bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti‐epileptic drug use and subsequent degenerative dementia occurrence
Authors: Ikegaya Naoki , Nakamura Honoka , Takayama Yutaro , Miyake Yohei , Hayashi Takahiro , Sonoda Masaki , Sato Mitsuru , Tateishi Kensuke , Suenaga Jun , Takaishi Masao , Kitazawa Yu , Kunii Misako , Abe Hiroki , Miyazaki Tomoyuki , Arai Tetsuaki , Iwasaki Manabu , Abe Takayuki , Yamamoto Tetsuya
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

The use of anti‐epileptic drugs (AEDs) in degenerative dementia (DD) remains uncertain. We aimed to evaluate the association of early AED administration with subsequent DD occurrence.

METHODS

Using a large nationwide database, we enrolled patients newly diagnosed with epilepsy from 2014 to 2019 (n = 104,225), and using propensity score matching, we divided them into treatment (those prescribed AEDs in 2014) and control groups. The primary outcome was subsequent DD occurrence in 2019.

RESULTS

Overall, 4489 pairs of patients (2156 women) were matched. The odds ratio (treatment/control) for DD occurrence was 0.533 (95% confidence interval: 0.459–0.617). The DD proportions significantly differed between the treatment (340/4489 = 0.076) and control (577/4489 = 0.129) groups.

DISCUSSION

Among patients newly diagnosed with epilepsy, compared to non‐use, early AED use was associated with a lower occurrence of subsequent DD. Further investigations into and optimization of early intervention for epilepsy in DD are warranted.

Highlights

Anti‐epileptic drug (AED) use before epilepsy diagnosis was linked with a lower subsequent degenerative dementia (DD) occurrence.

Identifying the epileptic phenotype was crucial for justifying early AED use in DD.

AED use with an epilepsy diagnosis did not pose an additional risk of DD.

The potential contribution of combination drug therapy to the strategy was noted.
Evaluating the effects of wolf culling on livestock predation when considering wolf population dynamics in an individual‐based model
Authors: Grente Oksana , Bauduin Sarah , Santostasi Nina Luisa , Chamaillé‐Jammes Simon , Duchamp Christophe , Drouet‐Hoguet Nolwenn , Gimenez Olivier
Published: September 2024

The efficiency of the management of predations on livestock by gray wolves (Canis lupus) through culling is under debate. Evaluating wolf culling efficiency requires to simultaneously analyze the effects of culling on the wolf population and the repercussions of these population changes on livestock predation. This protocol is technically difficult to implement in the field. To properly assess culling efficiency, we provided an integrated and flexible individual‐based model that simulated interactions between wolf population dynamics, predation behavior and culling management. We considered many social processes in wolves. We calibrated the model to match the Western Alps as a case study. By considering the prey community in this area and the opportunistic nature of wolf predation, we assumed that predation on livestock at the wolf territory level increased with pack's food needs. Under this assumption and considering livestock availability as high and livestock vulnerability as uniform in space and time, culling maintained wolf population size and predation risks at low levels. Contrary to what was expected, culling decreased the mean annual proportions of dispersing wolves in our simulations, by speeding settlement. This population‐level mechanism compensated for the high mortality and the pack instability caused by culling. Compensation was however dependent on the selectivity and the timing of culling. When executed before the natural mortality module in our model, the selective culling could undermine replacement of lost breeders and therefore decrease wolf population resilience to culling. Our model gives insights about culling effects in one specific simulated context, but we do not expect that our assumption about predation behavior necessarily holds in other ecological contexts and we therefore encourage further explorations of the model.
Evaluating habitat use and relative abundance of Iowa's river otter with harvest data
Authors: Nixon Bridget A. , Evelsizer Vince , Klaver Robert W.
Published: September 2024

The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) was extirpated from much of the United States in the early 20th century due to habitat loss, pollution of waterways, and overharvesting. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources began a river otter reintroduction effort in 1985, which placed otters in 14 sites across the state. Otters have since been known to occur in every county in Iowa and appear to have successfully repopulated their former range throughout the state. Our objective was to relate land cover characteristics and otter abundance using harvest data. We used data collected by agency staff to map the locations of otter harvest in Iowa from 2006 to 2016. We mapped otter harvest locations at the subwatershed level (also called 12‐digit Hydrologic Unit Code or HUC‐12). We related otter harvest to land cover variables and predicted otter abundance by land cover type. We found that roads, forests, larger waterways, and Ictaluridae (catfish) presence were negatively correlated with otter harvest. Variables positively correlated with otter harvest were areas with greater land cover diversity, wetland patch density, average stream density, and waterway and wetland areas. The land cover model predicted otters in equal or greater numbers than the harvest data in 62.8% of HUC‐12s. The areas of greatest otter abundance estimates were located near recreation areas and urban areas, indicating the underutilization of these heavy‐trafficked areas by trappers. Areas of fewer predicted otters were not concentrated in a single area of the state but occurred along the Interstate 80 corridor.
Accurate Static Data Race Detection for C
Authors: Sales Emerson , Inverso Omar , Tuosto Emilio
Published: September 2024

