bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatigue‐Resistant Mechanoresponsive Color‐Changing Hydrogels for Vision‐Based Tactile Robots
Authors: Liu Jiabin , Li Wei , She Yu , Blanchard Sean , Lin Shaoting
Published: September 2024

Mechanoresponsive color‐changing materials that can reversibly and resiliently change color in response to mechanical deformation are highly desirable for diverse modern technologies in optics, sensors, and robots; however, such materials are rarely achieved. Here, a fatigue‐resistant mechanoresponsive color‐changing hydrogel (FMCH) is reported that exhibits reversible, resilient, and predictable color changes under mechanical stress. At its undeformed state, the FMCH remains dark under a circular polariscope; upon uniaxial stretching of up to six times its initial length, it gradually shifts its color from black, to gray, yellow, and purple. Unlike traditional mechanoresponsive color‐changing materials, FMCH maintains its performance across various strain rates for up to 10 000 cycles. Moreover, FMCH demonstrates superior mechanical properties with fracture toughness of 3000 J m−2, stretchability of 6, and fatigue threshold up to 400 J m−2. These exceptional mechanical and optical features are attributed to FMCH's substantial molecular entanglements and desirable hygroscopic salts, which synergistically enhance its mechanical toughness while preserving its color‐changing performance. One application of this FMCH as a tactile sensoris then demonstrated for vision‐based tactile robots, enabling them to discern material stiffness, object shape, spatial location, and applied pressure by translating stress distribution on the contact surface into discernible images.
Polypyridiniums with Inherent Autophagy‐Inducing Activity for Atherosclerosis Treatment by Intracellularly Co‐Delivering Two Antioxidant Enzymes
Authors: Liang Mengxiao , Wang Qian , Zhang Song , Lan Qi , Wang Ruijue , Tan Echuan , Zhou Lei , Wang Changping , Wang Hui , Cheng Yiyun
Published: September 2024

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial intima and is becoming the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. There is considerable evidence that defective autophagy and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are closely involved in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Here, a polymer is developed with the inherent autophagy‐inducing activity to treat atherosclerosis by co‐delivering antioxidant enzymes. The lead material P5c screened from a library of polypyridiniums shows robust efficacy in cytosolic protein delivery, and efficiently delivers superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) into macrophages to down‐regulate intracellular ROS. Moreover, P5c activates autophagy in macrophages and sufficiently inhibits foam cell formation. The P5c nanoparticle loaded with both SOD and CAT is further coated with neutrophil membranes to treat atherosclerosis in an ApoE−/− mice model. The treatment exhibits potent anti‐atherosclerosis effect via activating autophagy, decreasing the infiltration of senescent cells in atherosclerotic plaques, regulating the M2 polarization of macrophages, and restoring the structure and function of splenic corpuscles. The polymer offers a multifaceted approach to combat atherosclerosis, addressing both cellular dysfunction and the need for targeted protein delivery within affected cells.
Steric Engineering of HOF Hierarchical Branched Homostructures for 3D Photonic Logic Processing
Authors: Yao Yinan , Wu Qirui , Ren Shizhe , Zhao Yong Sheng , Guan Lunhui
Published: September 2024

Controlled manipulation of photons/electrons at micro/nanoscale holds the key to the development of versatile optoelectronics devices. However, current photonics devices are primarily constructed from simple low‐dimensional structures, which suffer from limited structural design freedom due to the planar processing scheme, impeding further performance improvement and functionality upgrades. Herein, the first 3D hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) branched homostructure with spatial positioned multi‐input/output optical channels for 3D photon manipulation is reported. The free‐standing 3D HOF branched homostructures are prepared by a steric engineering strategy, which involves a multinucleation‐assisted growth mechanism. The hierarchical Y‐type and X‐type HOF homostructures exhibit asymmetrical photon transport behaviors, showing applications in optical logic gates with single or dual ON/OFF functionality, respectively. Moreover, the 3D HOF branched homostructure with multiple spatially distributed input/output optical channels displays spatial asymmetric photon transport, which functions as spatial photonic signal logics. These results offer a novel strategy for the development of HOF‐based photonic devices with 3D photon manipulation.
A Novel Metabolomic Aging Clock Predicting Health Outcomes and Its Genetic and Modifiable Factors
Authors: Jia Xueqing , Fan Jiayao , Wu Xucheng , Cao Xingqi , Ma Lina , Abdelrahman Zeinab , Zhao Fei , Zhu Haitao , Bizzarri Daniele , Akker Erik B van den , Slagboom P. Eline , Deelen Joris , Zhou Dan , Liu Zuyun
Published: September 2024

