bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring genetic counselors' interest and role in transitional care discussions for pediatric patients with neurodevelopmental conditions
Authors: Lombard Molly , Wetherill Leah , Ivanovich Jennifer , Hamby Deborah , Neidlinger Trisha
Published: November 2024

Previous studies have examined the perspectives of healthcare providers regarding their role in the transition process of pediatric patients with neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs), but the perspective of a genetic counselor has yet to be considered. This study explored genetic counselors' current practices and attitudes regarding care for pediatric patients with NDCs as they transition into adult care. Genetic counselors (GCs) currently seeing patients with NDCs were recruited through a cross‐sectional online survey. Questions included demographics, current practices with patients aged 0–15 years vs. patients 16–22 years, self‐confidence, attitudes, and barriers regarding a genetic counselor's role in medical transition. A total of 51 surveys were included in the analysis. The majority (76.7%) of GCs were interested in playing a role in the transition process. Furthermore, all participants perceived transition planning for pediatric genetic patients with NDCs as somewhat important or important. Most GCs (70.0%) discussed topics of transition with patients over 18 years of age. These results demonstrate GCs' interest in assisting patients and families with the transition of individuals. Incorporating a genetic counselor skill set into transition discussions with patients with NDCs could improve the transition process and help to meet the standards of care called for by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
A Brief Review of Radiolabelling Nucleic Acid‐Based Molecules for Tracking and Monitoring
Authors: Edelmann Martin R. , Sladojevich Filippo , Husbands Stephen M. , Otteneder Michael B. , Blagbrough Ian S.
Published: November 2024

The rise of nucleic acid‐based therapeutics continues apace. At the same time, the need for radiolabelled oligonucleotides for determination of spatial distribution is increasing. Complex molecular structures with mostly multiple charges and low solubility in organic solvents increase the challenge of integrating radionuclides. In preclinical research, it is important to understand the fate of new drug candidates in biodistribution studies, target binding or biotransformation studies. Depending on a specific question, the selection of a respective radiolabelling strategy is crucial. Radiometals for molecular imaging with positron emission tomography or single‐photon computed tomography generally require an attached chelating agent for stable complexation of the metal with the oligonucleotide, whereas labelling using carbon‐11/‐14 or tritium allows incorporation of the radioisotope into the native structure without altering it. Moreover, the suitability of direct radiolabelling of the oligonucleotide of interest or indirect radiolabelling, for example, by a two‐step pretargeting approach, for the study design requires consideration. This review focuses on the challenges of radiolabelling nucleic acid‐based molecules with beta‐plus, gamma and beta‐minus emitters and their use for tracking and monitoring.
The Nancy Histopathological Index has limited value in predicting clinical outcomes in newly diagnosed pediatric patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Faingelernt Yaniv , Birger Irit , Morgenstern Sara , Cohen‐Sela Eyal , Matar Manar , Weintraub Yael , Shamir Raanan , Shouval Dror S.
Published: November 2024

The Nancy Histological Index (NHI) is used to score histologic disease activity in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Our goal was to assess the utility of NHI at diagnosis in predicting clinical outcomes in pediatric patients with UC, in comparison to clinical and endoscopic scores. We retrospectively reviewed data at diagnosis of 106 children with UC (59 [55.7%] females; median age 14.4 [11.2–15.9] years, median Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index [PUCAI] 35 [25–55]). During a follow‐up of 116 (55–171) weeks, 33 patients (31.1%) required azathioprine therapy, and 32 (30.2%) were escalated to anti‐tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti‐TNFa). The PUCAI and Mayo endoscopic scores at diagnosis were significantly associated with escalation to anti‐TNFa (p = 0.036 and p = 0.02, respectively), but not with initiation of azathioprine or subsequent acute severe colitis (ASC) events. However, the NHI was not associated with subsequent immunomodulators or anti‐TNFa therapy (p = 0.42 and p = 0.78, respectively), nor with future ASC events (p = 0.70). In conclusion, the NHI failed to predict clinical outcomes in newly diagnosed pediatric patients with UC.
Cover Image
Authors: Aliya  , Cao Yufa , Zhang Danni , Liu Shi , Jiang Shui , Liu Yuan
Published: November 2024

The cover image is based on the article Identification of volatile differential markers in strong‐aroma Baijiu based on gas chromatography–electronic nose combined with gas chromatography–time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry by Aliya, Yufa Cao et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.13855.

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Multi‐Layered Implant Approach for Hemilaryngectomy Reconstruction in a Porcine Model
Authors: Wesson Troy , Morrison Rachel A. , Zhang Lujuan , Brookes Sarah , Kaefer Sam , Finnegan Patrick R. , Calcagno Haley , Campiti Vincent J. , Voytik‐Harbin Sherry , Halum Stacey
Published: November 2024

Objective

Partial laryngectomies result in voice, swallowing, and airway impairment for thousands of patients in the United States each year. Treatment options for dynamic restoration of laryngeal function are limited. Thus, there is a need for new reconstructive approaches. Here, we evaluated early (4 week) outcomes of multi‐layered mucosal‐myochondral (MMC) implants when used to restore laryngeal form and function after hemilaryngectomy in a porcine model.