Data races are a particular kind of subtle, unintended program behaviour arising from thread interference in shared-memory concurrency. In this paper, we propose an automated technique for static detection of data races in multi-threaded C programs with POSIX threads. The key element of our technique is a reduction to reachability. Our prototype implementation combines such reduction with context-bounded analysis. The approach proves competitive against state-of-the-art tools, finding new issues in the implementation of well-known lock-free data structures, and shows a considerably superior accuracy of analysis in the presence of complex shared-memory access patterns.
Detecting Speculative Execution Vulnerabilities on Weak Memory Models
Authors: Coughlin Nicholas , Lam Kait , Smith Graeme , Winter Kirsten
Published: September 2024

Speculative execution attacks affect all modern processors and much work has been done to develop techniques for detection of associated vulnerabilities. Modern processors also operate on weak memory models which allow out-of-order execution of code. Despite this, there is little work on looking at the interplay between speculative execution and weak memory models. In this paper, we provide an information flow logic for detecting speculative execution vulnerabilities on weak memory models. The logic is general enough to be used with any modern processor, and designed to be extensible to allow detection of vulnerabilities to specific attacks. The logic has been proven sound with respect to an abstract model of speculative execution in Isabelle/HOL.
Reachability Analysis for Multiloop Programs Using Transition Power Abstraction
Authors: Britikov Konstantin , Blicha Martin , Sharygina Natasha , Fedyukovich Grigory
Published: September 2024

A wide variety of algorithms is employed for the reachability analysis of programs with loops but most of them are restricted to single loop programs. Recently a new technique called Transition Power Abstraction (TPA) showed promising results for safety checks of software. In contrast to many other techniques TPA efficiently handles loops with a large number of iterations. This paper introduces an algorithm that enables the effective use of TPA for analysis of multiloop programs. The TPA-enabled loop analysis reduces the dependency on the number of possible iterations. Our approach analyses loops in a modular manner and both computes and uses transition invariants incrementally, making program analysis efficient. The new algorithm is implemented in the Golem solver. Conducted experiments demonstrate that this approach outperforms the previous implementation of TPA and other competing tools on a wide range of multiloop benchmarks.
Sum rules & Tauberian theorems at finite temperature
Authors: Marchetto Enrico , Miscioscia Alessio , Pomoni Elli
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We study CFTs at finite temperature and derive explicit sum rules for one-point functions of operators by imposing the KMS condition and we explicitly estimate one-point functions for light operators. Turning to heavy operators we employ Tauberian theorems and compute the asymptotic OPE density for heavy operators, from which we extract the leading terms of the OPE coefficients associated with heavy operators. Furthermore, we approximate and establish bounds for the two-point functions.
Liver segmental volumes and their relationship with 5-year prognostication
Authors: Catucci Damiano , Hrycyk Joris , Lange Naomi Franziska , Obmann Verena Carola , Berzigotti Annalisa , Brönnimann Michael Patrick , Zbinden Lukas , Fischer Kady , Guensch Dominik Paul , Ebner Lukas , Roos Justus , Christe Andreas , Huber Adrian Thomas
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to analyze the predictive value of caudate to right lobe ratio (CRL-R) and liver segmental volume ratio (LSVR) for chronic liver disease (CLD) on routine abdominal CT scans and their association with 5-year decompensation- and transplant-free survival.

Method

This retrospective study included 108 patients without CLD and 98 patients with biopsy-proven CLD. All patients underwent abdominal CT scans between 03/2015 and 08/2017. Patients with CLD were divided into three groups: early CLD (F0-F2; eCLD; n = 40), advanced CLD (F3-F4; aCLD; n = 20), and aCLD with clinically significant portal hypertension (aCLDPH; n = 38). CRL-R and LSVR were compared between groups using Kruskal–Wallis test and ROC analysis to determine cutoff-values. 5-year decompensation- and transplant-free survival were assessed by Kaplan–Meier curve analysis.

Results

CRL-R and LSVR were significantly different between all groups (p < 0.001). A CRL-R cutoff-value of > 0.99 predicted aCLD with a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 80% (AUC = 0.75, p < 0.001), while LSVR > 0.37 had a sensitivity of 67% and a specificity of 84% (AUC = 0.80, p < 0.001). CLD-patients with both CRL-R > 0.99 and LSVR > 0.37 had a significantly lower probability of 5-year decompensation-free survival (31%) as well as lower probability of 5-year transplant-free survival (41%) than those with a CRL-R < 0.99 and/or LSVR < 0.37 (70%, 62%, p = 0.006, p = 0.038).

