bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A person‐centered approach in developmental science: Why this is the future and how to get there
Authors: van der Gaag Mandy A. E.
Published: November 2023

This paper argues for a person‐centered approach in developmental science and presents theoretical and empirical techniques to help shift the focus to the individual. The need for a person‐centered approach is urgent, because of widespread nonergodicity in developmental psychology: traditional between‐individual, group‐level statistics often cannot be used to understand individuals over time. Evidence for nonergodicity has been gathered in domains such as personality, emotions, identity, performance and intelligence. This highlights a mismatch between our typical research methods—group‐level analyses—and a core aim of developmental science: understanding the development of individuals. The implications are profound. Without insights into within‐individual processes, our understanding of development remains incomplete and perhaps even incorrect, which could hinder the design of effective interventions. Many of our developmental theories might need to be adjusted to accurately capture individual‐level development. The theory of complex dynamic systems and person‐centered simulations offer promising avenues to do this. In addition, many promising person‐centered analysis techniques, that typically use long time series of data, are available to enhance our understanding of individual‐level development. Together, these person‐centered theoretical and empirical tools have the potential to help shift developmental science towards an understanding of development that genuinely reflects individual processes.

Highlights

The problem of nonergodicity in psychological science is widespread, this highlights a need for a person‐centered approach to development.

Creating individual‐level theoretical models is a difficult challenge, but complex dynamic systems theory and simulations can help.

Person‐centered analytical techniques presented in this paper can answer questions on individual development, by investigating the shape of individual trajectories, within‐individual dynamics and nonlinear developments.
A case report on clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of rhino‐orbito‐cerebral mucormycosis
Authors: Ding Jie‐Qiong , Xie Ying
Published: November 2023

Background

Rhino‐orbito‐cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) is an opportunistic pathogenic fungal disease caused by the fungus mucor, and it is a life‐threatening fungal infection. The ulceration on the skin of the head and neck, accompanied by rhinitis, headache, orbital inflammation, and eyelid edema, should raise a high suspicion of Mucor infection in diabetic patients with inadequately controlled blood glucose.

Case Description

The clinical data of a patient with ROCM were analyzed retrospectively, and the clinical features were analyzed. The patient was admitted to the hospital with “diabetic hyperosmotic coma” after presenting with fatigue, poor appetite, and disturbances in consciousness as initial symptoms. After improving relevant examinations, controlling underlying diseases, and administering antifungal treatment, the final clinical outcome was death.

Conclusion

ROCM is more prevalent in patients with uncontrolled diabetes and varied clinical manifestations. The characteristic feature is an eschar‐like necrosis of the local skin or mucosa. The gold criteria for diagnosis are pathology and fungal culture; imaging examination does not reveal any specific manifestations. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are the keys.
Clinical effects of dupilumab: A novel treatment for Kimura disease
Authors: Shang Bing‐Shiau , Hsiao Chang‐Hung , Tsao Teng‐Fu , Liao Yuan‐Ya , Lin Wea‐Lung , Lee Wen‐I , Lue Ko‐Huang
Published: November 2023

Background

Kimura disease (KD) is a rare chronic inflammatory disorder involving the Th2 pathway. Although medical treatment with steroids or other immunosuppressants is available, they may cause developmental issues in the pediatric population. Surgical intervention has also been suggested; however, it is associated with high recurrence rates.

Case Presentation

A 14‐year‐old boy presented with left retroauricular lymph node enlargement at the age of 5 years. At the age of 7 years, he was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome which subsided after steroid treatment for approximately 6 years. The retroauricular lymph node was surgically excised, and KD was confirmed. However, recurrent enlargement of the left retroauricular and neck lymph nodes occurred after 2 years. Persistently high IgE levels and fluctuating eosinophil counts were observed following steroid treatment. Dupilumab was prescribed because of the difficulty in tapering the steroid dosage. A loading dose of 600 mg was administered, followed by a maintenance dose of 300 mg every 2 weeks. The IgE level decreased after 3 months, and a low eosinophil count was maintained after steroid discontinuation. Follow‐up computed tomography revealed a decrease in the size of the lymph nodes with no side effects such as conjunctivitis.

Conclusion

Traditional treatments have raised developmental concerns in the pediatric population and are associated with high recurrence rates. Dupilumab targets the Th2 pathway and provides effective results, with few adverse effects. Dupilumab may be a therapeutic option for KD and other diseases involving the Th2 pathway.
Chitosan‐sodium percarbonate‐based hydrogels with sustained oxygen release potential stimulated angiogenesis and accelerated wound healing
Authors: Waris Tayyba Sher , Shah Syed Tahir Abbas , Mehmood Azra , Mushtaq Afaq , Zehra Mubashra , Zulfiqar Saima , Andleeb Anisa , Jabbar Faiza , Anjum Muhammad Awais , Anwar Chaudhry Aqif , Rehman Ihtesham ur , Yar Muhammad
Published: November 2023

