bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of microstructural barriers on transient crack growth in shape memory alloys
Authors: Mutlu Fatma , Anlaş Günay , Şehitoğlu Hüseyin
Published: July 2023

There are several issues to be solved in the fracture mechanics of shape memory alloys, one of them being the resistance to crack growth and therefore to fracture. This paper discusses the crack growth in a single crystal CoNiAl shape memory alloy under cyclic loading and the effect of micro-structural barriers. To observe the crack growth in detail, tests are conducted on edge-notched specimens. The displacement field is obtained using digital image correlation (DIC), and the fracture parameters are calculated by fitting anisotropic crack tip displacement equations to DIC data. Similar crack growth behaviors are observed in both superelastic and shape memory specimens, with a comparatively higher crack growth rate in the superelastic case: first a crack initiates at the notch and grows, then new cracks are observed to form near the tip of the main crack, or on the notch when the growth slows down. Then, further cyclic loading leads to the growth of the main crack and the new crack simultaneously with the two cracks merging at the end. Test specimens are examined post-failure with optical microscopy to better understand this complicated behavior. Results showed the presence of a non-transforming secondary (γ) phase around the regions where the propagating cracks slowed down, deviated, and/or stopped, improving the resistance of the shape memory alloy specimen to fracture.
Testing type II seesaw leptogenesis at the LHC*
Authors: Han Chengcheng , Lei Zhanhong , Liao Weihao
Published: July 2023

Type II seesaw leptogenesis simultaneously explains the origin of neutrino masses, the baryon asymmetry of our universe, and inflation. The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) provides an opportunity to directly test type II seesaw leptogenesis by looking for the predicted triplet Higgs. In this paper, we perform an analysis of the detection prospect for the triplet Higgs at the LHC through multi-electron channels. We find that due to the contribution of the

process, the sensitivity of multi-electron channels searching for doubly-charged Higgs pair production can be improved. We also investigate the

signals to probe

production and find that the future high luminosity LHC could probe a triplet Higgs around 1.2 TeV at the

level.
Added value of a multiparametric eddy-driven jet diagnostic for understanding European air stagnation
Authors: Maddison J W , Ayarzagüena B , Barriopedro D , García-Herrera R
Published: July 2023

Air stagnation refers to an extended period of clear, stable conditions which can favour the accumulation of pollutants in the lower atmosphere. In Europe, weather conditions are strongly mediated by the North Atlantic eddy-driven jet stream. Descriptions of the jet stream typically focus on its latitudinal position or the strength of its wind speed, and its impacts are often studied under different latitudinal regimes of the jet. Herein, we evaluate the influence of the jet stream on European air stagnation using a new multiparametric jet diagnostic that provides a more complete description of jet stream characteristics. We report large influences of the jet stream on regional stagnation and uncover links with jet structure that go beyond knowledge of its latitude. Accordingly, air stagnation anomalies show different, and often opposite, responses to jets in a given latitudinal position but with different additional characteristics. Statistical modelling reveals that the monthly variability in air stagnation explained by the new jet diagnostic is substantially higher compared to one that only considers the jet’s latitude and intensity. Knowledge of the average location of the jet in a given month, as described by a latitude or longitude parameter, together with the variability in the jet’s shape, appear key for the statistical models of air stagnation. The relationship between air stagnation and the jet stream is often nonlinear, particularly for regions in southern Europe. For northern regions it is generally more linear, but the additional jet parameters are essential for describing stagnation variability. These results have implications for studying air stagnation and its pollution impacts in seasonal forecasts and climate change projections.
Bamboo Hitchhiking Point Project for the Federal University of Lavras - Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Corrêa A A R , Nematenc
Published: July 2023