Existing metabolomic clocks exhibit deficiencies in capturing the heterogeneous aging rates among individuals with the same chronological age. Yet, the modifiable and non‐modifiable factors in metabolomic aging have not been systematically studied. Here, a new aging measure—MetaboAgeMort—is developed using metabolomic profiles from 239,291 UK Biobank participants for 10‐year all‐cause mortality prediction. The MetaboAgeMort showed significant associations with all‐cause mortality, cause‐specific mortality, and diverse incident diseases. Adding MetaboAgeMort to a conventional risk factors model improved the predictive ability of 10‐year mortality. A total of 99 modifiable factors across seven categories are identified for MetaboAgeMort. Among these, 16 factors representing pulmonary function, body composition, socioeconomic status, dietary quality, smoking status, alcohol intake, and disease status showed quantitatively stronger associations. The genetic analyses revealed 99 genomic risk loci and 271 genes associated with MetaboAgeMort. The tissue‐enrichment analysis showed significant enrichment in liver. While the external validation of the MetaboAgeMort is required, this study illuminates heterogeneous metabolomic aging across the same age, providing avenues for identifying high‐risk individuals, developing anti‐aging therapies, and personalizing interventions, thus promoting healthy aging and longevity.
Population histories of variable reproductive success and low winter precipitation correlate with risk‐averse seed germination in a mediterranean‐climate winter annual
Authors: Vergara Isabella H. , Geber Monica A. , Moeller David A. , Eckhart Vincent M.
Published: September 2024

Premise

Seed germination involves risk; post‐germination conditions might not allow survival and reproduction. Variable, stressful environments favor seeds with germination that avoids risk (e.g., germination in conditions predicting success), spreads risk (e.g., dormancy), or escapes risk (e.g., rapid germination). Germination studies often investigate trait correlations with climate features linked to variation in post‐germination reproductive success. Rarely are long‐term records of population reproductive success available.

Methods

Supported by demographic and climate monitoring, we analyzed germination in the California winter‐annual Clarkia xantiana subsp. xantiana. Sowing seeds of 10 populations across controlled levels of water potential and temperature, we estimated temperature‐specific base water potential for 20% germination, germination time weighted by water potential above base (hydrotime), and a dormancy index (frequency of viable, ungerminated seeds). Mixed‐effects models analyzed responses to (1) temperature, (2) discrete variation in reproductive success (presence or absence of years with zero seed production by a population), and (3) climate covariates, mean winter precipitation and coefficient of variation (CV) of spring precipitation. For six populations, records enabled analysis with a continuous metric of variable reproduction, the CV of per‐capita reproductive success.

Results

Populations with more variable reproductive success had higher base water potential and dormancy. Higher base water potential and faster germination occurred at warmer experimental temperatures and in seeds of populations with wetter winters.

Conclusions

Geographic variation in seed germination in this species suggests local adaptation to demographic risk and rainfall. High base water potential and dormancy may concentrate germination in years likely to allow reproduction, while spreading risk among years.
Utility of UAS Photogrammetry and Thermal Sensors for Identifying Locations and Understanding Functions of Puebloan Gravel Mulch Fields in Northern New Mexico
Authors: Davis Kaitlyn E. , Klehm Carla E. , Williamson Malcolm
Published: September 2024

This article presents results from an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) aerial remote sensing study to improve understanding of Pueblo agricultural features in the Northern Rio Grande area of New Mexico that were in use by the 13th century ad. It builds on previous archaeological research that has focused on recording precontact and historic Pueblo agricultural practices, pollen analyses and paleoclimatic reconstruction. Evidence suggests that Pueblo people were successfully growing crops including maize, cotton and wheat, in areas where, based on environmental conditions, they could not necessarily grow. This study seeks to better understand the environmental modifications employed by Pueblo peoples to enable growth of these crops. Cobble‐bordered gravel mulch field systems, thought to retain heat and moisture, are located throughout the study area. This article discusses the utility of airborne photogrammetry to locate and map gravel mulch fields on the landscape. Geographic information system (GIS) analysis of the UAS‐derived digital surface model includes slope, aspect and water flow direction and sink to shed light on gravel mulch field function. The article also discusses the potential of handheld and airborne infrared imaging for assessing the thermoregulation of these fields. Final consideration of how the survey results align with the priorities of the Tewa people for future arid‐land farming demonstrates additional utility of the approach.
Robust adaptive fixed‐time stabilization of disturbed planar high‐order nonlinear systems
Authors: Yao Qijia , Ma Li , Li Qing , Wang Heng
Published: September 2024

In this letter, an adaptive fixed‐time integral sliding mode (ISM) controller is exploited for the stabilization of disturbed planar high‐order nonlinear systems. The exploited controller is designed by constructing a novel fixed‐time ISM surface to tackle the high‐order power. Moreover, the parametric adaptive technique is embedded to estimate the square of the upper bound of the disturbance. In this way, the exploited controller has no obvious chattering problem and can maintain the high control accuracy simultaneously. The resultant closed‐loop system is proved to be practically fixed‐time stable through the bilimit homogeneous theory and fixed‐time Lyapunov stability theory. Lastly, two simulated examples are carried out to demonstrate the derived results.
Do tax incentives matter in promoting corporate ESG performance toward sustainable development?
Authors: Zhang Xiaosan , Jiang Qingquan , Cifuentes‐Faura Javier , Hu Xiaojie , Li Yuyan
Published: September 2024

