bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group sequential two‐stage preference designs
Authors: Liu Ruyi , Li Fan , Esserman Denise , Ryan Mary M.
Published: November 2023

The two‐stage preference design (TSPD) enables inference for treatment efficacy while allowing for incorporation of patient preference to treatment. It can provide unbiased estimates for selection and preference effects, where a selection effect occurs when patients who prefer one treatment respond differently than those who prefer another, and a preference effect is the difference in response caused by an interaction between the patient's preference and the actual treatment they receive. One potential barrier to adopting TSPD in practice, however, is the relatively large sample size required to estimate selection and preference effects with sufficient power. To address this concern, we propose a group sequential two‐stage preference design (GS‐TSPD), which combines TSPD with sequential monitoring for early stopping. In the GS‐TSPD, pre‐planned sequential monitoring allows investigators to conduct repeated hypothesis tests on accumulated data prior to full enrollment to assess study eligibility for early trial termination without inflating type I error rates. Thus, the procedure allows investigators to terminate the study when there is sufficient evidence of treatment, selection, or preference effects during an interim analysis, thereby reducing the design resource in expectation. To formalize such a procedure, we verify the independent increments assumption for testing the selection and preference effects and apply group sequential stopping boundaries from the approximate sequential density functions. Simulations are then conducted to investigate the operating characteristics of our proposed GS‐TSPD compared to the traditional TSPD. We demonstrate the applicability of the design using a study of Hepatitis C treatment modality.
Coaxial Flexible Fiber‐Shaped Triboelectric Nanogenerator Assisted by Deep Learning for Self‐Powered Vibration Monitoring
Authors: Zhao Cong , Du Taili , Ge Bin , Xi Ziyue , Qian Zian , Wang Yawei , Wang Junpeng , Dong Fangyang , Shen Dianlong , Zhan Zhenhao , Xu Minyi
Published: November 2023

Self‐powered vibration sensor is highly desired for distributed and continuous monitoring requirements of Industry 4.0. Herein, a flexible fiber‐shaped triboelectric nanogenerator (F‐TENG) with a coaxial core‐shell structure is proposed for the vibration monitoring. The F‐TENG exhibits higher adaptability to the complex surfaces, which has an outstanding application prospect due to vital compensation for the existing rigid sensors. Initially, the contact characteristics between the dielectric layers, that related to the perceiving performance of the TENG, are theoretically analyzed. Such a TENG with 1D structure endows high sensitivity, allowing for accurately responding to a wide range of vibration frequencies (0.1 to 100 Hz). Even applying to the real diesel engine, the error in detecting the vibration frequencies is only 0.32% compared with the commercial vibration sensor, highlighting its potential in practical application. Further, assisted by deep learning, the recognition accuracy in monitoring nine operating conditions of the system achieves 97.87%. Overall, the newly designed F‐TENG with the merits of high‐adaptability, cost‐efficiency, and self‐powered, has offered a promising solution to fulfill an extensive range of vibration sensing applications in the future.
Continuous Ultrathin Zwitterionic Covalent Organic Framework Membrane Via Surface‐Initiated Polymerization Toward Superior Water Retention
Authors: Liu Lin , Ma Yu , Li Bo , Yin Liying , Zang Hong‐Ying , Zhang Ning , Bi Hai , Wang Shaolei , Zhu Guangshan
Published: November 2023

Efficient construction of proton transport channels in proton exchange membranes maintaining conductivity under varied humidity is critical for the development of fuel cells. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) hold great potential in providing precise and fast ion transport channels. However, the preparation of continuous free‐standing COF membranes retaining their inherent structural advantages to realize excellent proton conduction performance is a major challenge. Herein, a zwitterionic COF material bearing positive ammonium ions and negative sulphonic acid ions is developed. Free‐standing COF membrane with adjustable thickness is constructed via surface‐initiated polymerization of COF monomers. The porosity, continuity, and stability of the membranes are demonstrated via the transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characterization. The rigidity of the COF structure avoids swelling in aqueous solution, which improves the chemical stability of the proton exchange membranes and improves the performance stability. In the higher humidity range (50–90%), the prepared zwitterionic COF membrane exhibits superior capability in retaining the conductivity compared to COF membrane merely bearing sulphonic acid group. The established strategy shows the potential for the application of zwitterionic COF in the proton exchange membrane fuel cells.
Bright Semiconductor Quantum Dots Shed New Light on Precision Nanomedicine for Various Diseases
Authors: Zhang Peisen , Jiao Mingxia , Li Yilin , Ding Xiaoyan , McHugh Kevin J. , Jing Lihong
Published: November 2023

