study.

Graphical Abstract
Pediatric cirrhotic cardiomyopathy: literature review and effect size estimations of selected parameters
Authors: Niculae Alexandru-Ștefan , Căinap Simona Sorana , Grama Alina , Pop Tudor Lucian
Published: September 2024

Liver cirrhosis is a significant global health concern, and cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is a notable complication affecting both adults and children. While CCM is well-studied in adults, understanding its manifestation and diagnostic criteria in pediatric patients remains a challenge. This review explores the evidence for structural and functional cardiac alterations in children with liver cirrhosis. Structural abnormalities, including increased left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and altered left ventricular wall thickness ratios, are prevalent in pediatric CCM. These abnormalities persist even after liver transplantation, highlighting the systemic impact of liver disease. Evidence suggests that altered systolic and diastolic function, as well as electrocardiographic abnormalities such as prolonged QT intervals, are common in pediatric CCM. Blood biomarkers, including brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and troponin levels, offer insights into cardiac function in pediatric cirrhotic patients. Elevated BNP levels correlate with adverse outcomes, indicating its potential as a prognostic marker. However, further research is needed to elucidate the diagnostic utility of these biomarkers in pediatric CCM. Conclusion: This review provides estimates of the standardized mean difference among selected cardiac parameters in children with and without cirrhosis. Tailored diagnostic criteria and comprehensive assessment methods will be essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management of pediatric CCM.

What is Known:• CCM adds to the burden of care of patients with cirrhosis.• Diagnostic criteria for adults are evolving, but there are no specific criteria for pediatric CCM.

What is New:• Cardiac function in children with cirrhosis indicates some parameters not considered in adults are altered.• Effect size estimations for certain parameters provide a guideline for future research into pediatric CCM.
Polish translation, cultural adaptation, and validity confirmation of the Scored Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment
Authors: Zabłocka-Słowińska Katarzyna , Pieczyńska Joanna , Prescha Anna , Bladowski Maciej , Gajecki Damian , Kamińska Dorota , Neubauer Katarzyna , Ottery Faith , Jager-Wittenaar Harriët
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The Scored Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA©) is a validated nutritional screening, assessment, triage, and monitoring tool. The aim of this study was to perform translation, cultural adaptation, linguistic, and content validation of the translated and culturally adapted version of the PG-SGA for the Polish setting.

Methods

The study was performed in concordance with the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) Principles. Patients (n = 174) and healthcare professionals (HCPs, n = 188) participated in the study. Comprehensibility and difficulty were assessed by patients for the PG-SGA Short Form, and by HCPs for the professional component. Content validity was assessed for the full PG-SGA by HCPs only. Evaluations were operationalized by a 4-point scale. Item and scale indices were calculated using the average item ratings divided by the number of respondents. Item indices < 0.78 required further analysis of the item, while scale indices ≥ 0.90 were defined as excellent and 0.80–0.89 as acceptable.

Results

The PG-SGA Short Form was rated as excellent for content validity (Scale-CVI = 0.90) by HCPs and easy to comprehend (Scale-CI = 0.96) and use (Scale-DI = 0.94) by patients. The professional component of the PG-SGA was perceived as acceptable for content validity (Scale-CVI = 0.80), comprehension (Scale-CI = 0.87), and difficulty (Scale-DI = 0.80). The physical exam was rated the least comprehensible and the most difficult, and with the lowest content validity. We found significant differences in scale indices (p < 0.05 for all) between HCPs with different professions and between those being familiar with PG-SGA and not.

Conclusion

Translation and cultural adaptation of the PG-SGA for the Polish setting preserved the purpose and conceptual meaning of the original PG-SGA. Validation revealed that the Polish version of PG-SGA is well understood and easy to complete by patients and professionals, and is considered relevant by professionals. However, detailed results indicate the need for appropriate training of the Polish HCPs, especially physicians and nurses, mainly in the worksheets related to the metabolic demand and physical exam.
Combining storm flood water level and topography to prioritize inter-basin transfer of non-native aquatic species in the United States
Authors: Pfingsten Ian A. , Reaver Kristen M. , Dean E. M. , Neilson Matthew E. , Chivoiu Bogdan , Daniel Wesley M.
Published: September 2024