The prolonged hypoxic conditions hinder chronic wounds from healing and lead to severe conditions such as delayed re‐epithelialization and enhanced risk of infection. Multifunctional wound dressings are highly required to address the challenges of chronic wounds. Herein, we report polyurethane‐coated sodium per carbonate‐loaded chitosan hydrogel (CSPUO2) as a multifunctional dressing. The hydrogels (Control, CSPU, and CSPUO2) were prepared by freeze gelation method and the developed hydrogels showed high porosity, good absorption capacity, and adequate biodegradability. The release of oxygen from the CSPUO2 hydrogel was confirmed by the increase in pH and a sustained oxygen release was observed over the period of 21 days, due to polyurethane (CSPU) coating. The CSPUO2 hydrogel exhibited around 2‐fold increased angiogenic potential in CAM assay when compared with Control and CSPU dressing. CSPUO2 also showed good level of antibacterial efficacy against E. coli and S. aureus. In a full‐thickness rat wound model, CSPUO2 hydrogel considerably accelerated wound healing with exceptional re‐epithelialization granulation tissue formation less inflammatory cells and improved skin architecture highlighting the tremendous therapeutic potential of this hydrogel when compared with control and CSPU to treat chronic diabetic and burn wounds.
Obesity Considerations in Pediatric Drug Development, 2016–2021
Authors: Samuels Sherbet , Bhatt‐Mehta Varsha , Park Kyunghun , Burckart Gilbert J.
Published: November 2023

Pediatric obesity is a global public health concern. Obesity‐related physiological changes may affect the pharmacokinetics of drugs and lead to therapeutic failure or toxicities. An earlier review of pediatric drug development programs from 2007 to 2016 found that, of 89 programs listing obesity‐related terms, only 4 (4%) products described pharmacokinetic changes associated with obesity. This review examined obesity considerations for 185 drug products for which pediatric drug development programs were submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2016 and 2021. The FDA‐authored review documents and drug product labeling were queried for obesity‐related terms and the review found 97/185 (52%) drug products had obesity‐related terms in these sources. Of the 97 drug products, 55/97 (57%) had obesity‐related terms in the FDA‐authored reviews only, 13/97 (13%) had obesity‐related terms in the drug product labeling only, and 29/97 (30%) had obesity‐related terms in both FDA‐authored reviews and drug product labeling. Most of the obesity‐related information in the drug product labeling originated from data collected from adults. Only 13/185 (7%) drug product labeling contained obesity‐related terms in reference to drug pharmacokinetics. Specific dosage recommendations for the use of the drug products in pediatric patients who are obese remain lacking. The dearth of available information to guide drug dosages in the obese pediatric population suggests that further research, innovative approaches, and evidence‐based guidelines are needed to inform the optimal therapeutic use of drugs in this population.
Inclusion of Subjects who are Obese in Drug Development: Current Status and Opportunities
Authors: Vaidyanathan Jayabharathi , Fletcher Elimika Pfuma , Ramamoorthy Anuradha , Madabushi Rajanikanth , Burckart Gilbert J.
Published: November 2023

The prevalence of obesity has grown tremendously in recent years and this population has an increased risk of disease comorbidities. The presence of disease comorbidities requires treatment interventions and proper dosing guidelines. However, drug development programs often do not have adequate representation of individuals who are obese in clinical trials, leaving gaps in the understanding of treatment response leading to a lack of adequate individualization options. Based on a recent survey of approved drug product package inserts, very few approved products included specific dosing based on obesity, in both adults and pediatrics. Reasons for the limited information on patients who are obese may include the under‐reporting of information regarding such patients and a lack of clinical trial diversity in enrolling patient groups in whom obesity or obesity‐related comorbidities are more prevalent. An inadvertent impact of the practice of exclusion of subsets of patients with some comorbidities in clinical trials may play a role in the reduced enrollment of individuals who are obese. Recently, regulatory authorities have taken specific initiatives to promote clinical trial diversity, including engaging with stakeholders and publishing regulatory guidance. These guidance documents highlight the need to enroll diverse clinical trial populations and provide recommendations on concepts related to drug development for obese populations. Such efforts will help to address the gap in information regarding drug response and dosing in patients who are obese.
A robust mesoporous sulfated zirconium‐doped KIT‐6 solid acid catalyst for the hydrolysis of microcrystalline cellulose
Authors: Guo Lihong , Xie Wenlei , Xu Xiangxin
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The exploration of a robust solid acid catalyst for the efficient hydrolysis of cellulose is a research hotspot due to the need for clean production and sustainable development. KIT‐6 silica offers abundant three‐dimensionally interconnected mesopores, which are expected to be superior to mesoporous structures with one‐ or two‐dimensional channels due to faster diffusion of reactants and products during reaction. The catalytic conversion of microcrystalline cellulose is examined in detail over a functionalized KIT‐6 catalyst prepared by the method of Zr addition and subsequent sulfation.

RESULTS

In terms of cellulose conversion and product yield, the activity of the catalysts followed the order of sulfated Zr‐KIT‐6 > Zr‐KIT‐6 > SO42−‐KIT‐6 > KIT‐6. Over the sulfated Zr‐KIT‐6 catalyst with a Si/Zr molar ratio of 7:1, a maximum cellulose conversion of 95.0% was achieved with glucose yield of 23.4%, 5‐hydroxymethylfufural yield of 4.9% and levulinic acid yield of 11.7% under the optimized reaction conditions: reaction temperature of 200 °C, reaction time of 2 h, catalyst amount of 0.3 g, cellulose‐to‐water mass ratio of 1:1.

