bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Semisimple Classes and Component Groups in Type $$\textsf{D}$$
Authors: Cabanes Marc , Späth Britta
Published: August 2023

In adjoint simple algebraic groups $$\textbf{H}$$
H
of type $$\textsf{D}$$
D
we show that for every semisimple element s, its centralizer splits over its identity component, i.e. $$ C _{\textbf{H}}(s)= C _{\textbf{H}}(s)^{\circ }\rtimes \check{A}$$

C
H

(
s
)

=

C
H

(
s
)

∘

⋊

A
ˇ

for some complement $$\check{A}$$

A
ˇ

with strong stability properties. We derive several consequences about the action of automorphisms on semisimple conjugacy classes. This helps to parametrize characters of the finite groups $$\textsf{D}_{l,\text {sc}}(q)$$

D

l
,
sc

(
q
)

and $$^2\textsf{D}_{l,\text {sc}}(q)$$

2

D

l
,
sc

(
q
)

and describe the action of automorphisms on them. It is also a contribution to the final proof of the McKay conjecture for the prime 3, see (B. Späth: 2023).
Has intraoperative neuromonitoring changed the surgery for unruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms? A retrospective comparative study
Authors: Skrap Benjamin , Di Bonaventura Rina , Di Domenico Michele , Sturiale Carmelo Lucio , Auricchio Anna Maria , Maugeri Rosario , Giammalva Giuseppe Roberto , Iacopino Domenico Gerardo , Olivi Alessandro , Marchese Enrico , Albanese Alessio
Published: August 2023

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) represents one of the available technologies able to assess ischemia and aimed to improve surgical outcome reducing the treatment related morbidity in surgery for intracranial aneurysms. Many studies analyzing the impact of IONM are poised by the heterogeneity bias affecting the cohorts. We report our experience with IONM for surgery of unruptured middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm in order to highlight its influence on functional and radiological outcome and surgical strategy. We retrospectively reviewed all MCA unruptured aneurysms treated between January 2013 and June 2021 by our institutional neurovascular team. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the use of IONM. A total of 153 patients were included in the study, 52 operated on without IONM and 101 with IONM. The groups did not differ preoperatively regarding clinical status and aneurysm characteristics. Patients operated with IONM had better functional outcomes at discharge as well as at follow-up (p= 0.048, p=0.041) due to lower symptomatic ischemia and better radiological outcome due to lower rate of unexpected aneurysmal remnants (p= 0.0173). The introduction of IONM changed the use of temporary clipping (TeC), increasing its average duration (p= 0.01) improving the safety of dissecting and clipping the aneurysm. IONM in surgery for unruptured MCA aneurysm could improve the efficacy and safety of clipping strategy in the way it showed a role in changing the use of TeC and was associated to the reduction of unexpected aneurysmal remnants’ rate and improvement in both short- and long-term patient’s outcome.
Red List for British seaweeds: evaluating the IUCN methodology for non-standard marine organisms
Authors: Brodie Juliet , Wilbraham Joanna , Maggs Christine A. , Baldock Lin , Bunker Francis , Mieszkowska Nova , Scanlan Clare , Tittley Ian , Wilkinson Martin , Yesson Chris
Published: August 2023

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species is an authoritative tool in biodiversity conservation. Whilst IUCN criteria have been applied successfully to groups such as birds and mammals, a Red List assessment of British seaweeds in 2021 revealed that the categories to which seaweed species were assigned were dependent on how the criteria were applied. Here, this seaweed assessment is used as a case study with which to evaluate the IUCN methodology for use with ‘non-standard’ groups of organisms. A data-driven assessment of red (Rhodophyta), green (Chlorophyta) and brown (Phaeophyceae) seaweeds, which applied three (A, B and D) of the five IUCN criteria (A–E), categorized 13% of 617 British species as threatened. Following peer review, only 7% of species were categorized as threatened (1% Critically Endangered—CR, 3% Endangered—EN, 3% Vulnerable—VU), and 55% as Data Deficient. This reduction in species categorized as threatened suggests that strict application of the IUCN criteria may, at least for the seaweeds, over-estimate threat. As a result of this assessment, recommendations include the need for a more unified monitoring system and a review of the suitability for/application of the IUCN assessment criteria to some types of organisms. For example, in clonal populations, it is not possible to count individuals, and complex life histories cause additional complications. IUCN criteria must be applicable to a wide range of organisms, including seaweeds.
Preeclampsia, antihypertensive medication use in pregnancy and risk of childhood cancer in offspring
Authors: Askins Lexie , Orimoloye Helen T. , Deng Chuanjie , Hansen Johnni , Olsen Jorn , Ritz Beate , Janzen Carla , Heck Julia E.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that presents a significant risk to both the mother and the fetus. Preeclampsia and medications associated with its treatment are potentially linked to increased childhood cancer risk. Therefore, we examined the association between preeclampsia, antihypertensive medications, and childhood cancer in offspring.

