bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impfverhalten von Klinikpersonal verstehen – Ergebnisse der OKaPII-Studie 2023
Authors: Wulkotte Elisa , Schmid-Küpke Nora Katharina
Published: December 2024

Hintergrund

Das Potenzial der Influenza-Impfung zur Verhinderung der Erkrankung und Weiterverbreitung des Virus wird im klinischen Setting nicht ausgeschöpft. Ein Verständnis von Impfverhalten ist notwendig, um wirksame Maßnahmen zur Steigerung der Impfquote ergreifen zu können.

Methodik

OKaPII ist eine jährliche, deutschlandweite Onlinebefragung von Klinikpersonal zur Influenza-Impfung. Es wurden Unterschiede im Impfverhalten nach Alter, Geschlecht und Beruf sowie im Wissen zwischen Ärzteschaft und Pflege getestet. Zusammenhänge zwischen psychologischen Determinanten und Impfverhalten wurden bei Ärzteschaft und Pflege mittels Regressionsanalysen identifiziert.

Ergebnisse

An der Befragung (17.04.–15.05.2023) nahmen 15.312 Mitarbeitende aus 115 Kliniken teil. In der Saison 2022/2023 waren 58,7 % des befragten Klinikpersonals gegen Influenza geimpft (Pflege: 51,1 %; Ärzteschaft: 80,7 %). Die Impfentscheidung von Ärzteschaft und Pflegepersonal hing u. a. signifikant mit der Wahrnehmung der Impfung als gemeinschaftliche Maßnahme (Pflege: OR = 1,94; Ärzteschaft: OR = 1,89) sowie dem Vertrauen in die Sicherheit der Impfung (Pflege: OR = 1,90; Ärzteschaft: OR = 1,78) zusammen. Von den Wissensitems wurden 87,2 % von der Ärzteschaft und 62 % von der Pflege richtig beantwortet.

Diskussion

Es bestehen deutliche Unterschiede in den Impfquoten zwischen Berufsgruppen in deutschen Kliniken. Impflücken bestehen seit Jahren, insb. bei Pflegekräften. Zielgruppengerechte Interventionen sollten den Schutzgedanken vulnerabler Personen und das Vertrauen in die Sicherheit der Impfung fördern. Verstärkte Aufklärung, v. a. zu Sicherheitsfragen der Impfung, kann die Impfentscheidung positiv beeinflussen. Es sollten Möglichkeiten geschaffen werden, die Impfung trotz Zeitnot am Arbeitsplatz wahrzunehmen.
Unraveling the genetic basis of Rhizobium rhizogenes-mediated transformation and hairy root formation in rose using a genome-wide association study
Authors: Rüter Philipp , Debener Thomas , Winkelmann Traud
Published: December 2024

Key Message

Multiple QTLs reveal the polygenic nature of R. rhizogenes-mediated transformation and hairy root formation in roses, with five key regions explaining 12.0–26.9% of trait variability and transformation-related candidate genes identified.

Understanding genetic mechanisms of plant transformation remains crucial for biotechnology. This is particularly relevant for roses and other woody ornamentals that exhibit recalcitrant behavior in transformation procedures. Rhizobium rhizogenes-mediated transformation leading to hairy root (HR) formation provides an excellent model system to study transformation processes and host–pathogen interactions. Therefore, this study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with HR formation and explore their relationship with adventitious root (AR) formation in rose as a model for woody ornamentals. A diversity panel of 104 in vitro grown rose genotypes was transformed with R. rhizogenes strain ATCC 15834 carrying a green fluorescent protein reporter gene. Phenotypic data on callus and root formation were collected for laminae and petioles. A genome-wide association study using 23,419 single-nucleotide polymorphism markers revealed significant QTLs on chromosomes one and two for root formation traits. Five key genomic regions explained 12.0–26.9% of trait variability, with some peaks overlapping previously reported QTLs for AR formation. This genetic overlap was supported by weak to moderate correlations between HR and AR formation traits, particularly in petioles. Candidate gene identification through literature review and transcriptomic data analysis revealed ten candidate genes involved in bacterial response, hormone signaling, and stress responses. Our findings provide new insights into the genetic control of HR formation in roses and highlight potential targets for improving transformation efficiency in ornamental crops, thereby facilitating future research and breeding applications.
Multimodal market information fusion for stock price trend prediction in the pharmaceutical sector
Authors: Wang Hongren , Xie Zerong , Chiu Dickson K. W. , Ho Kevin K. W.
Published: December 2024

With the evolution of China's market economy, the securities market is increasingly anchoring a pivotal role in the nation's economic landscape. Consequently, stock trend forecasting has garnered heightened attention among scholars and practitioners. This research pioneers the use of multimodal information to predict stock market fluctuations. Based on our experimental results, LSTM + Transformer performs better in handling multimodal data for stock movement prediction tasks regarding accuracy, F1-score, precision, and recall. Additionally, we employed the Granger causality test and Impulse response test to investigate the causal relationships between sentiment and stock trends, as well as the interplay between COVID-related indicators and stock trajectories. We identified discernible causal links between sentiments, COVID indicators, and stock trends for select pharmaceutical stocks. Our findings can provide valuable guidance for investors and market regulators, especially within the pharmaceutical industry. Understanding investor sentiment and the impact of the pandemic on severity can assist in effective stock commentary management and improve investment strategies.
Formative Evaluation of Post-Opera Live Discussion of the Center Cannot Hold Part 2 and Resilience Workshop
Authors: Wells Kenneth , Booker-Vaughns Juanita , Dzou Tiffany , Saks Elyn R.
Published: December 2024