Nanomaterials with diagnostic and therapeutic functions have exciting potential to reshape the landscape of precision medicine. Impressive progress has been made toward the design and production of innovative theranostic nanomaterials that improve disease care, motivated by their ability to simultaneously provide diagnostic information and therapeutic benefits. Herein, the state‐of‐the‐art theranostic semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are summarized, and the diverse types of QDs designed for the diagnosis and treatment of different diseases are discussed. The opportunities and benefits of QDs are highlighted throughout using in vitro and in vivo examples aimed at addressing various clinical challenges, including cancer, vascular dysfunctions, microbial infections, and medical tattoos. Over the past several years, this area has experienced enormous growth, particularly in preclinical animal imaging and therapy, which has brought the field closer to reaching human patients. Unfortunately, several barriers to clinical translation remain. Therefore, in addition to summarizing the key results from previous in vivo studies, the lessons learned from these studies are synthesized, perspective on the future steps needed for both fundamental studies and the clinical translation of theranostic QD nanotechnology to inform future QD design is provided.
Promoting the Cation Utilization in Energy‐Dense Sodium Metal Battery Prototypes: Strategies, Analysis, and Prospects
Authors: Liu Ting , Yang Zihan , Tang Yinwen , Liu Jintao , Ma Yue
Published: November 2023

Sodium metal batteries (SMBs) have garnered significant attention among the most promising energy storage devices due to their high theoretical energy densities and availability of charge carrier sources. However, the large volume expansion of the hostless anode and Na dendrite protrusion destabilize the solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI), meanwhile the irreversible depletion of Na+ ions would compromise the coulombic efficiency and lead to the unsatisfactory cation utilization during the repetitive cycling. Hitherto, a series of optimization strategies are proposed to promote SMB cation utilization, including homogenizing the cation influx toward the metallic substrate, regulating the composition of the SEI layer, and suppressing the volume propagation of metallic deposition. Most of these methods, however, are still based on empirical attempts and lack the systematic study to elucidate the interplay between the structural evolution of the electrodes and the cation utilization degree on the device level. Therefore, this review aims to consolidate the understanding of critical factors that promote the cycling efficiency and their correlations through the performance assessment on the device level. By leveraging operando characterization techniques, the future studies seek to emphasize the pivotal characteristics at multiple scales that contribute to the enhanced cation utilization degree.
Cation Exchange in Lead Halide Perovskite Quantum Dots toward Functional Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Zhao Chenyu , Shi Junwei , Huang Hehe , Zhao Qian , Zhang Xuliang , Yuan Jianyu
Published: November 2023

Lead halide perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) exhibit properties tunability and solution processability, rending them highly promising for optoelectronic applications. To overcome the compositional limits of thin‐film perovskite and achieve mixed A‐site PQDs, a post‐synthetic cation‐exchange process, driven by the intrinsic ionic character as well as the dynamic surface structure within the PQDs, emerges as a highly efficient approach. The cation‐exchange process can be precisely regulated by manipulating PQD‐situated environment, such as the cation species, stoichiometric ratios, and surface ligand conditions, leading to tunable optical bandgap, improved stability, and enhanced carrier lifetime over the single A‐site PQDs. These advancements hold immense potential for elevating the performance of PQD‐based optoelectronic devices. In this perspective, a timely summary and outlook on the emergence and developments of cation exchange in functional PQDs is presented, as well as the intrinsic cation‐exchange mechanism and properties of these resultant‐mixed‐cation PQDs. It is believed that these detailed discussions are beneficial for advancing further development of cation exchange and utilization of mixed‐cation PQDs toward functional optoelectronic applications.
A taxonomic revision and cranial description of Terrestrisuchus gracilis (Archosauria, Crocodylomorpha) from the Upper Triassic of Pant‐y‐Ffynnon Quarry (southern Wales)
Authors: Spiekman Stephan N. F. , Fernandez Vincent , Butler Richard J. , Dollman Kathleen N. , Maidment Susannah C. R.
Published: November 2023

Non‐crocodyliform crocodylomorphs, formerly referred to the informal group ‘Sphenosuchia’, are the earliest known crocodylomorph precursors of extant crocodylians. They are therefore crucial for our understanding of early crocodylian evolution and the origin of typical crocodylian characteristics, such as the formation of a secondary palate, complex cranial pneumaticity, and a reinforced braincase. Terrestrisuchus gracilis, known from the Upper Triassic fissure fill deposits of Pant‐y‐Ffynnon in southern Wales, is represented by almost 200 specimens, comprising articulated, partially associated, and isolated remains. In this contribution we provide a taxonomic revision of Terrestrisuchus gracilis and redescribe its cranial anatomy in detail, based in part on novel micro‐computed tomography data. The posterior skull region is extensively pneumatized as indicated, among other features, by large pre‐ and postcarotid recesses on the parabasisphenoid, and a large pneumatic cavity in the articular of the mandible. In contrast, the quadrate forms only a small, unfused contact with the prootic, suggesting that complex pneumatization of the postorbital region pre‐dated the co‐ossification of the quadrate and braincase in Crocodylomorpha. Terrestrisuchus gracilis preserves an ossified basihyal, which represents the first occurrence of this bone in non‐avemetatarsalian archosaurs. Finally, we show that Terrestrisuchus gracilis was probably cathemeral (i.e. active in a range of light levels), based on a phylogenetic flexible discriminant analysis of the relative dimensions of the sclerotic ring and orbit.
Effects of Wet‐Milling Extraction Methods on Nutritional, Functional, and Structural Properties of Barnyard Millet Starch
Authors: Singh Heena , Singh Rakhi , Kumar Nishant , Kaur Barjinder Pal , Upadhyay Ashutosh
Published: November 2023