CONCLUSION

The sulfated Zr‐KIT‐6 catalyst possessed the strongest and richest Brønsted acid sites, which readily provided protons for the cleavage of β‐1,4 glycosidic bonds in cellulose, thus conferring superior catalytic activity in cellulose hydrolysis. A plausible pathway at the initial stage of cellulose hydrolysis over the catalyst was proposed. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Inducibility in the hypercube
Authors: Goldwasser John , Hansen Ryan
Published: November 2023

Let be the hypercube of dimension and let and be subsets of the vertex set , called configurations in . We say that is an exact copy of if there is an automorphism of which sends onto . Let be an integer, let be a configuration in and let be a configuration in . We let be the maximum, over all configurations in , of the fraction of sub‐‐cubes of in which is an exact copy of , and we define the ‐cube density of to be the limit as goes to infinity of . We determine for several configurations in and as well as for an infinite family of configurations. There are strong connections with the inducibility of graphs.
Midterm outcomes of total hip arthroplasty after internal hemipelvectomy and iliofemoral arthrodesis
Authors: Dittman Lauren E. , Houdek Matthew T. , Rose Peter S. , Abdel Matthew P. , Sim Franklin H. , Lewallen David G. , Couch Cory G.
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Recent studies have reported acceptable outcomes after arthrodesis takedown and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA); however, there are no reports on outcomes after oncologic resection, which are inherently complex and may portend poorer outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine the surgical and functional outcomes of patients who underwent prior hemipelvectomy for tumor resection and were later converted to THA.

Methods

All patients who had prior iliofemoral arthrodesis after oncologic resection that were later converted to THA at a single institution were examined. Charts were reviewed for demographic information, operative information, functional outcomes, and complications/reoperations.

Results

All three patients in this study were males who underwent internal hemipelvectomies for chondrosarcoma. Patients were converted to THA at a mean of 26 years after arthrodesis. Mean follow‐up after conversion to THA was 7.4 years. During this follow‐up period, two of the three patients required revision surgery. At last follow‐up, the mean Harris Hip Score was 81 and the mean Mayo Hip Score was 67, and all patients were ambulatory without significant pain.

Conclusions

Overall, patients who undergo iliofemoral arthrodesis after oncologic hemipelvectomy and are later converted to THA can expect to have a reasonable outcome, despite a high rate of complications and revision surgery.
Patient‐centered and integrated outreach care for chronic hepatitis C patients with serious mental illness in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Chung‐Feng , Jang Tyng‐Yuan , Yu Shun‐Chieh , Huang Shin‐Chung , Ho Shao‐Lun , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Wang Chih‐Wen , Liang Po‐Cheng , Wei Yu‐Ju , Hsu Po‐Yao , Huang Ching‐I , Hsieh Ming‐Yen , Lin Yi‐Hung , Yu Sung‐Lin , Wu Pey‐Fang , Chen Yu‐Han , Chien Shin‐Chi , Huang Jee‐Fu , Dai Chia‐Yen , Chuang Wan‐Long , Wang Tso‐Jen , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: November 2023

Patients with serious mental illness have a higher risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection but suboptimal HCV care. The current study aimed to facilitate HCV treatment uptake by implementing an integrated outreach care model. Multidisciplinary outreach screening followed by HCV reflex testing and onsite treatment for schizophrenia patients was accomplished through the coordination of nongovernmental organizations, remote specialists, and local care providers. The objective was microelimination effectiveness, defined as the multiplication of the rates of anti‐HCV antibodies screening, accurate HCV RNA diagnosis, treatment allocation, treatment completion, and sustained virological response (SVR12; no detectable HCV RNA throughout 12 weeks in the post‐treatment follow‐up period). A total of 1478 of the 2300 (64.3%) psychiatric patients received HCV mass screening. Seventy‐three (4.9%) individuals were seropositive for anti‐HCV antibodies. Of the 73 anti‐HCV seropositive patients, all (100%) received HCV reflex testing, and 29 (37.7%) patients had HCV viremia. Eight patients (34.8%) had advanced liver disease, including 3 with liver cirrhosis and 2 with newly diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma. Twenty‐three of the 24 (95.8%) patients who stayed in the healthcare system received and completed 8 weeks of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir treatment and post‐treatment follow‐up without significant DDIs or adverse events. The SVR12 rate was 100%. The microelimination effectiveness in the current study was 61.6%. Individuals with serious mental illness are underserved and suffer from diagnostic delays. This patient‐centered and integrated outreach program facilitated HCV care in this marginalized population.
The Impact of Foreign Language Accent on Expert Listeners' Auditory‐Perceptual Evaluations of Dysphonia
Authors: Marks Katherine L. , Dahl Kimberly L. , Stepp Cara E.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Auditory‐perceptual evaluations of dysphonia, though essential for comprehensive voice evaluation, are subject to listener bias. Knowledge of an underlying voice disorder can influence auditory‐perceptual ratings. Accented speech results in increased listener effort and delays in word identification. Yet, little is known about the impact of foreign language accents on auditory‐perceptual ratings for dysphonic speakers. The purpose of this work was to determine the impact of a foreign language accent on experts' auditory‐perceptual ratings of dysphonic speakers.