Methods

Six Yucatan minipigs underwent transmural hemilaryngectomies followed by reconstruction with customized MMC implants aiming to provide site‐appropriate localization of regenerated laryngeal tissues, while supporting laryngeal function. All implants were fabricated from polymeric collagen, with a subset of muscle and cartilage implants containing motor endplate‐expressing muscle progenitor cells or cartilage‐like cells differentiated from adipose stem cells, respectively. Vocalization and laryngeal electromyography (L‐EMG) measurements with nerve conduction studies were performed post‐operatively and compared with baseline along with gross and histological analyses of the healing response.

Results

All animals (n = 6) survived and maintained airway patency, safe swallowing, and phonation, without the use of tracheostomy and/or gastrostomy tubes. Histological evaluation indicated no adverse tissue reaction or implant degradation, showing progressive regenerative remodeling with mucosa reformation and ingrowth of new muscle and cartilage. Preliminary L‐EMG suggested weak but detectable motor unit action potentials. Although vocalization duration, frequency, and intensity decreased post‐operatively, all animals retained vocal capacity and parameter recovery was evident over the study duration.

Conclusion

Engineered collagen polymeric implants in the presence or absence of autologous cell populations may serve as a feasible reconstructive option to restore dynamic function after hemilaryngectomy. Long‐term follow‐up is needed to further assess functional outcomes.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 135:769–778, 2025
Effect of Composition on Processing and Mechanical Properties of TPE for Injection Molding Automotive Skin
Authors: Liu Shuwen , Wang Dong , Guo Guomin , Zhang Jihai , Qiu Jun , Zhang Aimin
Published: November 2024

With the development of new energy vehicles, there is a growing demand for automotive interior materials that meet higher standards. In this case, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), being a completely recyclable environment‐friendly polymer material, possesses advantages such as plasticizers and solvents free, excellent mechanical properties, less volatile organic compounds (VOC) release and low processing cost compared with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), and thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) skins, become a desirable choice for automotive injection molding automotive skin. Hence, this work investigates the influence of hydrogenated styrene‐butadiene‐styrene block copolymer (SEBS) molecular weight, chemical structure, and polypropylene (PP) doping amount on thermodynamic, crystallinity, rheological, and mechanical properties of TPE, which provides a scientific basis for guiding the material selection of TPE injection molding skin.
Kaiser MH strikers seek fair pay, protected patient time
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2024

Nearly four weeks into the strike, about 2,400 of Kaiser Permanente's mental health staff in southern California continue to seek negotiations with the state's largest HMO to address inequities and calling for more patient care time — duties that can't be performed during therapy, they said — fair pay, improved staffing levels and equity in mental health care.
Effect of organic farming on root microbiota, seed production and pathogen resistance in winter wheat fields
Authors: Ricono Claire , Mony Cendrine , Alignier Audrey , Aviron Stéphanie , Bertrand Colette , Precigout Pierre‐Antoine , Robert Corinne , Wang Ting‐Ting , Vandenkoornhuyse Philippe
Published: November 2024

Societal Impact Statement

Agricultural intensification is a major driver of biodiversity decline in agrosystems. For instance, it has been shown that conventional farming leads to a decline in soil microbial diversity and triggers a strong selection process, altering the functioning of the whole ecosystem. The present study shows that organic farming increases diversity and affects composition of crop plant microbiota, mostly as a response to field management and soil characteristics. Furthermore, crop plant microbiota influences crop production and resistance to pathogens. Therefore, agricultural practices affect plant performance through microorganism‐mediated changes, which may be important pillars of future sustainable crop production.

Agricultural intensification threatens biodiversity, but the effects of intensification on microorganisms are still overlooked despite their role in ecosystem functioning. Microorganisms associated with plants provide many services that affect plant growth and health. Organic farming is expected to strongly affect species composition, richness, and their interactions. We analyzed the effect of the farming system on endophytic microbial assemblages associated with winter wheat plants and plant performance in the field.

We collected environmental data through farmer interviews, soil analyses, and plant inventories and analyzed root microbiota at vegetative and flowering stages.

Organic farming increased fungal and bacterial diversity associated to wheat plants and affected species composition in most phyla. This effect was mostly due to soil characteristics and field management and a little to plant diversity in the field. Microbial responses were more pronounced at the late developmental stage, likely as a result of accumulative effect of management actions during plant development. Seed production and resistance to pathogens were related to specific phyla that are important for seed production and/or wheat resistance to septoriose.

