bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors affecting activities of daily living among patients with Wilson disease
Authors: Amemiya Ayumi , Asakura Keiko , Nishiwaki Yuji , Shimizu Norikazu
Published: May 2023

Wilson disease (WD) is a congenital copper metabolism disorder with various manifestations and can be treated with oral medication. This study examined the factors related to decline in activities of daily living (ADL) in patients with WD as research in this area remains limited. We enrolled 308 patients with WD, including patients who participated in a national survey and those who sought cares at the Department of Pediatrics, Toho University Ohashi Medical Center, from 2016 to 2017. We analyzed the association between ADL decline and factors including age at diagnosis, period from diagnosis to survey, hepatic symptoms, neurological signs, and psychiatric presentation at diagnosis. The relative risks (RRs) for ADL decline were estimated for each factor using multivariate modified Poisson regression analysis. Overall, 97 out of 308 (31.5%) patients experienced ADL decline. After adjusting for explanatory variables, regression analysis revealed that factors significantly associated with ADL decline were a period of ≥20 years from diagnosis to survey (adjusted RR = 2.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.47–3.74), hepatic symptoms with splenomegaly (adjusted RR = 2.57, 95% CI: 1.26–5.24), mild neurological signs (adjusted RR = 3.20, 95% CI: 1.96–5.23), and severe neurological signs (adjusted RR = 3.63, 95% CI: 2.28–5.77). Neurological signs, hepatic symptoms with splenomegaly, and a period of 20 years from diagnosis to survey are associated with ADL decline. Thus, careful assessment of patients for these factors is necessary, and these findings may guide future efforts to improve patient prognosis.
Predictive Value of the Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technique for the Postoperative Outcome of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Ni Ming , Wen Xiaoyi , Zhang Mengze , Jiang Chenyu , Li Yali , Wang Ben , Zhang Xianchang , Zhao Qiang , Lang Ning , Jiang Liang , Yuan Huishu
Published: May 2023

Background

Diffusion magnetic resonsance imaging (dMRI) can potentially predict the postoperative outcome of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

Purpose

To explore preoperative dMRI parameters to predict the postoperative outcome of CSM through multifactor correlation analysis.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Post‐surgery CSM patients; 102 total, 73 male (52.42 ± 10.60 years old) and 29 female (52.0 ± 11.45 years old).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T/Turbo spin echo T1/T2‐weighted, T2*‐weighted multiecho gradient echo and dMRI.

Assessment

Spinal cord function was evaluated using modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) scoring at different time points: preoperative and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperative. Single‐factor correlation and t test analyses were conducted based on fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity, intracellular volume fraction, isotropic volume fraction, orientation division index, increased signal intensity, compression ratio, age, sex, symptom duration and operation method, and multicollinearity was calculated. The linear quantile mixed model (LQMM) and the linear mixed‐effects regression model (LMER) were used for multifactor correlation analysis using the combinations of the above variables.

Statistical Tests

Distance correlation, Pearson's correlation, multiscale graph correlation and t tests were used for the single‐factor correlation analyses. The variance inflation factor (VIF) was used to calculate multicollinearity. LQMM and LMER were used for multifactor correlation analyses. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The single‐factor correlation between all variables and the postoperative mJOA score was weak (all r < 0.3). The linear relationship was stronger than the nonlinear relationship, and there was no significant multicollinearity (VIF = 1.10–1.94). FA values in the LQMM and LMER models had a significant positive correlation with the mJOA score (r = 5.27–6.04), which was stronger than the other variables.

Data Conclusion

The FA value based on dMRI significantly positively correlated with CSM patient postoperative outcomes, helping to predict the surgical outcome and formulate a treatment plan before surgery.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Effect of deacetylation of chitosan on the physicochemical, antioxidant and antibacterial properties activities of chitosan–mannose derivatives
Authors: Yu Junzhe , Hu Na , Hou Liran , Hang Fangxue , Li Kai , Xie Caifeng
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The present study investigates the physical, chemical, and antibacterial properties of water‐soluble chitosan derivatives. Preparation of the water‐soluble chitosan derivatives was performed by the Maillard reaction (MR) between chitosan [with the degree of deacetylation (DD) being 50%, 70%, and 90%] and mannose. No organic reagent was used in the process. Systematic evaluations of the effects of chitosan DD on the reaction extent, the structure, the composition, as well as the physicochemical properties, antioxidant properties, and bacterial inhibitory properties of the finished chitosan–mannose MR products (Mc‐mrps), were carried out.