Methods

Twelve voice‐specializing SLPs who spoke with a General American English (GAE) accent rated vocal percepts of 28 speakers with a foreign language accent and 28 with a GAE accent, all of whom had been diagnosed with a voice disorder. Speaker groups were matched based on sex, age, and mean smoothed cepstral peak prominence. Four linear mixed‐effects models assessed the impact of a foreign language accent on expert auditory‐perceptual ratings of the overall severity of dysphonia, roughness, breathiness, and strain.

Results

The twelve raters demonstrated good inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability (ICC[3, k] = .89; mean ICC = .89). The linear mixed‐effects models revealed no significant impact of foreign language accent on ratings of overall severity of dysphonia, roughness, breathiness, or strain.

Conclusion

Despite the possibility of increased listener effort and bias, foreign language accent incongruence had no effect on expert listeners' auditory‐perceptual evaluations for dysphonic speakers. Findings support the use of auditory‐perceptual evaluations for voice disorders across sociolinguistically diverse populations.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:2272–2276, 2024
Microfiber Knot Resonators: Structure, Spectral Properties, and Sensing Applications
Authors: Zhang Ya‐nan , Gao Jing , Xia Feng , Han Bo , Zhao Yong
Published: November 2023

In recent years, compact micro‐/nanofiber sensors with fast response and high resolution have become a hot field in sensing and nanotechnology. In addition to the unique properties of microfibers such as strong evanescent field, low optical loss, and easy integration, microfiber knot resonators further improve the sensing capability due to their resonance properties. The potential high‐quality factor allows higher sensing sensitivity and resolution, which is very attractive for optical sensing at the micro‐/nano scale. More application potential can be effectively stimulated by improving the structure shape or principle or combining with functional sensitive materials. This paper first introduces the preparation process and spectral characteristics of conventional microfiber knots and then focuses on three new types of devices for enhancing the sensing performance, namely material‐coated, shape‐improved, and principle‐extended, and briefly analyzes their spectral properties. In addition, the research progress and applications of these sensors are summarized. Finally, the existing problems in this field are analyzed, and the directions for further development are discussed and prospected.
Almost periodic fractional fuzzy dynamic equations on timescales: A survey
Authors: Wang Chao , Tan Ying , Agarwal Ravi P.
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we systematically present some main results of the fractional calculus, almost periodic functions, fuzzy functions, fuzzy fractional calculus, and almost periodic generalized fuzzy dynamic equations on timescales. Moreover, the potential future research of almost periodic fractional fuzzy dynamic equations on timescales is discussed. The results presented in this survey can be applied to study the qualitative theory of almost periodic fractional fuzzy dynamic equations and fuzzy fractional calculus on timescales.
Development of novel models for fatigue life assessment of natural rubber/styrene‐butadiene rubber/nanoclay nanocomposite
Authors: Bakhshizade Ali , Ghasemi‐Ghalebahman Ahmad , Hajimousa Mohammad Ali
Published: November 2023

In the present work, multiple regression models are established for assessing the fatigue life of nanoclay nanocomposites comprising natural rubber (NR) and styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR). Quadratic (for two factors) and reduced cubic (for three factors) regression models have been applied to create the NR/SBR/nanoclay durability models, and the goodness of fit, homoscedasticity, and normality of the models were evaluated. Also, an analysis of the influence factors on the fatigue life of NR/SBR/nanoclay nanocomposites was done. Various factors were chosen for the investigation: strain amplitude, nanoclay loading, and test frequency. By creating the effects model, the main effects and the interactions of each factor on the fatigue life of the nanocomposites were considered. A statistical analysis of the quadratic model revealed that the strain amplitude has the most significant effect on the fatigue life of rubber samples. The variance analysis of the reduced cubic model showed that the nanoclay loading and the test frequency have the most negligible effect on the rubber samples' fatigue life, respectively. Despite the significant main impact of the studied factors, the 2‐way interaction, as well as the 3‐way interaction of the variables, was not effective in the reduced cubic fatigue life model.

Highlights

Multiple regression models are used for the evaluation of the fatigue life.

The effect of nanoclay loading, the strain, and the test frequency are studied.

Statistically fatigue life prediction model of nanocomposite is created.

Nanoclay loading has the most effect on fatigue life.
Azide‐free Enantioselective Synthesis of Clinical Antibiotic (1R,2R)‐Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin)
Authors: Bhamboo Prateek , Sharma Anjali , Rithu Sai S. S. , Sahoo Shubhashree , Mondal Dhananjoy , Bera Smritilekha
Published: November 2023