This work advances our understanding of how agricultural practices affect plant performance through microorganism‐mediated changes and supports the use of microorganisms as pillars of sustainable crop production.
Green Essence of Plant Resources Capped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Renewable Distinctions, Size‐Shape‐Modulated Physicochemical Diversity and Emerging Biomedical‐Environmental Usefulness
Authors: Malik Parth , Rani Ruma , Khan Sabina , Fernandes Donald , Mukherjee Tapan Kumar
Published: November 2024

The natural essence, biocompatibility, and pleiotropic functioning of plant polyphenols have swiftly emerged as integrated assets for biomedical and environmental applications of plant resources capped ZnO NPs. Simultaneous reducing cum capping abilities, synergistic edible prospects, and precursor‐plant extract stoichiometry‐driven robust size‐shape modulation are the major encouragements being explored for increasing recent interest in biomedical‐environmental applications of plant extracts (PEs) capped ZnO NPs. The structure‐function dynamics of extracts from leaves, roots, fruits, seeds, and whole plants sum up the multifaceted applications of polyphenols‐capped ZnO NPs. Recent interest in plant resources' biomedical and environmental utility capped ZnO NPs mandates discussing the correlative mechanisms for sustainable future insights. PEs capped ZnO NPs as drug carriers and sensing agents significantly moderate the toxic chemotherapeutic drug intake via enhanced tumor cell internalization, aided by synergistic immune‐modulating actions of constituent phytochemicals. On the environmental front, integrated antioxidant features of plant resources and ZnO NPs make them potent degrading agents for the sustainable degradation of persisting effluents. Keeping the above aspects in mind, this review article focuses on the correlative mechanisms underlying the biomedical and environmental remediation applications of plant resources made ZnO NPs. This article would augment the awareness of ZnO NPs multifaceted applications for consolidating the understanding of predictive mechanistic controls.
Quantum Fourier Transformation Using Quantum Reservoir Computing Network
Authors: Zhang Lu‐Fan , Liu Lu , Wu Xing‐yu , Wang Chuan
Published: November 2024

Combining the benefits of quantum computing and artificial neural networks, quantum reservoir computing shows potential for handling complex tasks due to its access to the Hilbert space in exponential dimensions. In this study, the quantum Fourier transform algorithm is implemented utilizing quantum reservoir computing, demonstrating its unique advantages. For the random interactions within the reservoirs, quantum reservoir computing avoids the cost of precise control of the physical system. The proposed model only requires to optimize a linear readout layer, thus significantly reducing the computational cost required for training. The accuracy of the implementation is numerically demonstrated and the model is integrated into quantum circuits to correctly execute the quantum phase estimation algorithm. Additionally, the impacts of different reservoir structures and dissipation intensities within the reservoir, and the results indicate the robustness of the model are discussed.
Practical Applications of Fiber‐Supported Catalysts in Organic Transformations
Authors: Cui Haitao , Li Pengyu , Chen Yongqiang , Ai Wenying , Liu Yuan , Zou Jiawei , Jiao Mingli , Shi Xian‐Lei
Published: November 2024

Fiber‐based catalysts have been effectively employed in various organic conversions due to their mechanical properties and reprocess ability in diverse catalytic technologies. One advantage of fiber‐based catalysts is exceptional flexibility, which allows them to be intertwined on the impellers of the agitation system. This enhances the efficiency of heat and mass transfer during the stirring process, thereby improving the reaction efficiency. Additionally, the fiber‐based catalysts can be cut into different sizes and shapes as required. This enables them to be packed into various types of synthesis reactors for continuous‐flow processing, thereby enhancing the catalytic synthesis capacity. The objective of this review is to investigate the practical applications of fiber‐based catalysts in organic conversions, with a particular focus on their utilization in spinning basket reactors and continuous‐flow processing systems. Furthermore, it is imperative to conduct a thorough analysis of the technical principles and parameters governing the catalytic process across different scenarios.
Catalyst Free, Microwave‐assisted Synthesis of Benzylidene Schiff Bases and Evaluation of Their Biological Properties
Authors: Zhimomi Betokali K. , Yanthan Khonzani , Phom Manthae , Achumi Phitovili , Imchen Putusenla , Tumtin Shokip , Phucho Tovishe
Published: November 2024

Phenol Schiff bases can conveniently be prepared in high yield by the reaction of the appropriate aminophenols and aldehydes in solventless condition. The final target compounds were characterized by FT‐IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and Mass spectroscopy. Microwave assistance reduced the reaction time and solvent, increased the yield, purity, and eased the work up. The compounds were found to possess moderate to good antibacterial activity implying that the synthesized compounds may make excellent candidates for further studies aimed at discovering novel antibacterial agents. In vitro antioxidant qualities of the synthesized Schiff bases are also evaluated. In the tests for reducing power and radical scavenging, all the compounds demonstrated strong antioxidant activity even surpassing that of the positive control, Trolox.
Sulfate Oxyanion Steered d‐Orbital Electronic State of Nickel‐Iron Nanoalloy for Boosting Electrocatalytic Performance
Authors: Jin Yachao , Qu Xijun , Zhou Zihao , Liu Ruining , Zhang Mengxian , Song Li , Ma Wenqiang , Zhang Mingdao
Published: November 2024