Conclusion

CRL-R and LSVR showed a high predictive value for CLD on routine abdominal CT scans. In patients with CLD, both CRL-R and LSVR may be combined and are associated with 5-year decompensation-free and transplant-free survival.
Distinct clinical outcomes linked to peripheral arthritis and dactylitis in axial spondyloarthritis: findings from a retrospective Irish cohort
Authors: Kenyon Marcus , Gallagher Phil , Dinneen Brona , O’Shea Finbar , McManus Ross
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Axial spondyloarthritis (AxSpA) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the axial skeleton. Peripheral features such as peripheral arthritis (PA) and dactylitis are common in AxSpA disease. This study aimed to investigate the independent impact of these manifestations on patient presentation and disease outcomes within an Irish AxSpA cohort.

Methods

912 Irish AxSpA patients were analyzed in this study. Disease outcomes in patients with and without peripheral arthritis or dactylitis were compared using univariate and multivariate methods. The prevalence of extra-spinal manifestations was further assessed in relation to AxSpA disease duration.

Results

30.2% of patients reported PA, while 6.6% had dactylitis. PA and dactylitis were strongly linked, with 70% of patients presenting with dactylitis also showing features of PA. Psoriasis was more common in both patients with PA (OR 2.2, P < 0.001) and dactylitis (OR 3.38, P < 0.001). Dactylitis, but not PA was strongly linked to uveitis (OR 2.91, P < 0.001) and inflammatory bowel disease (OR 3.15, P < 0.001), while PA was associated with worse patient functioning and reduced quality of life. PA, but not dactylitis was linked with increased AxSpA disease duration.

Discussion

Despite high concurrence of PA and dactylitis in AxSpA patients, each manifestation is independently associated with worse outcomes. While some of these overlapped, several outcomes are specific to either PA or dactylitis. Due to its strong association with uveitis and inflammatory bowel disease, an early presentation of dactylitis may represent a unique subset of patients and serve as a valuable predictive marker for the later onset of these conditions.
The system of radiological protection and the UN sustainable development goals
Authors: Rühm W. , Applegate K. , Bochud F , Laurier D , Schneider T. , Bouffler S. , Cho K. , Clement C. , German O. , Hirth G. , Kai M. , Liu S. , Mayall A. , Romanov S. , Wojcik A.
Published: September 2024

In 2015 the United Nations issued 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) addressing a wide range of global social, economic, and environmental challenges. The main goal of this paper is to provide an understanding of how the current System of Radiological Protection relates to these SDGs. In the first part it is proposed that the current System of Radiological Protection is implicitly linked to sustainable development. This is substantiated by analysing the features of the current System as set out by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) in its publications. In the second part it is proposed that sustainability should be considered and more explicitly addressed in the next ICRP general recommendations, as part of the currently ongoing review and revision of the current System. A few examples are given of how this could be realised, and it is proposed that this issue should be discussed and developed together with the international community interested in radiological protection.
Multisample lipidomic profiles of irritable bowel syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome-like symptoms in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: new insight into the recognition of the same symptoms in different diseases
Authors: Chen Guorong , Wu Xuan , Zhu Huiting , Li Kemin , Zhang Junhai , Sun Shijie , Wang Huifen , Wang Miao , Shao Bing , Li Hui , Zhang Yanli , Du Shiyu
Published: September 2024

Background

Overlapping clinical manifestations of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and IBS-like symptoms in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD-IBS) present challenges in diagnosis and management. Both conditions are associated with alterations in metabolites, but few studies have described the lipid profiles. Our aim was to pinpoint specific lipids that contribute to the pathogenesis of IBS and IBD-IBS by analyzing multiple biologic samples.

Methods

Diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) patients (n = 39), ulcerative colitis in remission with IBS-like symptoms patients (UCR-IBS) (n = 21), and healthy volunteers (n = 35) were recruited. IBS-D patients meet the Rome IV diagnostic criteria, and UCR-IBS patients matched mayo scores ≤ two points and Rome IV diagnostic criteria. Serum, feces, and mucosa were collected for further analysis. Lipid extraction was carried out by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS).

Results

Lipidomics of mucosa and serum samples significantly differed among the three groups. Feces showed the most altered lipid species, and the enrichment analysis of 347 differentially abundant metabolites via KEGG pathway analysis revealed that alpha-linolenic acid metabolism was significantly altered in the two groups (P < 0.01). The ratio of omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid were imbalance in serum samples.

Conclusions

This study revealed a comprehensive lipid composition pattern between IBS-D patients and UCR-IBS patients. We found several distinctive lipids involved in alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, reflecting an imbalance in the omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio. Compared to mucosa and serum samples, fecal samples might have more advantages in lipidomics studies due to the convenience of sample collection and effectiveness in reflecting metabolic information.
On the positivity of B-spline Wronskians
Authors: Floater Michael S.
Published: September 2024

A proof that Wronskians of non-zero B-splines are positive is given, using only recursive formulas for B-splines and their derivatives. This could be used to generalize the de Boor–DeVore geometric proof of the Schoenberg–Whitney conditions and total positivity of B-splines to Hermite interpolation. For Wronskians of maximal order with respect to a given degree, positivity follows from a simple formula.
Giving voice to educators: Primary school teachers explain how they promote values to their pupils
Authors: Döring Anna K. , Jones Emma , Oeschger Thomas P. , Makarova Elena
Published: September 2024