Flooded areas can create temporary connections between adjacent drainages and are a relatively understudied pathway for the spread of aquatic invasive species. The Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database’s Flood and Storm Tracker maps were developed to help natural resource managers with post-storm aquatic invasive species detection and assessment efforts. As of the summer of 2023, 16 Flood and Storm Tracker maps have been published from hurricanes and flooding events in the United States and territorial islands. Three regions along the coasts of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean had overlapping areas of repeated flood impacts, and fifteen pairs of adjacent river basins were potentially connected during floods. Each map had a median of 77 non-native freshwater taxa and a median of three U.S. prohibited species within their respective flood-impacted area. The Flood and Storm Tracker maps provide resource managers with information about new aquatic invasions due to potential flood dispersal that can assist with early detection and rapid response systems.
Exploring the Current Landscape of the United States Early Childhood Care and Education Workforce
Authors: Kim Hyunjin , Brand Susan Trostle , Zeltzer Rachael
Published: September 2024

This study provides the challenges and opportunities facing the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) workforce in the United States. Acknowledging the pivotal role of early educators in children’s development, the authors argue for comprehensive policy reforms to address economic and societal challenges faced by the ECCE workforce. Examining national best practices, offers a roadmap for enhancing the ECCE sector in the United States, emphasizing the need for improved compensation, professional development opportunities, and greater societal recognition of the ECCE workforce’s value. The discussion extends to the implications of these challenges for the quality of early childhood education and the well-being of educators, suggesting a future research agenda focused on evaluating the effects of proposed reforms and exploring innovative strategies to support the ECCE workforce. This forward-looking approach aims not only to improve the status and quality of early childhood education but also to ensure a brighter future for children through a more supported, recognized, and valued ECCE workforce.
The World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS) through the looking glass: insights from the data management team in light of the crystal anniversary of WoRMS
Authors: Vandepitte Leen , Dekeyzer Stefanie , Decock Wim , Delgat Lynn , Boydens Ben , Tyberghein Lennert , Vanhoorne Bart , Hernandez Francisco , Mees Jan , Horton Tammy , Kroh Andreas , Boyko Christopher B. , Ahyong Shane T.
Published: September 2024

The World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS) started in 2007 with the question “how many species live in our oceans?”. Now, a little over 15 years later, WoRMS is able to answer several questions related to marine species discovery rates and provides a dynamic number of existing marine species, based on the information provided by hundreds of taxonomic experts worldwide, who have proven to be diverse and dynamic. We present basic statistics on marine species discovery rates based on the currently available content of WoRMS, as well as insights in the day-to-day activities and dynamics of our editorial board and the progress made so far on the content priorities as defined by the WoRMS Steering Committee. As for all dynamic systems, WoRMS is not complete and faces challenges. As an endorsed project of the UN Ocean Decade, WoRMS aims to tackle a number of these challenges and knowledge-gaps by 2030, including detailed documentation of authorships and original descriptions, and will provide continuous support to all marine initiatives, programs and projects that rely on WoRMS as an authoritative classification and catalogue of marine names.
DIAMANTE: A data-centric semantic segmentation approach to map tree dieback induced by bark beetle infestations via satellite images
Authors: Andresini Giuseppina , Appice Annalisa , Ienco Dino , Recchia Vito
Published: September 2024

Forest tree dieback inventory has a crucial role in improving forest management strategies. This inventory is traditionally performed by forests through laborious and time-consuming human assessment of individual trees. On the other hand, the large amount of Earth satellite data that are publicly available with the Copernicus program and can be processed through advanced deep learning techniques has recently been established as an alternative to field surveys for forest tree dieback tasks. However, to realize its full potential, deep learning requires a deep understanding of satellite data since the data collection and preparation steps are essential as the model development step. In this study, we explore the performance of a data-centric semantic segmentation approach to detect forest tree dieback events due to bark beetle infestation in satellite images. The proposed approach prepares a multisensor data set collected using both the SAR Sentinel-1 sensor and the optical Sentinel-2 sensor and uses this dataset to train a multisensor semantic segmentation model. The evaluation shows the effectiveness of the proposed approach in a real inventory case study that regards non-overlapping forest scenes from the Northeast of France acquired in October 2018. The selected scenes host bark beetle infestation hotspots of different sizes, which originate from the mass reproduction of the bark beetle in the 2018 infestation.
Creep properties of heat-resistant ultrafine-grained Al (HITEMAL©) determined by small punch testing
Authors: Krizik Peter , Balog Martin , Sadeghi Behzad , Dvorak Jiri , Sikora Andreas
Published: September 2024