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reflects the new concept of global sustainable development. This paper, integrating institutional theory, stakeholder theory, and the resource‐based view (RBV), aims to explain how tax incentives enhance corporate ESG performance. Using listed companies in China as the research sample, this paper employs a two‐way fixed effects model to empirically test the causal relationship between the variables. The empirical results show that tax incentives significantly promote overall corporate ESG performance as well as its individual dimensions. Mechanism analysis reveals that tax incentives enhance ESG performance by improving corporate technological innovation capabilities. Heterogeneity analyses indicate that the positive impact of tax incentives on ESG performance is more pronounced when firms are state‐owned, from nonpolluting industries, and located in the eastern region. Our findings contribute valuable insights to scholars and industry experts researching the impact of fiscal policies on corporate ESG performance.
Decontesting an essentially contested concept: The standardization of sustainable finance
Authors: Boiral Olivier , Brotherton Marie‐Christine , Gilbert‐Parisée David , Talbot David , Martinez Isabelle
Published: September 2024

The aim of this article is to investigate how the standardization process and the public consultations carried out in the development of new sustainable finance standards and laws tend to shape the decontestation of practices in this field. The analysis of 255 comment letters submitted by various stakeholders in the context of these public consultations shows the dual role of standardization as a mechanism for both the decontestation and the (re)contestation of sustainable finance. This article makes important contributions to the emerging literature on the governance of sustainable finance through initiatives that are meant to improve the transparency of disclosures in this field and prevent investor misconduct. In light of Gallie's theory of essentially contested concepts, this article also contributes to the literature on the challenges of developing sustainability standards and the implications of adopting practices centered on concepts whose meanings and applications are the subject of endless disputes.
Tightly Interfaced Cu2O with In2O3 to Promote Hydrogen Evolution in Presence of Biomass‐Derived Alcohols
Authors: Impemba Salvatore , Provinciali Giacomo , Filippi Jonathan , Caporali Stefano , Muzzi Beatrice , Casini Andrea , Caporali Maria
Published: September 2024

By a mild and straightforward synthetic protocol in aqueous solution and without surfactants, hierarchical Cu2O nanospheres were grown on preformed In2O3 nanostructures, varying the ratio In : Cu (2.5, 0.5). Accordingly, two different binary compounds In2O3‐Cu2O were prepared and afterwards they were integrated with TiO2 NPs. The ternary composites having a loading of 2.0, 5.0 and 10.0 wt.% respectively of binary In2O3‐Cu2O, were tested as photocatalysts in the solar‐driven production of hydrogen from water, using as sacrificial agents alcohols derived from the biomass. Satisfyingly, the rate of H2 evolution (20.5 mmol/g h) resulted two orders of magnitude higher respect to bare TiO2 (0.2 mmol/g h). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and photoluminescence measurements revealed the formation of a tight heterojunction between In2O3 and Cu2O, which is responsible for the improved charge carrier density and transfer and for the diminished electron‐hole recombination.
Alanine Production by Chemical Upcycling of Polylactic Acid Waste Over Fe‐Doped Ru/CeO2
Authors: Zhao Qiang , Hu Jiaxue , Gui Zhenzheng , Chang Zhiwei , Zhang Chundong , Chen Yuhui , Huang Yong , Zhang Peng , Wang Fenfen
Published: September 2024

Biodegradable polyesters, such as polylactic acid (PLA), is one of the most promising plastics with great potential to contribute to enabling a sustainable global circular economy. However, the efficient chemical upcycling of PLA plastic waste into high‐value chemicals remains a grand challenge. Herein, a series of Ru/CeFeOx catalysts with varying Ru loadings were developed for the catalytic amination of PLA plastic waste to alanine in the presence of ammonia. The as‐prepared catalysts exhibited exceptional catalytic activity, high selectivity, and excellent recyclability, achieving an alanine yield of 70.5 % at 180 °C for 18 h, significantly surpassing previous reports. The outstanding catalytic performance can be primarily attributed to the presence of Fe species in Ru/CeFeOx, which generated more oxygen vacancies, provided abundant base sites, and enhanced reducibility, therefore accelerating the reaction rate and enhancing catalytic efficiency. This study presents an alternative strategy for the sustainable chemical upcycling of PLA plastic waste into alanine and the realization of a circular economy.
Bending the rules: A novel approach to laryngeal surgery in a body donor study
Authors: Kienle Linus L. , Schild Leon R. , Boehm Felix , Hahn Viola D. , Greve Jens , von Witzleben Adrian , Hoffmann Thomas K. , Schuler Patrick J.
Published: September 2024

Background

Transoral laser microsurgery, the standard surgical approach for early‐stage laryngeal cancer, necessitates an unobstructed line of sight to the operating field. However, achieving adequate laryngeal exposure can be challenging, potentially compromising treatment outcomes.

Methods

We developed a 3D‐printed curved laryngoscope (sMAC), designed to match the upper airway anatomy. In a user study (n = 15) with a human body donor we compared the sMAC system to conventional microlaryngoscopy regarding laryngeal exposure and accessibility in a difficult exposure scenario.

Results

All 15 participants achieved complete glottic exposure and successfully manipulated laryngeal landmarks using the sMAC system. Only four participants achieved partial exposure using microlaryngoscopy. Positioning of the sMAC system was significantly faster (p = 0.023). A vocal cord resection was conducted successfully (n = 2) using the sMAC system.