Values are the trans-situational goals guiding human attitudes and behavior (Schwartz, 1992). As early socialization agents, teachers have a responsibility to promote democratic values of citizenship to create an inclusive, fair, and sustainable society, necessary for individual and collective well-being (OECD, 2019). By facilitating social and cognitive development through social interactions, the school setting helps spark curiosity, leading to reflection and adaptation. Across the curriculum, teachers use strategies like imitation, modelling, priming, and discussion to help children make sense of the world (Makarova et al., 2024; Oeschger et al., 2022). Yet little empirical evidence exists to support how teachers achieve this. The present study gives voice to educators through the personal experiences of ten UK primary school teachers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, lasting between 50 and 90 min. Data was analyzed in two stages: First, a deductive structuring content analysis identified how values of self-transcendence versus self-enhancement and openness to change versus conservation, as defined in Schwartz’s (1992) model, were reflected in the interview data. Second, an inductive thematic analysis yielded the following themes: mechanisms of value transmission; implicit vs explicit instruction of values; values that are most difficult to teach; value transmission through taught lessons; the role of collective worship and cultural days; opportunities for value transmission in the wider school environment; and the role that a school culture and ethos play in the transmission of values. This study supports the view that values are promoted through a variety of methods and across all areas of the school environment.
Analyzing deep reinforcement learning model decisions with Shapley additive explanations for counter drone operations
Authors: Çetin Ender , Barrado Cristina , Salamí Esther , Pastor Enric
Published: September 2024

As the use of drones continues to increase, their capabilities pose a threat to airspace safety when they are misused. Deploying AI models for intercepting these unwanted drones becomes crucial. However, these AI models, such as deep learning models, often operate as “black boxes”, making it hard to trust their decision-making system. This also affects end-users’ confidence in these AI systems. In this paper, the explainability of deep reinforcement learning is investigated and a deep reinforcement learning (DRL) method, double deep Q-network with dueling architecture and prioritized experience replay is applied to train the AI models. To make the AI model decisions more transparent and to understand the reasoning behind the AI decisions for counter-drone systems, Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) method is implemented. After training the DRL agent, experience replay is visualized, and the absolute SHAP values are calculated to explain the key factors that influence the deep reinforcement learning agent’s choices. The integration of DRL with explainable AI methods such as SHAP demonstrates significant potential for the advancement of robust and efficient counter-drone systems.
Spin orbit resonance cascade via core shell model: application to Mercury and Ganymede
Authors: Pinzari Gabriella , Scoppola Benedetto , Veglianti Matteo
Published: September 2024

We discuss a model describing the spin orbit resonance cascade. We assume that the body has a two-layer (core–shell) structure; it is composed of a thin external shell and an inner and heavier solid core that are interacting due to the presence of a viscous friction. We assume two sources of dissipation: a viscous one, depending on the relative angular velocity between core and shell and a tidal one, smaller than the first, due to the viscoelastic structure of the core. We show how these two sources of dissipation are needed for the capture in spin–orbit resonance. The shell and the core fall in resonance with different time scales if the viscous coupling between them is big enough. Finally, the tidal dissipation of the viscoelastic core, decreasing the eccentricity, brings the system out of the resonance in a third very long time scale. This mechanism of entry and exit from resonance ends in the 1 : 1 stable state.
Numerical Design Calculation of T-stubs at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Der Batuhan , Wald František , Vild Martin
Published: September 2024

The failure of steel connections can lead to the progressive collapse of the entire structure. Accurate modelling of steel connections at elevated temperature allows structural fire engineers to design steel structures that may deal with the severity of a fire. The prEN 1993-1-14 proposes numerical design calculation for the static design check of steel connections. This paper presents a component-based finite element model (CBFEM) to design the T-stubs at elevated temperatures. The generated model is verified and validated against the results from the analytical model and experimental study. The resistance, failure modes and the load-deformation curves are used to validate and verify the CBFEM models for steel connection design at elevated temperatures. The results stated that the CBFEM is a practical design tool to model bolted connections at elevated temperatures and it is possible to apply the recommended 5% plastic limit strain by EN 1993-1-5 for fire design of bolted connections.
Decreased functional connectivity is associated with increased levels of Cerebral Spinal Fluid soluble-PDGFRβ, a marker of blood brain barrier breakdown, in older adults
Authors: Contreras Joey A. , Fujisaki Kimiko , Ortega Nancy E. , Barisano Giuseppe , Sagare Abhay , Pappas Ioannis , Chui Helena , Ringman John M. , Joe Elizabeth B. , Zlokovic Berislav V. , Toga Arthur W. , Pa Judy
Published: September 2024