RESULTS

Based on the experimental data obtained from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, Pyrolysis‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry analysis, and 1H‐NMR, the Mc‐mrps formed from chitosan with different DDs had different structures and components. An increase in the DD of chitosan led to a significant increase in the degree of reaction, color difference (△E), and solubility (P < 0.05). The zeta potential and particle size of the Mc‐mrps were also influenced by the DD of chitosan. Additionally, the antimicrobial action against Gram‐positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium), as well as antioxidant activity, were enhanced by the incorporation of mannose. This was also achieved by the increase of the DD of chitosan.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study suggest that chitosan was derived with mannose to yield a novel, water‐soluble polysaccharide with better antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The DD of chitosan had a significant effect on the properties of the Mc‐mrp, which can serve as a reference point for the subsequent preparation and application of such derivatives. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Revealing the Monomer Gradient of Polyether Copolymers Prepared Using N‐Heterocyclic Olefins: Metal‐Free Anionic versus Zwitterionic Lewis Pair Polymerization
Authors: Kersten Erik , Linker Olga , Blankenburg Jan , Wagner Manfred , Walther Patrick , Naumann Stefan , Frey Holger
Published: May 2023

N‐Heterocyclic olefin (NHO)‐based polymerization pathways for the copolymerization of ethylene oxide (EO) and propylene oxide (PO) are investigated in detail. Employing in situ 1H NMR spectroscopy, both an organocatalytic, anionic polymerization setup (system A) and a zwitterionic, Lewis pair‐type approach (system B) are studied comparatively. The obtained kinetics data are fitted to the non‐terminal model (Jaacks and Ideal Integrated) and terminal Mayo–Lewis model (Meyer Lowry) to determine the reactivity ratios, revealing striking differences in copolyether microstructure and achievable molar masses. While for the metal‐free catalysis (system A) reactivity ratios of rEO = 3.4 and rPO = 0.30 are found, indicating a soft gradient structure, the presence of Mg(HMDS)2 (system B) entails exclusively zwitterionic propagation. This results in enhanced selectivity, displaying corresponding parameters of rEO = 7.9 and rPO = 0.13, in line with the proposed monomer‐activated mechanism. The block‐like, strongly tapered copolyether microstructure is also reflected in the thermal properties, showing a melting point for the latter sample and much higher molar masses (Mn >50 000 g mol−1). Notably, this study not only identifies capable polymerization systems for EO/PO, but also underlines that via in situ 1H NMR kinetics key questions regarding the polymerization mechanism can be illuminated quickly and reliably, simplifying access to essential structure‐property relations.
Implicit institutional incentives and individual decisions: Causal inference with deep learning models
Authors: Cabras Stefano , Tena J. D.
Published: May 2023

Reward schemes guide choices. However, they are not necessarily presented as a collection of written incentive mechanisms but as complex and implicit cues. This paper proposes a methodology to identify tacit organizational incentives based on direct observations of institutional reactions to operational decisions. Football data provides a laboratory for this analysis as referee decisions, and their consequences are subject to public scrutiny. This allows estimating the length of time between referee appointments in Spanish football as a function of referee decisions in the most recent match. A deep learning model is instrumental in this analysis as it allows controlling for many potential confounders. Our results are consistent with the presence of institutional incentives for the referee to take gradual (instead of drastic) decisions to send off home team players and deliver the game's expected outcome. Finally, we discuss the implications of these findings in organizations.
Priming effect across framing, culture, and gender: Evidence from the academia
Authors: Shapir Offer Moshe , Shapir‐Tidhar Michal H. , Shtudiner Zeev
Published: May 2023

This study primarily aims to test how priming manipulation affects students' decisions in academia. Unlike many laboratory experiments testing priming, this experimental design mimics a real‐life scenario where students are unconsciously exposed to priming during class. We focus on three different framings of priming: visual, audio, and a combination of both and test their influence on the students' choices. We find strong evidence for priming in all three groups. This paper is a pioneer in addressing cultural differences between American and Chinese students with respect to priming and among the few to address gender differences in priming. Our results imply that gender plays a vital role in the priming effect, depending on the framing: females are more susceptible to visual priming than males, and while priming works across different cultures, culture may play a role in its effect. Regardless, we find that priming manipulation can be used to change short‐run behaviors in a learning environment.
Differential Effects of Betacyanin and Betaxanthin Pigments on Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response in Murine Macrophages
Authors: Fernando Ganwarige Sumali N. , Sergeeva Natalia N. , Vagkidis Nikolaos , Chechik Victor , Marshall Lisa J. , Boesch Christine
Published: May 2023

Scope: Betalain pigments are increasingly highlighted for their bioactive and anti‐inflammatory properties, although research is lacking to demonstrate contributions of individual betalains. The work herein aimed to compare effects of four main betalains on inflammatory and cell‐protective markers and to highlight potential structure‐related relationships of the two main subgroups: betacyanins vs betaxanthins.