Methods

Cases (n = 6,420) and controls (n = 160,484) were obtained from Danish national registries. We performed conditional logistic regression analyses to estimate the association between preeclampsia and childhood cancer risk, and examined the effects of antihypertensive medication use in pregnancy in relation to childhood cancer risk in the offspring with adjustment for relevant covariates.

Results

We observed an increased risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) among those whose mothers had preeclampsia (OR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.03, 1.79), especially for severe preeclampsia (OR = 2.36, 95% CI 1.37, 4.08). We also estimated an increased cancer risk in children born to mothers who were prescribed diuretics during pregnancy [OR = 2.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.39, 3.14]. Intake of other antihypertensive medications was not associated with childhood cancer (OR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.50, 1.23). Among women who did not take diuretics in pregnancy, preeclampsia was associated with neuroblastoma (OR = 2.22, 95% CI 1.08, 4.55).

Conclusion

Our findings suggested an increased risk for certain types of cancer in the offspring of mothers with preeclampsia and an increased risk of cancer with diuretic intake during pregnancy.
Income-related inequality in obesity and its determinants in Spain: What happens beyond the obesity threshold?
Authors: Raftopoulou Athina , Gil Trasfi Joan
Published: August 2023

This paper computes and decomposes income-related inequalities in three metrics of obesity, namely, status, depth and severity, for Spain, a European country characterized by a universal health care system with very high and rising obesity prevalence rates. Furthermore, this paper investigates the main determinants of the reduction in obesity inequalities observed over time among the female Spanish population. To compute these inequality indexes, we use cross-sectional and individual-level data gathered from the Spanish National Health Survey. We document income-related inequalities in obesity, that are more pronounced in depth and severity and are to the detriment of poor women in Spain. University education is the most important determinant for all three inequality indexes. We further report that inequalities in obesity tend to decline over time for women, which is explained mainly by a substantial decrease in the degree of inequality in secondary education and a large decrease in the income elasticity of obesity.
Mental Health, Well-Being, and Adolescent Extremism: A Machine Learning Study on Risk and Protective Factors
Authors: Haghish E. F. , Obaidi Milan , Strømme Thea , Bjørgo Tore , Grønnerød Cato
Published: August 2023

We examined the relationship between adolescents’ extremist attitudes with a multitude of mental health, well-being, psycho-social, environmental, and lifestyle variables, using state-of-the-art machine learning procedure and nationally representative survey dataset of Norwegian adolescents (N = 11,397). Three key research questions were addressed: 1) can adolescents with extremist attitudes be distinguished from those without, using psycho-socio-environmental survey items, 2) what are the most important predictors of adolescents’ extremist attitudes, and 3) whether the identified predictors correspond to specific latent factorial structures? Of the total sample, 17.6% showed elevated levels of extremist attitudes. The prevalence was significantly higher among boys and younger adolescents than girls and older adolescents, respectively. The machine learning model reached an AUC of 76.7%, with an equal sensitivity and specificity of 70.5% in the test dataset, demonstrating a satisfactory performance for the model. Items reflecting on positive parenting, quality of relationships with parents and peers, externalizing behavior, and well-being emerged as significant predictors of extremism. Exploratory factor analysis partially supported the suggested latent clusters. Out of the 550 psycho-socio-environmental variables analyzed, behavioral problems, individual and social well-being, along with basic needs such as a secure family environment and interpersonal relationships with parents and peers emerged as significant factors contributing to susceptibility to extremism among adolescents.
On the relative importance of land use, landscape characteristics, bird and plant assemblages as drivers of Mediterranean ecosystem functioning
Authors: Lopezosa Paula , Berdugo Miguel , Soliveres Santiago
Published: August 2023

Context

Mediterranean landscapes are undergoing severe transformations (land-use change and homogenization) that threatens biodiversity and the services these ecosystems provide. These effects can differ amongst biodiversity facets (plants vs. birds, taxonomic vs. functional) and ecosystem functions (e.g., seed dispersal, forest regeneration, pest control), although these are still poorly understood in Mediterranean landscapes.

Objectives

Our study aims at understanding how Mediterranean landscape characteristics and land use (tree croplands, shrublands and pine, oak and mixed forest) affect the diversity of birds and plants, and how these changes in biodiversity could affect ecosystem functioning.

Methods

In 2020–2021, we sampled 49 (5 × 5 m) plots in South-eastern Spain and from five different land uses: tree croplands, shrublands, and pine, oak and mixed forests. We measured land use, habitat diversity and size, together with birds and plant diversity. We assessed both direct and indirect (via bird and plant diversity) effects of landscape characteristics on 6 different ecosystem functions related to forest regeneration, predation, herbivory or aboveground biomass, which imply interactions between birds, plants and their environment.

Results

Plant communities responded mainly to local features (land use), whereas birds did so to habitat size and landscape diversity (within 500 m radius). Seed and caterpillar predation were more affected by bird’s diversity, whereas regeneration capacity of woody species was driven by both plants and birds. Land use was amongst the most important drivers of all measured functions, with generally higher functioning levels in oak and mixed forests than in the rest of land uses.