Oxyanion groups recently offer an innovative avenue for improving the sluggish kinetics of electrochemical reactions benefitting from their particular polyanion configurations and large electronegativity. Nevertheless, the exact structure design and deep regulating mechanism of oxyanion species remain poorly understood. Herein, a fresh architecture of the sulfate oxyanion coordinated nickel‐iron nanoalloy on nitrogen and sulfur co‐doped carbon nanotube (SO42−‐NiFe/NSCT) is newly proposed to study the activity increment effect and mechanism. The SO42−‐NiFe/NSCT displays hierarchical nanostructure with robust‐wrinkled surface and highly efficient active sites. Importantly, the SO42− group, as a significant manipulation factor, is first evidenced to promote the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity for NiFe nanoalloy under the reductive condition, showcasing outstanding bifunctional properties toward ORR and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), as well as the exceptional performance in non‐aqueous Li‐O2 battery. Both experimental and theoretical results elucidate that, as an electron bridge, the introduction of SO42− downshifts the d‐band center of SO42−‐NiFe/NSCT and gives the electron transfer passageway between the H atom in OH* intermediate and the O atom in SO42− group, greatly optimizing the metal‐intermediate interaction with weaker bond energy. This work provides a deep insight into the activity enhancement mechanism by the sulfate oxyanion.
Optimize Formulation of Starch Propionate Nanoparticle Synthesis via Ultrasonication: A Box–Behnken Design Approach
Authors: Rami Gaurang , Patel Ruchita , Goswami Ankitaben , Patel Nishant Mahendra , Sathvara Vishal , Pandya Jignesh
Published: November 2024

Chemically modified starch nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted significant scientific attention due to their versatility and broad applications. Despite substantial research on starch NPs formulation, approaches to starch modification for both conventional and novel uses remain underexplored. Native starch suffers from low shear stress, hydrophilicity, poor thermal properties, and limited resistance to digestion and retrogradation, necessitating modifications via physical, chemical, enzymatic, or genetic methods. Ultrasound‐assisted physical and chemical modification presents an efficient solution. This study synthesizes starch propionate NPs (SPNPs) through a single emulsification solvent evaporation method employing ultrasonication. The synthesis parameters are adjusted for particle size using a three‐factor, three‐level Box–Behnken design. The research examines the effects of polymer concentration, sonication energy, and sonication time, revealing that sonication time significantly impacts SPNPs size more than the other variables. Under optimized conditions, the predicted SPNPs size is 97.5 nm, with an actual observed size of 105 nm, indicating a strong correlation and validating the model’s reliability. The findings underscore the model’s effectiveness in producing size‐consistent nanoformulations, bolstering their potential as effective drug delivery vehicles.
Evidence‐based use of biotics in the management of gastrointestinal disorders in dogs and cats
Authors: Schmitz Silke Salavati
Published: November 2024

The gut microbiome plays a vital role in the overall health of dogs and cats, particularly their gastrointestinal (GI) health. Imbalances in the gut microbiome, termed dysbiosis, are associated with a range of GI disorders, including diarrhoea and chronic enteropathy. Emerging evidence tentatively supports the therapeutic use of pre‐, pro‐ and postbiotics (collectively called biotics) to restore gut homeostasis and manage these conditions, especially due to their potential antibiotic‐sparing effects. This article explores their evidence‐based use in the treatment of GI disorders in dogs and cats.
Partial adrenalectomy by the posterior retroperitoneoscopic approach: A single institution series of 766 consecutive procedures
Authors: Knyazeva Polina , Buzanakov Dmitrii , Alesina Pier Francesco , Walz Martin K.
Published: November 2024

Background

Partial adrenalectomy (PA), as an alternative to total adrenalectomy in selected cases, allows for the preservation of adrenocortical function, especially in hereditary and/or bilateral diseases. In this study, we analyze our experience in posterior retroperitoneoscopic PA (PRPA) and its impact on adrenocortical function.

Patients and Methods

From January 2010 to December 2023, 709 PRPAs were performed on 766 adrenal glands in a total of 697 patients (421F; 276M; and mean age 49.3 ± 15.3). Patients suffered from all types of adrenal tumors (239 pheochromocytoma, 225 Conn's syndrome, 102 Cushing's syndrome (CS), 66 nonfunctioning adenomas, 38 adrenal metastases, and 27 others). Mean tumor size was 2.7 ± 1.5 cm. Bilateral disease occurred in 135 patients (60 pheochromocytoma, 19 Conn's syndrome, 32 CS, 2 nonfunctioning adenomas, 17 adrenal metastases, and 5 combined diseases).

Results

Mean operating time for unilateral operation was 39.2 ± 17.2 min. Minor postoperative complications were observed in 1.5% and major complications in 0.1%. The median hospital stay was 2 days. In bilateral cases, 18 of 33 (54%) Cushing patients and nine of 102 (9%) non‐Cushing patients received corticosteroid replacement therapy (CRT) early postoperatively. Long‐term follow‐up data were collected for 242 patients (35%). After unilateral surgery, only patients with CS required CRT (8/24). Eleven (24.4%) out of 45 patients with bilateral non‐Cushing disease needed CRT. Eight patients (3%) developed ipsilateral recurrent disease.