Methods and results: Murine RAW 264.7 macrophages were stimulated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide following incubation with betacyanins (betanin, neobetanin) and betaxanthins (indicaxanthin, vulgaxanthin I) in concentrations from 1 to 100 µM. All betalains suppressed expression of pro‐inflammatory markers IL‐6, IL‐1β, iNOS, and COX‐2 with tendency for stronger effects of betacyanins compared to betaxanthins. In contrast, HO‐1 and gGCS showed mixed and only moderate induction, while more emphasized effects were observed for betacyanins. While all betalains suppressed mRNA levels of NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX‐2), a superoxide generating enzyme, only betacyanins were able to counteract hydrogen peroxide induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, in alignment with their radical scavenging potential. Furthermore, betaxanthins exerted pro‐oxidant properties, elevating ROS production beyond hydrogen peroxide stimulation.

Conclusion: In summary, all betalains display anti‐inflammatory properties, although only betacyanins demonstrate radical scavenging capacities, indicating potential differing responses under oxidative stress conditions, which requires further research.
Towards quantitative in vivo dosimetry using x‐ray acoustic computed tomography
Authors: Sun Leshan , Gonzalez Gilberto , Pandey Prabodh Kumar , Wang Siqi , Kim Kaitlyn , Limoli Charles , Chen Yong , Xiang Liangzhong
Published: May 2023

Background

Radiation dosimetry is essential for radiation therapy (RT) to ensure that radiation dose is accurately delivered to the tumor. Despite its wide use in clinical intervention, the delivered radiation dose can only be planned and verified via simulation. This makes precision radiotherapy challenging while in‐line verification of the delivered dose is still absent in the clinic. X‐ray‐induced acoustic computed tomography (XACT) has recently been proposed as an imaging tool for in vivo dosimetry.

Purpose

Most of the XACT studies focus on localizing the radiation beam. However, it has not been studied for its potential for quantitative dosimetry. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using XACT for quantitative in vivo dose reconstruction during radiotherapy.

Methods

Varian Eclipse system was used to generate simulated uniform and wedged 3D radiation field with a size of 4 cm 4 cm. In order to use XACT for quantitative dosimetry measurements, we have deconvoluted the effects of both the x‐ray pulse shape and the finite frequency response of the ultrasound detector. We developed a model‐based image reconstruction algorithm to quantify radiation dose in vivo using XACT imaging, and universal back‐projection (UBP) reconstruction is used as comparison. The reconstructed dose was calibrated before comparing it to the percent depth dose (PDD) profile. Structural similarity index matrix (SSIM) and root mean squared error (RMSE) are used for numeric evaluation. Experimental signals were acquired from 4 cm 4 cm radiation field created by Linear Accelerator (LINAC) at depths of 6, 8, and 10 cm beneath the water surface. The acquired signals were processed before reconstruction to achieve accurate results.

Results

Applying model‐based reconstruction algorithm with non‐negative constraints successfully reconstructed accurate radiation dose in 3D simulation study. The reconstructed dose matches well with the PDD profile after calibration in experiments. The SSIMs between the model‐based reconstructions and initial doses are over 85%, and the RMSEs of model‐based reconstructions are eight times lower than the UBP reconstructions. We have also shown that XACT images can be displayed as pseudo‐color maps of acoustic intensity, which correspond to different radiation doses in the clinic.

Conclusion

Our results show that the XACT imaging by model‐based reconstruction algorithm is considerably more accurate than the dose reconstructed by UBP algorithm. With proper calibration, XACT is potentially applicable to the clinic for quantitative in vivo dosimetry across a wide range of radiation modalities. In addition, XACT's capability of real‐time, volumetric dose imaging seems well‐suited for the emerging field of ultrahigh dose rate “FLASH” radiotherapy.
Neural correlates of decreased impulsivity during delay discounting task after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Zhang Wenchao , Li Guanya , Hu Yang , Wang Jia , Ji Weibin , von Deneen Karen M. , Yu Juan , Han Yu , Cui Guangbin , Manza Peter , Tomasi Dardo , Volkow Nora D. , Wang Huaning , Nie Yongzhan , Ji Gang , Wang Gene‐Jack , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2023

Objective

The goal of this study was to investigate laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG)‐induced changes in choice impulsivity and the neural correlates in individuals with obesity (OB).

Methods

The study employed functional magnetic resonance imaging with a delay discounting task in 29 OB tested before and 1 month after LSG. Thirty participants with normal weight matched to OB with gender and age were recruited as the control group and underwent an identical functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. Alterations in activation and functional connectivity between pre‐ and post‐LSG were investigated and compared with participants with normal weight.