Resting-state functional connectivity (FC) is suggested to be cross-sectionally associated with both vascular burden and Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. For instance, studies in pre-clinical AD subjects have shown increases of cerebral spinal fluid soluble platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (CSF sPDGFRβ, a marker of BBB breakdown) but have not demonstrated if this vascular impairment affects neuronal dysfunction. It’s possible that increased levels of sPDGFRβ in the CSF may correlate with impaired FC in metabolically demanding brain regions (i.e. Default Mode Network, DMN). Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between these two markers in older individuals that were cognitively normal and had cognitive impairment. Eighty-nine older adults without dementia from the University of Southern California were selected from a larger cohort. Region of interest (ROI) to ROI analyses were conducted using DMN seed regions. Linear regression models measured significant associations between BOLD FC strength among seed-target regions and sPDGFRβ values, while covarying for age and sex. Comparison of a composite ROI created by averaging FC values between seed and all target regions among cognitively normal and impaired individuals was also examined. Using CSF sPDGFRβ as a biomarker of BBB breakdown, we report that increased breakdown correlated with decreased functional connectivity in DMN areas, specifically the PCC, and while the hippocampus exhibited an interaction effect using CDR score, this was an exploratory analysis that we feel can lead to further research. Ultimately, we found that BBB breakdown, as measured by CSF sPDGFRβ, is associated with neural networks, and decreased functional connections.
Troponin Elevation in Asymptomatic Cancer Patients: Unveiling Connections and Clinical Implications
Authors: Romann Sebastian W , Giannitsis Evangelos , Frey Norbert , Lehmann Lorenz H.
Published: September 2024

Purpose of the review

Elevated troponin levels are well established e.g., for the diagnosis of suspected acute coronary syndrome in symptomatic patients. In contrast, troponin elevations in asymptomatic cancer patients emerge as a complex phenomenon, challenging traditional perceptions of its association solely with cardiac events.

Recent findings

Recent data support the predictive value of cardiac biomarker for all-cause mortality and cardiotoxicity in cancer patients. This review gives an overview about the current literature about cardiac troponins in prediction and identification of high-risk cancer patients. The overview is focusing on diagnostic challenges, biomarker significance, and gaps of knowledge.

Latest publications highlight the relevance of cardiac troponin in risk analysis before cancer treatment as well as a potential diagnostic gatekeeper for further cardiological diagnostics and therapy.
Soft Expulsion: What Happens When School-Based Supports aren’t Enough
Authors: Hoffstein-Rahmey Diana , Giordano Keri , Murphy Kayla M. , Reizin-Friedman Rashel , Coyne Amanda
Published: September 2024

Very limited research exists regarding the beliefs and practices of student support teams (SSTs), sometimes called child study teams or IEP teams, in settings with non-expulsion policies for young children with severely challenging behaviors. Previous research examined teacher and administrator beliefs and practices and found that they engage in practices related to soft expulsion (Murphy et al. in Child Youth Serv Rev 158:107441, 2024). Some school psychologists and SST members may also resort to soft expulsion, subtly pushing children out of their schools due to challenging behaviors (Zinsser et al. in Rev Educ Res 92(5):743–785, 2022). This study utilized an anonymous, online, self-report measure to investigate the practices and beliefs of SST members in early childhood education settings with non-expulsion policies. Participants included 108 school-based service providers in one state. The majority identified as school psychologists, held a Master’s degree, had between 1 and 5 years of experience, and worked 36–40 h per week. Results showed that most participants said they had the supports to meet the needs of children with severely challenging behaviors, yet most had worked with a child whose behaviors they were unable to manage. Our examination also uncovered indications of soft expulsion practices and a general lack of knowledge about existing non-expulsion policies. The implications arising from these beliefs and practices are examined and discussed.
2023 European Society of Cardiology guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Zwart Bastiaan , Claessen Bimmer E. P. M. , Damman Peter , Woudstra Pier , Vink Maarten A. , Balder J. Willem , Dickinson Michael G. , Badings Erik A. , Appelman Yolande , van ’t Hof Arnoud W. J. , ten Berg Jurriën M. , Arslan Fatih
Published: September 2024

This review discusses the new recommendations in the 2023 European Society of Cardiology guidelines on the management of acute coronary syndrome and provides a perspective on topics specific to clinical practice in the Netherlands, including pre-treatment, antiplatelet agent strategies, the use of risk scores and logistical considerations with regard to the timing of coronary angiography.
Short-chain fatty acids play a positive role in colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Gang , Tang Jingtong , Zhou Jianping , Dong Ming
Published: September 2024

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced by bacterial fermentation in the colon and are thought to be protective against gastrointestinal disease. SCFAs such as acetate, propionate and butyrate are important metabolites in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and have been shown to be beneficial in colorectal cancer (CRC). SCFAs are responsible for maintaining a normal intestinal barrier and exhibit numerous immunomodulatory functions. In this review article, we will discuss the metabolism and mechanism of action of SCFAs and their effects on the CRC, with particular emphasis on dietary fiber treatment and the clinical research progress.
Tailored lateral internal sphincterotomy (T-LIS) for chronic anal fissure by LigaSure Small Jaws©: a comparison with other non-conservative treatments for anal fissures
Authors: Gentile Maurizio , Schiavone Vincenzo , Franzese Antonio , Di Lascio Sebastiano , Velotti Nunzio
Published: September 2024

