bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Mechanistic Study about the Formation of Tetracyanobutadienes Revealed an Autocatalytic Behavior
Authors: Lemiègre Loïc , Trolez Yann
Published: July 2023

In a recent paper in Chemistry – A European Journal, Nielsen and coworkers reported a deep study on the mechanism of the [2+2] cycloaddition‐retroelectrocyclization (CA‐RE) between an electron‐rich alkyne and tetracyanoethylene (TCNE), inducing the formation of a 1,1,4,4‐tetracyanobutadiene (TCBD). Following a robust kinetic study, the authors confirmed important intermediates and determined this reaction to be autocatalytic for the first time. Given the increasing use of TCBDs in the community and the strength of the CA‐RE reaction this paper offers important insights for future developments of this promising reaction.
Facile approach for imparting shape memory behavior to traditional thermoplastic polyurethane via interaction between different hard segments
Authors: Wang Yujie , Nie Huifang , Wang Shimin , Zhang Hao , Zhang Xiaofeng , Huang Miaoming , Liu Wentao
Published: July 2023

The stability of hard domain is a key factor affecting the shape memory properties of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). However, the physical interaction in hard domains is weak for most kinds of TPU, leading to a plastic deformation and thus significantly decreasing the shape recovery ratio of TPU. In this work, a new strategy for constructing shape memory TPU was proposed, and the blends was prepared by simple solution mixing based on IPDI‐PU and HDI‐PU, in which isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) with alicyclic structure was introduced in hard segments of IPDI‐PU, and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) with linear structure was introduced in hard segments of HDI‐PU. With the introduction of HDI‐PU into IPDI‐PU, hydrogen bonds between mixed hard domains were formed more easily, which made it possible to tailor the stability of hard domains in PU blends by changing the composition of IPDI‐PU and HDI‐PU. Shape memory behavior of IPDI‐PU was difficult to be observed, while the shape fixity ratio and recovery ratio of the blends containing 30% HDI‐PU were respectively 94% and 72%. This simple and facile strategy can be used to develop the recyclable shape memory TPU, which will have a wider range of potential applications in smart devices.
Associated risks with periodontal x‐rays or CBCT scans: Are there any?
Authors: Pereira Rafael , Sabri Hamoun , Pereira Patricia , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: July 2023

Periodontal and implant radiography, mainly including intra‐oral peri‐apical and cone beam computed tomography images, are crucial in the diagnosis and treatment planning process. However, radiation safety concerns have been a chronic concern over the years, leading to uncomfortable situations. It is therefore crucial to understand the actual radiation exposure to determine if the patients’ fear of necessary diagnostic exams is justified. In this perspective article, we aimed to provide concise information on dental imaging exposure, risks, and benefits, comparing them to that of absorbed radiation from daily life activities; and secondarily, to help periodontists choose the best option for each case and become more confident in addressing patients’ concerns and providing a summary of safety guidelines as a reference for them.
Pharmacokinetic and Bioequivalence Evaluation of Single‐Tablet and Separate‐Tablet Regimens for Ainuovirine, Lamivudine, and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in Chinese Healthy Subjects
Authors: Huang Lei , Lei Jing , Yang Yuanxun , Ma Tingting , Lin Hui , Cao Bei , Li Juan
Published: July 2023

This was a single‐dose, randomized, open‐label, 2‐period crossover study to evaluate the bioequivalence of the ACC008 (test formulation [T]) versus coadministered ainuovirine (ANV) 150 mg, lamivudine (3TC) 300 mg, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg (reference formulation [R]) in the fasted state among the Chinese healthy adults. Eligible subjects were randomized into 2 cohorts to received treatment in 1 of 2 sequences (T → R, R → T). PK samples were collected from 1 hour before dosing to 144 hours after dosing in each period. The concentrations of ANV, 3TC, and tenofovir in plasma were determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Phoenix WinNonlin software was used for pharmacokinetic parameter calculation and bioequivalence evaluation. All the 90% confidence intervals of maximum concentration, area under the concentration–time curve from time zero to the last detectable time, and area under the concentration–time curve from time zero to infinity fell within the bioequivalence range. The safety was comparable between the 2 treatments, with no Grade III/VI or serious adverse events. ACC008 was bioequivalent to administration of its individual components, including ANV 150 mg, 3TC 300 mg, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg with favorable safety profile.
The therapeutic potential of an allosteric non‐competitive CXCR1/2 antagonist for diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Grasselli Chiara , Bombelli Silvia , D’Esposito Vittoria , Di Tolla Michele Francesco , L’Imperio Vincenzo , Rocchio Francesca , Miscione Martina Sara , Formisano Pietro , Pagni Fabio , Novelli Rubina , Ruffini Pier Adelchi , Aramini Andrea , Allegretti Marcello , Perego Roberto , De Filippis Lidia
Published: July 2023

Aims

Diabetic nephropathy is a major consequence of inflammation developing in type 1 diabetes, with interleukin‐8 (IL‐8)‐CXCR1/2 axis playing a key role in kidney disease progression. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of a CXCR1/2 non‐competitive allosteric antagonist (Ladarixin) in preventing high glucose‐mediated injury in human podocytes and epithelial cells differentiated from renal stem/progenitor cells (RSC) cultured as nephrospheres.