Starch is the main integral components of the millets and it is widely used in the food processing sectors for development of functional foods. The extraction and isolation methods of starch from millet grains are greatly affected their functional and structural properties. Therefore, in current study, the effects of different wet milling extraction methods such as water, acidic, and alkaline are investigated on the physical, structural, thermal, and functional properties of barnyard millet starch. The results show that the starch extracted from barnyard millets using alkaline method shows higher yield of starch (64.76%) with good amylose content (34.52%). In addition, the functional properties such as water binding capacity (211.39%), oil binding capacity (223.84%), higher color attributes (whiteness), thermal stability (91.62 °C), textural properties (74.70 g), and lower particle size (19.44 µm) are recorded in barnyard millet starch extracted using alkaline steeping method. The results of the field emission scanning electron microscopes (FESEM) are showed polygonal, spherical, and rounded shapes of all types of extracted starch granules. Whereas, the acidic method is more fused structures of starch granules as compared to water and alkaline methods. The results of the current study reveal that the application of alkaline method is the most potential to extract starch from barnyard millet with good quality and functional properties for further food applications.
Undermining the Moral Obligations of Manhood Acts
Authors: Vidmar Chris M.
Published: November 2023

Hybrid masculinities—men's integration of previously marginalized characteristics into acceptable performances of manhood—are emergent in contemporary gender studies. While some scholars see egalitarian promise in these configurations of manhood, their utility in improving gender equality is contested. Drawing from an ethnography of a profeminist Batterer Intervention Program (BIP), I utilize prominent symbolic interactionist theories to explore how men in the program were resocialized to a hybrid hegemonic masculinity. I position defining the situation as fundamental to manhood acts and show how rules in the BIP alter establishment of the working consensus, prompting resocialization even when participants reject ideological or educational program content. The process of resocialization is bolstered by masculinity affirmations deployed when men exhibit desired traits, but undermined by false indicators of change and protective practices deployed by other men. At their most severe, these patterns resulted in symbolic egalitarians—men who promptly adopt the progressive sign‐equipment of the hybrid masculinity, but actively shore up their gendered power. I conclude that awareness of these processes can improve men's interventions, and demonstrate the effectiveness of symbolic interactionism for explaining how hybrid masculinities result in various fields of egalitarian outcomes informed by other theories of masculinity.
Importance of background threshold value development within risk‐based corrective action programs
Authors: Tramm Kenneth S. , Minter Jason T. , Seaton Catherine A.
Published: November 2023

Risk‐based corrective action (RBCA) programs employ conservative models to develop default values for soil screening, which simplify the risk assessment process. However, for several naturally occurring metals (e.g., arsenic and lead), these published screening values are often unrealistic and well below the documented background levels in soil. This can lead to confusion among the regulated community and inexperienced regulators, as it will inappropriately identify naturally occurring conditions as a release (false positive or Type I error). An effective RBCA program requires the incorporation of defensible background threshold values (BTVs) in the screening process. Recent datasets and BTV development methods are available to enhance existing RBCA programs and reduce the occurrence of Type I errors. This review evaluated the role “background” currently plays in the Texas Risk Reduction Program (TRRP) and offers defensible approaches in minimizing Type I errors estimated by one Texas municipality to directly result in an unnecessary expenditure of over $250,000 annually to address this confusion in the form of additional assessment, remediation, soil management, and even disposal requirements. The same BTV development process demonstrated in this Texas case study can also inform risk assessment efforts in other areas where BTVs can supplement existing RBCA programs.
Review on functional data classification
Authors: Wang Shuoyang , Huang Yuan , Cao Guanqun
Published: November 2023

A fundamental problem in functional data analysis is to classify a functional observation based on training data. The application of functional data classification has gained immense popularity and utility across a wide array of disciplines, encompassing biology, engineering, environmental science, medical science, neurology, social science, and beyond. The phenomenal growth of the application of functional data classification indicates the urgent need for a systematic approach to develop efficient classification methods and scalable algorithmic implementations. Therefore, we here conduct a comprehensive review of classification methods for functional data. The review aims to bridge the gap between the functional data analysis community and the machine learning community, and to intrigue new principles for functional data classification.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical Learning and Exploratory Methods of the Data Sciences > Clustering and Classification