An anal fissure is a small tear in the thin tissue (mucosa) that lines the anus. Anal fissures typically cause pain and bleeding with bowel movements. The cause is not fully understood, but low intake of dietary fiber may be a risk factor. Chronic anal fissure was defined as a split or ulceration in the posterior or anterior anoderm for at least 6 weeks: have distinct anatomic features such as muscle fibers visible in the wound. Anal fissures can be attributed to constipation or repeated straining: a hard fecal bolus cut the mucosa of anal canal that is relatively thigh at sphincter level management and optimal treatment of the disease is controversial. Many studies recommend conservative and medical treatment modalities as the initial treatment options since they are non-invasive and do not have risks such as anal sphincter injury. Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) is considered the gold standard for treatment of chronic anal fissure. Nonetheless, anal incontinence is one of the worrisome complications of LIS. Fissurectomy is another option among those techniques which address the issues with LIS. LigaSure© (Valleylab) is a bipolar electrosurgical device designed to deliver high current and very low voltage to tissue. It monitors tissue impedance between the jaws of the instrument and continuously adjusts the delivery of energy. The use of LigaSure Small Jaw was never reported for anal fissures in literature. We have applied the use of this device to a group of patients complaining for chronic anal fissure in order to verify if there is any advantage to perform it compared to traditional technique (blade, scissors, electrocautery).
Environmental effects on the experimental modal parameters of masonry buildings: experiences from the Italian Seismic Observatory of Structures (OSS) network
Authors: Sivori D. , Merani M. G. B. , Bocchi F. , Spina D. , Cattari S.
Published: September 2024

The paper presents an in-depth analysis of the ambient dynamic behavior of nine masonry buildings monitored by the Italian Seismic Observatory of Structures (OSS). Addressing a significant knowledge gap affecting this structural type, the study reveals how daily and seasonal fluctuations in environmental factors have a notable influence on its experimental modal parameters. A robust frequency-domain tracking algorithm is first developed to identify and follow the evolution of modal parameters over time, exploiting ambient vibration recordings acquired at sub-daily intervals on the structures. The procedure is systematically applied to the entire portfolio of case-study buildings and, in the first year of training, integrated with measurements of environmental parameters provided by nearby weather stations. The multivariate regression analysis indicates that temperature variation is the primary driver of the observed wandering of natural frequencies. The frequency–temperature relationship shows a positive correlation above zero degrees and, in several cases, a significant degree of nonlinearity already present in low-frequency global modes. Simple predictive models are proposed to address such nonlinear behavior, including freezing conditions and accounting for internal heating during winter. Leveraging these novel insights, the work develops strategies to improve the efficiency of data acquisition protocols and training periods, enabling the near-future extension of real-time condition assessment methodologies to the entire OSS network.
Treatment effect analysis of the Frailty Care Bundle (FCB) in a cohort of patients in acute care settings
Authors: Crowe Colum , Naughton Corina , de Foubert Marguerite , Cummins Helen , McCullagh Ruth , Skelton Dawn A. , Dahly Darren , Palmer Brendan , O’Flynn Brendan , Tedesco Salvatore
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to explore the feasibility of using machine learning approaches to objectively differentiate the mobilization patterns, measured via accelerometer sensors, of patients pre- and post-intervention.

Methods

The intervention tested the implementation of a Frailty Care Bundle to improve mobilization, nutrition and cognition in older orthopedic patients. The study recruited 120 participants, a sub-group analysis was undertaken on 113 patients with accelerometer data (57 pre-intervention and 56 post-intervention), the median age was 78 years and the majority were female. Physical activity data from an ankle-worn accelerometer (StepWatch 4) was collected for each patient during their hospital stay. These data contained daily aggregated gait variables. Data preprocessing included the standardization of step counts and feature computation. Subsequently, a binary classification model was trained. A systematic hyperparameter optimization approach was applied, and feature selection was performed. Two classifier models, logistic regression and Random Forest, were investigated and Shapley values were used to explain model predictions.

Results

The Random Forest classifier demonstrated an average balanced accuracy of 82.3% (± 1.7%) during training and 74.7% (± 8.2%) for the test set. In comparison, the logistic regression classifier achieved a training accuracy of 79.7% (± 1.9%) and a test accuracy of 77.6% (± 5.5%). The logistic regression model demonstrated less overfitting compared to the Random Forest model and better performance on the hold-out test set. Stride length was consistently chosen as a key feature in all iterations for both models, along with features related to stride velocity, gait speed, and Lyapunov exponent, indicating their significance in the classification.