The enantioselective synthesis of the broad‐spectrum antibiotic (1R,2R)‐chloramphenicol and its congener is described here. Our approach is based on the Evans asymmetric aldol reaction, which involves the use of a chiral ‘glycine enolate equivalent’ derived from N‐(N‐Boc‐glycinyl) oxazolidinone and p‐nitrobenzaldehyde. The reaction is catalyzed by TiCl4 and Hunig's base DIPEA, resulting in the production of both Evans syn‐ and non‐Evans anti‐adducts in a 3 : 1 diastereomeric ratio with 85 % combined yield. We achieved diastereoselectivity control in the reaction using Lewis acid TiCl4 along with DIPEA. Subsequently, the syn‐ and anti‐aldol products were transformed into (1R,2R)‐ and (1R,2S)‐chloramphenicol, respectively, using a three‐step method. The stereochemistry of the clinically used chloramphenicol was confirmed by measuring the optical rotation of the final compounds.
Effect of oxidated golden shower on the adsorption of diclofenac sodium in wastewater
Authors: Arliyani Isni , Syaifuddin Mohammad , Ni'am Achmad Chusnun , Murti Restu Hikmah Ayu , Jawwad Muhammad Abdus Salam , You Sheng‐Jie , Kuncoro Eko Prasetyo , Wang Ya‐Fen
Published: November 2023

This research aimed to modify activated carbon into oxidated activated carbon because it can effectively remove diclofenac sodium (DCF) and increase the adsorption capability. In this study of the several variations of initial concentration and contact time, those variations affected the optimal result. To determine, the removal efficiency of diclofenac sodium used Golden Shower Activated Carbon based on the contact time variation and the optimum contact time compared to Golden Shower Oxidated Activated Carbon as adsorbent on the batch method and to know the isotherm model and the kinetic model of the adsorbent on the adsorption in diclofenac sodium solution. The pHPZC for GSHAC and GSHOAC were 2.4 and 9.3. The optimum contact time for GSHAC was 225 min with the capacity (qt = 184.71 mg/g). The optimum contact time for GSHOAC was 169 min with the capacity (qt = 188.34 mg/g). The Isotherm model, kinetics model, and the physical characterization of the biosorbent were thoroughly investigated. The isotherm model chosen in the adsorption process for GSHAC and GSHOAC was the Langmuir model (R2 = 0.985 and R2 = 0.973). The pseudo‐second‐order for GSHAC and GSHOAC was confirmed to be a kinetic pseudo‐second‐order model of the adsorption with R2 values of 0.9566 and 0.9986. The model represents that the reaction from the adsorbent to the solution was double the initial concentration. Based on SEM analysis after the adsorption process, it was found that flakes of adsorbent before adsorption had many layers of pores, causing an irregular texture after adsorption showed that GSHAC and GSHOAC were fragmented and had many layers of pores that were closed and tight because it adsorbed DCF.
Masking the transmembrane region of the amyloid β precursor protein as a safe means to lower amyloid β production
Authors: Khan Ayesha , Killick Richard , Wirth Daniel , Hoogland Dominique , Hristova Kalina , Ulmschneider Jakob P. , King Christopher R. , Ulmschneider Martin B.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Reducing brain levels of both soluble and insoluble forms of amyloid beta (Aβ) remains the primary goal of most therapies that target Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, no treatment has so far resulted in patient benefit, and clinical trials of the most promising drug candidates have generally failed due to significant adverse effects. This highlights the need for safer and more selective ways to target and modulate Aβ biogenesis.

Methods

Peptide technology has advanced to allow reliable synthesis, purification, and delivery of once‐challenging hydrophobic sequences. This is opening up new routes to target membrane processes associated with disease. Here we deploy a combination of atomic detail molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, living‐cell Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), and in vitro assays to elucidate the atomic‐detail dynamics, molecular mechanisms, and cellular activity and selectivity of a membrane‐active peptide that targets the Aβ precursor protein (APP).

Results

We demonstrate that Aβ biogenesis can be downregulated selectively using an APP occlusion peptide (APPOP). APPOP inhibits Aβ production in a dose‐dependent manner, with a mean inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 450 nM toward exogenous APP and 50 nM toward endogenous APP in primary rat cortical neuronal cultures. APPOP does not impact the γ‐secretase cleavage of Notch‐1, or exhibit toxicity toward cultured primary rat neurons, suggesting that it selectively shields APP from proteolysis.

Discussion

Drugs targeting AD need to be given early and for very long periods to prevent the onset of clinical symptoms. This necessitates being able to target Aβ production precisely and without affecting the activity of key cellular enzymes such as γ‐secretase for other substrates. Peptides offer a powerful way for targeting key pathways precisely, thereby reducing the risk of adverse effects. Here we show that protecting APP from proteolytic processing offers a promising route to safely and specifically lower Aβ burden. In particular, we show that the amyloid pathway can be targeted directly and specificically. This reduces the risk of off‐target effects and paves the way for a safe prophylactic treatment.
Antibodies against the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and Brucella spp. in captive and free‐living European bison (Bison bonasus) in Poland
Authors: Didkowska Anna , Colino Elisa Ferreras , Olech Wanda , Gloddy Hugguette , Anusz Krzysztof , Infantes‐Lorenzo José Antonio , Gortázar Christian
Published: November 2023

Background

The European bison (Bison bonasus), a symbol of Polish nature, is a protected species that requires active health monitoring. However, conservation efforts are made difficult by the zoonotic diseases such as brucellosis and tuberculosis.

Objective

The aim of this study was to screen the Polish European bison population for exposure to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) and Brucella spp.

Methods

A total of 323 free‐living and captive European bison from 13 localities were tested serologically for antibodies against the M. bovis P22 multi‐protein complex (in‐house ELISA) and against Brucella spp. (commercial ELISA).