Conclusion

PRPA is a safe procedure with a low complication and recurrence rate. This makes it the preferred operation in cases of bilateral disease and for selected patients with benign pathologies.
The Early Neolithic Lake-shore Settlement of La Marmotta at Lake Bracciano (Anguillara Sabazia, Rome, Italy): a Critical Overview of the Current State of Research, and a Discussion of Selected Aspects
Authors: Ballmer Ariane , Mineo Mario , Becker Valeska
Published: November 2024

Occupied from around 5600 BC, the lakeshore settlement of La Marmottaat Lake Bracciano (Anguillara Sabazia, Rome, Italy) counts as one of the earliest permanently occupied wetland settlements in southern Europe. The first settlers were a Neolithic group, pursuing crop cultivation and stock breeding. The archaeological site with its fascinating spectrum of finds is not only of great interest per se but also plays a key role in the understanding of the supra-regional spread of the Neolithic along the northern Mediterranean coast. Thus, the settlement seems to have been a kind of gateway from which the western Mediterranean region, and possibly also the western Alpine region, would have received essential inputs, especially in terms of agricultural resources and practices. The pending evaluation of the extensive underwater excavations between 1992 and 2006 currently only allows for a provisional and relatively diffuse knowledge of the site. In the present chapter, the site chronology, selected aspects of the settlers’ way of life, in particular concerningagriculture but also navigation, as well as the site’s potential role in the Neolithisation of the western Mediterranean are dealt with in detail.
Life-history Methodology Used in the Children’s Life-histories In Primary Schools (CLIPS) Study
Authors: Hargreaves Eleanore , Buchanan Denise , Quick Laura
Published: November 2024

This book presents 23 life-histories of English primary-school children and our commentary on them. We used life-history methodology, from an interpretivist perspective, to provide the most holistic and vivid depictions of the children’s experiences at school.
Imagining Schooling as a Positive Experience
Authors: Hargreaves Eleanore , Buchanan Denise , Quick Laura
Published: November 2024

The chapter starts with a quotation from eight-year-old Harriet who told us during the Children’s Life-Histories in Primary Schools (CLIPS) project that in her classroom, she believed: ‘I got rejected … Everyone else is smarter than me … Shouting at us doesn’t make it better’. Drawing on Nancy Fraser’s conceptualisation of social justice as parity of participation, we introduce the suggestion that some children experience status-subordination and non-participation during schooling, because of their designation as below-age-level expectation in tests of mathematics and English. We contrast these negative feelings with the positive experience or wellbeing depicted by Ryan and Deci as founded in a person’s achievement of agency, also necessitating their strong Sense of Competence and Sense of Relatedness. Moving to Chris Watkins’ education-focused work, we then differentiate between the processes of learning; with those of performance, highlighting how the latter may erode the motivation and engagement of ‘lower-attainers’. The chapter then takes the reader through the following eight chapters of the book which revisit the above authors and issues in detail.
Wellbeing
Authors: Hargreaves Eleanore , Buchanan Denise , Quick Laura
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, we explore some of the many interpretations of the word ‘wellbeing’. We draw on Ryan and Deci’s phrase ‘positive experience and wellness’ (Advances in motivation science (6). Elsevier, 2019, p.215) to represent some relevant aspects of school wellbeing. Our own interpretation of wellbeing, in relation to school-children, also chimes with White’s (Exploring well-being in schools: A guide to making children’s lives more fulfilling. Routledge, 2011) definition as follows: ‘Autonomous, whole-hearted and successful engagement in worthwhile activities and relationships … engaging now in worthwhile pursuits’ (p.131). This is the definition that underpins our analysis of the CLIPS children’s narratives. We also consider how the United Nations Children’s Rights Charter (UNCRC) of 1989 can help us navigate wellbeing, by directing schooling practices towards children being protected and cared for; being developed in mental and physical strengths and interests; being given appropriate and equal opportunities for cultural, artistic, recreational and leisure activities; and being allowed freedom of thought, conscience, religion and expressing themselves. We compare these aims with some policy documents in England recently that seem to promote wellbeing while at the same time encouraging practices, such as grouping by attainment, that erode wellbeing for those in lower-status groups. We conclude this chapter by examining in greater detail how Self-Determination Theory [Ryan & Deci (Advances in motivation science (6). Elsevier, 2019)] construes wellbeing. Its definition of wellbeing includes healthy self-functioning, integrity and a general positive self-concept. They claim it is aligned to: ‘The spontaneous propensity of people to take interest in their inner and outer worlds in an attempt to engage, interact, master, and understand’ (Ibid., p.215).
Revealing the Unknown: How Multi-technical Approach Can Be Crucial in Identification of Dyes and Protein in Archeological Remains
Authors: Serafini Ilaria , Ciccola Alessandro , Curini Roberta , Favero Gabriele , Kavich Gwénaëlle M. , Cleland Timothy P. , Solazzo Caroline
Published: November 2024