There are few studies of impacts of arts on recovery in schizophrenia, on audience and cast responses. We developed a formative qualitative evaluation of audience and cast discussions after viewing live performances in a university setting of an opera based on Elyn Saks’ journey from psychosis, teaching law and falling in love, coupled with pre-opera workshop on community approaches to resilience. Live discussions were conducted with audience, cast members, and workshop presenters after performance of the opera, with recording and transcription, and reflexive thematic qualitative analysis sequentially conducted by 3 investigators/2 event leaders). Across 3 events, there were 81 comments (65’10” total time) from facilitator, audience members, cast and creators. Key themes across participant groups were: (1) Connecting with the story; (2) Identifying “normal” lifestyles with mental illness; (3) Refocusing goals of care for providers; (4) Increasing awareness around mental health; with an overarching theme the value of art on mental health to highlight awareness of these issues. Live art events (opera with pre-workshop) on mental health with author with lived experience present, were noted by audience and cast as enhancing connection, enhancing understanding of mental illness and clarifying goals for care, through the shared experience of art. This may inform future research and art events on mental health.
Chatbots and academic writing for doctoral students
Authors: Krumsvik Rune Johan
Published: December 2024

This exploratory case study examines how AI technologies, specifically a GPT-4-based synopsis chatbot, can serve as a sparring partner for doctoral students in Norway. Despite favourable conditions, only two-thirds of Norwegian PhD candidates complete their doctorates, partly due to challenges with article-based dissertations that require a comprehensive synopsis (60–90 pages). Ambiguities and unintended double standards exist across disciplines regarding this format, despite national guidelines. To address this, we developed a synopsis chatbot by training GPT-4 on Norwegian doctoral rubrics and literature about article-based dissertations, making it more domain-specific, context-specific, and multilingual. The goal was to determine if and how the chatbot could support PhD candidates in writing their synopses. Preliminary results indicate varying levels of AI acceptance among PhD supervisors, with 60% expressing scepticism about using AI for academic writing. However, the chatbot performed well in providing formative assessment and handling multimodal illustrations, proving to be a valuable sparring partner for doctoral students. This suggests the need to update conventional theories of formative assessment to include AI and chatbots as complementary "digital supervisors" in doctoral education. While the chatbot shows promise in mitigating issues related to unwritten rules and vague genre requirements, this early-phase exploratory study acknowledges several limitations and emphasizes the need to address ethical considerations regarding AI in academia.
Mobile learning in the classroom – Should students bring mobile devices for learning, or should these be provided by schools?
Authors: Laumann Daniel , Krause Maurice , Kremer Fabienne E. , Leibrock Barbara , Ubben Malte S. , Forthmann Boris , Janzik Robin , Masemann Dörthe , Reer Felix , Denz Cornelia , Greefrath Gilbert , Heinicke Susanne , Marohn Annette , Quandt Thorsten , Souvignier Elmar , Heusler Stefan
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the importance of mobile devices has increased for education in general and more specifically for science and mathematics education. In the classroom, approaches for teaching with mobile devices include using student-owned devices (“bring your own device”; BYOD approach) or using school-owned devices from central pools (POOL approach). While many studies point out features of mobile learning and BYOD that are conducive to learning, a research gap can be identified in the analysis of effects of mobile device access concepts on teaching–learning processes. Thus, this study aimed to empirically compare BYOD and POOL approaches in terms of learning performance and cognitive performance (subject knowledge development, cognitive load, concentration performance). Furthermore, the analyses included specific characteristics and preconditions (gender, socioeconomic status, fear of missing out, problematic smartphone use). A quasi-experimental study (two groups) was conducted in year 8 and 9 physics classes (N = 339 students) in which smartphones are used for different purposes. The present data show no group differences between the BYOD and the POOL approach in the group of learners with respect to subject knowledge development, cognitive load, and concentration performance. However, individual findings in subsamples indicate that the POOL approach may be beneficial for certain learners (e.g., learners with low fear of missing out or learners tending toward problematic smartphone use). For school practice, these results indicate that organizational, economic, and ecological aspects appear to be the main factors in deciding about the mobile device access concept.
The well-being of software engineers: a systematic literature review and a theory
Authors: Godliauskas Povilas , Šmite Darja
Published: December 2024