The NEMATENC-UFLA began studies on bamboo during the pandemic to disseminate the use of this millennial material in construction. For this purpose, a prototype was developed for the shelter of a hitchhiking point, located on the university campus. The planning was developed in several stages. Initially, live transmissions were organized with professionals and researchers of the bamboo species existing in the university. The projects were developed for the species Dendrocalamus asper and Bambusa tuldoides. After the cuts, the treatment adopted was immersion in a solution of borax, boric acid, and copper sulfate. The pieces were stored on pallet racks designed for this purpose. After the execution of the foundation, it was assembled on site. The entire executive process had the theoretical and practical training of MSc. CE Frederico Rosalino: reduced model; cutting of plug-in connections; use of the “Vellez System” in the pillar bases; and covering with a sandwich of esterillas and waterproofing blanket. Students, engineering professionals, and others, participated in the construction. The whole process had the support of PROINFRA and collaborators. The result reached the proposed goal: promote the aesthetics and physical-mechanical properties of bamboo, besides offering comfort to the users of the university campus.
Results of study of environmental noise before, during and after COVID-19 period in conditions of Samara region of Russia and approaches to noise reduction
Authors: Vasilyev A V
Published: July 2023

The acoustical pollution in conditions of urban territories is rapidly increasing and causing a negative impact to the population and to the staff of industrial enterprises. The sources of environmental noise generations are analyzed. Transport and industrial plants may be considered as the main noise sources in the city environment. New results of research of environmental noise in urban conditions before, during and after COVID-19 period on the Samara region of Russia are presented. Experimental results of noise measurements caused by traffic movement and industrial enterprises operation are discussed. Comparison of results of environmental noise measurements in urban conditions before and during COVID-19 period shows that transport noise level was reduced, but the industrial noise level was almost the same, especially in low frequency range. Approaches to reduction of increased environmental noise levels in urban conditions are suggested.
Developing a Sustainable University Campus in Egypt: Cairo University as a case study
Authors: Fahmy Sohair , Abd El-Ghany Mohamed N. , Amer Hanan , Abdelsadek Mohamed S. , Abdelazeem Manar W. , Abdel Sabour Roaa S. , Nasr Youmna M. , Nasrallah Amira k.
Published: July 2023

Universities are regarded as reference institutions for the expansion of cultural and environmental activities. They are crucial to the advancement of sustainability as they advocate for a development pattern that would be compatible with ecological balance, biodiversity, and intergenerational fairness. In response to the rise in enrollment, CU has created a sustainable expansion plan for its campus. Because students will return to their communities and educate them about sustainability, universities are seen as the best places to apply the principle. Recently, Cairo University established a sustainability office as a governance framework to develop and implement sustainability action plans and to regularly measure and report overall progress towards its aim of a sustainable campus. This paper includes Cairo University’s efforts to transform the campus into a more sustainable society using UI GreenMetric categories. The present study shows the extent of Cairo University’s commitment to achieving the United Nations sustainable development goals, as well as Egypt’s Vision 2030. In all areas, including setting and infrastructures, energy, water and wastes, Cairo University supports the fundamental principles of sustainability and green development.
UNFU Sustainable Management in the Conditions of Post-Pandemic and War Times in Ukraine
Authors: Lavnyy V , Pavliuk U , Yarkun V
Published: July 2023

Ukrainian National Forestry University (UNFU) is the leader of UI GreenMetric World University Rankings in Ukraine during 2018-2021. The key success factor is sustainable education and research. The paper discusses UNFU projects and programs which are an important part of the related to sustainability activities at the regional and state level. As a result of leadership, UNFU became a participant in the V4 Green Universities project (2020-2021), financed by the Visegrad Fund. This paper presents the main aspects of cooperation between UNFU and European universities. In particular, with the University for Sustainable Development Eberswalde (Germany), the “Green Project Development and Management” training course was developed and introduced into educational programs, which allows students to search for relevant funding programs, remotely develop and manage green projects. Measures to preserve the traditions of sustainable education and research by our University in the conditions of military aggression of the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine are highlighted, for the implementation of which the experience of distance and mixed education gained during the pandemic remains extremely relevant. In addition, taking into account the profile of our University, we present the results of scientific cooperation of UNFU with authorities and forestry and woodworking industry: provision of ecological wooden housing for internally displaced persons; study of the impact of military operations on the state and prospects of the development of forestry in Ukraine; determination of priorities for the development of the forest sector of Ukraine in the conditions of martial law.
University and environmental health: Green advancement at the University of Florence revealed by UI GreenMetric ranking.
Authors: Falsini S. , Papini A. , Gentilini G. , Santioli M. , Bagnoli F. , Pacini G. , Giovannetti G. , Pierini M.
Published: July 2023