Results

OB exhibited significantly reduced discounting rate after LSG. During the delay discounting task, hyperactivation in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, right caudate, and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex decreased in OB after LSG. LSG additionally engaged compensatory effects through increased activation in bilateral posterior insula and functional connectivity between caudate and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex. Those changes were associated with decreased discounting rate and BMI as well as improved eating behaviors.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that decreased choice impulsivity following LSG was associated with the changes in regions involved in executive control, reward evaluation, interoception, and prospection. This study may provide neurophysiological support for the development of nonoperative treatments such as brain stimulation for individuals with obesity and overweight.
Mechanical and thermal properties of polyamide‐6 nanocomposites reinforced by graphene oxide with low loading by double extrusion method
Authors: Tripathy Sangita , Singh Bhanu Pratap , de Oliveira Sanair Massafra , Kuznetsov Alexei , de Araujo Joyce Rodrigues , Gnaniah Sam , Dhakate S. R.
Published: May 2023

The high toughness, high abrasion resistance, and high water absorption capacity of polyamide‐6 (PA6), and the restacking of graphene oxide (GO) sheets make it quite challenging to get uniformly dispersed GO/PA6 nanocomposites. Herein, GO of different parts per hundred ratios (phr) was melt‐mixed with PA6 matrix by double extrusion using a twin‐screw compounder, followed by the micro twin‐screw extruder, and composites were prepared by injection molding method. The stress–strain curves from tensile measurements showed strain hardening in nanocomposites. The yield strength and Young's modulus increased by 11.3% and 16.7% respectively, for 0.1 phr GO loading. The crystallization and melting temperatures in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were increased by 4.7 and 9.6°C, respectively with 0.1 phr GO reinforcement. The Raman and XRD analysis showed continuous shifting in the intensity peaks with increasing reinforcements. Moreover, a double extrusion process imparts good mechanical and thermal stability to our composites. The significant improvement in mechanical and thermal performance of injection molded nanocomposites at very low reinforcements leads to their potential applications in automobiles, civil constructions, smart textiles, packaging, and sensors.
Bacillus thuringiensis as a biofertilizer in crops and their implications in the control of phytopathogens and insect pests
Authors: Gomis‐Cebolla Joaquin , Berry Colin
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a spore‐forming bacterium that produces insecticidal proteins and other virulence factors and is considered one of the most successful bioinsecticides available to control pests in agriculture. Currently, some Bt strains have been reported as endophyte or rhizospheric bacteria.

RESULTS

Little is known about the implications of plant‐Bt interaction in crop protection. Here, we review if Bt can establish as an endophyte/rhizobacterium and evaluate if Bt as an endophyte/rhizobacterium can simultaneously act against different phytopathogens (fungi, bacteria, insects and viruses) plus promote plant growth.

CONCLUSION

Although Bt produce an arsenal of proteins with toxic effects against insect, the current knowledge suggests that Bt can be considered as a promising new plant growth promotion bacterium (PGPB). The implications of the proposed review will broaden our understanding of Bt as a versatile entomopathogen that may be able to exhibit differential behavior depending on context. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Organic Photovoltaic Stability: Understanding the Role of Engineering Exciton and Charge Carrier Dynamics from Recent Progress
Authors: Zhang Kang‐Ning , Du Xiao‐Yan , Yan Lei , Pu Yong‐Jin , Tajima Keisuke , Wang Xingzhu , Hao Xiao‐Tao
Published: May 2023

Benefiting from the synergistic development of material design, device engineering, and the mechanistic understanding of device physics, the certified power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of single‐junction non‐fullerene organic solar cells (OSCs) have already reached a very high value of exceeding 19%. However, in addition to PCEs, the poor stability is now a challenging obstacle for commercial applications of organic photovoltaics (OPVs). Herein, recent progress made in exploring operational mechanisms, anomalous photoelectric behaviors, and improving long‐term stability in non‐fullerene OSCs are highlighted from a novel and previously largely undiscussed perspective of engineering exciton and charge carrier pathways. Considering the intrinsic connection among multiple temporal‐scale photocarrier dynamics, multi‐length scale morphologies, and photovoltaic performance in OPVs, this review delineates and establishes a comprehensive and in‐depth property‐function relationship for evaluating the actual device stability. Moreover, this review has also provided some valuable photophysical insights into employing the advanced characterization techniques such as transient absorption spectroscopy and time‐resolved fluorescence imagings. Finally, some of the remaining major challenges related to this topic are proposed toward the further advances of enhancing long‐term operational stability in non‐fullerene OSCs.
Dual Photonic Structures Enable High‐Performance Semitransparent Organic Photovoltaics with Enhanced Light Utilization
Authors: Deng Baozhong , Shen Youyang , Zheng Kaiwen , Wang Chi , Lévêque Gaëtan , Xu Tao
Published: May 2023