The analysis of archaeological textiles is a challenging undertaking, because of the high information content that characterizes these precious remains. Their realization, from the point of view of the dyes and yarns used, can have multiple meanings, for example the wealth of the commissioner and reflect the cultural taste of the society. The raw materials also can reveal the commercial routes, this may not be evident from literary sources and become clear from the archaeometric study of these artifacts. However, the alteration processes to which these materials have been subjected to, such as thermal aging and carbonization, mineralization, etc., represent an extremely critical point for their study and conservation, because these chemical processes are not entirely known and could bring to a complete modification. For these reasons, the identification of their composition requires high sensitivity techniques, characterized also by great versatility.

Recently, multi-technical approaches, based on spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques, have been revealed as powerful strategies in providing information about chemical composition of archaeological relics; they have been employed for characterization of dyes and moreover proteomics and genomics. In this chapter a review of the state of the art of FTIR, Raman and mass spectrometry analyses applied to archaeological fabrics will be provided, also reporting several case studies to highlight the potential of these multi-technical analyses.
Introduction: Sustainable Ageing in Germany and China—The Role of International Cooperation
Authors: Peters Marie , Porsche Sabine
Published: November 2024

When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out at the end of 2019, it once again became apparent that the elderly are particularly vulnerable during health crises, and preventive measures are paramount to ensure they age in good health and with dignity. Accordingly, this chapter will first highlight some of the relevant international-level policy frameworks put in place to respond to the pandemic. This includes frameworks that set out guidelines to respond to the ageing demographic trend as well as the framework developed by the German government to guide international cooperation. Second, the chapter uses project cases of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in China and other Asian countries to introduce international cooperation actions to highlight the potential and importance of international cooperation in tackling the challenge. The last section of the chapter will introduce the areas of focus of this cooperation as well as contributions from academia and practitioners included in this book.
Project Case: Establishing Elderly Care System in China—Sustainable Improvement of Situation for the Elderly
Authors: Wang Mingming , Porsche Sabine
Published: November 2024

As the most populous country in the world, China has been experiencing demographic change for nearly two decades due to country’s the plummeting birth rate and a rise in life expectancy. According to World Bank data, China's total fertility rate was 1.62 in 2016, far behind the global average of 2.43. The lingering consequences of the previous strict family planning policies combined with increasing longevity have meant that China will have to confront the challenges of a rapidly ageing population at a relatively early stage of its economic development, which limits the financial resources for supporting the elderly.
Digital Emotion-Mapping for Barrier-Free Design. How User-Specific Assessment of Environmental Experience Helps to Design Better Cities
Authors: Schulz Sebastian , Chen Zheng
Published: November 2024

Designing barrier-free urban space for disabled or elderly citizens has become a central topic in both Germany and China. Guidelines and planning regulations have already found their way into design practice, yet sometimes fail to deliver practicable and convenient solutions for affected groups. Especially in China, other urban trends, e.g. increase of individual car ownership, the recent bike-sharing boom or food delivery services, have led to fierce competition over the use public space with clear disadvantages for mobility-impaired groups. Also in Germany, barrier-free routes often find interruptions and obstacles, hindering self-determined mobility. In urban planning and design processes, the voices of affected individuals are often not fully recognised, as other interest groups dominate or lead the discussion. A Sino-German research team at Tongji University, under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Chen Zheng, has developed a new quantification approach for affective mapping based on biological feedback to measure individual positive and negative perception of urban environments. This technique allows to analyse urban space based on target group specific affection and can help to design better places, which are accessible, safe and easy to orientate for everyone. It gives a voice to underrepresented groups in planning participation and supports the recognition of needs for mobility-impaired citizens. The article will discuss the situations mobility-impaired groups face in Germany and China and outlines innovative considerations for future planning and design practice.
Approaches and Guiding Principles for Age-Appropriate Neighbourhood Development in Rural Areas—Experiences from Germany
Authors: Schmidt Kathleen , Schwartze Frank
Published: November 2024

Healthy living and housing in rural areas is of great importance for independence and well-being, especially for older people. In three teaching research projects on the subject of “Healthy living and living into old age”, the question of how a neighbourhood development concept can take up the needs of an ageing population against the background of the structural, spatial and socio-spatial framework conditions, process them conceptually and implement them in a project related manner was investigated. The article describes how concepts respond to local conditions and prepare political and planning decisions. The findings are based on three case studies, for which detailed concepts for neighbourhood development have been developed. Both extensive literature analyses and secondary data analyses were used. In addition, discussions with those responsible on site provided important insights. The case studies led to recommendations for action for rural areas with an ageing population in Schleswig–Holstein. These include the consideration of old age as an independent phase of life, the need to mix the functions of a place or neighbourhood, the provision of alternative forms of housing, regional differences and the increasing use of smartphones and the internet in the everyday lives of older people. Secondly, a summary presentation within the framework of a neighbourhood development concept proves to be particularly focussed on its implementation. A concept provides the responsible decision-makers on site with a detailed analysis and based on this, formulates a conceptual further development of the location or neighbourhood with concrete goals, measures and project proposals.
Design Strategies for Elderly Care Communities in a Diverse Society
Authors: Guan Yiqun , Liu Yiming
Published: November 2024