The University of Florence (UniFi) started participating in the UI GreenMetric ranking in 2018 to measure its commitments toward sustainability. Since then, several actions have been adopted to make advancements in the six categories of the ranking, spanning from the high-quality classroom environment to actions for the well-being of students. UniFi considers sustainability a transversal discipline addressed by all the schools in its different aspects (e.g. well-being, building structure, energy efficiency, climate change responsibility, waste management, and saving water resources). In particular, the cutting edge of UniFi is represented by its education sector. The total number of courses regarding the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2020/21 is increasing, covering now 26% of the academic offerings. These offerings give our students many opportunities to grow with their awareness of the current difficulties, providing the instruments to address their future. This is possible also thanks to the cultural events that UniFi promotes every year, despite the difficulties raised by COVID-19. Moreover, an average of ~3700 scholarly papers related to sustainability has been published in each of the last three years, the outcome of the excellent work of the UniFi researchers. Thanks to start-ups, the academic expertise on sustainability has also been taken outside to the industrial sector.
Livelihood Resilience of Households Affected by The Upper Cisokan Pumped Storage Hydropower Development Project
Authors: Suhendi Riky Novalia , Gunawan Budhi , Husodo Teguh
Published: July 2023

This article examines the impact of the large-scale Upper Cisokan Pumped Storage Hydropower (UCPSH) development project, in West Java, Indonesia on household livelihoods. The process of land acquisition and resettlement has taken away land-based resources that are the source of livelihood for households in 4 villages around the project. This article discusses how the resilience of household livelihoods occurs 5 years after land acquisition and resettlement. This study was conducted by interviewing 134 households affected by land acquisition and resettlement living in the vicinity of the UCPSH project site. The level of severity is studied to see how the household can respond to disturbances. Livelihood resilience in affected households occurs when the household’s livelihood system can absorb disturbances, then responds by re-establishing livelihood capital and assets. Livelihood strategies are carried out based on the capacity possessed to maintain and improve the quality of life. As a result, there are two livelihood strategies carried out by the affected households, the agricultural intensification strategy has improved 9% of living conditions and the livelihood diversification strategy has improved 2.5% of living conditions.
Vegetation Stands Biomass and Carbon Stock Estimation using NDVI - Landsat 8 Imagery in Mixed Garden of Rancakalong, Sumedang, Indonesia
Authors: Malik A D , Nasrudin A , Parikesit  , Withaningsih S
Published: July 2023

Human activities in modifying land use and land cover increasingly put pressure to many regulatory ecosystem services, one of which is carbon sequestration. If forests, the area with the most vegetation cover are decrease, the amount of carbon sequestered will decrease significantly. Currently, agroforestry systems or Talun (in West Java) in Sumedang was eleven times larger than secondary forest. Carbon stocks in this agricultural area need to be estimated so that their carbon sequestration capacity can be known in order to improve the quality of regulatory ecosystem services. NDVI value of the Landsat 8 OLI was obtained by conducting raster calculation in ArcMap. Field inventory was conducted by measuring stem DBH and height of all vegetation stands in 31 plots measuring 30 x 30 m, a similar plot size to the resolution of the Landsat imagery. Biomass of vegetation stands was calculated using allometric equations and then converted into the carbon content of the biomass. In order to analyze the correlation of NDVI and carbon inventory data, a Pearson product-moment correlation analysis in the form of simple linear regression, non-linear exponential, and polynomial order 2 and order 3 model were carried out. Standard error of estimate (SEE) was performed to identify the best equation to model the aboveground carbon stocks in the area. The results show that the four regression models give a positive correlation between NDVI and carbon stocks. The strongest category was the polynomial order 2 and order 3 regression model with 0.795 coefficient of determination. Yet, the linear simple regression model obtained the highest accuracy with estimated error 0.445 tons/pixel. The estimated carbon stock obtained by linear regression model was 16150.40 tons with an average of 104.95 tons/ha. Visually, according to carbon distribution map, the carbon content of vegetation stands in the mixed garden of Rancakalong was mainly distributed in the north of Rancakalong District which is located in Cibungur Village.
Identifying Appropriate Surrogate for Gunung Leuser Priority Species by Using their Characters and Distributions: A Review
Authors: Withaningsih S , Wiratno  , Hadi A , Supriatna J , Nasrudin A
Published: July 2023