Semitransparent organic photovoltaics (ST‐OPVs) offer promising prospects for self‐powered greenhouses and building‐integrated photovoltaic systems. However, a remaining critical challenge is to balance the two competing indexes of power conversion efficiency (PCE) and average visible transmittance (AVT). Herein, a synergetic strategy of light manipulation is developed to achieve high‐performance ST‐OPVs by employing dual photonic structures with a rear single‐layer optical coupling layer (OCL) and a front single‐layer antireflection coating (ARC). The material selection and thickness optimization of both OCL and ARC are systematically guided by combining theoretical simulations and experimental devices, leading to significantly enhanced light utilization in ST‐OPVs. As a result, the use of dual photonic structures enables ST‐OPVs based on the active layer of PM6:Y6 to demonstrate simultaneously a high AVT of 35.7% and a good PCE of 10.29%, yielding an excellent light utilization efficiency of 3.67% with a remarkable improvement of 43% comparing with that of the control device. This work provides a simple yet effective strategy of light manipulation for the development of high‐performance ST‐OPVs.
Creative and flexible deployment of systems methodologies for child rights and child protection through Holistic Flexibility
Authors: Chowdhury Rajneesh , Gregory Amanda , Queah Miguel
Published: May 2023

Holistic Flexibility is a conceptual lens in systems thinking that enables intellectual, emotional and tactical elasticity in systems practice. This paper will demonstrate Holistic Flexibility in practice in an NGO setting to design and implement a programme to address the widening gap between government policy and its implementation. Critical Systems Heuristics was chosen as the preferred methodology, strengthened with two methods from two other systems methodologies—CATWOE (a mnemonic for Customers, Actors, Transformation, Worldview, Owners, Environment) from Soft Systems Methodology and issues (assumption) rating method from Strategic Assumption Surfacing and Testing. Following a participative programme design exercise, two phases were identified. The strategy, implementation and impact of phase 1, which covered work undertaken between the period 2018 and 2020, is provided. Phase 2 was under consideration at the time of writing this paper.
Subjective assessment and IOTA ADNEX model in evaluation of adnexal masses in patients with history of breast cancer
Authors: Pozzati F. , Sassu C. M. , Marini G. , Mascilini F. , Biscione A. , Giannarelli D. , Garganese G. , Fragomeni S. M. , Scambia G. , Testa A. C. , Moro F.
Published: May 2023

Objective

To evaluate the performance of subjective assessment and the Assessment of Different NEoplasias in the adneXa (ADNEX) model in discriminating between benign and malignant adnexal tumors and between metastatic and primary adnexal tumors in patients with a personal history of breast cancer.

Methods

This was a retrospective single‐center study including patients with a history of breast cancer who underwent surgery for an adnexal mass between 2013 and 2020. All patients had been examined with transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound using a standardized examination technique and all ultrasound reports had been stored and were retrieved for the purposes of this study. The specific diagnosis suggested by the original ultrasound examiner in the retrieved report was analyzed. For each mass, the ADNEX model risks were calculated prospectively and the highest relative risk was used to categorize each into one of five categories (benign, borderline, primary Stage I, primary Stages II–IV or metastatic ovarian cancer) for analysis of the ADNEX model in predicting the specific tumor type. The performance of subjective assessment and the ADNEX model in discriminating between benign and malignant adnexal tumors and between primary and metastatic adnexal tumors was evaluated, using final histology as the reference standard.

Results

Included in the study were 202 women with a history of breast cancer who underwent surgery for an adnexal mass. At histology, 93/202 (46.0%) masses were benign, 76/202 (37.6%) were primary malignancies (four borderline and 72 invasive tumors) and 33/202 (16.3%) were metastases. The original ultrasound examiner classified correctly 79/93 (84.9%) benign adnexal masses, 72/76 (94.7%) primary adnexal malignancies and 30/33 (90.9%) metastatic tumors. Subjective ultrasound evaluation had a sensitivity of 93.6%, specificity of 84.9% and accuracy of 89.6%, while the ADNEX model had higher sensitivity (98.2%) but lower specificity (78.5%), with similar accuracy (89.1%), in discriminating between benign and malignant ovarian masses. Subjective evaluation had a sensitivity of 51.5%, specificity of 88.8% and accuracy of 82.7% in distinguishing metastatic and primary tumors (including benign, borderline and invasive tumors), and the ADNEX model had a sensitivity of 63.6%, specificity of 84.6% and similar accuracy (81.2%).

Conclusions

The performance of subjective assessment and the ADNEX model in discriminating between benign and malignant adnexal masses in this series of patients with history of breast cancer was relatively similar. Both subjective assessment and the ADNEX model demonstrated good accuracy and specificity in discriminating between metastatic and primary tumors, but the sensitivity was low. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Diffeomorphisms as quadratic charges in 4d BF theory and related TQFTs
Authors: Geiller Marc , Girelli Florian , Goeller Christophe , Tsimiklis Panagiotis
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We present a Sugawara-type construction for boundary charges in 4d BF theory and in a general family of related TQFTs. Starting from the underlying current Lie algebra of boundary symmetries, this gives rise to well-defined quadratic charges forming an algebra of vector fields. In the case of 3d BF theory (i.e. 3d gravity), it was shown in [1] that this construction leads to a two-dimensional family of diffeomorphism charges which satisfy a certain modular duality. Here we show that adapting this construction to 4d BF theory first requires to split the underlying gauge algebra. Surprisingly, the space of well-defined quadratic generators can then be shown to be once again two-dimensional. In the case of tangential vector fields, this canonically endows 4d BF theory with a diff(S2) × diff(S2) or diff(S2) ⋉ vect(S2)ab algebra of boundary symmetries depending on the gauge algebra. The prospect is to then understand how this can be reduced to a gravitational symmetry algebra by imposing Plebański simplicity constraints.
A comprehensive review on sustainable clay-based geopolymers for wastewater treatment: circular economy and future outlook
Authors: Maged Ali , El-Fattah Hadeer Abd , Kamel Rasha M. , Kharbish Sherif , Elgarahy Ahmed M.
Published: May 2023