Statistical Models > Classification Models

Data: Types and Structure > Time Series, Stochastic Processes, and Functional Data
α′ corrections to 4-dimensional non-extremal stringy black holes
Authors: Zatti Matteo
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We compute the first-order α′ corrections to a family of 4-dimensional, 4-charge, non-extremal black hole solutions of Heterotic Supergravity in the case with 3 independent charges. The solutions are fully analytic, reproduce the extremal limit previously found in the literature and, applying T-duality, they transform as expected. If we reduce to the case with a single independent charge we obtain the corrections to four embeddings of the Reissner-Nordström black hole in string theory. We completely characterize the black hole thermodynamics computing the Hawking temperature, Wald entropy, mass, gauge charges and their dual thermodynamic potentials. We verify that all these quantities are related by the first law of extended black hole mechanics and the Smarr formula once we include a potential associated to the dimensionful parameter α′ and the scalar charges. We found that the latter are not identified with the poles at infinity of the scalar fields because they receive α′ corrections.
A new technique to incorporate multiple fermion flavors in tensor renormalization group method for lattice gauge theories
Authors: Yosprakob Atis , Nishimura Jun , Okunishi Kouichi
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We propose a new technique to incorporate multiple fermion flavors in the tensor renormalization group method for lattice gauge theories, where fermions are treated by the Grassmann tensor network formalism. The basic idea is to separate the site tensor into multiple layers associated with each flavor and to introduce the gauge field in each layer as replicas, which are all identified later. This formulation, after introducing an appropriate compression scheme in the network, enables us to reduce the size of the initial tensor with high efficiency compared with a naive implementation. The usefulness of this formulation is demonstrated by investigating the chiral phase transition and the Silver Blaze phenomenon in 2D Abelian gauge theories with Nf flavors of Wilson fermions up to Nf = 4.
Immunohistochemical markers as predictors of prognosis in multifocal prostate cancer
Authors: Segalés Laura , Juanpere Nuria , Gallarín Nerea , Lorenzo Marta , López David , Perera-Bel Júlia , Rodriguez-Vida Alejo , Fumadó Lluís , Cecchini Lluís , Bellmunt Joaquim , Lloreta-Trull Josep , Hernández-Llodrà Silvia
Published: November 2023

The impact of tumor focality on prostate cancer (PCa) prognosis has been addressed in several studies with conflicting results. Tumor foci from multifocal (MF) PCa can show highly heterogeneous molecular features. Our aim was to analyze the protein expression of PTEN, SPOP, SLC45A3, ETV1, ERG and the “triple hit” (ERG overexpression, PTEN plus SLC45A3 loss) in unifocal (UF) and MF PCa, to evaluate their value as prognostic markers according to focality, and the role of tumor heterogeneity in MF disease. PTEN, SPOP, SLC45A3, ETV1 and ERG immunohistochemical expression was evaluated in 185 PCa from 9 TMAs, 51 UF and 134 MF. In a subset of 69 MF cases, the dominant and secondary foci (DF and SF) were compared. Heterogeneity was considered when both tumor foci presented different expression patterns. Relationship with clinicopathological features was also analyzed. MF PCa was diagnosed in significantly younger patients when compared to UF ones (p = 0.007). ETV1 overexpression was associated with UF disease (p = 0.028). A shorter time to PSA recurrence was related to SLC45A3 wt expression in UF PCa (p = 0.052), and to SPOP expression loss (p = 0.043) or “triple hit” phenotype in MF PCa (p = 0.041). In MF cases, PTEN loss, SLC45A3 loss and “triple hit” phenotype were associated with the DF and had significant heterogeneity. In conclusion, our results indicate that UF and MF PCa have relevant and consistent molecular differences. The analysis of an immunohistochemical panel, composed by PTEN, SPOP, SLC45A3, ETV1 and ERG, could be useful to predict outcome in MF cases.
Molecular pathology in breast disease: diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic tools
Authors: Varga Zsuzsanna , Maccio Umberto
Published: November 2023

Molecular testing in breast cancer gained increasing attention and importance as specific molecular results can tailor not only oncological decisions on systemic adjuvant or neoadjuvant or in metastatic setting, but increasingly serve in diagnostic routine histopathological services to differentiate between morphologically overlapping or ambiguous histological pictures. Diagnostic tools involve in most cases a broad spectrum of immunohistochemical panels, followed by entity-specific in situ hybridization probes and in given cases NGS-based sequencing. Workflow of which methodology is applied and in which order depends on the specific entity resp. on the given differential diagnosis in question. Regarding prognostic/predictive molecular testing, the choice of assay and the workflow are based on clinical algorithms and on the evidence of targeted therapies following the molecular alterations. In this review paper, we aim to address the use of molecular technics in [1] the histological diagnostic setting (such as subtyping of invasive carcinomas/malignant spindle cell tumors and sarcomas and some B3 lesions) and [2] in the context of adjuvant or neoadjuvant or other clinical settings with special focus of targeted therapies.
A gradient-enhanced bone remodelling approach to avoid the checkerboard phenomenon
Authors: Bensel Fynn , Reiber Marlis , Foulatier Elise , Junker Philipp , Nackenhorst Udo
Published: November 2023