Conclusions

Our results emphasize the complementary information obtained when considering multiple biodiversity facets in studying the consequences of landscape transformation. We also show that these multiple biodiversity changes can be as important as those of land-use or landscape characteristics for ecosystem functioning.
Internal Categoricity, Truth and Determinacy
Authors: Fischer Martin , Zicchetti Matteo
Published: August 2023

This paper focuses on the categoricity of arithmetic and determinacy of arithmetical truth. Several ‘internal’ categoricity results have been discussed in the recent literature. Against the background of the philosophical position called internalism, we propose and investigate truth-theoretic versions of internal categoricity based on a primitive truth predicate. We argue for the compatibility of a primitive truth predicate with internalism and provide a novel argument for (and proof of) a truth-theoretic version of internal categoricity and internal determinacy with some positive properties.
Transport in a stochastic double diffusivity model
Authors: Chattopadhyay Amit K. , Parisis Konstantinos , Konstantinidis Avraam , Aifantis Elias C.
Published: August 2023

A recent study analyzed the role of stochastic perturbations on the interface dynamics of two interacting species within a double-diffusivity framework, involving double diffusion models. The model relied on a restricted translation–reflection (TR) symmetry manifold, leading to a single variable description. The present study generalizes this model for a TR symmetry violating system that does not permit reduction to a single variable dynamics, leading to a hitherto unseen stochastic resonance (SR), a mechanism that indicates discrete, rather than a continuous, mode of energy transport. The SR exhibited by the model captures the signature fast transport observed in  stochastically driven dynamics of nanopolycrystals, that previous deterministic models failed to emulate. We show that the speed of transfer relates to the strength of energy cross-correlations between the two diffusing species communicating through interface dynamics that eventually drives the energy throughput and identifies the role of stochasticity in nanopolycrystalline transport.
A new framework for Physical Layer Security in HetNets based on Radio Resource Allocation and Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Marabissi Dania , Abrardo Andrea , Mucchi Lorenzo
Published: August 2023

Densification of networks through heterogeneous cells deployment is considered a key technology to satisfy the huge traffic growth in future wireless systems. In addition to achieving the required communication capacity and efficiency, another significant challenge arises from the broadcast nature of wireless channels: vulnerability to wiretapping. Physical-layer security is envisaged as an additional level of security to provide confidentiality of radio communications. Typical characteristics of the wireless channel (noise, interference) can be exploited to keep a message confidential from potential eavesdroppers. In particular, heterogeneous networks (HetNet) have inherent security features: while the legitimate user can benefit of the HetNet architecture, the eavesdropper is strongly affected by the inter-cell interference. This paper presents an overview of HetNets intrinsic security benefits, mainly focusing on users association and resource allocation policies. In particular, allocation of radio resources is a poorly investigated topic when related to information security. However, in systems with a large radio resource reuse like HetNets, co-channel interference can be suitably exploited to resist to the eavesdropper. This paper presents a new framework for radio resources allocation using reinforcement learning (Q-learning) to increase the security level in HetNets. A coordinated scheduling among different cells using the same radio resources is proposed based on the exploitation of the spatial information. The goal is to optimize the security at physical layer. The reinforcement learning approach represents a feasible and efficient solution to the proposed problem.
View recommendation for multi-camera demonstration-based training
Authors: Biswas Saugata , Kruijff Ernst , Veas Eduardo
Published: August 2023

While humans can effortlessly pick a view from multiple streams, automatically choosing the best view is a challenge. Choosing the best view from multi-camera streams poses a problem regarding which objective metrics should be considered. Existing works on view selection lack consensus about which metrics should be considered to select the best view. The literature on view selection describes diverse possible metrics. And strategies such as information-theoretic, instructional design, or aesthetics-motivated fail to incorporate all approaches. In this work, we postulate a strategy incorporating information-theoretic and instructional design-based objective metrics to select the best view from a set of views. Traditionally, information-theoretic measures have been used to find the goodness of a view, such as in 3D rendering. We adapted a similar measure known as the viewpoint entropy for real-world 2D images. Additionally, we incorporated similarity penalization to get a more accurate measure of the entropy of a view, which is one of the metrics for the best view selection. Since the choice of the best view is domain-dependent, we chose demonstration-based training scenarios as our use case. The limitation of our chosen scenarios is that they do not include collaborative training and solely feature a single trainer. To incorporate instructional design considerations, we included the trainer’s body pose, face, face when instructing, and hands visibility as metrics. To incorporate domain knowledge we included predetermined regions’ visibility as another metric. All of those metrics are taken into account to produce a parameterized view recommendation approach for demonstration-based training. An online study using recorded multi-camera video streams from a simulation environment was used to validate those metrics. Furthermore, the responses from the online study were used to optimize the view recommendation performance with a normalized discounted cumulative gain (NDCG) value of 0.912, which shows good performance with respect to matching user choices.
A new optimal root-finding iterative algorithm: local and semilocal analysis with polynomiography
Authors: Qureshi Sania , Argyros Ioannis K. , Soomro Amanullah , Gdawiec Krzysztof , Shaikh Asif Ali , Hincal Evren
Published: August 2023