Conclusion

The best performing classifier was able to distinguish between patients pre- and post-intervention with greater than 75% accuracy. The intervention showed a correlation with higher gait speed and reduced stride length. However, the question of whether these alterations are part of an adaptive process that leads to improved outcomes over time remains.
Coupled heat transfer–crystallization analysis in continuous carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites 3D printing: simulation and experimental validation
Authors: Parviz Hadi , Eder Martin Alexander , Sarhadi Ali
Published: September 2024

This study proposes an advanced progressive numerical modeling approach to investigate heat transfer phenomena occurring in the 3D printing of continuous carbon fiber-reinforced co-polyamide (Copa) composites. The material extrusion process is simulated using element activation techniques and active cooling methods, while thermal boundary conditions are updated during the printing process. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) tests are conducted on composite and neat polymer samples to include the crystallization behavior, where the Hoffman–Lauritzen model is employed for crystallization modeling based on the input data from DSC tests. It is demonstrated that the proposed modeling approach, coupled with the Hoffman–Lauritzen crystallization model, accurately predicts the thermal history of the composite extrudate post-deposition. In the case of a neat polymer, the results of the developed FEM model align well with existing literature. Experimental in-situ temperature measurements utilizing thermal vision agree very well with the predictions of the heat transfer model developed for 3D printing of continuous fiber-reinforced Copa composites, demonstrating the model's capability to predict temperature profiles during printing.
A decentralized control approach in hypergraph distributed optimization decomposition cases
Authors: Papastaikoudis Ioannis , Watson Jeremy , Lestas Ioannis
Published: September 2024

We study the main decomposition approaches (primal, dual and primal–dual) for a distributed optimization problem from a dynamical system perspective where the couplings among the variables of the optimization problem are described by an undirected, unweighted hypergraph. We conduct stability analysis for the respective dynamical systems of the decomposition cases by using non linear decentralized control theoretic techniques and spectral properties of the respective communication matrices, i.e., the incidence and the Laplacian matrices of the hypergraph. Finally, we provide numerical simulations under a specific coalitional setting that demonstrate the superiority of the hypergraph compared to its respective graph analogue, the clique expansion graph, for the given decomposition algorithms in terms of convergence rate and information transmission efficiency.
Power in the future of work: production, reproduction, and reconstruction
Authors: Dannreuther Charlie
Published: September 2024

Labour studies have always been concerned with power, so how do concepts of power inform an understanding of the future of work today? Luke’s Three Dimensions of Power reveals how past contests over the normative outcomes and policy choices of future labour also present for platform capitalism. But while modern conceptions of power capture the realignment of productivist power relations under rentier capital, they fall short in explaining the legacy of colonial capital on the future of work. Drawing on a wide range of post-colonial and post human literatures, structural power is shown to forget the futures of many exploited, dispossessed and subaltern workers where productive alliances may be formed. Understanding power in these terms also shows how power relations can be confronted and challenged in a post-productivist agenda that could inform new ways of understanding the future of labour.
Advances in the Protection of New Varieties of Horticultural Crops in China
Authors: Liu Jinghui , Wang Hao , Jing Ruonan , Ma Yingxue , Sun Lei , Fan Xiucai , Zhang Ying , Liu Chonghuai , Jiang Jianfu
Published: September 2024

Horticultural crops yield considerable economic benefits, vital for supply stability and income enhancement. Plant breeders' rights (PBR) form a foundation, offering breeders essential safeguards to secure benefits and sustain breeding efforts. Therefore, comprehending the status and challenges in horticultural crop variety protection is vital for advancing horticulture. These crops encompass five primary categories: ornamental plants, fruit trees, vegetables, tea, and edible fungi. This article reviews the distinctness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) testing guidelines and progress in molecular identification research for Chinese horticultural crops from 1999 to 2022. Additionally, it statistically analyzes data from the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and the Forestry Knowledge Service System on PBR applications and grants for all horticultural crop breeders. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of horticultural crop variety protection in China. By thoroughly analyzing the existing status and challenges, the article seeks to enhance the international standing of plant variety protection in Chinese horticulture.
Data-driven transient lift attenuation for extreme vortex gust–airfoil interactions
Authors: Fukami Kai , Nakao Hiroya , Taira Kunihiko
Published: September 2024

We present a data-driven feedforward control to attenuate large transient lift experienced by an airfoil disturbed by an extreme level of discrete vortex gust. The current analysis uses a nonlinear machine-learning technique to compress the high-dimensional flow dynamics onto a low-dimensional manifold. While the interaction dynamics between the airfoil and extreme vortex gust are parametrized by its size, gust ratio and position, the wake responses are well captured on this simple manifold. The effect of extreme vortex disturbance about the undisturbed baseline flows can be extracted in a physically interpretable manner. Furthermore, we call on phase-amplitude reduction to model and control the complex nonlinear extreme aerodynamic flows. The present phase-amplitude reduction model reveals the sensitivity of the dynamical system in terms of the phase shift and amplitude change induced by external forcing with respect to the baseline periodic orbit. By performing the phase-amplitude analysis for a latent dynamical model identified by sparse regression, the sensitivity functions of low-dimensionalized aerodynamic flows for both phase and amplitude are derived. With the phase and amplitude sensitivity functions, optimal forcing can be determined to quickly suppress the effect of extreme vortex gusts towards the undisturbed states in a low-order space. The present optimal flow modification built upon the machine-learned low-dimensional subspace quickly alleviates the impact of transient vortex gusts for a variety of extreme aerodynamic scenarios, providing a potential foundation for flight of small-scale air vehicles in adverse atmospheric conditions.
Use-Value, Exchange-Value, and the Empty Promise of Black Homeownership
Authors: Ramirez G. Aron
Published: September 2024