Numerical simulation of bone remodelling enables the investigation of short- and long-term stability of bone implants and thus can be an essential tool for surgical planning. The first development of related mathematical models dates back to the early 90’s, and these models have been continuously refined since then. However, one issue which has been under discussion since those early days concerns a numerical instability known as checkerboarding. A literature review of recent approaches guided us to adopt a technique established in damage mechanics and topology optimisation, where similar mesh dependencies and instabilities occur. In our investigations, the so-called gradient enhancement is used to regularise the internal variable field, representing the evolution of the bone mass density. For this, a well-established mathematical model for load-adaptive bone remodelling is employed. A description of the constitutive model, the gradient enhancement extension and the implementation into an open-access Abaqus user element subroutine is provided. Parametric studies on the robustness of the approach are demonstrated using two benchmark examples. Finally, the presented approach is used to simulate a detailed femur model.
Anxiety in oncology outpatients is associated with perturbations in pathways identified in anxiety focused network pharmacology research
Authors: Oppegaard Kate , Kober Kord M. , Harris Carolyn , Shin Joosun , Morse Lisa , Calvo-Schimmel Alejandra , Paul Steven M. , Cooper Bruce A. , Conley Yvette P. , Hammer Marilyn , Dokiparthi Vasuda , Levine Jon D. , Miaskowski Christine
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Evaluate for perturbed signaling pathways associated with subgroups of patients with low versus high levels of state anxiety. These pathways were compared to the pathways identified across eight network pharmacology studies of the anxiolytic effect(s) of a variety of compounds.

Methods

Adult outpatients had a diagnosis of breast, gastrointestinal, gynecological, or lung cancer; had received chemotherapy within the preceding four weeks; and were scheduled to receive at least two additional cycles of chemotherapy. Latent profile analysis was used to identify subgroups of patients with distinct anxiety profiles based on Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory scores that were obtained six times over two cycles of chemotherapy. Blood samples were processed using RNA sequencing (i.e., RNA-seq sample, n = 244) and microarray (i.e., microarray sample; n = 256) technologies. Pathway perturbations were assessed using pathway impact analysis. Fisher’s combined probability method was used to combine test results using a false discovery rate of 0.01.

Results

In the RNA-seq sample, 62.3% and 37.7% of the patients were in the low- and high-anxiety classes, respectively. In the microarray sample, 61.3% and 38.7% were in the low and high-anxiety classes, respectively. Forty-one perturbed signaling pathways were identified. Eight of these pathways were common to those identified in the network pharmacology studies.

Conclusions

Findings increase our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms that underlie anxiety in patients receiving chemotherapy. This study provides initial insights into how anxiety in patients with cancer may share common mechanisms with anxiety in patients with other clinical conditions.
The impact of urgency of umbilical hernia repair on adverse outcomes in patients with cirrhosis: a population-based cohort study from England
Authors: Adiamah A. , Rashid A. , Crooks C. J. , Hammond J. , Jepsen P. , West J. , Humes D. J.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Umbilical hernia is common in patients with cirrhosis; however, there is a paucity of dedicated studies on postoperative outcomes in this group of patients. This population-based cohort study aimed to determine the outcomes after emergency and elective umbilical hernia repair in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

Two linked electronic healthcare databases from England were used to identify all patients undergoing umbilical hernia repair between January 2000 and December 2017. Patients were grouped into those with and without cirrhosis and stratified by severity into compensated and decompensated cirrhosis. Length of stay, readmission, 90-day case fatality rate and the odds ratio of 90-day postoperative mortality were defined using logistic regression.

Results

In total, 22,163 patients who underwent an umbilical hernia repair were included and 297 (1.34%) had cirrhosis. More patients without cirrhosis had an elective procedure, 86% compared with 51% of those with cirrhosis (P < 0.001). In both the elective and emergency settings, patients with cirrhosis had longer hospital length of stay (elective: 0 vs 1 day, emergency: 2 vs 4 days, P < 0.0001) and higher readmission rates (elective: 4.87% vs 11.33%, emergency:11.39% vs 29.25%, P < 0.0001) than those without cirrhosis. The 90-day case fatality rates were 2% and 0.16% in the elective setting, and 19% and 2.96% in the emergency setting in patients with and without cirrhosis respectively.

Conclusion

Emergency umbilical hernia repair in patients with cirrhosis is associated with poorer outcomes in terms of length of stay, readmissions and mortality at 90 days.
Prevalence, treatment, and neural correlates of apathy in different forms of dementia: a narrative review
Authors: Parrotta Ilaria , Cacciatore Stefano , D’Andrea Flavio , D’Anna Marianna , Giancaterino Giulia , Lazzaro Giovanni , Arcara Giorgio , Manzo Nicoletta
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The aim of this review is to provide an overview on prevalence and clinical tools for the diagnosis of apathy, as well as on neurophysiological and neuroimaging findings obtained from studies in patients with apathy in different forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), vascular (VaD) and mixed dementia, frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD).

Methods

Randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled trials, controlled before–after studies, and interrupted time series from four databases (WebOfScience, Scopus, Pubmed, and PsycINFO) addressing apathy in adults or older people aged over 65 years of age affected by dementia were included.

Results

The prevalence of apathy was 26–82% for AD, 28.6–91.7 for VaD, 29–97.5% in PDD, and 54.8–88.0 in FTD. The assessment of apathy was not consistent in the reviewed studies. Methylphenidate was the most successful pharmacological treatment for apathy. Neurobiological studies highlighted the relationship between both structural and functional brain areas and the presence or severity of apathy.