In this work, a new optimal iterative algorithm is presented with fourth-order accuracy for root-finding of real functions. It uses only function as well as derivative evaluation. The algorithm is obtained as a combination of existing third-order methods by specifying a parameter involved. The algorithm is based on local and semilocal analysis and has been specifically designed to improve efficiency and accuracy. The proposed algorithm represents a significant improvement over existing iterative algorithms. In particular, it is tested on a range of polynomial functions and was found to produce accurate and efficient results, with improved performance over existing algorithms in terms of both speed and accuracy. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm and suggest that it has great potential for use in a wide range of applications in polynomiography and other areas of mathematical analysis.
Dividends, trust, and firm value
Authors: Kapons Martin , Kelly Peter , Stoumbos Robert , Zambrana Rafael
Published: August 2023

We find evidence that investors value dividends differently depending on their level of trust. Our tests indicate that investor demand for dividend-paying stocks increases as trust decreases, and that this relationship affects market values. We begin with survey evidence showing that people think accounting fraud is less likely among dividend payers and that people with low trust are more likely to hold dividend-paying stocks. We then empirically exploit accounting fraud discoveries within a mutual fund’s portfolio as a shock to trust. In response to these shocks, we show that mutual funds tilt their portfolios toward dividend-paying stocks. This result is not explained by a shift in risk preferences, indicating that these institutional investors are seeking dividends in particular rather than stable firms that just happen to pay dividends. Finally, we provide evidence that dividend payers experience a premium in their market values relative to non-payers when their investor base becomes less trusting.
Adsorptive Removal of Rhodamine B Dye from Aqueous Solutions Using Mineral Materials as Low-Cost Adsorbents
Authors: Kuśmierek Krzysztof , Fronczyk Joanna , Świątkowski Andrzej
Published: August 2023

In this work, the potential adsorption abilities of mineral materials such as zeolite (Ze), halloysite (Ha), chalcedonite (Ch), and Devonian sand (DS) used as low-cost resources for the removal of Rhodamine B (RhB) from aqueous solutions were investigated in batch conditions. Adsorption kinetics and equilibrium and the effect of solution reaction (pH) were studied. Adsorption kinetic data were analyzed using two kinetic models: pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order models. Adsorption kinetics was better represented by the pseudo-second-order model. Equilibrium data were analyzed by the Freundlich, Langmuir, and Sips isotherms. The results show that equilibrium data fit well with the Freundlich equilibrium. Monolayer maximum adsorption capacities of RhB were assumed at 6.964, 4.252, 2.701, and 0.349 mg/g for Ze, Ha, Ch, and DS, respectively. Adsorption was strongly pH-dependent. The maximum RhB adsorption on all tested materials was observed at pH = 2.2 and decreased with further pH increase. The results of these investigations suggest that natural materials represented by certain minerals have a good potential for the removal of Rhodamine B from aqueous solutions.

Graphical Abstract
Neural-network-based parameter tuning for multi-agent simulation using deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Hirano Masanori , Izumi Kiyoshi
Published: August 2023

This study proposes a new efficient parameter tuning method for multi-agent simulation (MAS) using deep reinforcement learning. MAS is currently a useful tool for social sciences, but is hard to realize realistic simulations due to its computational burden for parameter tuning. This study proposes efficient parameter tuning to address this issue using deep reinforcement learning methods. To improve compatibility with the tuning task, our proposed method employs actor-critic-based deep reinforcement learning, such as deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) and soft actor-critic (SAC). In addition to the customized version of DDPG and SAC for our task, we also propose three additional components to stabilize the learning: an action converter (DDPG only), a redundant full neural network actor, and a seed fixer. For experimental verification, we employ a parameter tuning task in an artificial financial market simulation, comparing our proposed model, its ablations, and the Bayesian estimation-based baseline. The results demonstrate that our model outperforms the baseline in terms of tuning performance, indicating that the additional components of the proposed method are essential. Moreover, the critic of our model works effectively as a surrogate model, that is, as an approximate function of the simulation, which allows the actor to tune the parameters appropriately. We have also found that the SAC-based method exhibits the best and fastest convergence, which we assume is achieved by the high exploration capability of SAC.
Sex-specific preservation of neuromuscular function and metabolism following systemic transplantation of multipotent adult stem cells in a murine model of progeria
Authors: Thompson Seth D. , Barrett Kelsey L. , Rugel Chelsea L. , Redmond Robin , Rudofski Alexia , Kurian Jacob , Curtin Jodi L. , Dayanidhi Sudarshan , Lavasani Mitra
Published: August 2023