Gunung Leuser National Park (GLNP) priority species is a surrogate species representing four wildlife, Panthera tigris sumatrae, Dicerorhinus sumatrensis, Elephas maximus sumatrensis, and Pongo abelii living within GLNP. GLNP priority species was appointed based on the extinction status, endemicity, population and habitat conditions, threat, and regional representation of wildlife. “GLNP priority species” terminology was considered from flagship species, keystone species, umbrella species, or charismatic species. This literature review aimed to clarify the appropriateness of GLNP priority species to other surrogates by comparing the characters and distributions of GLNP priority species to the definition of surrogate species. This review identified five surrogate species: key-stone species, indicator species, umbrella species, flagship species, and charismatic species. GLNP priority species are appropriate to be GLNP flagship species based on two considerations: (1) the characters of all GLNP priority species which are endemic wildlife of Sumatera and are critically endangered based on the International Union for Conservation of Natures’ status and (2) the condition of the priority species distributions which periodically decreased (elephant and rhino) and are threatened (tiger and orangutan). Besides, tiger and orangutan also can be determined as umbrella species considering their distribution spreads which are extensively covering the GLNP area.
Blue-Green Infrastructure for Jakarta’s Sustainable Planning and Resilience
Authors: Agustine Verlina , Putra Dekka Dhirgantara , Rilansari Valendya
Published: July 2023

The concept of a sustainable city that has been described in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires all cities in the world to implement it to solve climate problems that if not handled are increasing every year. The impact of climate change, which is a global problem, can affect lives, such as hydrometeorological disasters especially floods. Flood problems can be overcome with the Blue Green Infrastructure (BGI) development approach, one of which is green open space with a retention pond as an effort to achieve the SDGs in the Sustainable City component. Based on this statement, this study will identify in determining the location of BGI development in this case green open space with retention ponds to support the concept of sustainable planning and resilience in one of the metropolitan cities in Indonesia, Jakarta, which is the most populous city that has high rainfall and has minimal open space. The construction of the BGI is carried out as an effort to reduce the impact of climate change in the form of flooding by structural mitigation in the conservation of water balance in urban development, improving water quality, and reducing rainwater runoff and peak flows. This research was carried out in stages in the form of identification of urban land cover changes with image crawling as justification for the massive addition of built-up land, identification of vegetation density and temperature with Land Surface Temperature (LST) and flood hazard, with identification of retention pond needs. Eventually, recommendations for BGI development locations were given based on changes in urban land, temperature, vegetation, and flood hazard as well as the fulfilment of supporting infrastructure needs.
Corrosion inhibitors for enhanced strength, durability, and microstructure of coastal concrete structures
Authors: Subash Smrithy , Parida Lukesh , Singh Utsav , Moharana Sumedha
Published: July 2023

The prevalence of catastrophic structural member failure caused by steel corrosion in civil infrastructure underscores the importance of reducing reinforcement corrosion to enhance overall infrastructure costs, reliability, and sustainable development. The present research investigates the potential of corrosion inhibitors to enhance the durability and strength of concrete structures, with a focus on their long-term effectiveness in resisting corrosion in reinforced concrete structures. Multiple approaches such as inhibitors, repairing processes, and coatings have been explored to prevent concrete corrosion damage, with an emphasis on concrete corrosion performance in coastal and corrosive situations. This study investigates the effect of six different corrosion inhibitors (zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, urea, sodium nitrate, sodium molybdate, and diethyl ether) on the compressive strength and durability of concrete samples. The compressive strength is assessed using both destructive (28 days cube compressive strength) and non-destructive (Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity) test methods, while concrete durability is evaluated using the rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT). The compressive strength of the admixture incorporated samples are found to be higher than the control sample by almost 50% and above with excellent concrete quality. The RCPT values of inhibitor-incorporated samples are moderate and low with control samples having high permeability even in adverse conditions of freezing, thawing, and deicing. The samples incorporated with inhibitors also show less negative half-cell potential which is 1.43 times less than that of the control sample indicating the lesser probability of occurrence of corrosion. SEM imaging is also conducted to analyze the microstructure of each mix. The findings of this study highlight the importance of inhibitors in enhancing the durability of reinforced concrete structures.
Predictive value of baseline serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 level on treatment effect of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic cancer in two randomized trials
Authors: Doppenberg Deesje , van Dam Jacob L , Han Youngmin , Bonsing Bert A , Busch Olivier R , Festen Sebastiaan , van der Harst Erwin , de Hingh Ignace H , Homs Marjolein Y V , Kwon Wooil , Lee Mirang , Lips Daan J , de Meijer Vincent E , Molenaar I Quintus , Nuyttens Joost J , Patijn Gijs A , van Roessel Stijn , van der Schelling George P , Suker Mustafa , Versteijne Eva , de Vos-Geelen Judith , Wilmink Johanna W , van Eijck Casper H J , van Tienhoven Geertjan , Jang Jin-Young , Besselink Marc G , Groot Koerkamp Bas ,   for the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Group
Published: July 2023