Materials and Methods

We used human RSCs cultured as nephrospheres through a sphere‐forming functional assay to investigate hyperglycemia‐mediated effects on IL‐8 signalling in human podocytes and tubular epithelial cells.

Results

High glucose impairs RSC self‐renewal, induces an increase in IL‐8 transcript expression and protein secretion and induces DNA damage in RSC‐differentiated podocytes, while exerting no effect on RSC‐differentiated epithelial cells. Accordingly, the supernatant from epithelial cells or podocytes cultured in high glucose was able to differentially activate leucocyte‐mediated secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, suggesting that the crosstalk between immune and non‐immune cells may be involved in disease progression in vivo.

Conclusions

Treatment with Ladarixin during RSC differentiation prevented high glucose‐mediated effects on podocytes and modulated either podocyte or epithelial cell‐dependent leucocyte secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, suggesting CXCR1/2 antagonists as possible pharmacological approaches for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.
Sustainability of cognitive behavioural interventions for chronic back pain: A long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Riecke Jenny , Rief Winfried , Lemmer Gunnar , Glombiewski Julia A.
Published: July 2023

Background

There is a significant research gap with respect to the long‐term sustainability of psychological treatment effects in chronic pain patients. This study aimed to investigate long‐term treatment effects of two psychological treatments: cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as a broad‐spectrum approach and exposure as a specific intervention for fear‐avoidant pain patients.

Methods

Patients with chronic low back pain were randomized to CBT or exposure in vivo. Long‐term follow‐up (LTFU) data were available for 64 patients up to 8 years after treatment, with a response rate of 73%. The primary outcomes were pain‐related disability and pain intensity and secondary outcomes were emotional distress, psychological flexibility, catastrophizing and pain‐related fear. The data analysis was performed with longitudinal multilevel modelling.

Results

Multilevel analyses showed improvements in all primary outcomes as well as all secondary outcomes from pre‐treatment to LTFU for both treatments. The mean proportion of cases meeting reliable and clinical improved criteria in all primary outcome was 36% (range: 22%–46%) in the exposure group and 50% (range: 33%–60%) in the CBT group. Dropout analyses revealed significantly higher deterioration rates over time. Pre‐treatment to LTFU effect sizes of the primary outcomes ranged from 0.54 to 1.59.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the effects of psychological treatments might be stable over several years. Treatment gains for exposure as a stand‐alone treatment seem to be of shorter duration than a general CBT intervention. Thus, psychological treatments might offer a promising and sustainable long‐term perspective for patients with chronic back pain.

Significance

The long‐term stability of treatment effects is a highly neglected issue despite its inherent importance in the context of chronic pain. This study is the first to investigate treatment effects of cognitive behavioural therapy and in vivo exposure in chronic back pain sufferers up to 8 years after treatment. The findings contribute to an understanding of the sustainability of psychological cognitive behavioural therapy‐based intervention effects.
Quantifying rainfall and cloud water interception in upland forests of Norfolk Island
Authors: McJannet David , Marano Jordan , Petheram Cuan , Tavener Neil , Greenwood Derek
Published: July 2023

The higher elevation (>200 m ASL) forests of Norfolk Island are regularly immersed in the clouds and scientific and anecdotal evidence suggests that in addition to rainfall, water is likely to be collected as cloud droplets are intercepted by the forest canopy. This water is likely to be important for the local hydrology and ecology, yet it has never been quantified. To address this, a field measurement campaign was established to measure hydrological inputs to the forest floor at two elevated (290 and 310 m ASL) forest sites in the Norfolk Island National Park over a 524‐day period. Instrumentation included throughfall and stemflow measurement systems and recording rain gauges in the open in nearby clearings. Sites exhibited very high stem density and basal area and delivery of water to the forest floor was dominated by stemflow because of the funnelling characteristics of the dominant palm and pine trees. Both sites showed similar hydrological behaviour with stemflow and throughfall of around 48% and 32% of total atmospheric inputs, respectively. Stemflow contributions of 48% far exceed observations from the literature on cloud‐affected ecosystems which are typically less than 10%. Rainfall rarely occurred in the absence of low‐level cloud and some cloud immersion events lasted for many days with hydrologic inputs continuing for extended periods despite rainfall not being observed in the open. Cloud water interception accounted for approximately 20% of total water input at both sites which is equivalent to 25% extra water on top of rainfall measured in the open. From an island‐wide perspective, the calculated additional hydrological input is only small due to the limited spatial extent of upland forest; however, the additional water is likely to be very important to local hydrological processes and the unique plants, insects and animals which inhabit the upland forests of Norfolk Island.
Driving destination brand engagement: The role of traveler participation
Authors: Cheung Man‐Lai , Leung Wilson K. S. , Taheri Babak , Tse Sin Yan
Published: July 2023