For decades, software engineering research and practice has focused primarily on technological and process-related factors. Today, there is a growing interest in organizational, social, and psychological factors, including well-being. Organizational studies show that well-being contributes to work outcomes, including creativity, performance, and productivity. But despite its importance, the predictors and outcomes of software engineers’ well-being as a multidimensional construct to date are under-researched. This paper reports on the multidimensional well-being of professional software engineers and generates insights for the future research in this area. 44 quantitative survey studies published between 2000 and 2023 were selected and synthesized both quantitatively and qualitatively through a systematic literature review. The results of the review were further analyzed to construct a quantitatively-testable theory, detailing the predictors and outcomes of well-being in software engineering organizations. The total number of research participants included in the selected studies is 16,086 software engineering professionals from at least 42 countries. The literature review identified various measures, constructs, and indicators of well-being, as well as its predictors and outcomes. The theory, based on cumulative results of carefully selected quantitative studies, is an attempt to “correct the record” by establishing well-being in software engineering as a meta-construct of hedonic, eudaimonic, and integrated or hedaimonic qualities predicted by different individual, team and organizational factors and impacting the functioning of software engineers and their organizations. The review highlighted the under-researched aspects of well-being in software engineering and confirmed the need for more advanced quantitative studies. We hope that the theory will benefit researchers in conducting future studies and practitioners in developing nuanced and science-based interventions for improving software engineers’ well-being.
A Propositional Cirquent Calculus for Computability Logic
Authors: Japaridze Giorgi
Published: December 2024

Cirquent calculus is a proof system with inherent ability to account for sharing subcomponents in logical expressions. Within its framework, this article constructs an axiomatization $$\text{ CL18 }$$

CL18

of the basic propositional fragment of computability logic—the game-semantically conceived logic of computational resources and tasks. The nonlogical atoms of this fragment represent arbitrary so called static games, and the connectives of its logical vocabulary are negation and the parallel and choice versions of conjunction and disjunction. The main technical result of the article is a proof of the soundness and completeness of $$\text{ CL18 }$$

CL18

with respect to the semantics of computability logic.
The effect of the increased strain per pass during the hot-rolling and its effect on the tensile properties of V-Mo and Cr-V-Mo microalloyed dual-phase steels
Authors: Rodriguez-Galeano Karol F. , Nutter John , Azakli Yunus , Slater Carl , Rainforth W. Mark
Published: December 2024

It is well known that the thermomechanical processing parameters affect the mechanical properties of dual-phase (DP) steels, but optimization still remains a key challenge. This work studied two interphase precipitation-strengthened DP steels based on V, Mo, and V, Mo, Cr microalloy additions. Hot-rolling was performed with a strain per pass of 0.2 and 0.4 before isothermal transformation at temperatures between 600 and 690 °C to determine the effect of these process parameters on microstructure, particularly interphase precipitation. The microstructure was carefully correlated with the mechanical properties. It was found that a higher strain during hot rolling increases the transformation kinetics of austenite to ferrite and also increases the volume fraction of the interphase precipitation within it, leading to higher strength values. The reaustenitization temperature before the isothermal transformation also plays an important role, with increased temperature reducing the segregation banding effect and increasing the amount of ferrite. The optimal reaustenitization temperature depends on the composition, being 1250 °C for the microalloyed steel with Cr additions and 1150 °C for the Cr-free microalloyed steel. A new method was used to calculate the yield strength of these DP microalloyed steels, including the strengthening contributors of each phase and the banding effect brought into one single expression that matches the experimental results.
Blood-based biomarkers for early frailty are sex-specific: validation of a combined in silico prediction and data-driven approach
Authors: de Jong Jelle C. B. C. , Caspers Martien P. M. , Dulos Remon , Snabel Jessica , van der Hoek Marjanne D. , van der Leij Feike R. , Kleemann Robert , Keijer Jaap , Nieuwenhuizen Arie G. , van den Hoek Anita M. , Verschuren Lars
Published: December 2024

Frailty is characterized by loss of physical function and is preferably diagnosed at an early stage (e.g., during pre-frailty). Unfortunately, sensitive tools that can aid early detection are lacking. Blood-based biomarkers, reflecting pathophysiological adaptations before physical symptoms become apparent, could be such tools. We identified candidate biomarkers using a mechanism-based computational approach which integrates a priori defined database-derived clinical biomarkers and skeletal muscle transcriptome data. Identified candidate biomarkers were used as input for a sex-specific correlation analysis, using individual gene expression data from female (n = 24) and male (n = 28) older adults (all 75 + years, ranging from fit to pre-frail) and three frailty-related physical parameters. Male and female groups were matched based on age, BMI, and Fried frailty index. The best correlating candidate biomarkers were evaluated, and selected biomarkers were measured in serum. In females, myostatin and galectin-1 and, in males, cathepsin B and thrombospondin-4 serum levels were significantly different between the physically weakest and fittest participants (all p < 0.05). Logistic regression confirmed the added value of these biomarkers in conjunction with age and BMI to predict whether the subjects belonged to the weaker or fittest group (AUC = 0.80 in females and AUC = 0.83 in males). In conclusion, both in silico and in vivo analyses revealed the sex-specificity of candidate biomarkers, and we identified a selection of potential biomarkers which could be used in a biomarker panel for early detection of frailty. Further investigation is needed to confirm these leads for early detection of frailty.
Resistive force modeling for shallow cone penetration into dry and wet granular layers
Authors: Iikawa Naoki , Katsuragi Hiroaki
Published: December 2024