Background

Guidelines suggest that the serum carbohydrate antigen (CA19-9) level should be used when deciding on neoadjuvant treatment in patients with resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (hereafter referred to as pancreatic cancer). In patients with resectable pancreatic cancer, neoadjuvant therapy is advised when the CA19-9 level is ‘markedly elevated’. This study investigated the impact of baseline CA19-9 concentration on the treatment effect of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patients with resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic cancers.

Methods

In this post hoc analysis, data were obtained from two RCTs that compared neoadjuvant CRT with upfront surgery in patients with resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic cancers. The effect of neoadjuvant treatment on overall survival was compared between patients with a serum CA19-9 level above or below 500 units/ml using the interaction test.

Results

Of 296 patients, 179 were eligible for analysis, 90 in the neoadjuvant CRT group and 89 in the upfront surgery group. Neoadjuvant CRT was associated with superior overall survival (HR 0.67, 95 per cent c.i. 0.48 to 0.94; P = 0.019). Among 127 patients (70, 9 per cent) with a low CA19-9 level, median overall survival was 23.5 months with neoadjuvant CRT and 16.3 months with upfront surgery (HR 0.63, 0.42 to 0.93). For 52 patients (29 per cent) with a high CA19-9 level, median overall survival was 15.5 months with neoadjuvant CRT and 12.9 months with upfront surgery (HR 0.82, 0.45 to 1.49). The interaction test for CA19-9 level exceeding 500 units/ml on the treatment effect of neoadjuvant CRT was not significant (P = 0.501).

Conclusion

Baseline serum CA19-9 level defined as either high or low has prognostic value, but was not associated with the treatment effect of neoadjuvant CRT in patients with resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic cancers, in contrast with current guideline advice.
Prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis after pancreatoduodenectomy: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Droogh Daphne H M , Groen Jesse V , de Boer Mark G J , van Prehn Joffrey , Putter Hein , Bonsing Bert A , van Eijck Casper H J , Vahrmeijer Alexander L , van Santvoort Hjalmar C , Groot Koerkamp Bas , Mieog J Sven D
Published: July 2023

Background

Previous studies have reported conflicting results of prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis on infectious complications after pancreatoduodenectomy. This study evaluated the effect of prolonged antibiotics on surgical-site infections (SSIs) after pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken of SSIs in patients with perioperative (within 24 h) versus prolonged antibiotic (over 24 h) prophylaxis after pancreatoduodenectomy. SSIs were classified as organ/space infections or superficial SSI within 30 days after surgery. ORs were calculated using a Mantel–Haenszel fixed-effect model.

Results

Ten studies were included in the qualitative analysis, of which 8 reporting on 1170 patients were included in the quantitative analysis. The duration of prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis varied between 2 and 10 days after surgery. Four studies reporting on 782 patients showed comparable organ/space infection rates in patients receiving perioperative and prolonged antibiotics (OR 1.35, 95 per cent c.i. 0.94 to 1.93). However, among patients with preoperative biliary drainage (5 studies reporting on 577 patients), organ/space infection rates were lower with prolonged compared with perioperative antibiotics (OR 2.09, 1.43 to 3.07). Three studies (633 patients) demonstrated comparable superficial SSI rates between patients receiving perioperative versus prolonged prophylaxis (OR 1.54, 0.97 to 2.44), as well as in patients with preoperative biliary drainage in 4 studies reporting on 431 patients (OR 1.60, 0.89 to 2.88).