Onset and rates of sarcopenia, a disease characterized by a loss of muscle mass and function with age, vary greatly between sexes. Currently, no clinical interventions successfully arrest age-related muscle impairments since the decline is frequently multifactorial. Previously, we found that systemic transplantation of our unique adult multipotent muscle-derived stem/progenitor cells (MDSPCs) isolated from young mice—but not old—extends the health-span in DNA damage mouse models of progeria, a disease of accelerated aging. Additionally, induced neovascularization in the muscles and brain—where no transplanted cells were detected—strongly suggests a systemic therapeutic mechanism, possibly activated through circulating secreted factors. Herein, we used ZMPSTE24-deficient mice, a lamin A defect progeria model, to investigate the ability of young MDSPCs to preserve neuromuscular tissue structure and function. We show that progeroid ZMPST24-deficient mice faithfully exhibit sarcopenia and age-related metabolic dysfunction. However, systemic transplantation of young MDSPCs into ZMPSTE24-deficient progeroid mice sustained healthy function and histopathology of muscular tissues throughout their 6-month life span in a sex-specific manner. Indeed, female—but not male—mice systemically transplanted with young MDSPCs demonstrated significant preservation of muscle endurance, muscle fiber size, mitochondrial respirometry, and neuromuscular junction morphometrics. These novel findings strongly suggest that young MDSPCs modulate the systemic environment of aged animals by secreted rejuvenating factors to maintain a healthy homeostasis in a sex-specific manner and that the female muscle microenvironment remains responsive to exogenous regenerative cues in older age. This work highlights the age- and sex-related differences in neuromuscular tissue degeneration and the future prospect of preserving health in older adults with systemic regenerative treatments.
Instrumented column testing on long-term consolidation and desiccation behaviour of coal tailings under natural weather conditions
Authors: Zhang Wenqiang , Zhang Chenming , Lei Ximing , Quintero Olaya Sebastian , Zhu Yuyang , Zhao Zicheng , Jensen Steve , Williams David John
Published: August 2023

The sedimentation, consolidation and desiccation behaviour of sub-aerially deposited tailings in tailings storage facilities, despite occurring simultaneously and being essential to maximise tailings dry density and dewatering efficiency, are usually analysed in laboratories using distinctive testing equipment, which is unable to reveal their interactions. A large instrumented column was constructed to test the three processes of tailings in a single apparatus, capable of monitoring the changes in the hydrological parameters of coal tailings with depth and surface settlement under natural weather conditions. The column was initially filled with coal tailings slurry and exposed to natural weather for two years, during which five wetting–drying periods were identified. The monitored results indicate that exposing the slurry tailings for one month would lead to the formation of an unsaturated tailings layer with a thickness of 150 mm, likely representing the optimised tailings deposition cycle and thickness, respectively, under the given tailings characteristics and semi-arid climates. Settlement mainly occurred after major rainfall events due to the collapse of cracks and cavities formed during the preceding desiccation. The maximum thickness of the unsaturated tailings increased over the first four periods as the predominant desiccation and settlement strengthened the evaporative capillary forces, despite it decreasing greatly in the last period due to insufficient desiccation. An empirical model was proposed to consecutively estimate the surface moisture content of deformable tailings and validated by achieving a good agreement in the water mass estimated by two methods during wetting–drying cycles.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a Solidification-Based Aluminum-Cooled Finger Refinement Process From Micro to Macro-Scale
Authors: Curtolo Danilo , Schubert Christian , Viardin Alexandre , Friedrich Semiramis , Eickhoff Moritz , Böttger Bernd , Friedrich Bernd , Pfeifer Herbert , Apel Markus
Published: August 2023

The interest in ultra-pure metals is steadily growing due to the increasing demand for these materials in modern technology. To be able to meet the increasing demand in the future, it is necessary to implement more efficient and productive processes. As a fractional crystallization method in this application area, the cooled finger method exhibits higher productivity and lower energy requirements when compared to industry well-established methods like zone melting. In this study, the mechanisms and relevant phenomena crucial for a successful implementation of a cooled finger process were investigated using a multidisciplinary approach. With carefully selected process parameters, we present here an experimental setup with a purification potential of approximately 80 pct. Additional micro- and macro-scale simulations demonstrate that the process is sensitive to parameters such as rotation rate, cooling rate, and temperature gradient within the melt, which explains the difficulty in optimizing this process in practice. An analysis and description of various phenomena that characterize the behavior of the cooled finger process are presented within this multi-scale approach. As a result, these approaches can also be transferred to the description of processes for other metals, opening application areas outside of the purification of aluminum.
Team-Based Approach to Reduce Malignancies in People with Diabetes and Obesity
Authors: Zhu Ziyue , Wong Samuel Yeung Shan , Sung Joseph Jao Yiu , Lam Thomas Yuen Tung
Published: August 2023

Purpose of Review

Numerous observations have indicated an increased risk of developing various types of cancers, as well as cancer-related mortality, among patients with diabetes and obesity. The purpose of this review is to outline multiple-cancer screening among these patients through a team-based approach and to present the findings of a pioneering integrated care program designed for patients with obesity with a specific emphasis on cancer prevention.

Recent Findings

A community-based multi-cancer prevention program, which provides all services in one location and utilizes team-based approaches, is reported to be feasible and has the potential to enhance the uptake rate of multiple cancers screening among patients with diabetes and obesity.