In the present era of significant industrial development, the presence and dispersal of countless water contaminants in water bodies worldwide have rendered them unsuitable for various forms of life. Recently, the awareness of environmental sustainability for wastewater treatment has increased rapidly in quest of meeting the global water demand. Despite numerous conventional adsorbents on deck, exploring low-cost and efficient adsorbents is interesting. Clays and clays-based geopolymers are intensively used as natural, alternative, and promising adsorbents to meet the goals for combating climate change and providing low carbon, heat, and power. In this narrative work, the present review highlights the persistence of some inorganic/organic water pollutants in aquatic bodies. Moreover, it comprehensively summarizes the advancement in the strategies associated with synthesizing clays and their based geopolymers, characterization techniques, and applications in water treatment. Furthermore, the critical challenges, opportunities, and future prospective regarding the circular economy are additionally outlined. This review expounded on the ongoing research studies for leveraging these eco-friendly materials to address water decontamination. The adsorption mechanisms of clays-based geopolymers are successfully presented. Therefore, the present review is believed to deepen insights into wastewater treatment using clays and clays-based geopolymers as a groundbreaking aspect in accord with the waste-to-wealth concept toward broader sustainable development goals.
Built cultural heritage and quality of life in a context of peripheralisation. A case study of ten historic towns at the German–Polish border
Authors: Knoop Bettina , Battis-Schinker Eva , Knippschild Robert , Al-Alawi Sarah , Książek Sławomir
Published: May 2023

This paper assesses the contribution of built cultural heritage to the quality of life in peripheralised small and medium-sized towns (SMTs). While the scientific discourse on peripheralised towns and regions is largely focused on development threats and challenges, this paper highlights heritage as an endogenous resource with the potential to promote a high quality of life in peripheralised towns. A case study covering ten historic towns at the German–Polish border constitutes the basis of the research presented in this paper. Qualitative focus group workshops have been conducted in each town to get detailed insights into the heritage-related quality of life. It appears that under specific conditions, heritage contributes to the quality of life in peripheralised SMTs. This contribution is more pronounced on emotional terms, i.e. regarding meaningful constitutions of place and social cohesion. Practical domains of quality of life related to urban functions or the economy benefit less from the towns’ heritage. It follows that the heritage ressources themselves are no warranty for an enhancement of the quality of life in peripheralised SMTs. Exploiting their potential remains context dependent, and peripheralised SMTs are faced with particular socio-spatial challenges in this regard.
Paper Circuits vs. Breadboards: Materializing Learners’ Powerful Ideas Around Circuitry and Layout Design
Authors: Peppler Kylie A. , Sedas R. Mishael , Thompson Naomi
Published: May 2023

This exploratory study compares how young people (ages 15–16) learn circuitry concepts and layout design principles important to electrical engineering using one of two educational circuitry toolkits: paper circuits and traditional solderless breadboards. Paper-based prototyping kits are representative of a trend that incorporates new materials and approaches to integrating arts into traditional STEM disciplines. Extending prior research on how non-traditional toolkits enhance learning of electrical engineering outcomes, including basic circuitry concepts (i.e., current flow, polarity, and connections), this study examines the material affordances and design choices of the kits that contribute to youth’s understanding of more advanced circuitry layout design principles, including space allocation, placement of electronic components, and routing. Results indicate that paper circuits better afford the learning of layout design principles for printed circuit boards (PCBs) with large effect sizes. This study illuminates how the materials of educational toolkits uniquely solicit body- and material-syntonic patterns of activity, and thus differentially engage learners’ powerful ideas around circuitry and design principles. This investigation encourages careful consideration of the material affordances of some toolkits over others for learning purposes.
On the time decay for an elastic problem with three porous structures
Authors: Fernández José R. , Quintanilla Ramón
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study the three-dimensional porous elastic problem in the case that three dissipative mechanisms act on the three porosity structures (one in each component). It is important to remark that we consider the case when the material is not centrosymmetric, and therefore, some coupling, not previously considered in the literature concerning the time decay of solutions in porous elasticity, can appear in the system of field equations. The new couplings provided in this situation show a strong relationship between the elastic and the porous components of the material. In this situation, we obtain an existence and uniqueness result for the solutions to the problem using the Lumer-Phillips corollary to the Hille-Yosida theorem. Later, assuming a certain condition determining a “very strong” coupling between the material components, we can use the well-known arguments for dissipative semigroups to prove the exponential stability of the solutions to the problem. It is worth emphasizing that the proposed condition allows bringing the decay of the dissipative porous structure of the problem to the macroscopic elastic structure.
Effects of simulated fire and browsing on the resprouting of subtropical dune thicket shrubs in the southeastern Cape Floristic Region
Authors: Strydom Tiaan , Cowling Richard M. , Grobler B. Adriaan , Kraaij Tineke
Published: May 2023