This paper explores the importance of two forms of interactions, namely marketer–traveler interaction and traveler–traveler interaction in driving destination brand engagement (DBE) dimensions, and their effect on travelers' short‐term and long‐term behavioral intentions based on impulse buying and external search behavior. Using multi‐group analysis, the impact of DBE dimensions on external search behavior and impulse buying across Generation‐Z travelers (aged between 18 and 25) and Generation‐Y travelers (aged between 26 and 40) was also explored. The results provide meaningful implications for tourism marketers to drive relationships between travelers and destinations on digital tourism platforms.
Improvement of phoswich detector‐based β+/γ‐ray discrimination algorithm with deep learning
Authors: Kim Chanho , Kim Semin , Lee Yeeun , Park Chansun , Kim Sangsu , Kim Hyun Koo , Yeom Jung‐Yeol
Published: July 2023

Background

Positron probes can accurately localize malignant tumors by directly detecting positrons emitted from positron‐emitting radiopharmaceuticals that accumulate in malignant tumors. In the conventional method for direct positron detection, multilayer scintillator detection and pulse shape discrimination techniques are used. However, some γ‐rays cannot be distinguished by conventional methods. Accordingly, these γ‐rays are misidentified as positrons, which may increase the error rate of positron detection.

Purpose

To analyze the energy distribution in each scintillator of the multilayer scintillator detector to distinguish true positrons and γ‐rays and to improve the positron detection algorithm by discriminating true and false positrons.

Methods

We used Autoencoder, an unsupervised deep learning architecture, to obtain the energy distribution data in each scintillator of the multilayer scintillator detector. The Autoencoder was trained to separate the combined signals generated from the multilayer scintillator detector into two signals of each scintillator. An energy window was then applied to the energy distribution obtained using the trained Autoencoder to distinguish true positrons from false positrons. Finally, the performance of the proposed method and conventional positron detection algorithm was evaluated in terms of the sensitivity and error rate for positron detection.

Results

The energy distribution map obtained using the trained Autoencoder was proven to be similar to that of the simulated results. Furthermore, the proposed method demonstrated a 29.79% (+0.42%p) increase in positron detection sensitivity compared to the conventional method, both having an equal error rate of 0.48%. However, when both methods were set to have the same sensitivity of 1.83%, the proposed method had an error rate that was 25.0% (−0.16%p) lower than that of the conventional method.

Conclusions

We proposed and developed an Autoencoder‐based positron detection algorithm that can discriminate between true and false positrons with a smaller error rate than conventional methods. We verified that the proposed method could increase the positron detection sensitivity while maintaining a low error rate compared to the conventional method. If the proposed algorithm is implemented in handheld positron detection probes or cameras, diseases such as cancers can be more accurately localized in a shorter time compared with using traditional methods.
Children's Oncology Group 2023 blueprint for research: Cancer care delivery research
Authors: Parsons Susan K. , Beauchemin Melissa P. , Dupuis Lee , Sugalski Aaron , Wolfson Julie Anna , Santacroce Sheila J. , Marchak Jordan G. , Sung Lillian , Roth Michael E. ,   the COG Cancer Care Delivery Research Committee
Published: July 2023

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has a 40‐year history of initiatives to encourage the participation of community oncology sites into clinical trials research and clinical care. In 2014, the NCI re‐organized to form the NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) network across seven research bases, including the Children's Oncology Group (COG), and numerous community sites. The COG portfolio for Cancer Care Delivery Research (CCDR), mirroring the larger NCORP network, has included two studies addressing guideline congruence, as an important marker of quality cancer care, and another focusing on financial toxicity, addressing the pervasive problems of healthcare cost. CCDR is a cross‐cutting field that frequently examines intersectional aspects of healthcare delivery. With that in mind, we explicitly define domains of CCDR to propel our research agenda into the next phase of the NCORP CCDR program while acknowledging the complex and dynamic fields of clinical care, policy level decisions, research findings, and needs of communities served by the NCORP network that will inform the subsequent research questions. To ensure programmatic success, we will engage a broad interdisciplinary group of investigators and clinicians with expertise and dedication to community oncology and the populations they serve.
Under‐Coordinated CoFe Layered Double Hydroxide Nanocages Derived from Nanoconfined Hydrolysis of Bimetal Organic Compounds for Efficient Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Ni Yuanman , Shi Dier , Mao Baoguang , Wang Sihong , Wang Yin , Ahmad Ashfaq , Sun Junliang , Song Fang , Cao Minhua , Hu Changwen
Published: July 2023

Hierarchically structured bimetal hydroxides are promising for electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), yet synthetically challenging. Here, the nanoconfined hydrolysis of a hitherto unknown CoFe‐bimetal‐organic compound (b‐MOC) is reported for the controllable synthesis of highly OER active nanostructures of CoFe layered double hydroxide (LDH). The nanoporous structures trigger the nanoconfined hydrolysis in the sacrificial b‐MOC template, producing CoFe LDH core‐shell octahedrons, nanoporous octahedrons, and hollow nanocages with abundant under‐coordinated metal sites. The hollow nanocages of CoFe LDH demonstrate a remarkable turnover frequency (TOF) of 0.0505 s−1 for OER catalysis at an overpotential of 300 mV. It is durable in up to 50 h of electrolysis at step current densities of 10–100 mA cm−2. Ex situ and in situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopic analysis combined with theoretical calculations suggests that under‐coordinated Co cations can bind with deprotonated Fe‐OH motifs to form OER active Fe‐O‐Co dimmers in the electrochemical oxidation process, thereby contributing to the good catalytic activity. This work presents an efficient strategy for the synthesis of highly under‐coordinated bimetal hydroxide nanostructures. The mechanistic understanding underscores the power of maximizing the amount of bimetal‐dimer sites for efficient OER catalysis.
Novel Bismuth Nanoflowers Encapsulated in N‐Doped Carbon Frameworks as Superb Composite Anodes for High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wei Shiwei , Li Wei , Ma Zizai , Deng Xiaoyang , Li Yongfeng , Wang Xiaoguang
Published: July 2023