The team-based approach is a commonly utilized method for managing patients with diabetes, obesity, and cancer, and has been shown to be efficacious. Nevertheless, research on team-based cancer screening programs for patients with diabetes and obesity remains limited. Providing a comprehensive screening for colorectal, prostate, and breast cancer, as well as metabolic syndrome, during a single clinic visit has been proven effective and well-received by participants.
Digitale Kompetenzen angehender Sportlehrkräfte
Authors: Mödinger Moritz , Wohlfart Olivia , Woll Alexander , Wagner Ingo
Published: August 2023

Da internationale Vergleichsstudien zu digitalen Kompetenzen im Hinblick auf eine föderalistisch geprägte Bildungslandschaft zum Ausbildungsstand angehender Lehrkräfte nur eingeschränkt aussagekräftig sein können, bedarf es im Hinblick auf eine zielgerichtete Ausbildung bundesland- und fachspezifischer Untersuchungen unter Verwendung eines zielgruppenadäquaten Erhebungsinstruments. Zu diesem Zweck wurden die Kompetenzen von 185 angehenden Sportlehrkräften zu Beginn des Referendariats in Baden-Württemberg (Rücklaufquote: 44,4 %) anhand des TPACK-Modells mittels eines Online-Fragebogens erhoben, der auf einer Selbsteinschätzung beruht und fachspezifisch inhaltlichen Besonderheiten Rechnung trägt. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass sich die angehenden Sportlehrkräfte inhaltlich gut (CK) und besser als pädagogisch (PK) auf eine zunehmend digitale Bildungslandschaft vorbereitet fühlen. Auch trauen sie sich zu, inhaltliches Wissen pädagogisch zu vermitteln (PCK), allerdings stellt die Berücksichtigung von Informations- und Kommunikationstechnologien (IKT) im Unterricht (TK, TCK, TPK, TPACK) vermeintlich noch eine Barriere dar. Eine gezielte Förderung der pädagogischen Implementierung von IKT (TPK) könnte hingegen die Entwicklung von TPACK – auch fächerübergreifend – positiv beeinflussen. Mit Blick auf die Stärkung von Kompetenzen sollte darüber hinaus der Fachspezifität größere Aufmerksamkeit zuteilwerden, um mögliche Defizite zu identifizieren und diesen konstruktiv entgegenwirken zu können. Auch sollte der schulische Kontext bei der Vermittlung theoretischen Wissens noch stärker berücksichtigt werden und die Ausbildung die methodische Einbindung technologischer Aspekte im Hinblick auf das Bewegungskönnen stärker in den Blick nehmen, um TPACK bei angehenden Sportlehrkräften wirksam(er) zu fördern.
Fibration theorems à la Milnor for analytic maps with non-isolated singularities
Authors: Cisneros-Molina José Luis , Menegon Aurélio , Seade José , Snoussi Jawad
Published: August 2023

We study the topology of real analytic maps in a neighborhood of a (possibly non-isolated) critical point. We prove fibration theorems à la Milnor for real analytic maps with non-isolated critical values. Here we study the situation for maps with arbitrary critical set. We use the concept of d-regularity introduced in an earlier paper for maps with an isolated critical value. We prove that this is the key point for the existence of a Milnor fibration on the sphere in the general setting. Plenty of examples are discussed along the text, particularly the interesting family of functions $$(f,g):{\mathbb {R}}^n \rightarrow {\mathbb {R}}^2$$

(
f
,
g
)

:

R

n

→

R

2

of the type $$\begin{aligned} (f,g) = \left( \sum _{i=1}^n a_i x_i^p, \sum _{i=1}^n b_i x_i^q \right) , \end{aligned}$$

(
f
,
g
)

=

∑

i
=
1

n

a
i

x
i
p

,

∑

i
=
1

n

b
i

x
i
q

,

where $$a_i, b_i \in {\mathbb {R}}$$

a
i

,

b
i

∈
R

are constants in generic position and $$p,q \ge 2$$

p
,
q
≥
2

are integers.
Detecting and generating overlapping nested communities
Authors: Gera Imre , London András
Published: August 2023

Nestedness has been observed in a variety of networks but has been primarily viewed in the context of bipartite networks. Numerous metrics quantify nestedness and some clustering methods identify fully nested parts of graphs, but all with similar limitations. Clustering approaches also fail to uncover the overlap between fully nested subgraphs, as they assign vertices to a single group only. In this paper, we look at the nestedness of a network through an auxiliary graph, in which a directed edge represents a nested relationship between the two corresponding vertices of the network. We present an algorithm that recovers this so-called community graph, and finds the overlapping fully nested subgraphs of a network. We also introduce an algorithm for generating graphs with such nested structure, given by a community graph. This algorithm can be used to test a nested community detection algorithm of this kind, and potentially to evaluate different metrics of nestedness as well. Finally, we evaluate our nested community detection algorithm on a large variety of networks, including bipartite and non-bipartite ones, too. We derive a new metric from the community graph to quantify the nestedness of both bipartite and non-bipartite networks.
Unpaid caregiving for people following hip fracture: longitudinal analysis from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Smith Toby O. , Langford S. , Ward K. , Gray R.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To determine the provision and its change over time in unpaid care for people following hip fracture.