The creep properties of thermally stable ultrafine-grained Al metal matrix composite strengthened and stabilized by continuous in situ amorphous Al2O3 network (named HITEMAL©) prepared by powder metallurgy (PM) were tested by small punch creep testing (SPCT) in the temperature range from 573 to 673 K. The experimental SPCT results were correlated and compared with the results obtained by conventional tensile creep testing. The mutual correlation between tensile and SPCT creep results based on the transition stress was proposed and used to correctly interpret the measured SPCT data. The creep behaviour of HITEMAL© is characterized by the high values of apparent stress exponents and by the presence of transition stress at which the apparent stress exponents significantly changed. The SPCT discs fractured by the radial cracks at low values of deflection with only limited creep deformation highly localized in the vicinity of the fracture surfaces. The detailed analysis of fractured SPCT discs by scanning electron microscopy showed ductile dimpled fracture surfaces with the presence of unusual high filament-like tearing edges. The comparison of obtained results with other PM Al-based alloys and composites confirmed a significantly higher creep performance of HITEMAL© at used testing conditions.
A New Use of Polysorbate-Type Nonionic Surfactants as Plasticizers for Highly Flexible Poly(lactide) Formulations
Authors: Gazquez-Navarro J. J. , Garcia-Sanoguera D. , Balart R. , Garcia-Garcia D. , Gomez-Caturla J.
Published: September 2024

Polysorbates are non-ionic amphiphilic organic compounds, widely used as surfactants. They have a molecular weight in the 1200–1400 g mol−1 range, so they are on the borderline between monomeric and polymeric plasticizers. Therefore, they can potentially provide the benefits of both plasticizer types. In this work, polyethylene glycol sorbitan monolaurate (Tween® 20), and polyethylene glycol monooleate (Tween® 80) are proposed as environmentally friendly plasticizers for PLA with enhanced ductile properties. The addition of 20 wt% of polysorbates into a PLA matrix, leads to a noticeable increase in elongation at break, from 4.0% (neat PLA) up to values around 180%. The plasticization efficiency was assessed by the decrease in the glass transition temperature (Tg), from 61.0 ºC (neat PLA) down to such los values of 29.5 ºC, and 36.6 ºC, for plasticized PLA formulations with 30 wt% Tween® 20, and 30 wt% Tween® 80, respectively. Moreover, due to the high molecular weight of polysorbates, they are not highly volatile, which allows processing PLA by conventional extrusion and injection molding without plasticizer volatilization. This works widens the industrial applications of polysorbates, as cost-effective, highly efficient and environmentally friendly plasticizers for PLA with enhanced toughness.
Modification of SBA-15 for stabilizing supported oxides
Authors: Wang Ching-Yu , Shen Kai , Vohs John M. , Gorte Raymond J.
Published: September 2024

The effect of treating SBA-15 with a piranha solution at room temperature was studied for purposes of stabilizing a WO3 film deposited by Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD). For unmodified SBA-15, the film was found to migrate out of the SBA-15 pore structure between 573 and 773 K; however, WO3 remained within the pores in piranha-treated samples at 773 K, as demonstrated by X-Ray Diffraction and Transmission Electron Microscopy. Although N2 adsorption isotherms showed that the pore structure of SBA-15 was unaffected by the piranha treatment, the silanol content increased, as shown by water adsorption isotherms and Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Spectra of the silanol region. Temperature-programmed desorption results for 2-propanol also suggested that the silanols were more reactive in the piranha-treated samples. The results demonstrate the importance of surface modification of SBA-15 for the preparation of supported-oxide catalysts.
Frailty indices predict mortality, complications and functional improvements in supratentorial meningioma patients over 80 years of age
Authors: Schwartz Christoph , Ueberschaer Moritz F. , Rautalin Ilari , Grauvogel Jürgen , Bissolo Marco , Masalha Waseem , Steiert Christine , Schnell Oliver , Beck Jürgen , Ebel Florian , Bervini David , Raabe Andreas , Eibl Thomas , Steiner Hans-Herbert , Schebesch Karl-Michael , Shlobin Nathan A. , Nandoliya Khizar R. , Youngblood Mark W. , Chandler James P. , Magill Stephen T. , Romagna Alexander , Lehmberg Jens , Fuetsch Manuel , Spears Julian , Rezai Arwin , Ladisich Barbara , Demetz Matthias , Griessenauer Christoph J. , Niemelä Mika , Korja Miikka
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To assess whether the Modified 5 (mFI-5) and 11 (mFI-11) Factor Frailty Indices associate with postoperative mortality, complications, and functional benefit in supratentorial meningioma patients aged over 80 years.