The expansion of subtropical thicket vegetation at the expense of more species-rich, fire-prone fynbos, potentially due to lower frequency and severity of fire and browsing, is a concern in many coastal dune landscapes of the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) where these two vegetation types co-occur. We were interested in the effects of severe fire or browsing treatments (causing complete loss of aboveground biomass) on the vigour of post-fire resprouts of dune thicket shrubs. Cape St Francis, CFR, South Africa. We used an in situ experimental approach to compare the effects of simulated fire and browsing by herbivores on mortality, resprouting vigour and resprouting rate of 10 canopy-forming dune thicket shrub species from different architectural guilds, 5 years after a previous severe wildfire. Survival was significantly lower after fire (85%) than after browsing (95%), and was significantly positively related to pre-treatment shrub size. All measures of resprouting vigour were significantly lower after fire than after browsing, and were significantly positively related to pre-treatment size. Resprouting rate was significantly lower after fire than after browsing, and was significantly positively affected by pre-treatment size. Survival and measures of resprouting vigour were generally decoupled from architectural guild and species identity. Dune thicket shrubs showed high survival after both fire and browsing treatments, suggesting that these species are resilient to frequent complete loss of above-ground biomass. Our results suggest that short interval fires (5–15 years) of high severity will merely maintain the co-occurrence of dune fynbos and thicket vegetation by setting back thicket growth rather than causing large-scale mortality of thicket shrubs.
Remote monitoring technologies for measuring cardiovascular functions in community-dwelling adults: a systematic review
Authors: Lu Jessica K. , Sijm Marcella , Janssens Georges E. , Goh Jorming , Maier Andrea B.
Published: May 2023

Remote monitoring technologies (RMTs) allow continuous, unobtrusive, and real-time monitoring of the cardiovascular system. An overview of existing RMTs measuring cardiovascular physiological variables is lacking. This systematic review aimed to describe RMTs measuring cardiovascular functions in community-dwelling adults. An electronic search was conducted via PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library from January 1, 2020, to April 7, 2022. Articles reporting on non-invasive RMTs used unsupervised in community-dwelling adults were included. Reviews and studies in institutionalized populations were excluded. Two reviewers independently assessed the studies and extracted the technologies used, cardiovascular variables measured, and wearing locations of RMTs. Validation of the RMTs was examined based on the COSMIN tool, and accuracy and precision were presented. This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022320082). A total of 272 articles were included representing 322,886 individuals with a mean or median age from 19.0 to 88.9 years (48.7% female). Of all 335 reported RMTs containing 216 distinct devices, photoplethysmography was used in 50.3% of RMTs. Heart rate was measured in 47.0% of measurements, and the RMT was worn on the wrist in 41.8% of devices. Nine devices were reported in more than three articles, of which all were sufficiently accurate, six were sufficiently precise, and four were commercially available in December 2022. The top four most reported technologies were AliveCor KardiaMobile®, Fitbit Charge 2, and Polar H7 and H10 Heart Rate Sensors. With over 200 distinct RMTs reported, this review provides healthcare professionals and researchers an overview of available RMTs for monitoring the cardiovascular system.
SEOM-GETNE clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroenteropancreatic and bronchial neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) (2022)
Authors: Castillón Jaume Capdevila , Gordoa Teresa Alonso , Bayonas Alberto Carmona , Carretero Ana Custodio , García-Carbonero Rocío , Pulido Enrique Grande , Fonseca Paula Jiménez , Lete Angela Lamarca , Huerta Angel Segura , Plazas Javier Gallego
Published: May 2023

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a heterogeneous family of tumors of challenging diagnosis and clinical management. Their incidence and prevalence continue to rise mainly due to an improvement on diagnostic techniques and awareness. Earlier detection, along with steadfast improvements in therapy, has led to better prognosis over time for advanced gastrointestinal and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. The aim of this guideline is to update evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroenteropancreatic and lung NENs. Diagnostic procedures, histological classification, and therapeutic options, including surgery, liver-directed therapy, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, and systemic hormonal, cytotoxic or targeted therapy, are reviewed and discussed, and treatment algorithms to guide therapeutic decisions are provided.
Is er een verband tussen de sociaal-emotionele gezondheid van kinderen en stress, zorgen of spanningen in het gezin?
Authors: Verhagen Claudia E. , Jansen Pim , Steenkamer W. A. , van der Wal Marcel F.
Published: May 2023

Samenvatting

Inleiding

Stress in het gezin kan de sociaal-emotionele gezondheid van kinderen negatief beïnvloeden. Met gegevens uit 2016–2017, verzameld door de Jeugdgezondheidszorg (JGZ), is dit verband onderzocht.