China’s vast and varied regions, multi-ethnic population, rich customs and massive social transformation have created a society that is today more and more diverse. A traditional simplified elderly care community model can no longer meet the diverse daily needs of society. This paper analyses the current status quo and trends of social diversification, to propose a design strategy for the elderly care community of tomorrow.
Exploring the Establishment of Statutory Social Long-Term Care Insurance in China
Authors: Ding Chun , Liu Dan
Published: November 2024

The non-stop ageing of the population in China has brought with it a surging demand for elderly nursing care. Along with current shrinking family structures and declining birth rates, the problem of providing long-term care to the disabled elderly has been catapulted into a social problem that needs to be solved urgently. In line with the “Guiding Opinions on Carrying out the Pilot Long-term Care Insurance System” issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security in 2016, a pilot programme introducing a long-term care insurance scheme was launched nationwide to explore and solve the problem of nursing needs in an ageing society. This paper reviews the implementation of the scheme across 15 pilot cities, and summarises the experience gained in the process of implementing specific care insurance, pointing out shortcomings, and putting forward opinions and expectations for the future development of China’s social long-term care insurance.
Qingdao Long-Term Care Social Insurance Pilot
Authors: Lu Bei , Feng Guanggang
Published: November 2024

China is grapping with a rapid increase in demand for public long-term care due to an ageing population. Some regions have initiated social insurance programs as pilot projects, with Qingdao being one of the earliest adopters. Existing literature has predominantly focused on policy introduction and demand analysis, providing limited insights into the operational aspects of such practices in China. This chapter sheds light on the evolution and progress of Qingdao’s long-term care social insurance since its inception. Additionally, it provides estimation of the premiums of this long-term care insurance and compares patients’ total health costs before and after the implementation of the long-term care program.
VSD Surgical Closure in Colombia in Children with Secondary Pulmonary Hypertension. Does Altitude Influence Postoperative Pulmonary Pressure?
Authors: Cruz-Baquero Linibeth , Molano-Gonzalez Nicolas , García-Vargas Daniel , Torres Alberto García
Published: November 2024

A retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study was carried out to describe the history of pulmonary hypertension in pediatric patients living at different altitudes following surgical correction of ventricular septal defect. Data from 40 patients who underwent surgery in La Fundacion Cardioinfantil was collected and used for our analysis. Bivariate analysis showed no significant relationship between altitude and pulmonary hypertension after ventricular septal defect closure. Unrelated to the main objective of our study, our investigation revealed that our population underwent surgical correction of VSD at older ages than expected. While previous publications demonstrate the benefit of intervention at 4 years of age or younger (19, 20), the average age in our studied population was found to be 7.8 years old. These patients had unfavorable hemodynamic parameters for ventricular septal defect closure, but our study showed that our patients benefited from surgery with an immediate satisfactory postoperative result. Patients transitioned from parameters indicating severe PH to mild PH within the first 24–48 h after surgery.
A close look at children’s and adolescents’ arguments: combining a developmental, educational, and philosophical perspective
Authors: Rapanta Chrysi , Macagno Fabrizio , Jenset Gard
Published: November 2024

It is broadly admitted that social contexts of reasoning may prompt children and adolescents to improve the quality of their reasoning. However, it is not clear how this quality may be assessed when it comes to arguments expressed within oral interactions in diverse settings (whole-class or small-group discussions) by students of different ages and cultural backgrounds. This study aims to offer a methodological contribution to the issue of oral argument assessment of children and adolescents, by looking at a large, annotated corpus of dialogic discussions during 111 lessons taking place in five countries. Our analysis combines a structural (Toulmin Argument Pattern) and functional (Walton’s argumentation schemes) approach to argumentative reasoning. Our findings show significant variations across age groups and social settings. The discussion points out the importance of sociocultural framing of argument reasoning development and the continuation of research in argument assessment methods able to grasp important developmental and cultural variations.
Higher-order iterative decoupling for poroelasticity
Authors: Altmann Robert , Mujahid Abdullah , Unger Benjamin
Published: November 2024

For the iterative decoupling of elliptic–parabolic problems such as poroelasticity, we introduce time discretization schemes up to order five based on the backward differentiation formulae. Its analysis combines techniques known from fixed-point iterations with the convergence analysis of the temporal discretization. As the main result, we show that the convergence depends on the interplay between the time step size and the parameters for the contraction of the iterative scheme. Moreover, this connection is quantified explicitly, which allows for balancing the single error components. Several numerical experiments illustrate and validate the theoretical results, including a three-dimensional example from biomechanics.
Equal Access, Equal Outcomes: Telehealth Utilization Around the COVID-19 Pandemic among People Living with HIV and Opioid Use Disorder in the Deep South
Authors: Bradford William S , England Julie , Bratches Reed W R , Eaton Ellen F
Published: November 2024