Methods

Baseline characteristics were collected from eight centers. Based on the patients’ preoperative status and comorbidities, frailty was assessed by the mFI-5 and mFI-11. The collected scores were categorized as “robust (mFI=0)”, “pre-frail (mFI=1)”, “frail (mFI=2)”, and “significantly frail (mFI≥3)”. Outcome was assessed by the Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS); functional benefit was defined as improved KPS score. Additionally, we evaluated the patients’ functional independence (KPS≥70) after surgery.

Results

The study population consisted of 262 patients (median age 83 years) with a median preoperative KPS of 70 (range 20 to 100). The 90-day and 1-year mortality were 9.0% and 13.2%; we recorded surgery-associated complications in 111 (42.4%) patients. At last follow-up within the postoperative first year, 101 (38.5%) patients showed an improved KPS, and 183 (69.8%) either gained or maintained functional independence. “Severely frail” patients were at an increased risk of death at 90 days (OR 16.3 (CI95% 1.7-158.7)) and one year (OR 11.7 (CI95% 1.9-71.7)); nine (42.9%) of severely frail patients died within the first year after surgery. The “severely frail” cohort had increased odds of suffering from surgery-associated complications (OR 3.9 (CI 95%) 1.3-11.3)), but also had a high chance for postoperative functional improvements by KPS≥20 (OR 6.6 (CI95% 1.2-36.2)).

Conclusion

The mFI-5 and mFI-11 associate with postoperative mortality, complications, and functional benefit. Even though “severely frail” patients had the highest risk morbidity and mortality, they had the highest chance for functional improvement.
Mapping the Geographical Distribution of Climate-Related Extreme Events and PNRR Funding: The Case of Italy
Authors: D’Angeli Mariagrazia , Gazzellone Giacomo
Published: September 2024

The relationship between public policy and extreme weather events is of critical importance for disaster risk management. Institutions can facilitate adaptation through effective resource allocation. In Europe, initiatives such as the Next Generation EU offer funding to address adaptation challenges. Italy’s National Resilience and Recovery Plan (PNRR) aims, among other goals, to enhance disaster preparedness. This paper assesses the distribution of PNRR funding across Italian provinces, examining its geographical convergence with climate-related extreme events. With this analysis, useful insights can inform policymakers on PNRR resource allocation for disaster preparedness across Italy.
Incorporation of mechanistic model outputs as features for data-driven models for yield prediction: a case study on wheat and chickpea
Authors: Al-Shammari Dhahi , Chen Yang , Wimalathunge Niranjan S. , Wang Chen , Han Si Yang , Bishop Thomas F. A.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Context Data-driven models (DDMs) are increasingly used for crop yield prediction due to their ability to capture complex patterns and relationships. DDMs rely heavily on data inputs to provide predictions. Despite their effectiveness,  DDMs can be complemented by inputs derived from mechanistic models (MMs).

Methods

This study investigated enhancing the predictive quality of DDMs by using as features a combination of MMs outputs, specifically biomass and soil moisture, with conventional data sources like satellite imagery, weather, and soil information. Four experiments were performed with different datasets being used for prediction: Experiment 1 combined MM outputs with conventional data; Experiment 2 excluded MM outputs; Experiment 3 was the same as Experiment 1 but all conventional temporal data were omitted; Experiment 4 utilised solely MM outputs. The research encompassed ten field-years of wheat and chickpea yield data, applying the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBOOST) algorithm for model fitting. Performance was evaluated using root mean square error (RMSE) and the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC).