Estimating penetration resistive forces on granular materials is important for applications in various research fields. This paper investigates resistive forces into dry and wet granular layers through theoretical analysis and discrete element simulations. Theoretical model is derived from slip line field theory by assuming materials with cohesion and inter-particle friction. This model indicates that penetration resistive forces are composed of the sum of the buoyancy-like force proportional to the penetration volume and the cohesion-derived force proportional to the penetration cross-sectional area. The model is compared with the simulation results of various cones shallowly penetrating into granular layers with/without liquid-bridge forces between particles. For cohesion-derived force, the simulated resistive forces agree with the theoretical model within a factor of two. For buoyancy-like force, on the other hand, the simulated resistive forces deviate from the theoretical model by up to five times as the cone-tip angle increased. To solve the discrepancy, this paper introduces the correction factor depending on the relationship between stagnant zone and cone shape. As a result, a maximum difference between the proposed model and simulated force are reduced to twice. Thereby, it turns out that the proposed model can compute penetration resistive forces on granular layers in a wide range of cone-tip angles and water content conditions.
Yield and Growth Response of Selected Potato Cultivars to Different Mulch and Fungicide Applications, and Various Localities Under Rainfed Conditions
Authors: Phungula Nosipho Precious Minenhle , Hadebe Sandile Thamsanqa , Schulte-Geldermann Elmar , Sithole Lucky , Ngobese Nomali Ziphorah
Published: December 2024

There is a stark yield gap between sub-Saharan African (SSA) potato productivity compared to other regions, leading to food security challenges. Hence, there is an immediate need to improve SSA potato yield. Research trials were under smallholder settings to determine effective management practices on the integration of selected potato cultivars, fungicides, mulch application, and different localities. Tested factors mulch application (mulch, not mulch), fungicide (sprayed and unsprayed) and different potato cultivars (Electra, Mondial, Panamera, and Sababa) were laid in a randomized complete block design in under five localities (Gobizembe, Hlathikhulu, Mbalenhle, Mbhava, and Stezi), and replicated three times over two consecutive seasons. Data collection included climatic data, emergence, days to flowering, plant height, physiological maturity, stem number yield, and yield components. Integration of Electra, fungicide (sprayed or unsprayed), and mulch application (mulch or not mulch) under humid, low atmospheric water demand, dominated by sandy soils and high-altitude locality had higher yields with the highest of 64.2 t ha−1 and a harvest index of 90.2%. In the locality that is on a south-facing slope, with the lowest altitude, clayed soils had the lowest yield of 13.4 t ha−1 from Mondial cultivar under unsprayed and no mulch. Electra cultivar showed consistent performance under different practices and yielded more across localities. Hence, it is recommended that effective management practices such as Electra together with fungicide (spraying or unsprayed) and mulch (mulch or not mulch) can be adopted to increase potato yield under rainfed conditions.
Commitment ambiguity and ambition in climate pledges
Authors: Tørstad Vegard , Wiborg Vegard
Published: December 2024

The Paris Agreement on climate change is built around a pledge-and-review system, wherein countries submit nationally determined pledges of mitigation commitments. While the agreement’s flexible design has attracted broad participation, its lenient informational requirements for pledges have also engendered considerable ambiguity in countries’ commitments. What are the implications of commitment ambiguity on the credibility of compliance and treaty effectiveness more broadly? This article sheds light on these questions by evaluating the relationship between commitment ambiguity and ambition in countries’ Paris pledges. We introduce a model that disentangles commitment ambiguity into two distinct forms: structural and strategic. We argue that structural ambiguity, which arises from constraints on the information necessary for governments to accurately assess their commitment potential, dampens the ambition levels of pledges. This prudence effect is driven by compliance concern: the anticipation of audience costs in case of non-compliance induces policymakers to adjust ambition downwards. Our empirical analysis of countries’ Nationally Determined Contributions demonstrates that ambiguous pledges exhibit lower ambition than precise ones. In line with our theory, this prudence effect of ambiguity is mainly pronounced among democracies, which face higher domestic audience costs in case of non-compliance with pledges than autocracies. This article contributes a novel theory of ambiguity and ambition in international institutions, which shows how audience-based compliance concerns can discipline cheap talk. Moreover, the article’s empirical findings provide insight into the credibility of countries’ climate pledges under the Paris Agreement, with implications for the treaty’s overall effectiveness prospects.
Quality of life, healthcare usage and finances of UK cancer survivors five years post-diagnosis: a matched controlled study
Authors: Warrington Lorraine , Absolom Kate , Baxter Paul , Bojke Chris , Clarke Gemma , Crossfield Samantha , Johnston Colin , Martin Adam , McInerney Ciaran D. , Saalmink Gwen , Siciliano Michele , Stamp Elizabeth , Velikova Galina , Wilkinson David , Woroncow Barbara , Wright Penny , Zucker Kieran , Hall Geoff , Glaser Adam
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Assessing the long-term impact of cancer on people’s lives is challenging due to confounding issues such as aging and comorbidities. We aimed to investigate this impact by comparing the outcomes of cancer survivors with a matched control cohort.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey of breast, colorectal and ovarian cancer survivors approximately 5 years post-diagnosis and a cohort of age, sex and social deprivation-matched controls who had never had a cancer diagnosis. Eligible participants were invited by post to complete a survey assessing quality of life (QoL), health, identity, healthcare usage and finances.