Bismuth (Bi) has attracted attention as a promising anode for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) owing to its suitable potential and high theoretical capacity. However, the large volumetric changes during cycling leads to severe degradation of electrochemical performance and limits its practical application. Herein, Bi nanoflowers are encapsulated in N‐doped carbon frameworks to construct a novel Bi@NC composite via a facile solvothermal method and carbonization strategy. The well‐designed composite structure endows the Bi@NC with uniformly dispersed Bi nanoflowers to alleviate the attenuation while the N‐doped carbon frameworks improve the conductivity and ion transport of the whole electrode. As for sodium‐ion half‐cell, the electrode exhibits a high specific capacity (384.8 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1) and excellent rate performance (341.5 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1), and the capacity retention rate still remains at 94.9% after 5000 cycles at 10 A g−1. Furthermore, the assembled full‐cell with Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode and Bi@NC anode can deliver a high capacity of 251.5 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, and its capacity attenuates only 0.009% in each cycle after 2000 times at 5.0 A g−1. This work offers a convenient, low‐cost, and eco‐friendliness approach for high‐performance electrodes in the field of sodium ion electrochemical storage technology.
Enhancing the Initial Coulombic Efficiency of Sodium‐Ion Batteries via Highly Active Na2S as Presodiation Additive
Authors: Hu Le , Li Jianbo , Zhang Yidan , Zhang Huangwei , Liao Mengyi , Han Yan , Huang Yunhui , Li Zhen
Published: July 2023

Recently, sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have received considerable attention for large‐scale energy storage applications. However, the low initial Coulombic efficiency of traditional SIBs severely impedes their further development. Here, a highly active Na2S‐based composite is employed as a self‐sacrificial additive for sodium compensation in SIBs. The in situ synthesized Na2S is wrapped in a carbon matrix with nanoscale particle size and good electrical conductivity, which helps it to achieve a significantly enhanced electrochemical activity as compare to commercial Na2S. As a highly efficient presodiation additive, the proposed Na2S/C composite can reach an initial charge capacity of 407 mAh g−1. When 10 wt.% Na2S/C additive is dispersed in the Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, and combined with a hard carbon anode, the full cell achieves 24.3% higher first discharge capacity, which corresponds to a 18.3% increase in the energy density from 117.2 to 138.6 Wh kg−1. Meanwhile, it is found that the Na2S additive does not generate additional gas during the initial charging process, and under an appropriate content, its reaction product has no adverse impact on the cycling stability and rate performance of SIBs. Overall, this work establishes Na2S as a highly effective additive for the construction of advanced high‐energy‐density SIBs.
A decade of research into the application of big data and analytics in higher education: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Stojanov Ana , Daniel Ben Kei
Published: July 2023

The need for data-driven decision-making primarily motivates interest in analysing Big Data in higher education. Although there has been considerable research on the value of Big Data in higher education, its application to address critical issues within the sector is still limited. This systematic review, conducted in December 2021 and encompassing 75 papers, analysed the applications of Big Data and analytics in higher education. The focus was on their usage in supporting learning, teaching and administration as reported in papers indexed in SCOPUS, Web of Science and IEEE Xplore. The key findings from the review revealed that Big Data and analytics are predominantly used to support learning and, to a lesser extent, guide teaching and informing administrative decision-making processes. The review also identified a set of studies focused on supporting student well-being. Further, we extend the use of Big Data in higher education to include the well-being of students and staff. This paper contributes to the growing debate on the practical use of Big Data and analytics to provide valuable insights for solving systemic challenges facing high education in the twenty-first century.
Assessing the effectiveness of adaptation against sea level rise in Japanese coastal areas: protection or relocation?
Authors: Tamura Makoto , Imamura Kohei , Kumano Naoko , Yokoki Hiromune
Published: July 2023