Results and conclusions

The validation results showed that the XGBOOST model had similar predictive power for both crops in Experiments 1, 2, and 3. For chickpeas, the CCC ranged from 0.89 to 0.91 and the RMSE from 0.23 to 0.25 t ha−1. For wheat, the CCC ranged from 0.87 to 0.92 and the RMSE from 0.29 to 0.35 t ha−1. However, Experiment 4 significantly reduced the model's accuracy, with CCCs dropping to 0.47 for chickpeas and 0.36 for wheat, and RMSEs increasing to 0.46 and 0.65 t ha−1, respectively. Ultimately, Experiments 1, 2, and 3 demonstrated comparable effectiveness, but Experiment 3 is recommended for achieving similar predictive quality with a simpler, more interpretable model using biomass and soil moisture alongside non-temporal conventional features.
A Map for the Ontological Crossroads
Authors: Maltrana Diego , Guíñez Rosa , Herrera Ana , Jara Alvaro , Benitez Federico
Published: September 2024

One of the biggest challenges when teaching chemistry at the elementary and secondary levels arises from the conceptual gap between the ontology of macroscopic objects and agents and an ontology where the relevant objects behind macroscopic phenomena are, in fact, inaccessible to our senses. This work employs tools from the general philosophy of science to uncover the implicit ontology of school chemistry, offering an analysis that aligns with Talanquer’s proposition of a structure–property progression in chemistry learning. This is achieved through examining the distinction between two different theoretical functions in our science: modeling interactions and providing general structural frameworks. We envision that our proposal will help teachers when guiding the conceptual transitions of students along their learning progression.
Heparin-like effect of a dual antiplatelet and anticoagulant (APAC) agent on red blood cell deformability and aggregation in an experimental model
Authors: Matrai Adam Attila , Varga Adam , Bedocs-Barath Barbara , Vanyolos Erzsebet , Orban-Kalmandi Rita , Loczi Linda , Bagoly Zsuzsa , Jouppila Annukka , Lassila Riitta , Nemeth Norbert , Deak Adam
Published: September 2024

Treatments with different antithrombotic agents can affect micro-rheological variables, such as red blood cell (RBC) deformability and aggregation. Since the effect of dual antiplatelet and anticoagulant (APAC) treatment on micro-rheology is unknown, we aimed to investigate the effect of different intravenous doses of APAC on hematological and micro-rheological variables in a porcine model. Two groups were formed (APAC group, Control group), and blood was collected from the animals at preset intervals. Hematological variables, RBC deformability, and aggregation were measured. We observed an improvement in the RBC deformability measured at a low shear stress range (< 3 Pa). However, after both doses, a decrease in the maximal elongation index of RBC values occurred in the APAC group. RBC aggregation increased after APAC bolus dose, while it gradually and dose-dependently decreased. Supposedly, the improvement in RBC deformability that was observed at a lower shear rate could facilitate aggregation. Administration of APAC and unfractionated heparin (UFH) caused comparable changes in hematological and hemorheological variables. Signs of thrombosis or bleeding did not occur. APAC and UFH had comparable micro-rheological effects.
Impact of robotic-assisted surgery on length of hospital stay in Paris public hospitals: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Blanc Thomas , Capito Carmen , Lambert Edward , Mordant Pierre , Audenet François , de la Taille Alexandre , Peycelon Matthieu , Cattan Pierre , Assouad Jalal , Penna Christophe , Borghese Bruno , Roupret Morgan
Published: September 2024

The number of available hospital beds is decreasing in many countries. Reducing the length of hospital stay (LOS) and increasing bed turnover could improve patient flow. We evaluated whether robot-assisted surgery (RAS) had a beneficial impact on the LOS in a French hospital trust with a long-established robotic program (Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP). We extracted data from “Programme de Médicalisation des Systèmes d’Information” to determine the median LOS for adults in our trust after RAS versus laparoscopy and open surgery in 2021–2022 for eight target procedures, and compared data nationally and at similar academic centres (same database). We also calculated the number of hospitalisation days ‘saved’ using RAS. Overall, 9326 target procedures were performed at AP-HP: 3864 (41.4%) RAS, 2978 (31.9%) laparoscopies, and 2484 (26.6%) open surgeries. The median LOS for RAS was lower than laparoscopy and open surgery for all procedures, apart from hysterectomy and colectomy (equivalent to laparoscopy). Results for urological procedures at AP-HP reflected national values. The equivalent of 5390 hospitalisation days was saved in 2021–2022 using RAS instead of open surgery or laparoscopy at AP-HP; of these, 86% represented hospitalisation days saved using RAS in urological procedures. Using RAS instead of open surgery or laparoscopy (particularly in urological procedures) reduced the median LOS and may save thousands of hospitalisation days every year. This should help to increase patient turnover and facilitate patient flow.
Medical financial hardship in the Southern United States: the struggle continues across generations pre- and post- the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Datta Biplab Kumar , Coughlin Steven S. , Moore Justin Xavier , Chen Jie
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Medical financial hardship in the United States is a growing public health concern. This study aims to assess the south vs. non-south disparities in medical financial hardship among US adults of different generations – Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964), Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980), and the Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) across periods pre- and post- Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Methods

