bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of quality and quantity of macronutrients intake with obesity, new anthropometric indices, lipid accumulation, and blood lipid risk index in Tehranian women
Authors: Salehi Zahra , Rahbarinejad Pegah , Ghosn Batoul , Azadbakht Leila
Published: February 2024

Background

This study examines the association between micronutrient intake, anthropometric indices, lipid accumulation, and blood lipid risk index among Tehranian women.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted on 556 Tehranian women. Dietary intake was measured using a Food Frequency Questionnaire. Biochemical assessment and anthropometric indices were measured, and demographic information and physical activity were collected.

Results

Participants with the highest intake of carbohydrates were more prone to obesity. Conversely, those in the top tertile for protein intake had a lower likelihood of obesity and higher levels of lipid accumulation product (LAP). The highest fat consumers had a 63% decreased chance of having a high Castelli's Risk Index 1 (CRI‐1). A higher glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) were linked to an increased probability of a high atherogenic coefficient (AC). Women in the top tertile of GL were significantly more likely to be obese and had lower odds for high LAP. Participants in the top tertile of aromatic amino acids/branched chain amino acids (AAA/BCAA) had significantly lower chances of high CRI‐1 and a high atherogenic index of plasma (AIP). Those in the highest tertile of monounsaturated fatty acids/polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFA/PUFA) had lower odds of obesity and high AIP.

Conclusions

The amount of carbohydrate (g) and protein intake (%), dietary GL, and the ratio of MUFA to PUFA were associated with obesity. The amount of fat intake (g) and AAA/BCAA indices were associated with CRI‐1. LAP decreased with an increase in GL. AC increased with an increase in GI and GL. AAA/BCAA and MUFA/PUFA were associated with AIP.
Spatial and temporal groundwater dynamics in extreme arid basins
Authors: Wei Xuan , Guo Yuchuan , Zhou Mingtong , Wang Ning , Wang Huijing , Bai Yunbao
Published: February 2024

To accurately obtain the spatial distribution characteristics of groundwater level in an extremely arid zone and its dynamic change patterns under the influence of human activities, based on the data of 55 groundwater observation wells in the middle and lower reaches of the Kriya River, spatial interpolation of regional groundwater level data were performed using the inverse distance weight, spline function, trend surface, and the ordinary kriging methods. The optimal interpolation method was selected by its accuracy to spatially interpolate the groundwater level data in the study area from 2019 to 2021. The results show that: (1) the ordinary kriging method has the highest interpolation accuracy (MAE = 7.1393, MRE = 0.0058, RMSE = 9.4314) and reflects the spatial and temporal variability and distribution characteristics of groundwater levels with great accuracy. (2)The relationship between surface water–groundwater recharge and discharge in different areas of the river channel in the desert section varies depending on geological structure, surface water seepage, and other elements. (3) Groundwater in the Taklamakan Desert has little effect on groundwater recharge in the Dariyabui Oasis, and changes in groundwater dynamics in the oasis are predominantly influenced by surface runoff. (4) Monthly changes in groundwater levels in the Yutian Oasis are continuous, with ‘V’ shaped fluctuations, a declining trend in the southern part, no significant change in the central part, and a slight increase in the northern part. These results contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in the Kriya River Basin, provide a basis for groundwater prediction, and offer a reference for studies of other, similar extreme desert area basins.
Factors affecting the sediment concentration in runoff from a slope during the spring thawing period
Authors: Zhang Kai , Zhang Chengcheng , Wang Zhidan , Bai Yikui , Wang Xuan
Published: February 2024

Sediment concentration (S) is vital in soil erosion models. However, research on estimating S at different positions on slopes in the spring thaw period is difficult. Thus, in this research, four flow discharges, two slope gradients, and four initial thawing depths were used in combination with Rare Earth Elements (REEs) tracing techniques to investigate the effects of hydraulic parameters at different locations of freeze–thaw rill flows on S. The results show that the S on the freeze–thaw slope gradually increases from the first section to the third section of the slope, with an increase of 43.99% from the first slope section to the third slope section. The flow velocity is the most critical factor to affect the S (R2 > 0.7). The prediction equation of S on the entire slope under freeze–thaw conditions was established based on the flow turbulence intensity and relative gravity (R2 = 0.769). This study examined the S and hydraulic parameters of the freeze–thaw rill flow, which provided a reference for further research on the soil erosion model during the spring thawing period.
Humanized dopamine D4.7 receptor male mice display risk‐taking behavior and deficits of social recognition and working memory in light/dark‐dependent manner
Authors: Alachkar Amal , Phan Alvin , Dabbous Travis , Alhassen Sammy , Alhassen Wedad , Reynolds Bryan , Rubinstein Marcelo , Ferré Sergi , Civelli Olivier
Published: February 2024