Sea level rise (SLR) due to climate change poses a serious threat to human populations in coastal areas. As a result, assessing the impacts of SLR and evaluating potential adaptations is essential. This study assesses the impacts of SLR and ocean tides on coastal Japanese prefectures by estimating the extent of potentially inundated areas, affected populations, and economic damages. The latest climate scenarios, tidal data, and shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) are used to estimate the SLR and its inundation effects at a resolution of 1 km. Economic damages are estimated following the methods outlined in the “Manual for economic evaluation of flood control investment (draft).” It was found that all impacts (inundated areas, affected populations, and economic damages) under RCP2.6-SSP1 are significantly smaller than those under RCP8.5-SSP5, suggesting the importance of mitigation efforts. In addition, the study evaluates the cost and effectiveness of protection and relocation adaptations using data on the cost of constructing dikes and the cost of relocating houses and infrastructure. While relocations due to SLR have not yet been undertaken in Japan, the relocation costs could be estimated based on the conventional scheme of community relocation for natural disasters such as life-threatening floods and tsunamis caused by major earthquakes. It was found that the costs of relocation can exceed those of protection under the current framework of Japanese relocation policies.
Union Instability and Fertility: An International Perspective
Authors: Fostik Ana , Fernández Soto Mariana , Ruiz-Vallejo Fernando , Ciganda Daniel
Published: July 2023

In this article, we analyse the relationship between union instability and cumulated fertility among ever-partnered women in several regions across Europe and the Americas with different patterns of demographic behaviour in terms of fertility levels, union instability and fertility across partnerships. We hypothesise that the relationship between union dissolution and fertility might be less negative in contexts where repartnering is more prevalent. The analysis is performed on a large dataset of 25 countries, combining information from the Harmonised Histories of the Generation and Gender Programme with our own harmonisation of survey data from three Latin American countries. This allows for the inclusion of countries with differing prevalence of union instability as measured by (a) the proportion of women who separated by age 40, and (b) the proportion who repartnered by age 40. We first examine the prevalence of separation and repartnering during reproductive ages across regions, and we estimate the proportion of cumulated fertility attributable to unions of different ranks using a decomposition method. We then analyse the links between union instability and the number of children born by age 40 among ever-partnered and ever-repartnered women, using Poisson regression. Despite observing a high degree of heterogeneity in the proportions of births occurring in the context of repartnering both within and between regions, we find a pattern where a greater prevalence of repartnering by age 40 is accompanied by higher cumulated fertility in second or subsequent unions. Our multivariate findings reveal a negative statistical relationship between separation and cumulated fertility that is partially offset by repartnering in some contexts, and that the time spent in a union during the reproductive lifespan is a key determinant of cumulated fertility, regardless of national context and independently from age at union formation and union rank.
Efficacy of intrathecal methotrexate in children with high-risk medulloblastoma over three years: a retrospective study from a single center
Authors: Zhang Yu-Tong , Wang Yu , Zhong Xiao-dan , Chang Jian
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Chemotherapy is commonly used for treatment in children over three years old with high-risk medulloblastoma(MB). However, little is currently known about the therapeutic benefits and side effects of intrathecal methotrexate(MTX), warranting further research.

Methods

In this retrospective study, patients who received intrathecal MTX during chemotherapy were included in the MTX group (n = 32), and patients that only underwent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytology analysis were assigned to the control group (n = 14).

Results

In the MTX group, 27(84.38%) patients had metastatic disease, 3(9.38%) had diffuse anaplasia, and 3(9.38%) had residual disease greater than 1.5 cm2. Molecular subgroup classification was available for 28(87.5%) patients. In the control group, 8(57.14%) patients had metastatic disease, 3(27.27%) had diffuse anaplasia, and 6(42.86%) had residual disease greater than 1.5 cm2. Molecular subgroup classification was available for 6(42.86%) patients. The 5-year progression-free survival was 70.99% and the 5-year overall survival was 72.99% for the MTX group, and the corresponding values were 41.67% and 50% for the control group, respectively. 6 (18.75%) patients in the MTX group with group 4 disease developed MTX-related acute leukoencephalopathy and one of them died.

Conclusions

Our findings support the addition of intrathecal MTX during chemotherapy as the optimal management for children with group 3 and SHH high-risk MB. However, it is not recommended for group 4 MB patients, especially in resource-limited regions.

Trial registration number

: Retrospective registered No.(2020 − 117).
Quality criteria of nature-based interventions in healthcare institutions: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Sterckx Ann , Delbaere Ben , De Blust Geert , Spacova Irina , Remmen Roy , Keune Hans
Published: July 2023

For reasons of human health and sustainability, there is a growing interest in the potential of integrated nature-based interventions in healthcare. However, it is not clear which quality criteria underlie these interventions. Here, we develop a study protocol for a scoping review to explore potential quality criteria relating to the design, implementation and evaluation of nature-based interventions in healthcare institutions. The literature search will be conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science and Scopus, focusing on studies published in English between January 2005 and April 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute Scoping Review methodology and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews with extension for scoping reviews will be used. Search terms were developed stepwise and in consultation with the interdisciplinary research team and the project steering group. Two researchers will perform the screening of the papers independently. Using descriptive content analysis, identified quality criteria will be classified according to the applied theoretical frameworks, outcomes, levels (institutional, professional and patient) and the domains of biodiversity, human health or intervention processes. Ultimately, this descriptive work will result in a set of quality indicators and a prototype nature-based intervention quality assessment framework, which will be presented to the project steering group and multi-stakeholder assembly for further refinement.
Cenozoic evolution of the Tripolitza carbonate platform in the Tethyan realm: new age constraints on deposition, diagenesis, metamorphism and nappe emplacement based on U-Pb and Rb-Sr dating (External Hellenides, Crete)
Authors: Klein T. , Zulauf G. , Evans D. , Gerdes A. , Glodny J. , Heidelbach F. , Kirst F. , Linckens J. , Müller W. , Özcan E. , Petschick R. , Xypolias P.
Published: July 2023