Andrew Kahrl has gifted the field a forceful book that urges us to remember the property taxes. The Black Tax tells us, “The property tax is the most local of all taxes” (5). More than that, though, the property tax is the most literal way that state policy hits close to home. Kahrl thus studies local taxation to show how white people wielded state power to threaten Black Americans’ tenuous grip on property ownership—and generate handsome profits along the way. The ends—dispossession of Black-owned property and unfair tax burdens—will surprise few readers. But the means—tax-buying, fractional assessments, and other bureaucratic technicalities—will shock, frustrate, and anger most. This is the force of The Black Tax: Kahrl reminds us that, for Black people as with other racialized minorities, the barriers to homeownership do not end when the sale closes.
Effect of depression treatment on health behaviors and cardiovascular risk factors in primary care patients with depression and elevated cardiovascular risk: data from the eIMPACT trial
Authors: Schuiling Matthew D. , Shell Aubrey L. , Callahan Christopher M. , Nurnberger John I. , MacDonald Krysha L. , Considine Robert V. , Wu Wei , Hirsh Adam T. , Crawford Christopher A. , Williams Michelle K. , Lipuma Timothy C. , Gupta Samir K. , Kovacs Richard J. , Rollman Bruce L. , Stewart Jesse C.
Published: September 2024

Background

Depression is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), but it is unknown if successful depression treatment reduces CVD risk.

Methods

Using eIMPACT trial data, we examined the effect of modernized collaborative care for depression on indicators of CVD risk. A total of 216 primary care patients with depression and elevated CVD risk were randomized to 12 months of the eIMPACT intervention (internet cognitive-behavioral therapy [CBT], telephonic CBT, and select antidepressant medications) or usual primary care. CVD-relevant health behaviors (self-reported CVD prevention medication adherence, sedentary behavior, and sleep quality) and traditional CVD risk factors (blood pressure and lipid fractions) were assessed over 12 months. Incident CVD events were tracked over four years using a statewide health information exchange.

Results

The intervention group exhibited greater improvement in depressive symptoms (p < 0.01) and sleep quality (p < 0.01) than the usual care group, but there was no intervention effect on systolic blood pressure (p = 0.36), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.38), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.79), triglycerides (p = 0.76), CVD prevention medication adherence (p = 0.64), or sedentary behavior (p = 0.57). There was an intervention effect on diastolic blood pressure that favored the usual care group (p = 0.02). The likelihood of an incident CVD event did not differ between the intervention (13/107, 12.1%) and usual care (9/109, 8.3%) groups (p = 0.39).

Conclusions

Successful depression treatment alone is not sufficient to lower the heightened CVD risk of people with depression. Alternative approaches are needed.

Trial Registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02458690
Public mental health – a challenge for local communities and research
Authors: Priebe Stefan , Reininghaus Ulrich
Published: September 2024

Common approaches for improving the mental health of the population in general and of vulnerable groups in particular include policies to address social determinants and the expansion of professional health services. Both approaches have substantial limitations in practice. A more promising option is actions that utilize resources that either already exist or can easily be generated in local communities. Examples are provided for various local initiatives with the potential to facilitate helpful interactions and relationships that are likely to benefit the mental health of significant parts of the population. Developing and implementing such initiatives is a challenge to communities, while their evaluation may require innovative methods in research.
Ocean Density Currents Induced by MJO Precipitation: A Key Player in Warm Pool Eastward Extension During Onset of El Niño
Authors: Jauregui Yakelyn R. , Chen Shuyi S.
Published: September 2024

Enhanced warm pool eastward extension (WPEE) over the western‐central Pacific prior to the onset of El Niño has been observed following Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) precipitation events. However, the mechanism driving the WPEE after the MJO precipitation remains unclear. This study investigates how MJO precipitation affects WPEE by analyzing the zonal momentum budget of two coupled atmosphere‐ocean model simulations with and without freshwater from Kerns and Chen (2021, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocemod.2021.101892). It is found that the zonal pressure gradient (ZPG) force created by decreasing salinity and density from MJO precipitation is a key driving force of the WPEE during the onset of El Niño in 2018. The ZPG forces eastward density currents, transporting warmer and fresher waters against persistent easterly winds. Eastward density currents can persist for up to 30 days post‐MJO precipitation. This new mechanism works in concert with two other well‐known MJO‐induced processes in the upper ocean: (a) deepening of thermocline by oceanic Kelvin waves excited by the MJO's westerly winds, and (b) increased SST due to the barrier layer formation. The cumulative effects of these interactive processes during consecutive MJO events reduce the Pacific basin‐scale east‐west temperature gradient, enhancing the WPEE. These processes can contribute to flattening the east‐west thermocline, decreasing in upwelling in the central Pacific, and warming in the eastern equatorial Pacific.