This observational study utilizes data from multiple waves of the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) split into three periods: pre–ACA (2011–2013), ii) post ACA (2015–2018), and iii) COVID-19 pandemic (2021–2022). Multivariable logistic regressions were fitted, separately for each generation in each period, to compare the extent of medical financial hardship among those from South to rest of the US, and Karlson-Holm-Breen (KHB) decomposition was applied to analyze whether there was a mediating impact of health insurance coverage.

Results

Adults living in the South were more likely to experience medical financial hardship in all three periods. Residing in the South was associated with 1.7 to 2.6% points (pp) higher probability of medical financial hardship among boomers, 1.8 to 4.0 pp among generation Xers, and 1.7 to 2.8 pp among millennials. The relationship was robust after accounting for chronic comorbidities, sociodemographic and socioeconomic attributes and was partially mediated through differences in health insurance coverage.

Conclusions

The problem of medical financial hardship has been deeply rooted in the South across generations, which was partly attributable to the regional differences in health insurance coverage.
Utility of dual source dual energy cardiac CT in coronary artery dissection diagnosis and follow-up: a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Dell’Aversana Federica , Ferrandino Giovanni , Tedeschi Carlo , Tamburrini Stefania , Comune Rosita , Liguori Carlo
Published: September 2024

Background

The role of cardiac CTA (CCTA) in the evaluation of coronary artery disease (CAD) is well established. However, its role in the morphological and functional evaluation of coronary artery dissection is still not adequately investigated.

Methods

We performed a review of the current literature regarding dual source—dual energy CCTA (dsDECCTA) performance in the diagnosis and follow-up of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) and iatrogenic coronary artery dissection (ICAD).We highlighted dsDECTA diagnostic contribution in such a rare and specific scenario, through a single center experience, reporting more than 10 consecutive cases acquired in the acute phase in a 12 month period.

Discussion

DsDECT has an effective role in the diagnosis and the follow-up of SCAD and in the management of iatrogenic coronary dissections.

Conclusions

DsDECT cardiac imaging may represent a game-changer in the diagnosis of cases of coronary artery dissection and in the follow-up of SCAD, given its high recurrence rate.
Silencing Citizens
Authors: Miller Andrew Cesare
Published: September 2024

Criminal groups, like mafias and gangs, often get away with murder. States are responsible for providing justice but struggle to end this impunity, in part because these groups prevent witnesses from coming forward with information. Silencing Citizens explains how criminal groups constrain cooperation with the police not just by threatening retaliation but also by shaping citizens' perceptions of community support for cooperation. The book details a social psychological process through which criminal group violence makes community support for cooperation appear weaker than it is and thus reduces witnesses' willingness to share information with the police. The book draws on a wealth of data including original surveys in two contrasting cities - Baltimore, Maryland in the Global North and Lagos, Nigeria in the Global South. This title is part of the Flip it Open Programme and may also be available Open Access. Check our website Cambridge Core for details.
The geometry of monotone operator splitting methods
Authors: Combettes Patrick L.
Published: September 2024

We propose a geometric framework to describe and analyse a wide array of operator splitting methods for solving monotone inclusion problems. The initial inclusion problem, which typically involves several operators combined through monotonicity-preserving operations, is seldom solvable in its original form. We embed it in an auxiliary space, where it is associated with a surrogate monotone inclusion problem with a more tractable structure and which allows for easy recovery of solutions to the initial problem. The surrogate problem is solved by successive projections onto half-spaces containing its solution set. The outer approximation half-spaces are constructed by using the individual operators present in the model separately. This geometric framework is shown to encompass traditional methods as well as state-of-the-art asynchronous block-iterative algorithms, and its flexible structure provides a pattern to design new ones.
Splitting methods for differential equations
Authors: Blanes Sergio , Casas Fernando , Murua Ander
Published: September 2024