We present kinematic, radiometric, geochemical and PT data, which help to constrain the tectonometamorphic evolution of the Tripolitza Unit (TPU). The age of both the metamorphic peak (P= 0.4 ±0.2 GPa,T = ca. 310 °C) and top-to-the WNW mylonitic thrusting, attributed to the emplacement of the hanging Pindos nappe, has been constrained at 19 ±2.5 Ma using Rb-Sr on synkinematic white mica of a basal mylonite of NW Crete. This early tectonic event is also documented by the oldest generation of veins, which cut through less metamorphic (T= 240 ±15 °C) late Bartonian/PriabonianNummulitelimestone exposed as olistolith in TPU flysch of central Crete. Calcite of these veins yielded a similar U-Pb age at 20 ±6 Ma. U-Pb dating of matrix calcite, on the other hand, reflect the time of sedimentation (38.4 ±5.7 Ma and 37.6 ±1.2 Ma), which is in line with the faunal content of the black limestone. Geochemical data and U-Pb calcite ages of fibres of theNummulitetest (32.3 ±3.1 Ma and 34.6 ±0.9 Ma) suggest unexpected pseudomorphic fibre replacement during late Priabonian/early Rupelian diagenesis. Additional calcite veins, which developed at ca. 10–11 and 7 – 9 Ma (U-Pb on calcite), are attributed to top-to-the S thrusting and subsequent extension, respectively. The resulting anticlockwise rotation of the shortening direction within the TPU from WNW-ESE at ca. 20 Ma to N-S at ca. 10 Ma has significant implications for the geodynamic evolution of the External Hellenides.
Face-tracking algorithm for large-amplitude head motions with a 7-DOF manipulator
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Zhao Cancan , Yuan Xin , Ouyang Bo , Yang Shanlin
Published: July 2023

The collection of facial action data is essential for the accurate evaluation of a patient’s condition in the intensive care unit, such as pain evaluation. An automatic face-tracking system is demanded to reduce the burden of data collection on the medical staff. However, many previous studies assume that the optimal trajectory of a robotic tracking system is reachable which is inapplicable for large-amplitude head motions. To tackle this problem, we propose a region-based face-tracking algorithm for large-amplitude head motion with a 7-DOF manipulator. A configuration-based optimization algorithm is proposed to trade-off between theoretical optimal pose and workspace constraints through the assignment of importance weights. To increase the probability of recapturing the face exceeding the reachable workspace of the manipulator, the camera is directed toward the center of the head, named the facial orientation center (FOC) constraint. Furthermore, a region-based tracking approach is designed to stabilize the manipulator for small amplitude head motions and smooth the tracking trajectory by adjusting the joint angle in the null space of the 7-DOF manipulator. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in tracking performance and finding an appropriate configuration for the unreachable theoretical optimal configuration. Moreover, the proposed algorithm with FOC constraint can successfully follow the head motion as losing 33.2% of the face during the tracking.
Ambiguity and Clarity in China's Adaptive Policy Communication
Authors: Ang Yuen Yuen
Published: July 2023

In China's one-party bureaucracy, central directives issued by the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and the State Council are the most important instrument of formal policy communication, yet their language has rarely been studied. This study highlights three politically salient varieties of directives: grey (ambiguous about what can or cannot be done), black (clearly states what can be done) and red (clearly states what cannot be done). Grey directives encourage flexible policy implementation and experimentation, black ones strongly endorse and thereby scale up selected initiatives, while red ones forbid certain actions. Together, this mixture of ambiguous and clear directives forms a system of adaptive policy communication. Using automated text analysis, I classify nearly 5,000 central directives issued from 1978 through 2017 into the categories of grey, black and red. This first-of-its-kind measurement effort yields new insights into the patterns and evolution of central commands from Deng Xiaoping to Xi Jinping.
Genomic epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in large university hospital cohort: the UnCoVER-Brazil project
Authors: de Carvalho Felipe Santos , Slack Sarah Danielle , Barbosa-Júnior Francisco , de Campos Mateus Rennó , Castro Guilherme Silveira , Baroni Sabrina , Bueno Livia Mara Torres , Coeli Fernanda Borchers , Yamamoto Aparecida Yulie , Silva Jorgete Maria , Calado Rodrigo do Tocantins , Fonseca Benedito Antônio Lopes , Colli Leandro Machado , Bellissimo-Rodrigues Fernando
Published: July 2023