Results

A total of 2075 out of 5734 (36.2%) eligible participants participated (852 cancer survivors and 1223 matched controls). Cancer survivors had poorer QoL than matched controls as assessed by the Quality of Life of Adult Cancer Survivors (QLACS) summary score (p = 0.007); however, the effect size was modest (ω2 = 0.121). The cancer survivors also reported worse outcomes across some individual domains of QoL and health, but not others, and differences were small. There were few differences between cohorts across healthcare usage and finances.

Conclusions

Five years or more after diagnosis, the QoL, healthcare usage and finances of breast, colorectal and ovarian cancer survivors were generally similar to that of age, sex and IMD-matched controls.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

This finding has important implications for people affected by cancer and those providing care who would benefit from greater information on outcomes and functioning beyond treatment. Despite this reassuring finding, it is important to note that there were some differences, on both physical and psychosocial issues, mandating the need for specialist service provision.
Clusterin Deficiency Promotes Cellular Senescence in Human Astrocytes
Authors: Sultana Pinky , Honc Ondrej , Hodny Zdenek , Novotny Jiri
Published: December 2024

The glycoprotein clusterin (CLU) is involved in cell proliferation and DNA damage repair and is highly expressed in tumor cells. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of CLU dysregulation on two human astrocytic cell lines: CCF-STTG1 astrocytoma cells and SV-40 immortalized normal human astrocytes. We observed that suppression of CLU expression by RNA interference inhibited cell proliferation, triggered the DNA damage response, and resulted in cellular senescence in both cell types tested. To further investigate the underlying mechanism behind these changes, we measured reactive oxygen species, assessed mitochondrial function, and determined selected markers of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. Our results suggest that CLU deficiency triggers oxidative stress–mediated cellular senescence associated with pronounced alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial mass, and expression levels of OXPHOS complex I, II, III and IV, indicating mitochondrial dysfunction. This report shows the important role of CLU in cell cycle maintenance in astrocytes. Based on these data, targeting CLU may serve as a potential therapeutic approach valuable for treating gliomas.
Temperature and plastic strain dependent Chaboche model for 316 L used in simulation of cold pilgering
Authors: Azizoğlu Yağız , Lindgren Lars-Erik
Published: December 2024

Cold pilgering is a complex forming process used to produce seamless tubes, posing significant challenges in material modeling due to its non-proportional loading history and extensive accumulated plastic strain. In this study, a temperature- and plastic strain-dependent Chaboche model for 316 L stainless steel was developed and calibrated. To simulate the complex loading conditions, unique alternating compression-compression tests were conducted, and the model parameters were optimized accordingly. The calibrated model was integrated into a thermo-mechanical finite element simulation of the cold pilgering process, resulting in improved accuracy in predicting stress-strain responses and yield stress evolution. Close agreement with experimental tensile tests of the final tube was demonstrated, illustrating the model’s capability to predict hardening behavior during cold pilgering. Valuable insights and a practical modeling approach for enhancing the simulation and optimization of cold pilgering processes are provided by this work.
Endoscopic ultrasound navigated application of botulinum toxin in severe esophageal motility disorder
Authors: Vážanová Diana , Ďuriček Martin , Uhrík Peter , Bánovčin Peter
Published: December 2024

The use of botulinum toxin in the therapy of esophageal motility disorders is reserved for elderly and comorbid patients considered risky for endoscopic or surgical treatment. However, there is a lack of data on the treatment of motility disorders outside the Chicago classification.

We present the case of a 56-year-old patient with dysphagia and non-cardial chest pain (Eckardt 8). High resolution manometry ruled out achalasia or other motility disorder, but confirmed a localized 7-cm-long spastic segment in the upper to middle third of esophagus. We considered endoscopic or surgical therapy in this location too risky, therefore we decided to apply botulinum toxin into this segment. The spasm on high resolution manometry correlated with the thickened muscularis propria layer according to the endoscopic ultrasound. We used endoscopic ultrasound for the navigation of botulinum toxin application into the muscularis propria layer. We applied 100 IU of botulinum toxin into four quadrants, 20 and 24 cm from front teeth (12.5 IU for 1 application).

The therapy led to improvement of symptoms (Eckardt 3) and to restitution of propulsive peristalsis with complete elimination of spastic segment. The worsening of symptoms appeared after 2 years, with subsequent recurrence of motility disorder fulfilling criteria of type II achalasia.