The dopamine D4 receptor 7‐repeat allele (D4.7R) has been linked with psychiatric disorders such as attention‐deficit–hyperactivity disorder, autism, and schizophrenia. However, the highly diverse study populations and often contradictory findings make it difficult to draw reliable conclusions. The D4.7R has the potential to explain individual differences in behavior. However, there is still a great deal of ambiguity surrounding whether it is causally connected to the etiology of psychiatric disorders. Therefore, humanized D4.7R mice, with the long third intracellular domain of the human D4.7R, may provide a valuable tool to examine the relationship between the D4.7R variant and specific behavioral phenotypes. We report that D4.7R male mice carrying the humanized D4.7R variant exhibit distinct behavioral features that are dependent on the light–dark cycle. The behavioral phenotype was characterized by a working memory deficit, delayed decision execution in the light phase, decreased stress and anxiety, and increased risk behavior in the dark phase. Further, D4.7R mice displayed impaired social recognition memory in both the light and dark phases. These findings provide insight into the potential causal relationship between the human D4.7R variant and specific behaviors and encourage further consideration of dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) ligands as novel treatments for psychiatric disorders in which D4.7R has been implicated.
The impact of personality traits and cultural values on coordination effectiveness: A study of software development teams effectiveness
Authors: Shameem Mohammad , Kumar Chiranjeev , Chandra Bibhas , Ali Khan Arif , Nadeem Ahmed Md. , Verner J. M. , Nadeem Mohammad , Azeem Akbar Muhammad
Published: February 2024

Software development projects depend on collaborative teams. In the past 50 years of research, various studies have explored the effect of software engineer's personality traits and cultural values on team performance. These studies have led to better understand these relationships; however, how the personality traits and cultural values influence the team effectiveness is still far away in the literature. This research aims to investigate the relationships between social and psychological complexities (including personality traits and cultural values), team coordination, team motivation, and team success (which comprises team effectiveness and team climate) to explore the impact of social and psychological issues on software team success. An online survey targeting software development professionals and unstructured interviews were followed for data collection. We received 112 responses from software developers working in different countries. Findings indicate that personality traits and cultural values, that is, consciousness, openness, harmony, and autonomy, have positive relationship with team coordination effectiveness, while other factors such as neuroticism, embeddedness, hierarchy, and mastery were found to be related negatively with it. These negative relationships can be mitigated by motivating team members appropriately. Based on our research findings, we conclude that the negative impact caused by different personality and cultural traits could be reduced by improving team coordination effectiveness using effective motivation.
Theoretische Perspektiven auf das Verhältnis von Hochschulweiterbildung und Weiterbildungsmarkt
Authors: Tokarski Bianca Maria
Published: February 2024

Die Hochschulweiterbildung folgt einer mehrfachen Systembindung: Sie unterliegt sowohl den Funktionslogiken des Hochschul- und Wissenschaftssystems als auch den Wirkungsmechanismen des Weiterbildungsmarktes. Aus dem Versuch, beiden Systembindungen zu genügen, werden Handlungslogiken entwickelt, um hochschulinternen und -externen Anspruchsgruppen möglichst umfassend gerecht zu werden. Einerseits sollen Angebote geschaffen werden, die berufsfeldspezifischen und vornehmlich praxisorientierten Ansprüchen genügen. Andererseits sollen diese Angebote zugleich anschlussfähig an den aktuellen wissenschaftlichen Diskurs sein.
Deep learning algorithm-based multimodal MRI radiomics and pathomics data improve prediction of bone metastases in primary prostate cancer
Authors: Zhang Yun-Feng , Zhou Chuan , Guo Sheng , Wang Chao , Yang Jin , Yang Zhi-Jun , Wang Rong , Zhang Xu , Zhou Feng-Hai
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Bone metastasis is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in advanced prostate cancer, and early diagnosis is challenging due to its insidious onset. The use of machine learning to obtain prognostic information from pathological images has been highlighted. However, there is a limited understanding of the potential of early prediction of bone metastasis through the feature combination method from various sources. This study presents a method of integrating multimodal data to enhance the feasibility of early diagnosis of bone metastasis in prostate cancer.

Methods and materials

Overall, 211 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer (PCa) at Gansu Provincial Hospital between January 2017 and February 2023 were included in this study. The patients were randomized (8:2) into a training group (n = 169) and a validation group (n = 42). The region of interest (ROI) were segmented from the three magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences (T2WI, DWI, and ADC), and pathological features were extracted from tissue sections (hematoxylin and eosin [H&E] staining, 10 × 20). A deep learning (DL) model using ResNet 50 was employed to extract deep transfer learning (DTL) features. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression method was utilized for feature selection, feature construction, and reducing feature dimensions. Different machine learning classifiers were used to build predictive models. The performance of the models was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves. The net clinical benefit was assessed using decision curve analysis (DCA). The goodness of fit was evaluated using calibration curves. A joint model nomogram was eventually developed by combining clinically independent risk factors.

Results

The best prediction models based on DTL and pathomics features showed area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.799–0.989) and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.714–0.989), respectively. The AUC for the best prediction model based on radiomics features and combining radiomics features, DTL features, and pathomics features were 0.86 (95% CI, 0.735–0.979) and 0.93 (95% CI, 0.854–1.000), respectively. Based on DCA and calibration curves, the model demonstrated good net clinical benefit and fit.