Methode

Ouders van 4.406 tienjarige basisschoolleerlingen uit Amsterdam vulden ten behoeve van het preventieve gezondheidsonderzoek (PGO) een vragenlijst in. Hierin is gevraagd naar stress in het gezin en de sociaal-emotionele gezondheid van het kind gemeten met de Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). De gegevens zijn gewogen naar geslacht, herkomst en sociaaleconomische status van de wijk. Verschillen tussen groepen zijn onderzocht met een chi-kwadraattoets en T‑test. Regressieanalyses zijn uitgevoerd om te corrigeren voor achtergrondkenmerken.

Resultaten

Van de ouders geeft 17,0% aan dat er stress is in het gezin en 15,1% van de tienjarige kinderen heeft een verhoogd risico op sociaal-emotionele problemen. Kinderen in gezinnen met stress hebben bijna drie keer vaker een verhoogd risico op sociaal-emotionele problemen dan kinderen in gezinnen zonder stress – 31,0% versus 11,5%. Dit verband blijft bestaan na correctie voor achtergrondkenmerken (risicoratio 2,63; 95%-betrouwbaarheidsinterval 2,35–2,93).

Conclusie

Dit onderzoek laat een sterk verband zien tussen stress in het gezin en de sociaal-emotionele gezondheid van het kind. Stress in het gezin is een factor om rekening mee te houden in de JGZ.
Flawless victory! Investigating search and experience qualities as antecedent predictors of video game success
Authors: Heidenreich Sven , Handrich Franziska , Kraemer Tobias
Published: May 2023

In recent years, video games have been on the rise as entertainment goods, leading to a growing interest by practitioners, researchers, and, of course, consumers alike. While a few unusually successful video games produce overall high revenues, most released games struggle to break even. Hence, there is an urgent need to better understand what distinguishes financially successful games from nonsuccessful video games. Accordingly, several researchers have called for investigations into the drivers of the financial success of video games. However, empirical studies within this respect are still lacking. Based on longitudinal data of 351 video games, the current study strives to fill this research gap by investigating the relative importance of potential success factors for the short-term and long-term financial success of video games. The results of multiple regression analyses confirm that search qualities such as brand popularity, reviews, and awards as well as experience qualities such as graphics, sound, and game duration significantly drive financial success in terms of the total number of sold video games in Europe. Consequently, managers in the video game industry can boost their chances for the production of a successful video game by focusing on these factors.
Intravenous injection of cyclosporin A loaded lipid nanocapsules fights inflammation and immune system activation in a mouse model of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Bohley Marilena , Dillinger Andrea E. , Braunger Barbara M. , Tamm Ernst R. , Goepferich Achim
Published: May 2023

Inflammation and immune system activation are key pathologic events in the onset and escalation of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Both are driven by cytokines and complement originating from the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Despite the RPE’s pivotal role, there is no therapeutic tool to specifically interfere with the RPE-related pathomechanism. A therapy that addresses RPE cells and counteracts inflammation and immune response would be of paramount value for the early treatment of DR, where currently are no specific therapies available. Here, we utilized lipoprotein-mimetic lipid nanocapsules to deliver the anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A (CsA) to RPE cells. Using a mouse model of DR that mirrors all pathologic aspects of human DR, we demonstrate that intravenously applied CsA-loaded lipid nanocapsules comprehensively counteract inflammation and immune system activation. One single injection suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, dampened macrophage infiltration, and prevented macrophage and microglia activation in eyes with DR. This work shows that CsA-loaded lipid nanocapsules can offer new avenues for the treatment of DR.

Graphical Abstract
Imago Dei in Eastern Orthodox Statements and Implications for Inclusion of People with Disabilities in the Church: A Dissonant Relationship
Authors: Ibrahim Emily A.
Published: May 2023

In the past two decades, official entities of the Eastern Orthodox Church have released two documents with implications for the inclusion of people with disabilities in the life and educational pursuits of the church. In 2008, the Russian Orthodox Church released a statement whose ambiguous treatment of the doctrine of the imago Dei runs the risk of having an alienating effect upon people with disabilities. In 2009, the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America released a document that honors those with disabilities. This article examines how each document views the image of God and its ramifications for people with disabilities within the church. I argue that the theology of imago Dei in these documents differs, resulting in conflicting views of people with disabilities. To resolve these discrepancies, the Orthodox Church should continue to develop and express its theological arguments regarding the imago Dei and its significance for all people.