This overview is devoted to splitting methods, a class of numerical integrators intended for differential equations that can be subdivided into different problems easier to solve than the original system. Closely connected with this class of integrators are composition methods, in which one or several low-order schemes are composed to construct higher-order numerical approximations to the exact solution. We analyse in detail the order conditions that have to be satisfied by these classes of methods to achieve a given order, and provide some insight about their qualitative properties in connection with geometric numerical integration and the treatment of highly oscillatory problems. Since splitting methods have received considerable attention in the realm of partial differential equations, we also cover this subject in the present survey, with special attention to parabolic equations and their problems. An exhaustive list of methods of different orders is collected and tested on simple examples. Finally, some applications of splitting methods in different areas, ranging from celestial mechanics to statistics, are also provided.
Thermodynamic Processes Driving Thermal Circulations on Slopes: Modeling Anabatic and Katabatic Flows on Reunion Island
Authors: El Gdachi S. , Tulet P. , Réchou A. , Burnet F. , Mouchel‐Vallon C. , Jambert C. , Leriche M.
Published: September 2024

This study investigates thermal circulations on Reunion Island (21°07’S 55°32’E), focusing on the complex terrain of the region. Observations from the BIO‐MAÏDO campaign, along with 2 days of high‐resolution simulation using the MesoNH model, were analyzed to understand the thermally‐driven mechanisms. This simulation was conducted with a horizontal resolution of 100 m and employed a vertically stretched grid, achieving a resolution of 1 m at the lowest levels. Two distinct wind regimes were identified, characterized by katabatic flows prevailing within a 30 m thick layer during nighttime, and an anabatic flow manifesting within a layer spanning from 150 to 200 m during the daytime. The simulation was confirmed through validation with surface measurements, and thus enabling a detailed study of thermal breeze circulations. Results reveal that the intensity of trade winds significantly influences the development of thermal circulations. Complex layered structures in the atmosphere were also identified. At an intensity of 7 m s−1, trade winds impede the development of thermal circulations atop the slope, and result in the emergence of a convergence zone between local and regional circulations. The analysis of the breeze establishment period indicates that the katabatic flow stabilizes in 35 min, quicker than the anabatic flow, which takes 110 min. Momentum and heat budget analysis provide insights into the primary drivers of thermal circulations: buoyancy acceleration, influenced by local surface heating during anabatic flow onset, and local surface cooling during katabatic flow onset.
Boreal Forest Fire Causes Daytime Surface Warming During Summer to Exceed Surface Cooling During Winter in North America
Authors: Helbig M. , Daw L. , Iwata H. , Rudaitis L. , Ueyama M. , Živković T.
Published: September 2024

Boreal wildfires modify surface climates affecting plant physiology, permafrost thaw, and carbon fluxes. Post‐fire temperatures vary over decades because of successional vegetation changes. Yet, the underlying biophysical drivers remain uncertain. Here, we quantify surface climate changes following fire disturbances in the North American boreal forest and identify its dominant biophysical drivers. We analyze multi‐year land‐atmosphere energy exchange and satellite observations from across North America and find post‐fire daytime surface temperatures to be substantially warmer for about five decades while winter temperatures are slightly cooler. Post‐fire decadal changes are characterized by decreasing leaf area index during the first decade, by sharply increasing surface albedo during the snow cover period, and by a less efficient heat exchange between the forest and the atmosphere caused by decreasing surface roughness for about 2–3 decades. Over the first three decades, the amount of energy used for evapotranspiration increases before returning to lower values. We find that surface warming is mainly explained by less efficient forest‐atmosphere heat exchange while cooling is additionally explained by increasing surface albedo. We estimate that biome‐wide daytime surface temperatures of the Canadian boreal forest in 2024 are 0.27°C warmer in the summer and 0.02°C cooler during the winter because of fire. For a scenario with a strong increase in burned area, we estimate annual warming from fire to increase by a third until 2050. Our study highlights the potential for accelerated surface warming in the boreal biome with increasing wildfire activity and disentangles the biophysical drivers of fire‐related surface climate impacts.
Labor Day Dips Alter Stream Composition
Authors: van Deelen Grace
Published: September 2024

Holiday weekend tubing introduces toxic chemicals and shifts microbial communities in a popular Colorado river.
Spatial Machine Learning for Exploring the Variability in Low Height‐For‐Age From Socioeconomic, Agroecological, and Climate Features in the Northern Province of Rwanda
Authors: Nduwayezu Gilbert , Kagoyire Clarisse , Zhao Pengxiang , Eklund Lina , Pilesjo Petter , Bizimana Jean Pierre , Mansourian Ali
Published: September 2024