Conclusion

Multimodal radiomics and pathomics serve as valuable predictors of the risk of bone metastases in patients with primary PCa.
Modeling urban air temperature using satellite-derived surface temperature, meteorological data, and local climate zone pattern—a case study in Szeged, Hungary
Authors: Guo Yuchen , Unger János , Khabibolla Almaskhan , Tian Guohang , He Ruizhen , Li Huawei , Gál Tamás
Published: February 2024

Urban air temperature is a crucial variable for many urban issues. However, the availability of urban air temperature is often limited due to the deficiency of meteorological stations, especially in urban areas with heterogeneous land cover. Many studies have developed different methods to estimate urban air temperature. However, meteorological variables and local climate zone (LCZ) have been less used in this topic. Our study developed a new method to estimate urban air temperature in canopy layer during clear sky days by integrating land surface temperature (LST) from MODIS, meteorological variables based on reanalysis data, and LCZ data in Szeged, Hungary. Random forest algorithms were used for developing the estimation model. We focused on four seasons and distinguished between daytime and nighttime situations. The cross-validation results showed that our method can effectively estimate urban air temperature, with average daytime and nighttime root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.5 ℃ (R2 = 0.99) and 0.9 ℃ (R2 = 0.95), respectively. The results based on a test dataset from 2018 to 2019 indicated that the optimal model selected by cross-validation had the best performance in summer, with time-synchronous RMSE of 2.1 ℃ (R2 = 0.6, daytime) and 2.2 ℃ (R2 = 0.86, nighttime) and seasonal mean RMSE of 1.5 ℃ (R2 = 0.34, daytime) and 1.2 ℃ (R2 = 0.74, nighttime). In addition, we found that LCZ was more important at night, while meteorological data contributed more to the model during the daytime, which revealed the temporal mechanisms of the effect of these two variables on air temperature estimation. Our study provides a novel and reliable method and tool to explore the urban thermal environment for urban researchers.
Dictionary-based online-adaptive structure-preserving model order reduction for parametric Hamiltonian systems
Authors: Herkert Robin , Buchfink Patrick , Haasdonk Bernard
Published: February 2024

Classical model order reduction (MOR) for parametric problems may become computationally inefficient due to large sizes of the required projection bases, especially for problems with slowly decaying Kolmogorov n-widths. Additionally, Hamiltonian structure of dynamical systems may be available and should be preserved during the reduction. In the current presentation, we address these two aspects by proposing a corresponding dictionary-based, online-adaptive MOR approach. The method requires dictionaries for the state-variable, non-linearities, and discrete empirical interpolation (DEIM) points. During the online simulation, local basis extensions/simplifications are performed in an online-efficient way, i.e., the runtime complexity of basis modifications and online simulation of the reduced models do not depend on the full state dimension. Experiments on a linear wave equation and a non-linear Sine-Gordon example demonstrate the efficiency of the approach.
Impact of cellulose nanofibers on cellulose acetate membrane performance
Authors: Bastida Gabriela A. , Aguado Roberto J. , Galván María V. , Zanuttini Miguel Á. , Delgado-Aguilar Marc , Tarrés Quim
Published: February 2024

Membranes find applications across a wide spectrum of industries, including water treatment, energy production, and biomedicine. In this study, nonwoven membranes were fabricated using cellulose acetate (CA) as the primary component, with varying percentages of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) embedded as reinforcement. These CNFs were prepared through an oxalic acid pretreatment (Oxalic-CNFs). Their incorporation into electrospun membranes represents an innovative approach, enhancing their mechanical properties for applications subjected to high loads and improving its functionalization capabilities. The impact of Oxalic-CNFs on membrane properties was investigated at nanofiber loadings ranging from 0 to 18 wt%. Membranes produced with 6 wt% Oxalic-CNF exhibited the superior physical and mechanical properties. This improvement can be attributed to the formation of threads with higher intrinsic strength, a reduction in pore size, and an increase in density. When higher percentages of CNFs were added, the membranes were not properly formed, because filaments were not continuous and the needle became clogged. The substructure of the membrane proved to be a critical factor for mechanical properties, with remarkable increases in tensile strength and elastic modulus (around 300%) when comparing 4–6 wt% Oxalic-CNF-loaded membranes to CA membranes.
The Zemiological Afterlife of Wrongful Conviction: Spoiled Identity, Repair and Survivorship
Authors: Hearty Kevin
Published: February 2024

Building on the recent global interest in ‘innocence projects’, this article critically examines the various harms experienced by the wrongfully convicted after their release from prison. Locating itself within the zemiology literature, it uses the memoirs of a number of wrongfully convicted persons to conduct a narrative victimological critique of social harms that are often unacknowledged in policy and practice around the reintegration of the wrongfully convicted and in media and societal discussion of their experiences. Insights from these memoirs, it is argued, problematise the various forms of repair offered to the wrongly convicted because these often compound rather than alleviate particular post-release social harms. However, the first-hand accounts contained within their memoirs also illustrate how, far from being caught in a state of passive victimhood, the wrongfully convicted often regain agency through activism and telling their story.
Computational repurposing of drugs for viral diseases and current and future pandemics
Authors: Winkler David A.
Published: February 2024