This work aimed to study the role of different SARS-CoV-2 lineages in the epidemiology of multiple waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo state), with comparison within Brazil and globally. Viral genomic sequencing was combined with clinical and sociodemographic information of 2,379 subjects at a large Brazilian hospital. On the whole 2,395 complete SARS-CoV-2 genomes were obtained from April 2020 to January 2022. We report variants of concern (VOC) and interest (VOI) dynamics and the role of Brazilian lineages. We identified three World Health Organization VOCs (Gamma, Delta, Omicron) and one VOI (Zeta), which caused distinct waves in this cohort. We also identified 47 distinct Pango lineages. Consistent with the high prevalence of Gamma in Brazil, Pango lineage P.1 dominated infections in this cohort for half of 2021. Each wave of infection largely consisted of a single variant group, with each new group quickly and completely rising to dominance. Despite increasing vaccination in Brazil starting in 2021, this pattern was observed throughout the study and is consistent with the hypothesis that herd immunity tends to be SARS-CoV-2 variant-specific and does not broadly protect against COVID-19.
Fish evacuate smoothly respecting a social bubble
Authors: Larrieu Renaud , Moreau Philippe , Graff Christian , Peyla Philippe , Dupont Aurélie
Published: July 2023

Crowd movements are observed among different species and on different scales, from insects to mammals, as well as in non-cognitive systems, such as motile cells. When forced to escape through a narrow opening, most terrestrial animals behave like granular materials and clogging events decrease the efficiency of the evacuation. Here, we explore the evacuation behavior of macroscopic, aquatic agents, neon fish, and challenge their gregarious behavior by forcing the school through a constricted passage. Using a statistical analysis method developed for granular matter and applied to crowd evacuation, our results clearly show that, unlike crowds of people or herds of sheep, no clogging occurs at the bottleneck. The fish do not collide and wait for a minimum waiting time between two successive exits, while respecting a social distance. When the constriction becomes similar to or smaller than their social distance, the individual domains defined by this cognitive distance are deformed and fish density increases. We show that the current of escaping fish behaves like a set of deformable 2D-bubbles, their 2D domain, passing through a constriction. Schools of fish show that, by respecting social rules, a crowd of individuals can evacuate without clogging, even in an emergency situation.
Molecular-enriched functional connectivity in the human brain using multiband multi-echo simultaneous ASL/BOLD fMRI
Authors: Dipasquale Ottavia , Cohen Alexander , Martins Daniel , Zelaya Fernando , Turkheimer Federico , Veronese Mattia , Mehta Mitul A. , Williams Steven C. R. , Yang Baolian , Banerjee Suchandrima , Wang Yang
Published: July 2023

Receptor-enriched analysis of functional connectivity by targets (REACT) is a strategy to enrich functional MRI (fMRI) data with molecular information on the neurotransmitter distribution density in the human brain, providing a biological basis to the functional connectivity (FC) analysis. Although this approach has been used in BOLD fMRI studies only so far, extending its use to ASL imaging would provide many advantages, including the more direct link of ASL with neuronal activity compared to BOLD and its suitability for pharmacological MRI studies assessing drug effects on baseline brain function. Here, we applied REACT to simultaneous ASL/BOLD resting-state fMRI data of 29 healthy subjects and estimated the ASL and BOLD FC maps related to six molecular systems. We then compared the ASL and BOLD FC maps in terms of spatial similarity, and evaluated and compared the test–retest reproducibility of each modality. We found robust spatial patterns of molecular-enriched FC for both modalities, moderate similarity between BOLD and ASL FC maps and comparable reproducibility for all but one molecular-enriched functional networks. Our findings showed that ASL is as informative as BOLD in detecting functional circuits associated with specific molecular pathways, and that the two modalities may provide complementary information related to these circuits.
Fast multi-scale galaxy cluster detection with weak lensing: Towards a mass-selected sample
Authors: Leroy G. , Pires S. , Pratt G. W. , Giocoli C.
Published: July 2023

The sensitivity and wide area reached by ongoing and future wide-field optical surveys allows for the detection of an increasing number of galaxy clusters uniquely through their weak lensing signal. This motivates the development of new methods for analysing the unprecedented volume of data faster and more efficiently. Here we introduce a new multi-scale weak lensing detection method based on the application of wavelet filters to convergence maps. We compare our results to those obtained from four commonly used single-scale approaches based on the application of aperture mass filters to the shear in real and Fourier space. The method was tested and validated onEuclid-like mocks from the DUSTGRAIN-pathfindersimulations. We introduce a new matching procedure that takes into account the theoretical signal-to-noise of detection by weak lensing and the size of the filter under consideration. We performed a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the methods, including a complete analysis of the filters and a comparison of the purity and the completeness of the resulting catalogues. We show explicitly that equivalent results are obtained when the detection is undertaken in real and Fourier space, and when the algorithms are applied to the shear and the convergence. We show that the multi-scale method applied to the convergence is faster and more efficient at detecting clusters than single-scale methods applied to the shear. In particular, we obtain an increase of 25% in the number of detections while maintaining the same purity compared to the most up-to-date aperture mass filter. We analysed the detected catalogues and quantified the efficiency of the matching procedure, showing in particular that fewer than 5% of the detections from the multi-scale method can be ascribed to line-of-sight alignments. The method is well adapted to the more sensitive, wider-area optical surveys that will become available in the near future, and paves the way to cluster samples that are as near as possible to being selected by total matter content.
Notes on word order variation in Korean
Authors: Park Chongwon , Yeon Jaehoon
Published: July 2023