Conclusion

The sMAC system effectively addresses challenges associated with transoral laryngeal surgery. Ongoing development aims to overcome current limitations of the system and prepare first clinical trials.
How Does a Firm's Information Environment Influence CEO Compensation?
Authors: Fan Shihui , Zhou Yan
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates the relationship between firms’ information environment and chief executive officer (CEO) compensation. This study measures firms’ information environment by their internal and external information quality. The internal information quality is proxied by four variables: discretionary accrual, income smoothing ratio, internal control weakness, and restatements. The external information quality is measured by four other variables: analysts following, analysts forecast accuracy, stock liquidity, and bid‐ask spread. We provide three primary results. First, a firm's overall internal and external information quality significantly increases the CEO's total compensation. Second, a higher quality of internal financial information leads to an increase in the CEO bonus. Finally, a greater quality of the external information environment results in a rise in the CEO's equity compensation. Our additional test provides novel evidence that the dual role of compensation and audit committees increases CEO equity compensation. Our study contributes significantly to the literature on the determinants of CEO compensation and the impact of the board of directors on a firm's information quality and management compensation. Our study's findings highlight that overlapping audit and compensation committees can effectively oversee executive compensation practices and monitor the external market environment.
Change from originator infliximab to biosimilar does not affect 1‐year outcome in children with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Solomon Viven , Kuzoian Sydney , Michel Genesis , Brimacombe Michael , Hyams Jeffrey S.
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Payer mandates have resulted in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) switching from originator Remicade® (O‐Rem) to an infliximab biosimilar (B‐IFX). Patients and families are fearful of switching because disease has been well controlled on O‐Rem. Real‐world data documenting clinical outcomes after such switches in pediatric patients are limited. The aim of this project was to examine 1 year of follow‐up in a large adolescent/young adult IBD cohort who changed from O‐Rem to B‐IFX.

Methods

We identified patients with IBD at Connecticut Children's receiving O‐Rem for at least 1 year, who were either in clinical remission or had low disease activity, and who were subsequently switched to B‐IFX. An age, gender, IBD‐subtype, and duration since diagnosis cohort that continued on O‐Rem was then matched to the switch cohort and served as a comparator group (1: switch vs. 2: no‐switch). B‐IFX was Inflectra® in all cases.

Results

Two hundred and seventy‐nine patients (mean age 18.7 years, Crohn's disease = 243, ulcerative colitis = 36) were studied (switch, n = 93, no‐switch, n = 186). Mean time since diagnosis was >6 years in both groups, and mean duration of anti‐tumor necrosis factor use was >5 years. There were no significant changes in hemoglobin, albumin, C‐reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or disease activity in either group over 1 year. Dosing modifications as well as the frequency of low‐level antibodies to infliximab were similar in both groups over the study period.

Conclusion

Switching from O‐Rem to B‐IFX has no impact on clinical or laboratory parameters over the subsequent year. Clinicians can reliably reassure patients and families that switching is safe.
In Vivo Imaging Techniques for the Human Scalp: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Hedayati Bobak , Horton Luke , Urso Brittany , Ekelem Chloe , Babadjouni Arash , Sharma Ajay N. , Mesinkovska Natasha Atanaskova
Published: September 2024

Objective

Scalp inflammation and alopecia are distressing conditions for which patients regularly present to dermatology. Although some diagnoses can be made clinically, others require biopsy, which carries the risk of pain, infection, bleeding, and scarring. This review examines the existing literature regarding noninvasive in vivo imaging techniques and their evidence and utility in evaluating scalp pathology, with a focus on the diagnostics of hair conditions.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines without timeframe restrictions. The PubMed and Clarivate (Web of Science) databases were searched using the terms (“imaging” OR “in‐vivo imaging” OR “non‐invasive imaging” OR “non‐invasive in vivo imaging” “imaging,” “in‐vivo imaging) AND (“human scalp disorders” OR “scalp” OR “hair loss” OR “alopecia”). Peer‐reviewed randomized control trials (RCTs), prospective studies, retrospective studies, and case series or reports discussing in vivo imaging of the scalp published before 2022 were selected.

Results

Forty‐two studies were included and discussed; modalities included laser devices (n = 27), ultrasound (US) (n = 13), infrared thermography (n = 1), skin capacitance imaging (SCI), and ultraviolet light–enhanced visualization (ULEV) (n = 1). The most common laser devices used were reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), multiphoton microscopy (MPM), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). US techniques included high‐frequency US (HFUS) and US biomicroscopy (UBM).