Conclusion

Apathy is a very common disorder in all types of dementia, although it is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Further studies are needed to investigate its diagnosis and management. A consensus on the different evaluation scales should be achieved.
The effect of different angle kappa on higher-order aberrations after small incision lenticule extraction
Authors: Guo Lu , Cheng Zixuan , Kong Xiangmei , Huang Zhaoxia , Xu Xue , Wu Jinchuan , Lv Hongbin
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to compare higher-order aberrations (HOAs) after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) in patients with different angle kappa. This is a retrospective report in which 341 right eyes of 341 patients who were subjected to SMILE, which used coaxially sighted corneal light reflex (CSCLR) as the treatment zone centered, treated by the same experienced surgeon (LHB) for correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism, preoperative and postoperative spherical equivalent (SE), angle kappa, total higher-order aberrations (total HOA), spherical aberration (SA), vertical coma (VC), horizontal coma (HC), oblique trefoil (OT), and horizontal trefoil (HT), were compared. SMILE showed outstanding performance in terms of safety, efficacy, and predictability. In addition, a comparison of preoperative and postoperative HOAs exhibited the difference of total HOA (P < 0.01), SA (P < 0.01), VC (P < 0.01), and HC (P < 0.01), which was statistically significant; however, for OT and HT with the longer follow-up time, the statistical difference gradually decreased. For stratification of angle kappa into groups based on decantation, angle kappa was divided into three major groups: r < 0.1 mm, 0.1 ≤ r < 0.2 mm, and r ≥ 0.2 mm; the changes of SA (F = 4.127, P = 0.021) and OT (F = 3.687, P = 0.031) exhibited significant difference after 1 year of SMILE. We performed a correlation analysis of all preoperative and postoperative parameters, and the results indicated that the preoperative total HOA was negatively correlated with preoperative cylindrical diopter (DC), and postoperative total HOA, SA, and coma were affected by spherical diopter (DS) and SE. Moreover, we also found a significant difference of SA and VC in the early postoperative with preoperative. SA was positively correlated with Y values and r of 1 year after SMILE. All of the analyzed parameters in the three groups, except for the trefoil, gradually increased over time; however, the trefoil could gradually stabilize over time. We also divided angle kappa into four groups by quadrants; the result showed that the effects of higher-order aberrations were markedly different from the various quadrants. Patients with large angle kappa were able to increase VC and SA postoperatively, and higher HOAs were more significant in patients with high myopia. The differences in quadrants exhibited a diversity of HOAs; this could be attributed to the corneal surface reestablishment and the alteration of angle kappa, but the trend was not apparent. Although all patients displayed increased HOAs after SMILE, the potential application of CSCLR as the treatment zone centered still showed excellent safety, efficacy, and predictability.
Water under the bridge: how place meanings shape second homeowners’ engagement in flood risk management in southern Denmark
Authors: Nedergaard Mikkel , Baron Nina
Published: November 2023

In Europe, climate change is expected to increase the frequency of extreme precipitation events. Consequently, low-lying areas in southern Denmark may experience increased flooding. In this predominantly rural landscape, large areas of wetland were initially reclaimed for agricultural purposes, before being developed into recreational areas for second homes, many of which are now vulnerable to flooding. Local and national policy on flood risk management and climate change adaptation is based on the assumption that effective adaptation actions require citizen engagement. However, local authorities’ efforts to motivate homeowners to engage in collective actions have had mixed results. We adopt a case study approach, and explore how second homeowners’ place meanings shape, and are shaped by, how they experienced a climate-related hazard, and how this, in turn, informs their motivation to engage in collective flood risk management efforts. Specifically, in-depth narrative interviews were conducted with second homeowners who experienced an extreme weather event in 2011, which led to severe flooding. The findings show that place meanings can vary within the same stakeholder group, in this case, second homeowners. However, both second homeowners whose place meanings can be likened to that of a “temporary visitor”, and those whose place meanings are more akin to that of the “permanent resident” are able to mobilise their place meanings to contest engagement in local authorities’ flood risk reduction initiatives.
Manipulation of Chemical and Crystal Structures of Multilayered Copper-Hexaaminobenzene Coordination Nanosheets to Modulate Conductivity with Precise Control of Liquid–Liquid Interfacial Synthesis
Authors: Maeda Hiroaki , Takada Kenji , Fukui Naoya , Ukai Junzo , Honma Nobutaka , Sasaki Sono , Masunaga Hiroyasu , Kato Kenichi , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

Multilayered coordination nanosheets made of copper ions and hexaaminobenzene (CuHAB) were synthesized in a liquid–liquid interfacial reaction in the presence of a base and an oxidizing agent. X-ray diffraction studies revealed the suitability of an oxidizing agent with a low oxidation potential for the synthesis of highly crystalline CuHAB. The base concentration affects the chemical and crystal structures of CuHAB. The nanosheets synthesized at low base concentrations exhibit humidity-responsive conductivity due to the ligating amino group. Meanwhile, the nanosheets prepared at high base concentrations have different stacking structures from the CuHABs formed at low base concentrations and show greater conductivity. These results indicate that the liquid–liquid interfacial synthesis with an appropriate oxidizing agent and quantitative addition of base can modulate chemical and stacking structures of coordination nanosheets composed of hexaaminobenzene ligand and their functionalities.
Proposal and Evaluation of GPU Offloading Parts Reconfiguration During Applications Operations for Environment Adaptation
Authors: Yamato Yoji
Published: November 2023