Presenting this case, we wanted to point at the unique use of botulinum toxin as useful treatment in selected cases of unclassified esophageal motility disorder as a bridge therapy. Moreover, endoscopic ultrasound could be used to guide precise application of botulinum toxin.
Cheilostome bryozoan epibiosis on brachyuran crabs in the Paratethys Sea during the late Badenian (middle Miocene)
Authors: Key Marcus M. , Hyžný Matúš , Zágoršek Kamil , Dulai Alfréd
Published: December 2024

This study quantifies the prevalence of a rarely documented occurrence of bryozoans encrusting fossil brachyuran crabs. Over 500 crab fossils were examined from the reef facies of the Rákos Limestone Member of the Leitha Limestone Formation in the quarry at Diósd, Hungary. They were deposited in the upper part of the regional Badenian stage (i.e., lower part of the international Serravallian stage) of the middle Miocene. Nine bryozoan colonies were found encrusting five dorsal carapaces of three different crab species: Panopeus wronai, Dromia neogenica, and Cancer styriacus. The bryozoans were restricted to the exterior surface of the preserved carapaces of the host crabs, so the epibiosis was most likely syn-vivo. The prevalence was calculated at 1%. The bryozoans were all cheilostome gymnolaemates identified as a cribrilinid, a calloporid, Onychocella? sp., and two indeterminate membraniporiform species. The low prevalence of bryozoan-encrusted crabs is consistent with other fossil-based bryozoan-crab studies but much lower than similar studies in today’s faunas. This discrepancy was attributed to both colony spalling-induced preservational bias and differences in carapace size. The bryozoan-crab symbiosis was described as phoretic hitchhiking.
Effectiveness of Decentralization of Disaster Risk Management in Borana and South-West Shawa Zones, Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Tolessa Terefe , Fana Chalchisa , Gadissa Deressa , Takela Ermiayas , Tesso Gutu
Published: December 2024

This study was designed with the aim of assessing the effectiveness of decentralization of disaster risk management in Borana zone and South-West Shawa zone of Oromia region. A mixed research approach was used to collect data from federal, regional, zonal, district (woreda), and ward (kebele) representatives. Focus group discussions and key informant interviews were the qualitative methods used to collect data, while survey questionnaires were distributed to experts to collect quantitative data. The qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis whereas the quantitative data were analyzed using STATA software version 14. The findings of the research have shown that, the actors are aware of Busa Gonofa as a new indigenous self-help institution. The policy on decentralization of disaster risk reduction was better understood at the federal, regional, and zonal levels of the government tiers than at the woreda and kebele levels. Administrative decentralization was found to be more effective than fiscal and political decentralization. The decentralization of Ethiopian disaster risk reduction is incomplete with limited effectiveness. There exists significant difference between Borana and South-West Shawa zones in decentralization of disaster risk management. The implementation of decentralization was constrained by training, technology, collaboration, financial resources, skill and knowledge, institutional arrangement, and local capacity. Hence, there is a need to address these challenges and make continuous efforts to focus on local-level capacity building in terms of empowerment of actors through training, technology, and financial resources for adaptation and mitigation to drought in Borana and flood in South-West Shawa zones respectively.
The Early Natufian Site of Hof Shahaf, Israel: Subsistence, Environment, and Settlement Dynamics
Authors: Yeshurun Reuven , Lev Ma’ayan , Edeltin Lotan , Amos Linda , Orbach Meir , Lavy-Elbaz Sigal , Ujma Catherine , Wieler Nimrod , Marder Ofer
Published: December 2024

The terminal Pleistocene Natufian Culture of the Levant is one of the best-documented cases of preagricultural sedentism in prehistory, thanks to the proliferation of durable architecture, burial grounds, and intensified socioeconomic practices. Hof Shahaf, located on the shore of Lake Kinneret in Israel, is a recently excavated Natufian site whose interpretation presents a conundrum. On the one hand, the site produced evidence of architecture, burial, and diverse subsistence practices, just like the rich and permanently occupied hamlets of this culture. On the other hand, it clearly diverged in the meager accumulation of artifacts (lithics and fauna) and an apparent absence of aquatic resource exploitation. Here, we aim to understand the nature of habitation at Hof Shahaf: whether it was a sedentary hamlet, an ephemeral residential camp, or a task-specific logistic locality. The latter two site types are not well documented in the Early Natufian of the Mediterranean climate zone. We provide a zooarchaeological and taphonomic account of the site, supplemented with lithic data, to investigate the paleoenvironment, subsistence, and site-occupation intensity, all against the backdrop of a specific setting (one of the lowest recorded lake stands). Our results indicate that the site primarily falls within a middle ground between classic sedentary hamlets and more specialized sites. It may have functioned as an ephemeral residential camp for foragers traveling to the Kinneret Basin for specific or seasonal tasks. Nevertheless, the site still held some significance, evidenced by the investment in building a large structure and burying the dead.
Wearable sensors for monitoring caregivers of people with dementia: a scoping review
Authors: Palmese Francesco , Druda Ylenia , Benintende Vittoria , Fuda Domenico , Sicbaldi Marcello , Di Florio Paola , Butt Abdul Haleem , Bedogni Giorgio , Chiari Lorenzo , Silvani Alessandro , Domenicali Marco
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Caregivers of people with dementia often face a demanding care burden that may lead to adverse physical and psychological outcomes. Wearable sensors are becoming a valuable tool for preventive care. We aimed to provide the first systematic map of the published evidence on the use of wearable sensors to monitor caregivers of people with dementia.

Methods

We developed a scoping review protocol following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The searches were conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycInfo, and IEEE.