Conclusion

Quality imaging of the scalp in the setting of alopecic, neoplastic, and inflammatory diseases is highly sought after. Many of these noninvasive imaging techniques show promise, each with individual advantages and disadvantages in imaging‐specific conditions. Ultimately, noninvasive imaging techniques may be used to optimize patient management and minimize morbidity associated with scalp biopsies.
New Tricyclic Aryl Quinazoline Derivatives by Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Elmuradov Burkhon , Okmanov Rasul , Juraev Bakhromjon , Dräger Gerald , Butenschön Holger
Published: September 2024

A number of new deoxyvasicinone (2,3‐dihydropyrrolo[2,1‐b]quinazolin‐9(1H)‐one) and mackinazolinone (6,7,8,9‐tetrahydro‐11H‐pyrido[2,1‐b]quinazolin‐11‐one) derivatives with aryl substituents at C7/C8 and at C5 are reported. These compounds are rare representatives of their kind and were prepared in high yields by Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions between 7‐bromo‐2,3‐dihydro[2,1‐b]quinazoline‐9‐(1H)‐one, 5,7‐dibromo‐2,3‐dihydro[2,1‐b]quinazoline‐9‐(1H)‐one or 8‐bromomackinazolinone and respective arylboronic acids with palladium acetate as the catalyst. The products were characterized spectroscopically and, in addition, by X‐ray crystal structure analyses in six cases.
Prostate cancer focal therapy: surgeon experience influences oncological results
Authors: Murta Claudio Bovolenta , Júnior José Pontes , de Souza Filho Pedro Humberto Felix , de Godoy Júnior Paulo Cezar , Pugliesi Felipe Guimarães , El Hayek Kayann Reda , Gallucci Fábio Pescarmona , Guglielmetti Giuliano Betoni , de Almeida Claro Joaquim Francisco
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Characterization of the index lesion of prostate cancer (PCa) has facilitated the development of focal therapy to reduce complications caused by radical treatments. In the present study, we sought to identify factors associated with the oncological results of focal therapy for PCa.

Methods

Between April 2017 and February 2020, 123 PCa patients received focal therapy performed with high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). The patients presented unilateral localized disease, PSA < 20 ng/dl, clinical stage T1–T2, ISUP grade 1–3, and more than 10 years of life expectancy. Five certified surgeons with different levels of experience performed the procedures and were divided into groups #1 and #2 (>30 HIFUs performed) and #3 (10–15 HIFUs performed each). All patients were prospectively followed and underwent surveillance biopsy 1 year post‐treatment. The primary endpoint was radical treatment, and secondary endpoints included focal therapy failure and in‐field recurrence. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to detect associations between clinical and procedure variables and the endpoints.

Results

The median follow‐up was 54.3 months, with a mean age of 64.4 years. The mean PSA was 6.6 ng/dl; 59.3% of patients had intermediate‐risk disease, and the remaining had low‐risk. During follow‐up, 29 (23.6%) patients required radical treatment (external beam radiation therapy), 37 (30.1%) experienced treatment failure, and 26 (21.1%) had an in‐field recurrence with an ISUP grade of ≥2. Radical treatment in the follow‐up was associated with patients treated by surgeons in group #3 and with elevated post‐HIFU PSA concentrations. Baseline PSA concentrations, group #3 surgeons, and post‐HIFU PSA concentrations were associated with treatment failure. In‐field positive biopsies were associated with baseline and post‐HIFU PSA concentrations. Furthermore, patients treated by surgeons in group #3 were independently associated with radical treatment and focal therapy failure.

Conclusion

Focal therapy with HIFU has acceptable oncological outcomes in the medium term, and the surgeon's experience and technique are independently associated with the need for subsequent radical treatment and focal therapy failure.
Interested in urology? The journey from a medical student to urology resident
Authors: Mehr Justin P.
Published: September 2024

Applying for a urology residency as a medical student can be very intimidating. The goal of this study is to help provide the framework for understanding the process of becoming a urologist in the United States. This begins with learning about the field of urology, including what they do, the breadth of the specialty, the length of training, and career satisfaction/hours. Following this, it is important to explore the field firsthand when deciding on a specialty. This can be done through many avenues including shadowing in the clinic setting or operating room, doing urologic clinical/translational research, and attending conferences. Once someone has decided that they want to apply for a urology residency, there are several steps along the path. This article attempts to lay out these steps in a structured manner so that prospective applicants can be best set up for success in applying and matching to their desired training program.
Quantification of Micro and Trace Elements in Tobacco Products Using Total Reflection X‐Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry: A Human Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Manjunatha  , Bennal A. S.
Published: September 2024

The use of tobacco remains a significant public health challenge around the world. Micro and trace elements present in tobacco products pose substantial health risks due to their toxicity and tendency to accumulate in organisms through ingestion or inhalation. This study aims to measure the concentrations of micro and trace elements, including Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Ni, As, Cd, Pb, and Bi in commonly used tobacco‐related products such as chewing tobacco, bidis, and cigarettes in North Karnataka, India. The measurements are conducted using Bruker benchtop S2‐PICOFOX total reflection X‐ray fluorescence (TXRF) combined with a sample suspension method. This paper provides a comprehensive non‐carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk assessment based on the detected concentration of these elements to evaluate their potential impacts on human health. The results revealed higher concentrations of Cr, Mn, Cu, Cd, and Pb in these products compared with previous studies and WHO/FAO acceptable levels. The hazard index (HI) of all the elements shows < 1, which suggests that non‐carcinogenic effects are not expected. However, Mn showed a notable non‐carcinogenic risk (3.05 × 10−03) compared with other elements. Additionally, the total excess lifetime cancer risk (TELCR) value for Cr (3.77 × 10−06) was near the USEPA limit indicating a carcinogenic health risk. A multivariate statistical approach was used to identify sources and relationships among the trace elements. These findings underline the necessity for stringent regulatory measures to limit the presence of these harmful substances in tobacco products to protect public health.
Can the hot hand phenomenon be modelled? A Bayesian hidden Markov approach
Authors: Calvo Gabriel , Armero Carmen , Spezia Luigi
Published: September 2024