A large fraction of the world’s population is directly impacted by acute or chronic viral infections, many of which have high mortality. As was brought home to us in 2020, viruses also have great potential to generate global pandemics that have killed millions and caused massive damage to economies. Clearly, we need cost-effective and rapid methods for finding drug treatments for poorly met infectious diseases and for responding effectively to the current and future pandemics. Repurposing or off-label use of existing drugs, whose safety and pharmacokinetics are well understood, is one useful way to provide fast drug therapies for patients. Computational methods have an important role to play because of their increasing effectiveness, high speed, and relatively low cost. Here we review the application of the main types of computational drug repurposing methods to discovery of therapies for viral diseases and for future pandemics highly likely to be caused by viral pathogens.

Graphical abstract
QPCR-Guided Screening of Levansucrase: Levan Characterization and Genomic Insights
Authors: Aytar Çelik Pınar , Barut Dilan , Erdal Altintaş Özlem , Enuh Blaise Manga , Nural Yaman Belma , Mutlu Mehmet Burçin , Çabuk Ahmet , Toksoy Öner Ebru
Published: February 2024

Eighty-seven bacteria isolates were screened for the presence of the levansucrase encoding gene and those possessing the gene were used in gene expression studies and the production of levan. Based on both screening methods, isolate P19-1 was determined as the producer bacterium with the highest amounts of levan. Whole genome sequencing was done to characterize the isolate and determine its genomic potential. Both its 16 S rRNA and genome were closest to Chromohalobacter salexigens. The levansucrase gene and genes suggesting a versatile carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolism were annotated. A secondary metabolism suggestive of a possible new role in promoting plant growth in hypersaline environments was revealed. The chemical structure analysis of the produced polymer was confirmed by comparison with commercial pure Erwinia herbicola levan. Also, C. salexigens levan showed high biocompatibility. Overall, this is a practical molecular approach that will help researchers to effectively screen microbes with levan production potential.
Development of a Multimodal, Physiotherapist-Led, Vocational Intervention for People with Inflammatory Arthritis and Reduced Work Ability: A Mixed-Methods Design Study
Authors: Bakker N. F. , van Weely S. F. E. , Hutting N. , Heerkens Y. F. , Engels J. A. , Staal J. B. , van der Leeden M. , Boonen A. , Vliet Vlieland T. P. M. , Knoop J.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Work ability of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is reduced, but underexamined as a clinical treatment target. The evidence on vocational interventions indicates that delivery by a single healthcare professional (HCP) may be beneficial. Physiotherapist (PT)-led interventions have potential because PTs are most commonly consulted by RA/axSpA patients in the Netherlands. The aim was to develop a PT-led, vocational intervention for people with RA/axSpA and reduced work ability.

Methods

Mixed-methods design based on the Medical Research Council (MRC) framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions, combining a rapid literature review and six group meetings with: patient representatives (n = 6 and 10), PTs (n = 12), (occupational) HCPs (n = 9), researchers (n = 6) and a feasibility test in patients (n = 4) and PTs (n = 4).

Results

An intervention was developed and evaluated. Patient representatives emphasized the importance of PTs’ expertise in rheumatic diseases and work ability. The potential for PTs to support patients was confirmed by PTs and HCPs. The feasibility test confirmed adequate feasibility and underlined necessity of training PTs in delivery. The final intervention comprised work-focussed modalities integrated into conventional PT treatment (10–21 sessions over 12 months), including a personalized work-roadmap to guide patients to other professionals, exercise therapy, patient education and optional modalities.

Conclusion

A mixed-methods design with stakeholder involvement produced a PT-led, vocational intervention for people with RA/axSpA and reduced work ability, tested for feasibility and ready for effectiveness evaluation.
How can ecological product value realization contribute to landscape sustainability?
Authors: Chen Qianru , Li Zhiyuan , Xie Hualin , Wu Manyu , Pan Yehan , Luo Shilong
Published: February 2024

Context

Towards the common goal of improving human well-being, Ecological Product Value Realization (EPVR) and landscape sustainability are both based on natural capital as the material foundation and sustainability science as the theoretical foundation. Integrating these two concepts can help advance the development of landscape sustainability science.

Objectives

This study was intended to explore the different ways that EPVR can contribute to landscape sustainability science.

Results

EPVR can contribute to the science and practice of landscape sustainability in multiple ways: (1) as an economic solution; (2) as an axiological research perspective; (3) as a multi-disciplinary, all-round and multi-level system concept; (4) as a dynamic mechanism with socioeconomic flows in landscape mosaic; (5) a holistic methodology through interdisciplinary integration; (6) as a landscape sustainability research approach following the “resource assetization–asset capitalization–capital monetization” chain of steps.