Results

Antibodies against the MTC (P22) were detected in 7% (22/323) of the tested European bison. Anti‐MTC antibody positivity was not significantly different by sex, age, and captive/free range status. Anti‐MTC antibodies were found in six of 13 populations sampled, always in populations with larger sample sizes including the four free‐living ones. Antibodies against Brucella spp. were detected in 36% (116/323) of the tested bison. While Brucella spp. antibody prevalence was not different by sex, it was significantly different by age (lower in adults) and captive/free‐living status. Brucella spp. seroprevalence decreased with sample size and seropositive bison were found in 12 of 13 sampling populations.

Conclusions

Our findings identify potential emerging threats to the European bison population and confirm the first serological response to P22 in European bison. As Poland is currently officially free of brucellosis and bovine tuberculosis, our results require careful interpretation. Further studies are needed to establish the presence of cross‐reactions with atypical mycobacteria in the case of MTC and other bacteria (e.g. Yersinia enterocolitica O:9) in the case of Brucella spp.
An Arc Beyond Stasis: Activism in the Hinterland-facing Fictions of Alex La Guma and Zoë Wicomb
Authors: van der Vlies Andrew
Published: November 2023

This chapter puts into conversation novels by South African writers from the late-apartheid period—Alex La Guma’s In the Fog of the Seasons’ End (1972); Zoë Wicomb’s You Can’t Get Lost in Cape Town (1987)—that chart journeys of protagonists from political naïveté to activism. Drawing on Giorgio Agamben’s theorization of stasis as civil war, and Walter Benjamin’s theses about the reanimation of past utopian hope in the present, it considers how both writers revalue stasis as potential in relation to a geography sketched as trajectory from city to hinterland (after Phil Neel). The arc, differently drawn in each work, answers the exigencies of each author’s moment, though tending always toward a reactivation of the potential that lies waiting in the hinterland, near or far.
Hinterlands of Extraction, Climate Change, and South African Energy Companies
Authors: McBride Sindi-Leigh
Published: November 2023

This chapter uses the concept of the hinterland to put scholarship on climate imperialism in conversation with contemporary climate change considerations, specifically focused on South African energy companies and their operations in Africa. Two areas are surveyed: first, the intertwined histories of climate and imperialism are discussed in relation to the notion of hermeneutic injustice. Second, the spheres of influence of two South African energy companies, Eskom and Sasol, are briefly considered to demonstrate some climate change considerations of post-apartheid expansion of South African corporations and to illustrate the importance of new approaches to thinking through the afterlives of climate imperialism.
Property Law and Its Contradictions
Authors: Jerolleman Alessandra , Marino Elizabeth , Jessee Nathan , Koslov Liz , Comardelle Chantel , Villarreal Melissa , de Vries Daniel , Manda Simon
Published: November 2023

Despite its ubiquity, “property” is a difficult legal concept to pin down. The property regime and case law regarding property encompass many different forms of tangible and intangible property such as land and structures, intellectual property, hunting rights, personal possessions, and much more.
Market Orientation as an Environmental Hazard for Resettling Communities
Authors: Jerolleman Alessandra , Marino Elizabeth , Jessee Nathan , Koslov Liz , Comardelle Chantel , Villarreal Melissa , de Vries Daniel , Manda Simon
Published: November 2023

For better and worse, community resettlement as climate adaptation can disrupt regional land and property relations. Government officials in U.S. jurisdictions have raised concerns that resettlement threatens municipal budget stability by potentially decreasing the property tax base and stifling future development (Koslov in Public Culture 28:359–387, 2016; Shi and Varuzzo, Cities 100, 2020).
Flood Buyout Relocations and Community Action
Authors: Jerolleman Alessandra , Marino Elizabeth , Jessee Nathan , Koslov Liz , Comardelle Chantel , Villarreal Melissa , de Vries Daniel , Manda Simon
Published: November 2023

Voluntary buyouts are the primary way that relocation away from climate risk is currently carried out. Within the literature on buyouts, there is widespread consensus that interventions should ideally be conceptualized and administered as a “people-centered,” community-based disaster risk reduction strategy, with a focus on supporting populations who have been made vulnerable through unsustainable and inequitable development processes (Rumbach and Kudva in Risks, Hazards, and Crisis in Public Policy 2:1–23, 2011).
A Primer of Laws, Legal Concepts, and Tools That Structure Relocation and Novel Ways of Utilizing the Law
Authors: Jerolleman Alessandra , Marino Elizabeth , Jessee Nathan , Koslov Liz , Comardelle Chantel , Villarreal Melissa , de Vries Daniel , Manda Simon
Published: November 2023

Throughout this book, we suggest that understanding the law, particularly the law as it pertains to property, is important for pursuing justice within the context of relocation planning linked to climate change. As described in the previous chapters, communities inevitably confront and work within legal structures that frame relocation processes. These engagements with the law can be “successful” in carrying out physical relocation, but they can also be divisive, tiring, obfuscating, and lead to unsatisfactory and inequitable outcomes. All relocations are informed by community histories and interactions with government and legal structures.
Discretion and the Roles People Play in Interpreting and Applying the Law
Authors: Jerolleman Alessandra , Marino Elizabeth , Jessee Nathan , Koslov Liz , Comardelle Chantel , Villarreal Melissa , de Vries Daniel , Manda Simon
Published: November 2023