Results

We identified 1394 articles and selected 37 reports. Sleep measures were the outcome most frequently evaluated (28/37). Among these reports, eight assessed the effectiveness of different interventions targeting both caregivers and care-receivers and found no improvement in caregivers’ sleep; three compared the sleep of caregivers of people with dementia with controls, with conflicting results; five focused on depressive symptoms; and four associated these symptoms with shorter sleep duration and greater sleep fragmentation and sleep latency. A single device was used in 33 reports and sensors were most commonly placed at the wrist (33/37). Most studies monitored caregivers for 1 or more weeks (27/37).

Conclusion

Wearable sensors were mainly used to monitor sleep in informal caregivers of people with dementia based on wrist accelerometry for 1 or more weeks, with conflicting results. There is a need for targeted studies with adequate control groups to identify factors associated with sleep alterations in informal and formal caregivers of people with dementia, leveraging multi-sensor setups with the inclusion of autonomic nervous system metrics.
Lessons for Theory from Scientific Domains Where Evidence is Sparse or Indirect
Authors: Woensdregt Marieke , Fusaroli Riccardo , Rich Patricia , Modrák Martin , Kolokolova Antonina , Wright Cory , Warlaumont Anne S.
Published: December 2024

In many scientific fields, sparseness and indirectness of empirical evidence pose fundamental challenges to theory development. Theories of the evolution of human cognition provide a guiding example, where the targets of study are evolutionary processes that occurred in the ancestors of present-day humans. In many cases, the evidence is both very sparse and very indirect (e.g., archaeological findings regarding anatomical changes that might be related to the evolution of language capabilities); in other cases, the evidence is less sparse but still very indirect (e.g., data on cultural transmission in groups of contemporary humans and non-human primates). From examples of theoretical and empirical work in this domain, we distill five virtuous practices that scientists could aim to satisfy when evidence is sparse or indirect: (i) making assumptions explicit, (ii) making alternative theories explicit, (iii) pursuing computational and formal modelling, (iv) seeking external consistency with theories of related phenomena, and (v) triangulating across different forms and sources of evidence. Thus, rather than inhibiting theory development, sparseness or indirectness of evidence can catalyze it. To the extent that there are continua of sparseness and indirectness that vary across domains and that the principles identified here always apply to some degree, the solutions and advantages proposed here may generalise to other scientific domains.
Coherent feed-forward quantum neural network
Authors: Singh Utkarsh , Goldberg Aaron Z. , Heshami Khabat
Published: December 2024

Quantum machine learning, focusing on quantum neural networks (QNNs), remains a vastly uncharted field of study. Current QNN models primarily employ variational circuits on an ansatz or a quantum feature map, often requiring multiple entanglement layers. This methodology not only increases the computational cost of the circuit beyond what is practical on near-term quantum devices but also misleadingly labels these models as neural networks, given their divergence from the structure of a typical feed-forward neural network (FFNN). Moreover, the circuit depth and qubit needs of these models scale poorly with the number of data features, resulting in an efficiency challenge for real-world machine learning tasks. We introduce a bona fide QNN model, which seamlessly aligns with the versatility of a traditional FFNN in terms of its adaptable intermediate layers and nodes, absent from intermediate measurements such that our entire model is coherent. This model stands out with its reduced circuit depth and number of requisite CNOT gates, achieving a more than 50% reduction in both compared to prevailing QNN models. Furthermore, the qubit count in our model remains unaffected by the data’s feature quantity. We test our proposed model on various benchmarking datasets such as the breast cancer diagnostic (Wisconsin) and credit card fraud detection datasets. Our model achieved an accuracy of 91% on the breast cancer dataset and 85% on the credit card fraud detection dataset, outperforming existing QNN methods by 5–10% while requiring approximately 50% fewer quantum resources. These results showcase the advantageous efficacy of our approach, paving the way for the application of quantum neural networks to relevant real-world machine learning problems.
Improved Navigation Performance Through Memory Triggering Maps: A Neurocartographic Approach
Authors: Dickmann Frank , Keil Julian , Korte Annika , Edler Dennis , O´Meara Denise , Bordewieck Martin , Axmacher Nikolai
Published: December 2024

When using navigation devices the "cognitive map" created in the user's mind is much more fragmented, incomplete and inaccurate, compared to the mental model of space created when reading a conventional printed map. As users become more dependent on digital devices that reduce orientation skills, there is an urgent need to develop more efficient navigation systems that promote orientation skills. This paper proposes to consider brain processes for creating more efficient maps that use a network of optimally located cardinal lines and landmarks organized to support and stabilize the neurocognitive structures in the brain that promote spatial orientation. This new approach combines neurocognitive insights with classical research on the efficiency of cartographic visualizations. Recent neuroscientific findings show that spatially tuned neurons could be linked to navigation processes. In particular, the activity of grid cells, which appear to be used to process metric information about space, can be influenced by environmental stimuli such as walls or boundaries. Grid cell activity could be used to create a new framework for map-based interfaces that primarily considers the brain structures associated with the encoding and retrieval of spatial information. The new framework proposed in this paper suggests to arrange map symbols in a specific way that the map design helps to stabilize grid cell firing in the brain and by this improve spatial orientation and navigational performance. Spatially oriented cells are active in humans not only when moving in space, but also when imagining moving through an area—such as when reading a map. It seems likely that the activity of grid cells can be stabilized simply by map symbols that are perceived when reading a map.
Optimized synthesis and characterization of laterite biochar composite for arsenic removal: examining colloidal stability and As(III) oxidation
Authors: Singh Prashant , Maiti Abhijit
Published: December 2024