Sports data analytics has been gaining importance over recent years as an essential topic in applied statistics. Specifically, basketball has emerged as one of the iconic sports where the use and immediate collection of data have become widespread. Within this domain, the hot hand phenomenon has sparked a significant scientific controversy, with sceptics claiming its non-existence while other authors provide evidence for it. We propose a Bayesian longitudinal hidden Markov model that examines the hot hand phenomenon in consecutive shots of a basketball team, each of which can be either missed or made. We assume two states (cold or hot) in the hidden Markov chains associated with each math and model the probability of success for each shot with regard the hidden state, the random effects related the match, and the covariates. This model is applied to real data sets of three teams from the USA National Basketball Association: the Miami Heat team and the Toronto Raptors team in the 2005–2006 season, and the Chicago Bulls in the 2022–2023 season. We show that this model is a powerful tool for assessing the overall performance of a team during a game and, in particular, for quantifying the magnitude of team streaks in probabilistic terms.
Sterbefälle wohnungsloser Menschen vor und während der COVID-19-Pandemie in Hamburg
Authors: Laudien Caroline , Püschel Klaus , Lohner Larissa , Friedrich Peter , Ondruschka Benjamin
Published: September 2024

Hamburg verzeichnet in der gesamten Bundesrepublik die mitunter höchsten Zahlen an Wohnungslosen.

Während die Bevölkerung während der Pandemie dazu aufgerufen wurde, zu Hause zu bleiben, blieben Wohnungslose auf sich allein gestellt auf der Straße zurück, kurzzeitig sogar vollständig von jeglichen Hilfsangeboten abgeschnitten.

Ziel dieser Arbeit war herauszufinden, ob sich die Sterbefälle zweier Kalenderjahre durch pandemische Maßnahmen voneinander unterschieden.

Todesfälle 112 Wohnungsloser in Hamburg aus den Jahren 2019 (n = 42) und 2021 (n = 70) wurden hinsichtlich des Geschlechts, Alters, Nationalität, Substanzmittelabusus, Ort des Versterbens und der Todesursachen verglichen.

Bereits zu Beginn der Pandemie wurde diskutiert, dass es unter wohnungslosen Menschen zu besonders hohen Transmissionsraten von SARS-CoV‑2 kommen würde. Während einige Studien dies nicht nachweisen können, belegen andere die rasche Virusausbreitung insbesondere innerhalb von Notunterkünften. In der Studie, die dieser Arbeit zugrunde liegt, verstarben 3 (4,3 %) von 70 Wohnungslosen im Jahr 2021 mit oder an SARS-CoV‑2.

Es zeigten sich bis auf einen frequenteren Substanzmittelabusus in 2021 (p = 0,009) und eine geringere Anzahl Verstorbener aufgrund von Hypothermie in 2021 (p = 0,023) keine signifikanten Veränderungen durch die Pandemie.

Sozialarbeiter diskutieren eine Verbesserung im Kontakt mit den Wohnungslosen mit der Chance gezielter Hilfe.

Für relevante Differenzen muss eine longitudinale Betrachtung der postpandemischen Sterbefälle in der Zukunft folgen, um eine veränderte oder verbesserte Situation zu bewerten.
Hearing impairment amongst people with Osteogenesis Imperfecta in Germany
Authors: Felicio-Briegel A. , Müller J. , Pollotzek M. , Neuling M. , Polterauer D. , Gantner S. , Simon J. , Briegel I. , Simon F.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Hearing impairment concerns a relevant percentage of individuals with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). When looking at the current literature, the percentage of affected individuals with OI varies greatly from 32 to 58% of patients having mild OI and 21% to 27% of patients having moderate to severe OI. Little is known about the German population with OI.

Method

The goal of this study was to detect how many patients with OI, who visited the annual meeting of the German Association for Osteogenesis Imperfecta in 2023, proved to have a hearing impairment. In this prospective, cross-sectional study, each included individual obtained ear microscopy, audiometry, stapedius reflexes, tympanometry, and OAEs. Furthermore, each patient was asked a set of questions concerning the medical history.

Results

Of the included patients, 33% had hearing impairment. A significant difference was found for the mean air–bone gap (ABG) as well as the hearing threshold of the right ears. The difference was found between OI type III and IV (p = 0.0127) for the mean ABG and OI type I and IV (p = 0.0138) as well as III and IV (p = 0.0281) for the hearing threshold. Spearman’s rank correlation showed a high correlation between age and hearing threshold. Of the patients between 40 and 50 years old, 56% had hearing loss.