In recent years, not only CPUs with few cores but also heterogeneous hardware such as GPUs, FPGAs, and multi-core CPUs are increasingly used in many applications. However, to fully utilize these, users need to have technical knowledge that covers hardware such as CUDA. To overcome this high technical barrier, we have proposed environment-adaptive software that enables high-performance operation by automatically converting application code written for normal CPUs by engineers in accordance with the deployed environment and by setting appropriate amounts of resources. So far, we have also verified the elemental technologies that automatically offload to GPU and FPGA before the start of operation. Until now, we only considered conversions and settings before the start of operation. In this paper, we verify that the logic is reconfigured in accordance with the usage characteristics during operation. Especially for GPU logic, there is no example of reconfiguration during operation, so the proposed method can be expected to have a great impact on clouds or similar businesses. We propose a GPU reconfiguration method during operation and find that the application running on the GPU is reconfigured to other offload loops or other offload applications in accordance with the current usage trends. Through a reconfiguration experiment, performance improvement and break time are measured, and the effectiveness of the method is demonstrated.
Unlocking the Path to Healthier Families: The Untapped Potential of Men’s Preconception Health
Authors: Abed Alah Muna
Published: November 2023

This debate paper explores the necessity of introducing a comprehensive primary care model for men’s preconception health. It highlights the importance of a holistic approach that includes risk assessment, health promotion, and clinical and psychological interventions. Despite the current limited focus on male preconception health in primary care, there is evidence suggesting a growing awareness among men about the importance of optimizing their health before conception. The paper stresses the importance of such a model in addressing various aspects of men’s well-being, family dynamics, and overall reproductive health outcomes. It also acknowledges potential limitations and considerations related to implementing this crucial healthcare approach.
Antichains in the Bruhat Order for the Classes $$\mathcal {A}(n,k)$$
Authors: da Cruz Henrique F.
Published: November 2023

Let $$\varvec{\mathcal {A}(n,k)}$$

A
(
n
,
k
)

represent the collection of all $$\varvec{n\times n}$$

n
×
n

zero-and-one matrices, with the sum of all rows and columns equalling $$\varvec{k}$$

k

. This set can be ordered by an extension of the classical Bruhat order for permutations, seen as permutation matrices. The Bruhat order on $$\varvec{\mathcal {A}(n,k)}$$

A
(
n
,
k
)

differs from the Bruhat order on permutations matrices not being, in general, graded, which results in some intriguing issues. In this paper, we focus on the maximum length of antichains in $$\varvec{\mathcal {A}(n,k)}$$

A
(
n
,
k
)

with the Bruhat order. The crucial fact that allows us to obtain our main results is that two distinct matrices in $$\varvec{\mathcal {A}(n,k)}$$

A
(
n
,
k
)

with an identical number of inversions cannot be compared using the Bruhat order. We construct sets of matrices in $$\varvec{\mathcal {A}(n,k)}$$

A
(
n
,
k
)

so that each set consists of matrices with the same number of inversions. These sets are hence antichains in $$\varvec{\mathcal {A}(n,k)}$$

A
(
n
,
k
)

. We use these sets to deduce lower bounds for the maximum length of antichains in these partially ordered sets.
The effect of time-varying fundamentals in learning-to-forecast experiments
Authors: Alfarano Simone , Camacho-Cuena Eva , Colasante Annarita , Ruiz-Buforn Alba
Published: November 2023

Inspired by macroeconomic scenarios, we aim to experimentally investigate the evolution of short- and long-run expectations under different specifications of the fundamentals. We collect individual predictions for future prices in a series of Learning to Forecast Experiments with a time-varying fundamental value. In particular, we observe how expectations evolve in markets where the fundamental value follows either a V-shaped or an inverse V-shaped pattern. These conditions are compared with markets characterized by a constant and a slightly linear increasing fundamental value. We assess whether minor but systematic variations in the fundamentals affect individual short- and long-run expectations by considering positive and negative feedback-expectation systems. Compared to a setting with constant fundamentals, the slowly varying fundamentals have a limited impact on how subjects form their expectations in positive feedback markets, whereas in negative feedback markets we observe notable changes.
Self-medication with Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS): a Systematic Review
Authors: Holborn Tayler J. , Page Robert , Schifano Fabrizio , Deluca Paolo
Published: November 2023