Conclusions

EPVR can contribute to landscape sustainability science in the following ways: to assist identifying landscape pattern by ecological product survey and monitoring; to promote landscape governance by natural-resource value transformation; to consolidate the resource base of sustainable landscapes with ecological compensation; to optimize landscape pattern by balancing the supply and demand of ecological products; to enhance landscape biodiversity by restoring ecosystems; and to optimize landscape sustainability evaluation using the comprehensive evaluation method of EPVR.
Using land cover information in assessing the ecosystem health of streams
Authors: Yates Adam G. , Bailey Robert C.
Published: February 2024

Context

Land use in a catchment area is critical to understanding how human activities are impacting streams. Catchment land cover is typically quantified as proportions of land use types, but such proportions do not quantify where land use patches are relative to the stream.

Objectives

This paper discusses the merit of land use position metrics for application to stream assessments.

Methods and results

Landscape configuration metrics (LCMs) are often used in stream assessments to describe land use position, but we argue these metrics should be avoided due to: (1) poor description of catchment land cover; (2) inconsistency, and; (3) missing link between valley and stream. Inverse-distance-weighted metrics (IDWs) explicitly quantify the position of land use patches relative to the stream, and thus are conceptually grounded in empirical evidence that the effect of land use is inversely related to its distance from the stream. Hydrologically active IDWs (HA-IDWs) further refine IDWs by quantifying the proximity of land use to hydrologic pathways connecting a stream to its catchment.

Conclusions

We recommend IDW metrics become the standard method to describe catchment land use and its effect on stream conditions and that HA-IDW metrics be used when the required data is available.
Financial impact of medication reviews by clinical pharmacists to reduce in-hospital adverse drug events: a return-on-investment analysis
Authors: Jermini Mégane , Fonzo-Christe Caroline , Blondon Katherine , Milaire Christelle , Stirnemann Jérôme , Bonnabry Pascal , Guignard Bertrand
Published: February 2024

Background

Adverse drug events contribute to rising health care costs. Clinical pharmacists can reduce their risks by identifying and solving drug-related problems (DRPs) through medication review.

Aim

To develop an economic model to determine whether medication reviews performed by clinical pharmacists could lead to a reduction in health care costs associated with the prevention of potential adverse drug events.

Method

Two pharmacists performed medication reviews during ward rounds in an internal medicine setting over one year. Avoided costs were estimated by monetizing five categories of DRPs (improper drug selection, drug interactions, untreated indications, inadequate dosages, and drug use without an indication). An expert panel assessed potential adverse drug events and their probabilities of occurrence for 20 randomly selected DRPs in each category. The costs of adverse drug events were extracted from internal hospital financial data. A partial economic study from a hospital perspective then estimated the annual costs avoided by resolving DRPs identified by 3 part-time clinical pharmacists (0.9 full-time equivalent) from 2019 to 2020. The return on investment (ROI) of medication review was calculated.

Results

The estimated annual avoided costs associated with the potential adverse drug events induced by 676 DRPs detected was € 304,170. The cost of a 0.9 full-time equivalent clinical pharmacist was € 112,408. Extrapolated to 1 full-time equivalent, the annual net savings was € 213,069 or an ROI of 1–1.71. Sensitivity analyses showed that the economic model was robust.

Conclusion

This economic model revealed the positive financial impact and favorable return on investment of a medication review intervention performed by clinical pharmacists. These findings should encourage the future deployment of a pharmacist-led adverse drug events prevention program.
A cautious note advocating the use of ensembles of models and driving data in modeling of regional ozone burdens
Authors: Karlický Jan , Rieder Harald E. , Huszár Peter , Peiker Jan , Sukhodolov Timofei
Published: February 2024

We investigate the performance of two widely used chemistry-transport models (CTMs) with different chemical mechanisms in reproducing the ambient maximum daily 8-h average ozone (MDA8 O$$_{3}$$

3

) burden over Central Europe. We explore a base case setup with boundary conditions (BC) for meteorology from the ERA-Interim reanalysis and chemical BC from CAM-Chem as well as effects of alterations in these BC based on global model fields. Our results show that changes in meteorological BC strongly affect the correlation with observations but only marginally affect the model biases, while changes in chemical BC increase model biases while correlation patterns remain largely unchanged. Furthermore, our study highlights that CTM choice (and choice of chemical mechanism) has a similar or even larger impact on MDA8 O$$_{3}$$

3

levels as the impact of altered BC. In summary, our study calls for a multi-model strategy combining different CTM and BC combinations to explore the bandwidth of MDA8 O$$_{3}$$

3

distributions and thus uncertainty in hindcasts and future projections, in analogy to climate studies considering ensemble simulations under the same anthropogenic emissions but with slightly different initial conditions.
Molecular Determinants of Neurocognitive Deficits in Glioma: Based on 2021 WHO Classification
Authors: Zhang Kun , Yang Tianrui , Xia Yu , Guo Xiaopeng , Chen Wenlin , Wang Lijun , Li Junlin , Wu Jiaming , Xiao Zhiyuan , Zhang Xin , Jiang Wenwen , Xu Dongrui , Guo Siying , Wang Yaning , Shi Yixin , Liu Delin , Li Yilin , Wang Yuekun , Xing Hao , Liang Tingyu , Niu Pei , Wang Hai , Liu Qianshu , Jin Shanmu , Qu Tian , Li Huanzhang , Zhang Yi , Ma Wenbin , Wang Yu
Published: February 2024