Conclusion

Hearing loss in individuals with OI is still a relevant problem, especially age-related in OI type I. Audiometry should be performed at least when individuals experience subjective hearing loss. The implementation of a screening starting at 40 years should be discussed and studied.
First whole genome sequencing and analysis of human parechovirus type 3 causing a healthcare-associated outbreak among neonates in Hungary
Authors: Deézsi-Magyar Nóra , Novák Nikolett , Lukács Adrienne , Tarcsai Katalin Réka , Hajdu Ágnes , Takács László , Farkas Ferenc Balázs , Rigó Zita , Barcsay Erzsébet , Kis Zoltán , Szomor Katalin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In November 2023, the National Reference Laboratory for Enteroviruses (Budapest, Hungary) received stool, pharyngeal swab and cerebrospinal fluid samples from five newborns suspected of having human parechovirus (PEV-A) infection. The neonates were born in the same hospital and presented with fever and sepsis-like symptoms at 8–9 days of age, and three of them showed symptoms consistent with central nervous system involvement. PEV-A positivity was confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Methods

To determine the PEV-A genotype responsible for the infections, fecal samples of four neonates were subjected to metagenomic sequencing. For further analyses, amplicon-based whole genome sequencing was performed directly from the clinical samples.

Results

On the basis of whole genome analysis, sequences were allocated to PEV-A genotype 3 (PEV-A3) and consensus sequences were identical. Two ambiguities were identified in the viral protein 1 (VP1) region of all sequences at a frequency of 17.7–53.7%, indicating the simultaneous presence of at least two quasispecies in the clinical samples. The phylogenetic analysis and similarity plotting showed that all sequences clustered without any topological inconsistencies between the P1 capsid and P2, P3 non-capsid regions, suggesting that recombination events during evolution were unlikely.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the apparent cluster of cases were microbiologically related, and the results may also inform future investigations on the evolution and pathogenicity of PEV-A3 infections.
Why do Eurasian otters eat so few invasive blue crabs?
Authors: Bedmar Sergio , Oficialdegui Francisco J. , Clavero Miguel
Published: September 2024

Invasive species can become key trophic resources for native predators, and thus understanding predator-invasive prey interactions is relevant to assess invasion impacts. The Atlantic blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) has recently invaded coasts and lower stretches of rivers across the Western Palearctic, often establishing very abundant populations. The blue crab is an important prey for a large number of predators within its native range, but predation upon invasive populations is still virtually unknown. The Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) is a flexible predator, known to incorporate invasive prey into its diet when they become available. We studied otter diet in a small estuary of southern Spain hosting a very abundant blue crab population. The role of the blue crab as otter prey was only anecdotal since, out of 223 spraints (otter faeces) collected between 2021 and 2023, its remains were found in a single one. The avoidance of the blue crab by otters, and also by other predators, seems to be a generalised phenomenon in the invaded range of this crustacean. Predation on invasive blue crabs may require a long-lasting learning process to overcome the crab’s anti-predatory structures and behaviours. Trophic interactions between invasive blue crabs and native predators deserves attention for three main aspects: (i) its implications for the functioning and structure of invaded food webs, (ii) its potential role in limiting the invasion, and (iii) the interest in the generation of new predatory traits among animal populations.
Physiological Effects of Psychological Interventions Among Persons with Financial Stress: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Introduction to Psychophysiological Economics
Authors: Lehrer Paul , Derby Lilly , Caswell Jacqueline Smith , Grable John , Hanlon Robert
Published: September 2024

It is known that economic problems can cause psychological stress, and that psychological stress causes physiological changes often linked to disease. Here we report a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on physiological effects of psychological treatment for individuals with economic problems. Of 5071 papers in our initial PsycInfo search, we identified 16 papers on physiological effects for psychological treatment of the economically stressed. We found 11 controlled studies, among which we found a small to moderate significant effect size, Hedges’ g = 0.319, p < 0.001. The largest effect sizes were found for heart rate variability and measures of inflammation, and the smallest for measures involving cortisol. The studies were all on chronically poor populations, thus restricting generalization to other financially stressed populations such as students, athletes in training, and those stressed by relative deprivation compared with neighbors or other reference groups. None of the studies examined effects of these psychophysiological changes on disease susceptibility, and none included elements of financial planning. The nascent field of financial psychophysiology calls for more research in these areas. Even so, results suggest that financially stressed people can benefit physiologically from psychological stress management methods.
Longitudinal perspectives on technology acceptance: Teachers' integration of digital tools through the COVID-19 transition
Authors: Wohlfart Olivia , Wagner Ingo
Published: September 2024