Conclusion

Prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis is associated with fewer organ/space infection in patients who undergo preoperative biliary drainage. However, the optimal duration of antibiotic prophylaxis after pancreatoduodenectomy remains to be determined and warrants confirmation in an RCT.
The Appeals Chamber’s Jurisdictional Judgment in Abd-Al-Rahman and the Issue of Applicable Law at the International Criminal Court
Authors: Lemos Miguel
Published: July 2023

On 1 November 2021, the Appeals Chamber of the ICC upheld the notion that, depending on the type of case over which the court exercises jurisdiction, it must use two different bodies of substantive law to evaluate whether certain conduct is criminal and, hence, whether the court has the power to prosecute and convict individuals for such conduct. This contribution argues that this bifurcation in the substantive law applicable at the ICC leads to disconcerting results, no sound normative principle supports it, and it does not correspond to the design of the creators of the court.
Management of patients on antithrombotic therapy with severe infections: a joint clinical consensus statement of the ESC Working Group on Thrombosis, the ESC Working Group on Atherosclerosis and Vascular Biology, and the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis
Authors: Gigante Bruna , Levy Jerrold H , van Gorp Eric , Bartoloni Alessandro , Bochaton-Piallat Marie-Luce , Bäck Magnus , ten Cate Hugo , Christersson Christina , Ferreiro José Luis , Geisler Tobias , Lutgens Esther , Schulman Sam , Storey Robert F , Thachil Jecko , Vilahur Gemma , Liaw Patricia C , Rocca Bianca
Published: July 2023

Patients with severe infections and a pre-existing indication for antithrombotic therapy, i.e. antiplatelet agents, anticoagulant drugs, or their combinations, require integrated clinical counselling among coagulation, infectious disease, and cardiology specialists, due to sepsis-induced coagulopathy that frequently occurs. Bacterial and viral pathogens constitute an increasing threat to global public health, especially for patients with ongoing antithrombotic treatment who have a high risk of thrombotic recurrences and high susceptibility to severe infections with increased morbidity and mortality. Similarly, sepsis survivors are at increased risk for major vascular events. Coagulopathy, which often complicates severe infections, is associated with a high mortality and obligates clinicians to adjust antithrombotic drug type and dosing to avoid bleeding while preventing thrombotic complications. This clinical consensus statement reviews the best available evidence to provide expert opinion and statements on the management of patients hospitalized for severe bacterial or viral infections with a pre-existing indication for antithrombotic therapy (single or combined), in whom sepsis-induced coagulopathy is often observed. Balancing the risk of thrombosis and bleeding in these patients and preventing infections with vaccines, if available, are crucial to prevent events or improve outcomes and prognosis.
Faecalibacterium: a bacterial genus with promising human health applications
Authors: Martín Rebeca , Rios-Covian David , Huillet Eugénie , Auger Sandrine , Khazaal Sarah , Bermúdez-Humarán Luis G , Sokol Harry , Chatel Jean-Marc , Langella Philippe
Published: July 2023

In humans, many diseases are associated with alterations in gut microbiota, namely increases or decreases in the abundance of specific bacterial groups. One example is the genus Faecalibacterium. Numerous studies have underscored that low levels of Faecalibacterium are correlated with inflammatory conditions, with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the forefront. Its representation is also diminished in the case of several diseases, including colorectal cancer (CRC), dermatitis, and depression. Additionally, the relative presence of this genus is considered to reflect, at least in part, intestinal health status because Faecalibacterium is frequently present at reduced levels in individuals with gastrointestinal diseases or disorders. In this review, we first thoroughly describe updates to the taxonomy of Faecalibacterium, which has transformed a single-species taxon to a multispecies taxon over the last decade. We then explore the links discovered between Faecalibacterium abundance and various diseases since the first IBD-focused studies were published. Next, we examine current available strategies for modulating Faecalibacterium levels in the gut. Finally, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects that have been attributed to this genus. Together, epidemiological and experimental data strongly support the use of Faecalibacterium as a next-generation probiotic (NGP) or live biotherapeutic product (LBP).
Financial Self-Efficacy, Retirement Goal Clarity, and Pre-retirement Anxiety among Nurses in Southeast, Nigeria: The Mediating Role of Job Embeddedness
Authors: Ujoatuonu Ikechukwu V N , Ike Obinna O , Amazue Lawrence O , Kanu Gabriel C
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives

It has been evidenced that retirement transitions are accompanied by pre-retirement anxiety about transitioning from a work-oriented lifestyle to retirement. Most employees do not proactively address these concerns during this transitional period. Thus, identifying the factors inherent in pre-retirement anxiety is imperative for a positive retirement transition. This study explored the role of financial self-efficacy and pre-retirement goal clarity on pre-retirement anxiety and the mediating role of job embeddedness in such relationships among prospective retiree nurses in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Research Design and Methods

This cross-sectional study used self-report measures of the Pre-retirement Anxiety scale, Financial Self-Efficacy Scale, Retirement Goal Clarity Scale, and Job Embeddedness Scale for data collection. A total of 236 nurses participated in the study. Descriptive analyses were done to determine the bivariate correlations among the study variables, while regression-based path analysis was carried out to test the hypotheses.

Results

Results revealed that goal clarity and financial self-efficacy showed a strong negative association with pre-retirement anxiety. Also, higher job embeddedness was negatively associated with pre-retirement anxiety. In addition, there was a significant indirect relationship between financial self-efficacy and pre-retirement anxiety, as well as pre-retirement goal clarity and pre-retirement anxiety through job embeddedness. Hence, the influence of financial self-efficacy and pre-retirement goal clarity on pre-retirement anxiety was mediated by job embeddedness.

Discussion and Implication

The results emphasised that financial self-efficacy and pre-retirement planning are imperative for a positive perception towards retirement transition. In addition, job embeddedness should be encouraged among employees because it facilitates connectedness and interrelatedness in social fusion, ideas, and projections towards retirement transition. This connotes that the development of attachment to place and the formation of strong social ties are sacrosanct for retirement transition. These results are crucial for developing a methodology for support services for prospective employees in retirement transition.
Predictors of Multiwave Opioid Use Among Older American Adults
Authors: Fennell Gillian , Jacobson Mireille , Grol-Prokopczyk Hanna
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives

Despite limited analgesic benefits, long-term opioid therapy (L-TOT) is common among older adults with chronic pain. Extended opioid use poses a threat to older adults as aging metabolisms retain opioids for longer, increasing the risk of injury, overdose, and other negative health outcomes. In contrast to predictors of general opioid use, predictors of L-TOT in older adults are not well documented. We aimed to identify such predictors using all available data on self-reported opioid use in the Health and Retirement Study.

Research Design and Methods

Using 5 waves of data, respondents (N = 10,713) aged 51 and older were identified as reporting no opioid use (n = 8,621), a single wave of use (n = 1,410), or multiple waves of use (n = 682). We conducted a multinomial logistic regression to predict both single- and multiwave opioid use relative to no use. Demographic, socioeconomic, geographic, health, and health care–related factors were included in our model.

Results

Multivariable findings show that, relative to nonusers, both single- and multiwave users were significantly more likely to be younger (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 1.33; RRR = 2.88); report lower household wealth (RRR = 1.47; RRR = 2.88); live in the U.S. Midwest (RRR = 1.29; RRR = 1.56), South (RRR = 1.34; RRR = 1.58), or West (RRR = 1.46; RRR = 2.34); experience interfering pain (RRR = 1.59; RRR = 3.39), back pain (RRR = 1.35; RRR = 1.53), or arthritic pain (RRR = 1.46; RRR = 2.32); and see the doctor frequently (RRR = 1.50; RRR = 2.02). Multiwave users were less likely to be Black (RRR = 0.69) or Hispanic (RRR = 0.45), and less likely to be never married (RRR = 0.52).

Discussion and Implications

We identified demographic, socioeconomic, geographic, and health care-related predictors of chronic multiyear opioid use. Our focus on individuals taking opioids for this extended duration is novel. Differences in opioid use by geographic region and frequency of doctor visits particularly warrant attention from policy-makers and researchers. We make additional recommendations based on a sensitivity analysis limited to 2016–2020 data.
The Effectiveness and Characteristics of Communication Partner Training Programs for Families of People With Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Folder Naomi , Power Emma , Rietdijk Rachael , Christensen Iben , Togher Leanne , Parker Deborah
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives

Communication partner training (CPT) is essential in dementia care. Despite families being the largest group of community carers, previous reviews primarily focused on formal carers. This study aimed to understand the characteristics and effectiveness of CPT for families of people with dementia.