Methods

Data were sought from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) cohort. We identified participants who self-reported experiencing a hip fracture, who had clinical and caregiving data in the previous and subsequent two data collection waves. Demographic and clinical data were collected in addition to data on provision of unpaid care, who provided care and the frequency of needs being met.

Results

The analysed cohort consisted of 246 participants [150 females (61%), mean age 78.9 years (standard deviation: 8.6)]. There was an increase in the number of participants requiring unpaid care between the Pre-Fracture and Fracture Wave (29% vs. 59%), which plateaued in the subsequent two waves (56%; 51%). Although both spouse and daughters provided the most unpaid care to participants over this study period, there was an increase in support provided during the Fracture Wave by both sons and daughters. This increased support offered by spouses continued until Post-Fracture Wave 2 when this plateaued. Support provided by friends increased from 3 to 8% and brothers and sisters increased from 0 and 1% Pre-Fracture to 8% by Post-Fracture Wave 2.

Conclusion

These findings provide insights into who, what and how unpaid carers support people following hip fracture over time. Given the level of support unpaid carers offer, and previously reported carer stress and burden, undertaking clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of carer–patient support interventions would be valuable.
A review of the knowledge base for the development of natural ingredients value chains for a sustainable biobased economy in Colombia
Authors: Vargas-Carpintero Ricardo , Romero-Perdomo Felipe , Martínez Juan F. , Lewandowski Iris
Published: August 2023

Natural ingredients (NIs) from plant biodiversity represent a value creation strategy in the transition to a sustainable biobased economy, especially in biodiversity rich countries. A necessary action to achieve this purpose is to orientate research and strengthen the knowledge base of NIs following a value chain (VC) approach. Although the promotion of NIVCs has gained increasing attention in the bioeconomy, a description of the scientific progress, research advances and gaps towards their development is necessary. This review aimed to scrutinize the existing literature on NIVCs to determine its state of progress. Firstly, we explored the global diffusion of research on natural plant ingredients. Secondly, we examined the research landscape in Colombia, focusing on the cooperation between countries, economic sectors impacted, and plant species reported. Lastly, we selected the most reported plant species as a promising NI source in Colombia to assess the literature that constitute the knowledge base of this plant in relation to the VC building blocks: biomass production, biomass processing, product development, and transversal aspects such as sustainability and governance. We show that research on NIs has risen worldwide, with notable scientific output from China, India, and the United States. In Colombia, the interest in NIs from plant biodiversity has also gained importance in the research agenda. Its progress is based on extensive collaboration between institutions, mainly from Spain, the United States, and Brazil. Its research prospects include diverse applications in the pharmaceutical and food sectors. We identify Lippia origanoides as the most reported native plant in scientific literature in Colombia. Using this plant as case study, we provide an overview of the knowledge base of L. origanoides in relation to the VC. Our results indicate that most publications focus on product development, suggesting a lack of comprehensive coverage of the VC and potentially neglected aspects. Based on this, we describe the current and desired scenario of L. origanoides VCs, as well as needs and opportunities for their sustainable implementation in Colombia. This contributes to build research and development roadmaps of sustainable NIVCs from plant diversity supported by multi-stakeholder collaboration.
Local ancestry and selection in admixed Sanjiang cattle
Authors: Lyu Yang , Ren Yaxuan , Qu Kaixing , Quji Suolang , Zhuzha Basang , Lei Chuzhao , Chen Ningbo
Published: August 2023

The majority of native cattle are taurine × indicine cattle of diverse phenotypes in the central region of China. Sanjiang cattle, a typical breed in the central region, play a central role in human livelihood and have good adaptability, including resistance to dampness, heat, roughage, and disease, and are thus regarded as an important genetic resource. However, the genetic history of the successful breed remains unknown. Here, we sequenced 10 Sanjiang cattle genomes and compared them to the 70 genomes of 5 representative populations worldwide. We characterized the genomic diversity and breed formation process of Sanjiang cattle and found that Sanjiang cattle have a mixed ancestry of indicine (55.6%) and taurine (33.2%) dating to approximately 30 generations ago, which has shaped the genome of Sanjiang cattle. Through ancestral fragment inference, selective sweep and transcriptomic analysis, we identified several genes linked to lipid metabolism, immune regulation, and stress reactions across the mosaic genome of Sanjiang cattle showing an excess of taurine or indicine ancestry. Taurine ancestry might contribute to meat quality, and indicine ancestry is more conducive to adaptation to hot climate conditions, making Sanjiang cattle a valuable genetic resource for the central region of China. Our results will help us understand the evolutionary history and ancestry components of Sanjiang cattle, which will provide a reference for resource conservation and selective breeding of Chinese native cattle.
Measurements of traffic-related air pollution at a U.S.–Mexico port of entry and its impacts on nearby community
Authors: Li Wen-Whai , Chavez Mayra , Williams Evan , Vazquez Leonardo
Published: August 2023