The rapid and continuing acceleration of digital transformation in education, propelled by the COVID-19 pandemic, has underscored the urgent need to examine how teachers adapt to and integrate digital tools in their teaching practices. Anchored in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as its theoretical framework, this study uniquely uses a longitudinal design to trace the evolving patterns of technology acceptance and integration among teachers. Through qualitative methodology, involving three series of interviews with 13 secondary school teachers over two years, we identify their evolving interactions with digital tools. Our analysis reveals a cyclical pattern of technology acceptance and use across time, characterized by initial rapid adaptation to digital tools, subsequent periods of reflection and skill acquisition, and varied levels of sustained integration or reassessment. Based on our findings we propose an adapted, cyclical TAM framework and highlight the critical role of ongoing support, professional development, and infrastructure improvements, arguing for comprehensive support systems and adequate time for educators to progress through different stages of digital tool integration. We conclude that a deep understanding and support of these cycles are essential for empowering teachers to lead the digital transformation in education effectively.
Responding to Children’s Semiotic Repertoires in Collaborative Digital Storytelling
Authors: Shengjergji Sofije , Myrendal Jenny , Pramling Niklas
Published: September 2024

In this study, we analyze activities in which early childhood education and care (ECEC) teachers, together with pairs of children, engage in digital storytelling activities with a tablet application. The participating teachers and children speak more than one national language, and the activity has been pursued with the intention of supporting children’s full use of their various semiotic repertoires. Theoretically informed by a sociocultural perspective, the notion of semiotic repertoires here refers to not only national languages, such as English and Swedish, but also other semiotic means for communication such as sign language, gestures, and drawings. With the purpose of addressing how ECEC can be responsive to children’s repertoires of semiotic means of communication, the research question asked is: How are various semiotic repertoires introduced and responded to in the storytelling activities? The results consist of a differentiation and specification of the meaning of responsivity in the context of semiotic repertoires. The implications for children’s participation in developmental activities and the ambition of creating socially just ECEC institutions are discussed.
Rice fields play a complementary role within the landscape mosaic supporting structurally and functionally distinct waterbird communities
Authors: Paulino João , Granadeiro José Pedro , Matos Paula , Catry Teresa
Published: September 2024

This study aims to understand how the structure and functions of waterbird communities in rice fields compare to those in other habitats within an agricultural landscape encompassing five habitats: saltpans, lakes, intertidal areas, pastures and rice fields. Over 2 years, waterbird counts were conducted every 15 days in these habitats. Non-metric multidimensional scaling was used to compare the composition and functional structure of the waterbird communities. Differences in both metrics were found among habitats throughout the year. These appear to be driven by spatial (presence of permanent water cover) and temporal gradients (yearly seasonality). Rice fields occupy a central position within the gradients. The composition and functional structure of waterbird communities in rice fields undergo significant changes throughout the year associated with the annual rice production cycle. Other habitats maintain more consistent communities, reflecting their more stable environmental conditions. Rice fields play a complementary role to other habitats in the landscape, likely acting as a buffer, partially mitigating the loss of some waterbird species amid the global decline of natural wetlands.
Hardship Withdrawals Among Households with Disabilities
Authors: Wann Christi R. , Trussel John , Burke-Smalley Lisa A.
Published: September 2024

Given recent economic and personal challenges, inflation, and periods of unemployment, households with disabilities can become particularly financially challenged, perhaps even to the point of executing hardship withdrawals from their retirement savings. This is an important issue for Americans – particularly for families with disabilities - because typically early withdrawals from retirement accounts are subject to a 10% penalty tax (or 25% penalty tax on Simple IRAs) in addition to being taxed at the individual’s marginal tax rate. In the present study, we use the 2021 National Financial Capability Survey data and find that households with disabilities indeed have a 6.37% higher probability of taking hardship withdrawals than households without disabilities. More specifically, households with seeing, ambulatory, or multiple disabilities have a 7.04%, 7.57%, or 10.93% higher probability of taking hardship withdrawals when compared to households without disabilities, respectively. Given the understudied nature of this niche, we develop, test, and provide a downloadable prediction model that can be used by households with disabilities, financial planners, and other policymakers to identify those who are likely to take a hardship withdrawal, as well as offer practical implications.
Uranium isotopes and several heavy elements in selected waters in Quang Nam-Da Nang provinces, Central Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Dinh Chau , Duong Van-Hao , Chu Trung Tien , Pham Thi Thanh-Xuan , Nguyen Ngoc Truc , Nguyen Thi Hoang Ha , Hoang Dinh Que , Tran Danh Hung , Musthafa Mohamed Saiyad , Nguyen Tien-Manh , Ganbaatar Tuvshinsainkhan , Kovács Tibor
Published: September 2024

238U and 234U concentrations, 238U/234U ratios and Na, Ca, Mg, K, Al, As, Cd concentrations were measured in selected surface waters (streams, rivers and lakes), ground waters (dug wells) and underground waters (drill wells and thermal waters) in Quang Nam and Da Nang provinces, Central Vietnam. The mineralization was < 500 mg L−1 and Al, As, Cd contents were a few tenths of µg L−1. 234U and 238U activities were between 0.47–27.6 mBq L−1 and 0.6–15.0 mBq L−1 respectively, these values are lower than WHO recommended limits. Uranium contents trended as Urivers < Ustreams < Ulakes < Udig wells < Uthermal water < Udrill wells. The 234U/238U ratio ranged from 0.69 to 2.31 with 1.26 on average. For groundwaters, the ratio scattered around one. Effects of Nong Son uranium deposit located in Quang Nam region were not observed.