Cognitive impairment is a common feature among patients with diffuse glioma. The objective of the study is to investigate the relationship between preoperative cognitive function and clinical as well as molecular factors, firstly based on the new 2021 World Health Organization’s updated classification of central nervous system tumors. A total of 110 diffuse glioma patients enrolled underwent preoperative cognitive assessments using the Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Clinical information was collected from medical records, and gene sequencing was performed to analyze the 18 most influenced genes. The differences in cognitive function between patients with and without glioblastoma were compared under both the 2016 and 2021 WHO classification of tumors of the central nervous system to assess their effect of differentiation on cognition. The study found that age, tumor location, and glioblastoma had significant differences in cognitive function. Several genetic alterations were significantly correlated with cognition. Especially, IDH, CIC, and ATRX are positively correlated with several cognitive domains, while most other genes are negatively correlated. For most focused genes, patients with a low number of genetic alterations tended to have better cognitive function. Our study suggested that, in addition to clinical characteristics such as age, histological type, and tumor location, molecular characteristics play a crucial role in cognitive function. Further research into the mechanisms by which tumors affect brain function is expected to enhance the quality of life for glioma patients. This study highlights the importance of considering both clinical and molecular factors in the management of glioma patients to improve cognitive outcomes.
Human Enhancement and Augmented Reality
Authors: Gordon Emma C.
Published: February 2024

Bioconservative bioethicists (e.g., Kass, 2002, Human Dignity and Bioethics, 297–331, 2008; Sandel, 2007; Fukuyama, 2003) offer various kinds of philosophical arguments against cognitive enhancement—i.e., the use of medicine and technology to make ourselves “better than well” as opposed to merely treating pathologies. Two notable such bioconservative arguments appeal to ideas about (1) the value of achievement, and (2) authenticity. It is shown here that even if these arguments from achievement and authenticity cut ice against specifically pharmacologically driven cognitive enhancement, they do not extend over to an increasingly viable form of technological cognitive enhancement – namely, cognitive enhancement via augmented reality. An important result is that AR-driven cognitive enhancement aimed at boosting performance in certain cognitive tasks might offer an interesting kind of “sweet spot” for proponents of cognitive enhancement, allowing us to pursue many of the goals of enhancement advocates without running into some of the most prominent objections from bioconservative philosophers.
Women’s experiences of participatory small-scale fisheries monitoring in Timor-Leste
Authors: House Jenny , Amaral Nelson M. S. , Silva de Jesus Janicia , Gomes Jemima , Chew Michael , Kleiber Danika , Steenbergen Dirk J. , Stacey Natasha
Published: February 2024

Participatory fisheries monitoring can create many benefits, such as increasing community engagement in marine management, generating data for data-poor fisheries, and empowerment of fishing communities. Although most participatory monitoring studies have focused on men monitoring their own fishing activities, evidence from studies examining women’s increased participation in broader fisheries management suggests that monitoring programmes should also incorporate gender-inclusive approaches. Furthermore, the data collectors’ perspectives regarding the effects that participating has on themselves or their community are often not included in reporting or evaluating monitoring processes and methodologies. Such gaps in participatory monitoring approaches may overlook different people’s participation and experiences of fisheries and their management, and so disregard the general consensus that community-based fisheries are deeply socially embedded. Using the participatory photography methodology, photovoice, this paper explores women’s participation in fisheries management, and how this links with various forms of empowerment, as represented by stories and images shared by the participants of a fisheries monitoring programme in Timor-Leste. Their resulting photo stories explore motivations for participating in the monitoring programme, the enabling or constraining conditions which influence participation, and the implications for broader marine management. The participants’ photo stories demonstrate the importance of relationships in creating an enabling environment for participatory processes, and how monitoring can be relationship-building, creating a positive feedback loop that leads to awareness-raising, empowerment, advocacy and collective action. This study contributes to the growing body of literature around participatory monitoring as an empowering process by amplifying the voices of women through unpacking their experiences and aspirations.
On the interpretation of Varestraint and Transvarestraint hot cracking test results
Authors: Kromm Arne , Thomas Maximilian , Kannengiesser Thomas , Gibmeier Jens
Published: February 2024