Traffic-related air pollutants are especially prevalent in border cities with multiple ports of entry (POEs). Excessive emissions due to long delays of idling commercial and passenger vehicles at the POEs could exacerbate various types of respiratory health conditions for the POE users and workers. We conducted a 1-month in-traffic air monitoring campaign at a POE in El Paso, Texas using three continuous FEM instruments for three criteria pollutants (PM, O3, and NO2). Concurrent monitoring of PM in the nearby community was performed using a number of low-cost PM sensors. The 1-month average PM2.5 concentration at the POE was found below 11.6 µg/m3, while the 5-min average of in-traffic PM2.5 concentration could be as high as 450 µg/m3. The in-traffic PM2.5 concentrations were comparable to the data concurrently measured in a state-operated community monitoring site approximately 0.4 km away from the POE. Ozone (O3) concentrations remained low in the region. The in-traffic 1-h NO2 concentrations were below the 1-h NAAQS of 100 ppb, except for only two 5-min intervals. Our results suggest that traffic emissions do not result in elevated levels of pollutant concentrations at this POE compared to the concentration levels observed in the nearby community. In addition, the performance and accuracy of the low-cost sensors appear to be less reliable during our study, although the devices were capable of detecting the trends and variability in pollutant concentrations in real time.
The Science of Human Intelligence
Authors: Haier Richard J. , Colom Roberto , Hunt Earl
Published: August 2023

In this revised and updated edition of Hunt's classic textbook, Human Intelligence, two research experts explain how key scientific studies have revealed exciting information about what intelligence is, where it comes from, why there are individual differences, and what the prospects are for enhancing it. The topics are chosen based on the weight of evidence, allowing readers to evaluate what ideas and theories the data support. Topics include IQ testing, mental processes, brain imaging, genetics, population differences, sex, aging, and likely prospects for enhancing intelligence based on current scientific evidence. Readers will confront ethical issues raised by research data and learn how scientists pursue answers to basic and socially relevant questions about why intelligence is important in everyday life. Many of the answers will be surprising and stimulate readers to think constructively about their own views.
The Education and Employment of Girls in Luton, 1874-1924
Authors: Allsopp Anne
Published: August 2023

This book, based on the author's PhD thesis, examines the education of Luton girls and the relationship with employment opportunities. The acknowledged independence of spirit to be found in Luton was especially noticeable among its female population who enjoyed considerable economic power within the traditional hat-making industry.

In spite of this, there is evidence to show that girls' education was biased towards their roles as wives and mothers. However, by the early twentieth century, the effects of compulsory education and the introduction of new industries into the town meant that their status and expectations had changed.

Sunday schooling was important to children from the labouring classes and the contribution of these schools has been assessed. Specific themes include half-time schooling and the granting of labour certificates which allowed children to leave school before the statutory age.

The contribution of the home and independent organisations, the training of teachers, the character of rural schools and the introduction of technical and secondary education have also been considered. While emphasis is on the education of girls from the lower social classes, the middle classes have not been ignored.
Outbreaks Following Natural Disasters: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Walika Miran , Moitinho De Almeida Maria , Castro Delgado Rafael , Arcos González Pedro
Published: August 2023

Understanding the relationship between infectious disease outbreaks and natural disasters is important in developing response and disaster risk reduction strategies. The aim of this study was to identify outbreaks associated with natural disasters during the past 20 y, and outline risk factors and mechanisms for postdisaster outbreaks. Review of the international disaster database (EM-DAT) and systematic review of the literature were conducted. The records of disaster events in EM-DAT during the past 20 y were screened. A literature search was carried out in the databases PubMed and Embase. Articles in English language published between 2000 and 2020 were searched. Data were extracted from articles and Narrative synthesis was used to summarize the findings. We found 108 events associated with epidemics, the majority being floods. We found 36 articles, most of them focused on outbreaks after floods. Risk factors and mechanisms that contributed to the outbreaks were mainly related to the consequences of disaster and its impact on the environment and living conditions of population. Infrastructure readiness and postdisaster measures play important roles in controlling the spread of epidemics after natural disasters. More evidence and research are required for better understanding of the association between natural disasters and infectious diseases outbreaks.
Preserving Consumer Autonomy through European Union Regulation of Artificial Intelligence: A Long-Term Approach
Authors: Fassiaux Sébastien
Published: August 2023

Personal autonomy is at the core of liberal societies, and its preservation has been a focus of European Union (EU) consumer and data protection law. Professionals increasingly use artificial intelligence in consumer markets to shape user preferences and influence their behaviours. This paper focuses on the long-term impact of artificial intelligence on consumer autonomy by studying three specific commercial practices: (1) dark patterns in user interfaces; (2) behavioural advertising; and (3) personalisation through recommender systems. It explores whether and to what extent EU regulation addresses the risks to consumer autonomy of using artificial intelligence in markets in the long term. It finds that new EU regulation does bring novelties to protect consumer autonomy in this context but fails to sufficiently consider the long-term consequences of autonomy capture by professionals. Finally, the paper makes several proposals to integrate the long-term risks affecting consumer autonomy in EU consumer and data protection regulation. It does so through an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from legal research and findings in the study of long-term thinking, philosophy and ethics and computer science.