Arsenic contamination of water and soil affects many regions worldwide, and an eco-friendly and sustainable decontamination solution is needed. A promising approach involves preparing a composite adsorbent using biochar and laterite-based adsorbent. The biochar composite (LBC) uses biochar as a stable carbon matrix that distributes treated laterite minerals efficiently and reduces agglomeration. In contrast, treated laterite, rich in mixed metal oxides like iron and aluminum hydroxides, enhances the adsorption capacity, selectivity, and stability of biochar. Process optimization determines the optimal pyrolysis temperature, organic–inorganic content, treatment methodology, biochar incorporation at a particular pH, and colloidal instability. The Langmuir isotherm model estimates maximum arsenic adsorption capacities of 21 g kg–1 for As(V) and 14 g kg–1 for As(III), respectively, with high adsorption rates at both low and high arsenic concentrations. FTIR and XPS analysis suggest hydroxyl and metal oxide aid adsorption, while the quenching experiments with EPR analysis confirm the active role of hydroxyl-free radicles in the oxidation and subsequent adsorption of arsenic species. The used adsorbent can be regenerated using 0.2 M NaOH and shows a safe landfilling option for spent adsorbent based on the TCLP tests. The synergistic combination of laterite with biochar makes LBC an efficient and sustainable solution for the removal of arsenic from water with high adsorption capacity and easy regeneration.

Graphical Abstract
Mapping the spatial patterns of ethnic segregation and its implications to urban policy in Nairobi city
Authors: Ngolanye Nthiwa Alex , Leornard Kisovi , Thomas Kibutu , Philomena Muiruri
Published: December 2024

In modern times, cities around the world have grappled with the challenges of racial and ethnic segregation. In Nairobi city, with its diverse ethnic makeup, there is widening inequalities and emerging patterns of ethnic segregation, where the five main ethnic groups - Kamba, Luo, Kikuyu, Luhyia, and Kisii - experience varying levels of spatial concentration. This study analysed the spatial patterns of ethnic segregation in Nairobi, using geocoded questionnaire data from the 2019 Kenya population and housing census data. We used the Index of Dissimilarity in STATA software and Geo-segregation Analyzer and Anselin’s Local Moran I method in GIS to map ethnic segregation patterns. Our findings uncovered a striking socio-spatial divide based on ethnicity. Anselin Local Moran’s I indicators further pinpointed areas with the highest levels of segregation and spatial clustering of specific ethnic groups. These findings offer crucial insights for urban planners and policymakers. By pinpointing areas experiencing the most severe spatial segregation, our research could inform spatially targeted interventions and resource allocation. This could inform policies that foster inclusivity, reduce spatial inequalities, and build a more equitable and socially cohesive city.
A Listeria monocytogenes aptasensor on laser inscribed graphene for food safety monitoring in hydroponic water
Authors: Cavallaro Nicholas , Moreira Geisianny , Vanegas Diana , Xiang Dong , Datta Shoumen P. A. , Gomes Carmen , McLamore Eric S.
Published: December 2024

Consumption of fresh produce, such as leafy greens, is often encouraged as part of a healthy diet. Hence, indoor facilities for hydroponic production of leafy greens are increasingly being established. However, fresh produce entails a higher risk of microbial foodborne illnesses than processed foods. Listeria monocytogenes is a major source of fresh produce contamination and is among the leading causes of severe foodborne illnesses in the United States, with a 16% mortality rate. Tools for rapid monitoring are needed for pathogens such as L. monocytogenes to prevent outbreaks. In this manuscript, we have demonstrated the feasibility of a multi-aptamer approach for development of label-free aptasensors targeting L. monocytogenes in irrigation water for lettuce hydroponic production. We use screening studies with surface plasmon resonance to rationally develop mixtures of relevant aptamers for targeting L. monocytogenes. Based on this screening, multiple aptamers targeting extracellular structures on intact L. monocytogenes were tethered to platinum-modified laser inscribed graphene electrodes. This is the first report of a L. monocytogenes biosensor based on laser inscribed graphene. We show that mixing multiple aptamers with varying affinity improves the diagnostic performance over one aptamer alone in complex sample matrices (lettuce hydroponic water). Multi-aptamer biosensors showed high accuracy for L. monocytogenes and were at least three times more selective than Escherichia coli (Crooks, K12, O157:H7) with an accuracy of 85%. The limit of detection (10 CFU/10 mL) is based on data which were significantly different after calibration toward L. monocytogenes or E. coli (Crooks) and validated against gold standard molecular analysis (polymerase chain reaction). Rapid screening of pathogens is a global need to meet food safety and water quality regulations. This study shows the importance of sensors targeting more than one bacterial surface structure in complex samples relevant to the food-water nexus.