The Varestraint test and its variant Transvarestraint are one of the most widely used techniques for evaluating a material solidification cracking sensitivity during welding. The result of such tests is a crack length which is proportional to the material’s cracking susceptibility. Nevertheless, the welding and load parameters can unintentionally influence the crack length, which in some cases can distort the material evaluation. An approach is described as to how these effects can be assessed with the aid of a digital crack analysis. The crack lengths are compared position-dependently with their possible propagation due to the weld pool movement during continuous loading. The index derived from this can be used by the operator to evaluate his test parameters. In addition, a comparison of the results of different Varestraint setups is made possible. Alongside experimental results, a numerical sensitivity analysis is presented on how individual welding and loading parameters can affect the crack lengths.
Discovering Cathodic Biocompatibility for Aqueous Zn–MnO2 Battery: An Integrating Biomass Carbon Strategy
Authors: Lv Wei , Shen Zilei , Li Xudong , Meng Jingwen , Yang Weijie , Ding Fang , Ju Xing , Ye Feng , Li Yiming , Lyu Xuefeng , Wang Miaomiao , Tian Yonglan , Xu Chao
Published: February 2024

Developing high-performance aqueous Zn-ion batteries from sustainable biomass becomes increasingly vital for large-scale energy storage in the foreseeable future. Therefore, γ-MnO2 uniformly loaded on N-doped carbon derived from grapefruit peel is successfully fabricated in this work, and particularly the composite cathode with carbon carrier quality percentage of 20 wt% delivers the specific capacity of 391.2 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, outstanding cyclic stability of 92.17% after 3000 cycles at 5 A g−1, and remarkable energy density of 553.12 Wh kg−1 together with superior coulombic efficiency of ~ 100%. Additionally, the cathodic biosafety is further explored specifically through in vitro cell toxicity experiments, which verifies its tremendous potential in the application of clinical medicine. Besides, Zinc ion energy storage mechanism of the cathode is mainly discussed from the aspects of Jahn–Teller effect and Mn domains distribution combined with theoretical analysis and experimental data. Thus, a novel perspective of the conversion from biomass waste to biocompatible Mn-based cathode is successfully developed.
‘Humour can open the door to conversations’: Exploring the Role of Comedy in Breaking Down Barriers to Employment for Young Disabled People
Authors: Caslin Marie , Georgiou Harry , Davies Charlene , Spoor Sarah
Published: February 2024

Young disabled people encounter many barriers in their transition to adulthood, including having access to the world of work. According to recent data, only 4.8% of adults with a learning disability are in paid work. We wanted to explore how we might address one of the initial barriers, the employment recruitment process. Eleven young disabled people were invited to work with The Comedy Trust to make their own video Curriculum Vitae (CV). We hoped to explore how we could draw on the art form of comedy to not only produce video CVs but also to share the voices of young people with a learning disability. Young people with learning disabilities have a desire to work and have the skills necessary to succeed in the workplace with appropriate support. This paper highlights the importance of employers and those who support young disabled people, having the opportunity to hear the voices of young people so they can consider how to make their recruitment process more inclusive and to address the barriers that are experienced.
The impacts of the transmission line length in an interconnected micro-grid on its performance and protection at different fault levels
Authors: Khoshkalam Arash , Ali Dallia
Published: February 2024

Power systems, in recent years, have been experiencing a dynamic rise in the amount of power obtained from distributed renewable energy sources leading to the concept of microgrids to address the distributed power grid integration issues. Microgrids, a promising means of facilitating the green transformation of power systems, allow the union operation of distributed energy resources (DER) such as combined heat and power (CHP), renewables like photovoltaic (PV), wind and fuel cells (FC), energy storage systems, diesel generators, and controllable loads, either individually or in combination. The protection of DERs within microgrids can be considered as one of the main challenges associated with such phenomenon. Short and Long power transmission lines, in case of a fault, both have particular impacts on system parameters and may result into subsequent events threatening the microgrid and renewable generation units. On the other hand, The high penetration of microgrids not only can change the power flow within the power network, but it can also affect the fault current levels and may lead to their islanding in case of a fault. Before investing in microgrids, especially those in far places, this paper develops a tool to be used in investigating the influence of the interconnecting transmission line length as well as the type/severity of fault on the microgrid performance. The toolbox was developed using MATLAB/Simulink Toolbox. The developed tool was then validated on a case study microgrid and results show that the length of the interconnecting transmission line and the fault severity directly impact the microgrid performance (i.e. voltage and power deviations). In that case, interconnection or islanded mode is contingent upon the decision of the utility operator which also depends on the sensitivity of the equipment used in the microgrid.
An Improved CBBA Generation Method Based on Triangular Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Wang Niu , Chen Mengjiao , Wang Ningkui
Published: February 2024