Telehealth has the potential to extend access to lifesaving treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) among underserved people living with HIV (PWH). However, policymakers have scaled back pandemic-era telehealth provisions, citing concerns about safety and effectiveness. In this study of 42 PWH with OUD in one Deep South HIV clinic between 3/1/2020 and 4/30/2021, we used multivariable regression to assess the impact of telehealth utilization on patient-centered HIV and OUD outcomes. We found no significant difference in outcomes for those with high telehealth utilization versus others. In addition to being more accessible, telehealth does not appear to compromise health outcomes.
Offline supervisory control synthesis: taxonomy and recent developments
Authors: Fokkink Wan , Goorden Martijn
Published: November 2024

This paper surveys recent advances in supervisory control theory since its 30th anniversary in 2017. We performed a systematic literature search and selected 272 relevant papers, with a focus on automata-based approaches. These were fitted into coherent narratives, based in part on a taxonomy of supervisor synthesis methods. The obtained papers show the fast and vast progress of the field, where recent research covers a wide range of new synthesis optimization techniques, different aspects such as fault tolerance, security, and timing, and new and diverse application domains. This survey refrains from in-depth descriptions of techniques, instead focusing on high-level contributions of recent works, how they relate to each other, and future directions for research.
Linking Disparate Strands: A Critical Review of the Relationship Between Creativity and Education
Authors: Rawlings Bruce S. , Cutting Sarah J.
Published: November 2024

Whether schools help or hinder creativity is a topic of vibrant, international debate. Some contend that the focus on structure, rote learning and standardised assessments associated with formal education stifles children’s creativity. Others argue that creativity, much like numeracy or literacy, is a skill that can be taught, and educational settings provide optimal contexts for children to learn creative skills. With creativity increasingly recognised as a critical skill of the twenty-first century and formal education reaching more children across the globe, understanding the impact of schools on its development is critical. We suggest that much of the discourse on this topic has a narrow focus, precluding a global perspective. Here, we take a step back to integrate important but disparately presented research strands on education and creativity, to inform this debate. We first synthesize what we know about creativity and education, before presenting work on different areas—either directly or indirectly assessing creativity in educational contexts—including the relationship between creativity and academic achievement, classroom infrastructure and experiences, developmental slumps, teachers’ perspectives on creative children and research on culturally and educationally diverse populations. Reviewing research from these approaches shows that the relationship is nuanced and requires careful interpretation—while some research showcases the positive impact schooling can have on children’s creative development, other work, including from culturally and educationally diverse populations, shows how school experiences could be detrimental in this regard. We finish by summarising and integrating these research strands before making suggestions for future research.
A prospective multicenter birth cohort in China: pregnancy health atlas
Authors: Zhou Si , Zhou Niya , Zhang Hanbo , Yang Wenzhi , Liu Qingsong , Zheng Lianshuai , Xiang Yuting , Zheng Dan , Zhou Yan , Wang Siyi , Cheng Danling , He Jun , Wang Hong , Zhang Wenbin , Guan Liping , Geng Qiaoling , Zhou Shihao , Zhai Hongbo , Jin Hua , Hou Fei , Wu Shuzhen , Gao Jie , Yi Jing , Sun Luming , Wei Fengxiang , Zhang Jianguo , Yu Lei , Yang Xiao , Wang Leilei , Zhao Lijian , Qi Hongbo
Published: November 2024

The China Prospective Multi-Center Birth Cohort Study was launched in 2022. In collaboration with medical centers in 12 cities, it aims to establish a high-quality, multidimensional cohort comprising 20,000 natural pregnancy and assisted reproductive families. As of June 26, 2024, 12,911 pregnant women have participated in this study, and 161,122 biological samples have been collected. These samples cover four critical periods (early pregnancy, mid-pregnancy, late pregnancy, and postpartum) and comprise 10 different types such as serum, plasma, and urine. The study has collected comprehensive information from early pregnancy to newborns. The participants have an average age of 29.76 years, an average height of 160.46 cm, an average pre-pregnancy BMI of 23.11, and an average BMI of 27.25 before delivery. The cohort includes individuals from 26 ethnic groups, with 25 minority groups comprising 5.03% of the population. Guizhou Province exhibits the highest percentage of ethnic minorities at 24.96% and Guangdong Province owns the highest proportion (12.22%) of women with two or more children. The prevalence of thalassemia in Guangdong Province is seven times higher than in other provinces. Among pregnant women over 35 years old, the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus is twice that of women under 35. Additionally, the prevalence of preeclampsia in women with assisted reproductive pregnancies is more than twice that of those with natural pregnancies. The study extensively collected diverse data and biological samples, making this cohort an ideal candidate for DOHaD field and multi-omics research.