Based on the relationships and work that have informed this book, it has become apparent to us that we ought to dedicate the last chapter to what we believe relocation scholars should know about how bureaucratic discretion works in conjunction with the law. Initially, we intended the latter part of this book to be a kind of a primer on laws, legal concepts, and legal tools that framed relocation. This was done in part so that relocation scholars and practitioners who have not had legal training could have a technical short course on some concepts; and to put legal constructs in conversation with the critical social sciences and critical social theory.
Programming a Simple ODE Solver
Authors: Sundnes Joakim
Published: November 2023

Ordinary differential equations (ODEs) are widely used in science and engineering, particularly when it comes to modeling dynamic processes. Although analytical methods can be employed to solve simple ODEs, nonlinear ODEs typically require numerical methods for solutions. In this chapter we demonstrate how to program general numerical solvers capable of handling any ODE. Initially we will focus on scalar ODEs, which consist of a single equation and a single unknown. Subsequently, in Section 1.3, we will extend these concepts to systems of coupled ODEs. Acquiring a solid grasp of the concepts presented in this chapter will not only help you with programming your own ODE solvers but also in using a diverse range of readily available, general-purpose ODE solvers in Python or other programming languages.
Adaptive Time Step Methods
Authors: Sundnes Joakim
Published: November 2023

In practical computations, one seeks to achieve a desired accuracy with the minimum computational effort. For a given method, this requires finding the largest possible value of the time step Δt. In the previous chapters we kept the step size constant through the solution interval, but this is rarely the most efficient approach, since the error depends on the characteristics of the solution in addition to the step size. In smooth regions, larger time steps can be used without introducing significant error, while smaller time steps are needed in regions where the solution has rapid variations. This chapter extends the Runge-Kutta methods from the previous chapters to methods that select the time step automatically to control the error in the solution.
The KxGxYR and DxE motifs in the C-tail of the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus membrane protein are crucial for infectious virus assembly
Authors: Desmarets Lowiese , Danneels Adeline , Burlaud-Gaillard Julien , Blanchard Emmanuelle , Dubuisson Jean , Belouzard Sandrine
Published: November 2023

The coronavirus’ (CoV) membrane (M) protein is the driving force during assembly, but this process remains poorly characterized. Previously, we described two motifs in the C-tail of the Middle East respiratory syndrome CoV (MERS-CoV) M protein involved in its endoplasmic reticulum (ER) exit (211DxE213) and trans-Golgi network (TGN) retention (199KxGxYR204). Here, their function in virus assembly was investigated by two different virus-like particle (VLP) assays and by mutating both motifs in an infectious MERS-CoV cDNA clone. It was shown that the 199KxGxYR204 motif was essential for VLP and infectious virus assembly. Moreover, the mislocalization of the M protein induced by mutation of this motif prevented M–E interaction. Hampering the ER export of M by mutating its 211DxE213 motif still allowed the formation of nucleocapsid-empty VLPs, but prevented the formation of fully assembled VLPs and infectious particles. Taken together, these data show that the MERS-CoV assembly process highly depends on the correct intracellular trafficking of its M protein, and hence that not only specific protein–protein interacting motifs but also correct subcellular localization of the M protein in infected cells is essential for virus formation and should be taken into consideration when studying the assembly process.
Shear-induced wrinkling in accelerating thin elastic discs
Authors: Coman Ciprian D.
Published: November 2023

The wrinkling instabilities produced by in-plane angular accelerations in a rotating disc are discussed here in a particular limit of relevance to very thin plates. By coupling the classical linear elasticity solution for this configuration with the Föppl–von Kármán plate buckling equation, a fourth-order boundary-value problem with variable coefficients is obtained. The singular-perturbation character of the resulting problem arises from a combination of factors encompassing both the pre-stress (due to the spinning motion) and the geometry of the annular domain. With the help of a simplified multiple-scale perturbation method in conjunction with matched asymptotics, we succeed in capturing the dependence of the critical (wrinkling) acceleration on the instantaneous speed of the disc as well as other physical parameters. We show that the asymptotic predictions compare well with the results of direct numerical simulations of the original bifurcation problem. The limitations of the formulae obtained are also considered, and some practical suggestions for improving their accuracy are suggested.
Surgical fixation of distal ulna neck and head fractures
Authors: van Rossenberg LX , van de Wall BJM , Diwersi N , Scheuble L , Beeres FJP , van Heijl M , Ferree S.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Distal ulna plate fixation for ulnar neck and head fractures (excluding ulnar styloid fractures) aims to anatomically reduce the distal ulna fracture (DUF) by open reduction and internal fixation, while obtaining a stable construct allowing functional rehabilitation without need for cast immobilization.

Indications

Severe displacement, angulation or translation, as well as unstable or intra-articular fractures. Furthermore, multiple trauma or young patients in need of quick functional rehabilitation.

Contraindications

Inability to surgically address concomitant ipsilateral extremity fractures, thus, limiting early active rehabilitation. Stable, nondisplaced fractures. Need for bridging plate or external fixator of distal radiocarpal joint.