Acknowledged as a robust tool for managing uncertain information, Dempster–Shafer evidence theory has seen significant progress in recent years, especially in the refinement of mass functions, also known as basic belief assignments (BBAs). This progress is particularly noticeable in complex domains where the effective handling of uncertainty is considered of paramount importance. Despite these advancements, the generation of complex mass functions, referred to as complex basic belief assignments (CBBAs), continues to be viewed as an open and challenging aspect within the framework of complex evidence theory. A method for CBBA generation based on triangular fuzzy numbers was introduced by Xiao, specifically applied to target recognition. However, despite its application, there is notable room for improvement in the recognition rate achieved by this method. In response to this gap, an improved CBBA generation method based on triangular fuzzy numbers is proposed in this paper. Notably, the consideration of attribute weights is incorporated into the CBBA generation process by this approach. This refinement is rooted in the recognition that, in practical scenarios, different attributes carry distinct levels of importance. Hence, adopting a more rational approach by assigning higher weights to crucial attributes becomes imperative. The proposed method is subjected to rigorous testing in the paper of target recognition, with its performance systematically compared against Xiao’s method and the conventional Dempster–Shafer evidence theory. The ensuing simulation results unequivocally demonstrate the superior efficacy of the proposed method in achieving enhanced target recognition rates.
Incidence of First-Episode Status Epilepticus and Risk Factors in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Couper R. Grace , Antaya Tresah C. , Wilk Piotr , Gofton Teneille , Debicki Derek B. , Burneo Jorge G.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Status epilepticus (SE) is a neurological emergency characterized by prolonged seizures. However, the incidence of first-episode SE is unclear, as estimates vary greatly among studies. Additionally, SE risk factors have been insufficiently explored. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to estimate the incidence of first-episode SE in Ontario, Canada, and estimate the associations between potential sociodemographic and health-related risk factors and first-episode SE.

Methods:

We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study using linked health administrative datasets. We included individuals who completed Canada’s 2006 Census long-form questionnaire, lived in Ontario, were between 18 and 105, and had no history of SE. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the hazard ratios for SE within three years associated with each potential risk factor.

Results:

The final sample included 1,301,700 participants, 140 of whom were hospitalized or had an emergency department visit for first-episode SE during follow-up (3.5 per 100,000 person-years). Older age was the only significant sociodemographic SE risk factor (HR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.33, 1.37), while health-related risk factors included alcohol or drug abuse (HR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02, 1.08), brain tumour or cancer (HR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.12, 1.15), chronic kidney disease (HR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.29, 1.36), dementia (HR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.36, 1.48), diabetes (HR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.09, 1.12), epilepsy or seizures (HR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.09) and stroke (HR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.05, 1.11).

Conclusion:

The estimated incidence of SE in a sample of Ontario residents was 3.5 per 100,000 person-years. Older age and several comorbid conditions were associated with higher first-episode SE risk.
Actions of discrete amenable groups into the normalizers of full groups of ergodic transformations
Authors: MASUDA TOSHIHIKO
Published: February 2024

We apply the Evans–Kishimoto intertwining argument to the classification of actions of discrete amenable groups into the normalizer of a full group of an ergodic transformation. Our proof does not depend on the types of ergodic transformations.
The skating of drops impacting over gas or vapour layers
Authors: García-Geijo P. , Riboux G. , Gordillo J.M.
Published: February 2024

We report numerical simulations confirming the predictions in Gordillo & Riboux (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 941, 2022, A10), where we elucidated the lubrication mechanism by which a drop of a low-viscosity liquid impacting over a smooth solid substrate skates over a thin gas film that prevents contact with the wall. Moreover, with the purpose of explaining the so-called lift-off mechanism reported in Kolinski et al. (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 112, issue 13, 2014, 134501), we extend our previous findings and derive expressions for the time-varying thickness of the gas layer at the region where the distance to the wall is minimum, finding good agreement with the numerical results. In addition, we report that our predictions for the minimum thickness of the gas film separating a falling drop from a wall at room temperature follow closely the experimental values when gas kinetic effects are retained in the analysis, and also report that the analogous equation for the minimum thickness of the vapour layer formed after a drop impacts a superheated wall predicts well the experimental measurements.
Response of lacustrine glacier dynamics to atmospheric forcing in the Cordillera Darwin
Authors: Langhamer Lukas , Sauter Tobias , Temme Franziska , Werner Niklas , Heinze Florian , Arigony-Neto Jorge , Gonzalez Inti , Jaña Ricardo , Schneider Christoph
Published: February 2024

Calving glaciers respond quickly to atmospheric variability through ice dynamic adjustment. Particularly, single weather extremes may cause changes in ice-flow velocity and terminus position. Occasionally, this can lead to substantial event-driven mass loss at the ice front. We examine changes in terminus position, ice-flow velocity, and calving flux at the grounded lacustrine Schiaparelli Glacier in the Cordillera Darwin using geo-referenced time-lapse camera images and remote sensing data (Sentinel-1) from 2015 to 2022. Lake-level records, lake discharge measurements, and a coupled energy and mass balance model provide insight into the subglacial water discharge. We use downscaled reanalysis data (ERA5) to identify climate extremes and track land-falling atmospheric rivers to investigate the ice-dynamic response on possible atmospheric drivers.

Meltwater controls seasonal variations in ice-flow velocity, with an efficient subglacial drainage system developing during the warm season and propagating up-glacier. Calving accounts for 4.2% of the ice loss. Throughout the year, warm spells, wet spells, and landfalling atmospheric rivers promote calving. The progressive thinning of the ice destabilizes the terminus position, highlighting the positive feedback between glacier thinning, near-terminus ice-flow acceleration, and calving flux.