This article aims to develop an analysis of scrambling or word order variation in Korean from a
pragmatic/cognitive perspective. Although extensive research has been carried out on this issue, most extant research attempts to
provide analyses of the phenomenon by identifying grammatical features posited for syntactic operations. Unlike the previous research,
we demonstrate that word order variation needs to be understood with respect to its communicative function; it is motivated by the
speaker’s intention to convey information more effectively. It is emphasized that understanding the association between
information structure and word order variation should be an essential task for the analysis of the latter phenomenon. We further
discuss five conversational strategies that motivate non-canonical word orders, which include juxtaposition, backmasking, right
dislocation, add-on, and floated quantifier strategies.
The audience strikes back
Authors: Bucaria Chiara
Published: July 2023

Newer distribution models and delivery mechanisms for audiovisual content have, over the years, contributed to the emergence of different dynamics between the consumers (or end-users) of these audiovisual texts and their providers on a global scale. Fans and casual viewers alike have now become more vocal in expressing their dissatisfaction with subtitled or dubbed content that is not up to their standards. In this article, I take a macro-level approach to audience studies in audiovisual translation (AVT) by reflecting on if and how viewers’ perspectives are being incorporated into streaming platforms’ policies and sense of accountability towards their subscribers. By analysing a recent case study from Netflix Italia – the Japanese animeNeon Genesis Evangelion(Netflix 2019–2020) – I consider the ways in which the streaming platform took on board the subscribers’ complaints about the quality of the Italian adaptation and modified its offering accordingly. This new dynamic seems to suggest that distributors who are more sensitive to their subscribers’ needs may foster a process of co-creation and meaning-making of the localized content that concretely acknowledges the consumers’ point of view. At the same time it raises issues concerning the impact that the opinions of viewers who are mostly untrained in the standards and practices of AVT might ultimately have in localization and distribution choices.
Is Neurodevelopmental Assessment in Early Childhood Predictive of Performance Assessed Later in Childhood and Adolescence in Sub-Saharan Africa? A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Zoumenou Roméo , Bodeau-Livinec Florence , Chausseboeuf Léa , Boivin Michael J , Wendland Jaqueline
Published: July 2023

Background

Most neurodevelopmental tests used to assess child development in sub-Saharan Africa were developed in western or high-income countries, raising the question of their usefulness with African children.

Objective

This systematic review identified and synthesized key findings from studies measuring development in children in Sub-Saharan Africa in early childhood and again at school age, to assess neurocognitive associations longitudinally from infancy through middle childhood.

Methods

The study was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method, selecting articles referenced in the PubMed, PsycInfo, and Embase databases using the following inclusion criteria: published between 2000 and 2022, written in French or English, and presenting results dealing with the objective assessment of child’s neurodevelopment. All articles were registered in the Zotero reference manager and analyzed by title, abstract, and full text.

Results

Several of the seven selected studies confirmed that attention and working memory in infancy can predict children’s neurocognitive performance, including mathematical ability, at school age. In two of the studies, children with poor mental development at 1 year of age are more likely to present with poorer behavioral development at school age, including learning difficulties in school and risk for grade repetition.

Conclusion

Cognitive ability assessed in early childhood is strongly associated with performance at school age in cohorts of African children followed longitudinally. Even with assessments adapted cross-culturally, infants and preschoolers at risk for poor developmental outcomes can be identified to better receive strategic early interventions to enhance their development.
The effectiveness of chest T-tube drainage in uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery
Authors: Patirelis Alexandro , Carlea Federica , Lo Torto Sara , Tacconi Federico , Ambrogi Vincenzo
Published: July 2023

OBJECTIVES

Uniportal incision located at 4th or 5th intercostal space represents a problem for the correct drainage of distal areas of pleural cavity. The T-shaped tube can drain both the extremities of pleural space. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of T-chest tube compared to classic chest tube after uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery.

METHODS

We compared the effectiveness of T-tube and classic 28 CH chest drainage after different surgical procedures in uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery: lobectomies, wedge resections and pleural and mediastinal biopsies. As primary end points, drained effusion and evidence of pneumothorax at postoperative day 1, subcutaneous emphysema, tube kinking, obstruction and necessity of repositioning or postoperative thoracentesis were considered. Pain at 6 and 24 h after surgery, pain at tube removal and mean hospitalization were analysed as secondary end points.

RESULTS

A total of 109 patients were selected for the study, 51 included to the T-tube group while the other 58 ones to the control group with classic drainage. Patients with T-tube showed a significantly lower rate of pneumothorax (29.4% vs 63.8%; P < 0.001), tube kinking (5.9% vs 27.6%; P = 0.003) and need of repositioning (2.0% vs 12.1%; P = 0.043). No significant results were obtained in subcutaneous emphysema (P = 0.26), tube obstruction (P = 0.32), drained effusion (P = 0.11) and need of postoperative thoracentesis (P = 0.18). Patients with T-tube complained of <6 h after surgery (P < 0.001). Conversely, T-tube removal was reported to be more painful (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Chest T-tube can achieve significantly lower rate of postoperative pneumothorax, kinking and repositioning with less pain 6 hours after surgery compared to classic tube.