Childhood stunting is a serious public health concern in Rwanda. Although stunting causes have been documented, we still lack a more in‐depth understanding of their local factors at a more detailed geographic level. We cross‐sectionally examined 615 height‐for‐age prevalence observations in the Northern Province of Rwanda, linked with their related covariates, to explore the spatial heterogeneity in the low height‐for‐age prevalence by fitting linear and non‐linear spatial regression models and explainable machine learning. Specifically, complemented with generalized additive models, we fitted the ordinary least squares (OLS), a standard geographically weighted regression (GWR), and multiscale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) models to characterize the imbalanced distribution of stunting risk factors and uncover the nonlinear effect of significant predictors, explaining the height‐for‐age variations. The results reveal that 27% of the children measured were stunted, and that likelihood was found to be higher in the districts of Musanze, Gakenke, and Gicumbi. The local MGWR model outperformed the ordinary GWR and OLS, with coefficients of determination of 0.89, 0.84, and 0.25, respectively. At specific ranges, the study shows that height‐for‐age decreases with an increase in the number of days a child was left alone, elevation, and rainfall. In contrast, land surface temperature is positively associated with height‐for‐age. However, variables like the normalized difference vegetation index, slope, soil fertility, and urbanicity exhibited bell‐shaped and U‐shaped non‐linear associations with the height‐for‐age prevalence. Identifying areas with the highest rates of stunting will help determine the most effective measures for reducing the burden of undernutrition.
Two‐Step Electron Acceleration During a Flux Rope Crossing of Earth's Bow Shock
Authors: Hu D. K. , Liu Y. Y. , Cao J. B. , Liu C. M.
Published: September 2024

The generation of cosmic ray particles with ultra‐relativistic energies is a crucial issue in astrophysical and space physics. Shocks have been acknowledged as efficient accelerators in the universe which can produce energetic particles through a variety of mechanisms, such as diffusive shock acceleration (DSA), shock surfing acceleration (SSA) and shock drift acceleration (SDA). Using the data set obtained by the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, we report an unusually sharp enhancement of energetic electron flux in the upstream region of Earth's bow shock, associated with a bipolar variation of the interplanetary magnetic field. To explain these observations, we propose a two‐step acceleration scenario where electrons trapped in a flux rope (FR) first undergo head‐on collisions and are further accelerated by FR contraction as the FR crosses the shock. Such a scenario can well explain the spacecraft observations. This work can improve our understanding of particle acceleration processes at shocks.
B4GALT1-dependent galectin-8 binding with TGF-β receptor suppresses colorectal cancer progression and metastasis
Authors: Hsu Tzu-Hui , Chang Yu-Chan , Lee Yi-Yuan , Chen Chi-Long , Hsiao Michael , Lin Fan-Ru , Chen Li-Han , Lin Chun-Hung , Angata Takashi , Liu Fu-Tong , Lin Kuo-I
Published: September 2024

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling is critical for epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis. Disruption of Smad-depednent TGF-β signaling has been shown in CRC cells. However, TGF-β receptor remains expressed on CRC cells. Here, we investigated whether the cooperation between tumor-associated N-glycosylation and a glycan-binding protein modulated the TGF-β-driven signaling and metastasis of CRC. We showed that galectin-8, a galactose-binding lectin, hampered TGF-β-induced EMT by interacting with the type II TGF-β receptor and competing with TGF-β binding. Depletion of galectin-8 promoted the migration of CRC cells by increasing TGF-β-receptor-mediated RAS and Src signaling, which was attenuated after recombinant galectin-8 treatment. Treatment with recombinant galectin-8 also induces JNK-dependent apoptosis in CRC cells. The anti-migratory effect of galectin-8 depended on β4-galactosyltransferase-I (B4GALT1), an enzyme involved in N-glycan synthesis. Increased B4GALT1 expression was observed in clinical CRC samples. Depletion of B4GALT1 reduced the metastatic potential of CRC cells. Furthermore, inducible expression of galectin-8 attenuated tumor development and metastasis of CRC cells in an intra-splenic injection model. Our results thus demonstrate that galectin-8 alters non-canonical TGF-β response in CRC cells and suppresses CRC progression.