Surgical technique

An ulnar approach, with a straight incision between the extensor and flexor carpi ulnaris. Preservation of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve. Reduction and plate fixation with avoidance of plate impingement in the articular zone.

Postoperative management

Postoperatively, an elastic bandage is applied for the first 24–48 h. In isolated DUF with stable fixation, a postoperative splint is often unnecessary and should be avoided. For the first four weeks, only light weightbearing of everyday activities is allowed to protect the osteosynthesis. Thereafter, heavier weightbearing and activities are allowed and can be increased as tolerated.

Results

The best available evidence likely shows that for younger patients with a DUF, with or without concomitant distal radius fractures, open reduction and internal fixation can be safely achieved with good functional outcome and acceptable union and complication rates as long as proper technique is ensured.
On algebraic Chern classes of flat vector bundles
Authors: Langer Adrian
Published: November 2023

We show that under some assumptions on the monodromy group some combinations of higher Chern classes of a flat vector bundle are torsion in the Chow group. Similar results hold for flat vector bundles that deform to such flat vector bundles (also in case of quasi-projective varieties). The results are motivated by Bloch’s conjecture on Chern classes of flat vector bundles on smooth complex projective varieties but in some cases they give a more precise information. We also study Higgs version of Bloch’s conjecture and analogous problems in the positive characteristic case.
Coronary calcium scoring on virtual non-contrast and virtual non-iodine reconstructions compared to true non-contrast images using photon-counting computed tomography
Authors: Sharma Simran P. , van der Bie Judith , van Straten Marcel , Hirsch Alexander , Bos Daniel , Dijkshoorn Marcel L. , Booij Ronald , Budde Ricardo P. J.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To compare coronary artery calcification (CAC) scores measured on virtual non-contrast (VNC) and virtual non-iodine (VNI) reconstructions computed from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) using photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) to true non-contrast (TNC) images.

Methods

We included 88 patients (mean age = 59 years ± 13.5, 69% male) who underwent a TNC coronary calcium scan followed by CCTA on PCCT. VNC images were reconstructed in 87 patients and VNI in 88 patients by virtually removing iodine from the CCTA images. For all reconstructions, CAC scores were determined, and patients were classified into risk categories. The overall agreement of the reconstructions was analyzed by Bland–Altman plots and the level of matching classifications.

Results

The median CAC score on TNC was 27.8 [0–360.4] compared to 8.5 [0.2–101.6] (p < 0.001) on VNC and 72.2 [1.3–398.8] (p < 0.001) on VNI. Bland–Altman plots depicted a bias of 148.8 (ICC = 0.82, p < 0.001) and − 57.7 (ICC = 0.95, p < 0.001) for VNC and VNI, respectively. Of all patients with CACTNC = 0, VNC reconstructions scored 63% of the patients correctly, while VNI scored 54% correctly. Of the patients with CACTNC > 0, VNC and VNI reconstructions detected the presence of coronary calcium in 90% and 92% of the patients. CACVNC tended to underestimate CAC score, whereas CACVNI overestimated, especially in the lower risk categories. According to the risk categories, VNC misclassified 55% of the patients, while VNI misclassified only 32%.

Conclusion

Compared to TNC images, VNC underestimated and VNI overestimated the actual CAC scores. VNI reconstructions quantify and classify coronary calcification scores more accurately than VNC reconstructions.

Clinical relevance statement

Photon-counting CT enables spectral imaging, which might obviate the need for non-contrast enhanced coronary calcium scoring, but optimization is necessary for the clinical implementation of the algorithms.

Key Points

• Photon-counting computed tomography uses spectral information to virtually remove the signal of contrast agents from contrast-enhanced scans.

• Virtual non-contrast reconstructions tend to underestimate coronary artery calcium scores compared to true non-contrast images, while virtual non-iodine reconstructions tend to overestimate the calcium scores.

• Virtual non-iodine reconstructions might obviate the need for non-contrast enhanced calcium scoring, but optimization is necessary for the clinical implementation of the algorithms.
Phonological awareness training and phonological therapy approaches for specific language impairment children with speech sound disorders: a comparative outcome study
Authors: Farag Heba Mahmoud , Eldessouky Hossam , Shahin Elham , Atef Mai
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Children with specific language impairment (SLI) might present with speech sound disorder (SSD) and phonological awareness (PA) deficits which put them at risk of potential reading problems. This work aimed to organize an intervention program in Arabic for phonological training and to assess the effect of PA training versus the phonological therapy (PT) for children with SLI and SSD.

Methods

The study was carried out on 60 children with comorbid SLI and SSD, aged 5–7 years. Children were equally divided into two groups; each group received language therapy combined with (PT or PA training). Measures of language development, phonological output, and PA were taken before therapy and at 4 month post-therapy for all children.

Results

The two therapy groups made nearly the same amount of progress in the development of language and phonological production, with no significant differences regarding language age and percent of consonants correct (PCC). The PA training group progressed more on the PA skills than children who received PT over the same time.

Conclusions

PA training could facilitate the development of phonological skills by targeting the child’s awareness of phonemes and improving the production of sound patterns.