Currently, novel psychoactive substance (NPS) use presents a challenging issue for authorities. To effectively tackle the use of NPS, a deeper understanding of the motivations of those who use NPS is required. Evidence suggests that a subset of NPS users declare their use as ‘self-medicating’; however, there is a paucity of research in this area. The aim of this review is to provide an overview and synthesis of the research concerning self-medication with novel psychoactive substances (NPS). Seven databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, APA PsychInfo, Global Health, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar) were searched using a search strategy compromising 600 + NPS terms, yielding 3563 articles, 24 of which met the search criteria. Two independent reviewers screened the articles and appraised the quality of the included studies. The results were synthesised using a narrative synthesis approach. We identified 22 NPS being used for self-medication. We found that (1) self-medication with NPS occurs mainly for anxiety, depression, and ADHD; (2) links between cluster headaches, the use of psychedelic NPS, and anxiety and novel benzodiazepines were evident; (3) novel benzodiazepine use by young individuals represents particular concern. There is a need for greater knowledge within healthcare professions concerning self-medication practices with NPS. Primary qualitative research is needed to address the underlying motivations behind this phenomenon.
Barriers and facilitators to the implementation of a new European eHealth solution (SurPass v2.0): the PanCareSurPass Open Space study
Authors: de Beijer Ismay A. E. , Hardijzer Emma C. , Haupt Riccardo , Grabow Desiree , Balaguer Julia , Bardi Edit , Cañete Nieto Adela , Ciesiūniene Audronė , Düster Vanessa , Filbert Anna-Liesa , Gsell Hannah , Kapitančukė Monika , Ladenstein Ruth , Langer Thorsten , Muraca Monica , van den Oever Selina R. , Prikken Sofie , Rascon Jelena , Tormo Maria Teresa , Uyttebroeck Anne , Vercruysse Gertrui , van der Pal Helena J. H. , Kremer Leontien C. M. , Pluijm Saskia M. F. ,   the PanCareSurPass consortium
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To identify barriers and facilitators for implementing the Survivorship Passport (SurPass) v2.0 in six long-term follow-up (LTFU) care centres in Europe.

Methods

Stakeholders including childhood cancer survivors (CCSs), healthcare providers (HCPs), managers, information and technology (IT) specialists, and others, participated in six online Open Space meetings. Topics related to Care, Ethical, Legal, Social, Economic, and Information & IT-related aspects of implementing SurPass were evaluated.

Results

The study identified 115 barriers and 159 facilitators. The main barriers included the lack of standardised LTFU care in centres and network cooperation, uncertainty about SurPass accessibility, and uncertainty about how to integrate SurPass into electronic health information systems. The main facilitators included standardised and coordinated LTFU care in centres, allowing CCSs to conceal sensitive information in SurPass and (semi)automatic data transfer and filing.

Conclusions

Key barriers to SurPass implementation were identified in the areas of care, ethical considerations, and information & IT. To address these barriers and facilitate the implementation on SurPass, we have formulated 27 recommendations. Key recommendations include using the internationally developed protocols and guidelines to implement LTFU care, making clear decisions about which parties have access to SurPass data in accordance with CCSs, and facilitating (semi)automated data transfer and filing using Health Level 7 (HL7) Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR).

Implications for Cancer Survivors

The findings of this study can help to implement SurPass and to ensure that cancer survivors receive high-quality LTFU care with access to the necessary information to manage their health effectively.
Cardiovascular Disease in Anti-neutrophil Cytoplasm Antibody-Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Sayer Matthew , Chapman Gavin B. , Thomas Matthew , Dhaun Neeraj
Published: November 2023

Purpose of Review

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a rare, multisystem, autoimmune disease characterised by microvascular inflammation. Over the past 20 years, advances in immunological management have improved short-term patient outcomes. Longer-term patient outcomes remain poor with cardiovascular disease now the leading cause of death in AAV. Here, we examine the potential pathways that contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in AAV and the current evidence to manage this risk.

Recent Findings

The incidence of cardiovascular disease in AAV exceeds that expected by traditional risk factors alone, suggesting a contribution from disease-specific factors. Similarly, it is unclear how different immunosuppressive therapies contribute to and modify cardiovascular risk, and there is a paucity of data examining the efficacy of traditional cardioprotective medications in AAV.

There is a lack of evidence-based cardiovascular risk assessment tools and cardioprotective therapies in patients with AAV which should be addressed to improve long-term outcomes.
Afghan Women Refugees Enduring Domestic Violence Despite Finding Sanctuary in the UK
Authors: Azizi Fatemeh , Lane Pauline , Boyce Melanie
Published: November 2023

This article examines the settlement experiences of Afghan women refugees following their migration into the UK. The findings highlight how violence and oppression depicted many of the women’s experiences prior to seeking asylum. This was found to persist when the women gained asylum in the UK, as many continued to face severe and enduring violence within their family, from both men and other women, as traditional patriarchal values involving physical and psychological violence remained. However, the findings indicated that violence within the home was less prevalent among women from the Hazara ethnic group who held a higher educational background. The research was designed within an interpretivist paradigm of inquiry, and qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted in Dari and English languages, with 15 Afghan refugee women, based at a London refugee centre. The resulting data was analysed using thematic analysis. Reflecting the findings of a number of international reports on women’s status in Afghanistan, the findings highlighted their experiences of violence and oppression in their home country prior to seeking asylum. The article concludes with an emphasis on practitioners recognising the potential risks of violence and abuse female Afghan refugees face within their own homes.