Research Design and Methods

The systematic review included intervention/protocol studies on dementia CPT for families, excluding formal carers and programs not focused on communication. CINAHL, PsycINFO, SpeechBITE, Medline, SCOPUS, and Embase were searched between November 30 and December 6, 2021. After deduplication, 3,172 records were screened. Quality assessment used JBI Critical Appraisal tools and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data synthesis utilized three reporting tools, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health, and content analysis.

Results

Of 30 studies (27 programs), there were 10 quasi-experimental, 5 RCTs, 4 mixed methods, 4 case studies, 4 qualitative, and 2 protocols. Studies were published between 1998 and 2021 and included 671 family members. Characteristics varied with 7/27 programs including consumers during creation and one program including telehealth. One study included all reporting tool criteria. Programs typically used 4 intervention functions, with 12/27 programs addressing 3 behavior change areas. 33/74 outcome measures targeted the “Environment” of the person with dementia. Studies showed positive improvements in communication skills and knowledge, with mixed results on behavior/psychosocial outcomes. Qualitative results identified improvements in conversation and attitudes.

Discussion and Implications

CPT for families improves communication outcomes, however, quality of studies varied significantly. Future research should address gaps in telehealth, consumer involvement, and intervention descriptions.
A numerical assessment of local strain measurements on the attenuation and modulus dispersion in rocks with fluid heterogeneities
Authors: Sun Chao , Tang Genyan , Chapman Samuel , Zhang Huai , Fortin Jérôme , Wang Shangxu , Pan Dongming , Yue Jianhua
Published: July 2023

The forced oscillation method is widely used to investigate intrinsic seismic wave dispersion and attenuation in rock samples by measuring their dynamic stress–strain response. However, using strain gauges to locally measure the strains on samples surfaces can result in errors in determining the attenuation and moduli of rocks with mesoscopic scale heterogeneities. In this study, we developed a 3-D numerical model based on Biot's poroelastic theory to investigate the effect of strain gauge location, number and size on attenuation and dispersion in response to wave-induced fluid flow. Our results show that increasing the strain gauge length, number, and size can reduce the error between local and bulk responses. In a homogeneous and isotropic rock with a quasi-fractal fluid heterogeneity at 12 per cent gas saturation, the relative error between local and bulk responses stays below 6 per cent when the strain gauge length surpasses 8.6 times the correlation length. As the gas saturation becomes larger, the ratio minimally changes non-monotonically, initially increasing and then decreasing. We also used the Monte Carlo method to demonstrate that local laboratory measurements can approximate the reservoir-scale response with a minimum relative error of 1.5 per cent as the sample number increases. Our findings provide guidance for (i) interpreting local low-frequency measurements in terms of bulk properties of rock and (ii) upscaling lab measurements to reservoir-scale properties.
Do health service waiting areas contribute to the health literacy of consumers? A scoping review
Authors: McDonald Cassie E , Voutier Catherine , Govil Dhruv , D’Souza Aruska N , Truong Dominic , Abo Shaza , Remedios Louisa J , Granger Catherine L
Published: July 2023

Health service waiting areas commonly provide health information, resources and supports for consumers; however, the effect on health literacy and related outcomes remains unclear. This scoping review of the literature aimed to explore the use of waiting areas as a place to contribute to the health literacy and related outcomes of consumers attending health appointments. Articles were included if they focussed on health literacy or health literacy responsiveness (concept) in outpatient or primary care health service waiting areas (context) for adult consumers (population) and were published after 2010. Ten bibliographic databases, one full-text archive, dissertation repositories and web sources were searched. The search yielded 5095 records. After duplicate removal, 3942 title/abstract records were screened and 360 full-text records assessed. Data were charted into a standardized data extraction tool. A total of 116 unique articles (published empirical and grey literature) were included. Most articles were set in primary and community care (49%) waiting areas. A diverse range of health topics and resource types were available, but results demonstrated they were not always used by consumers. Outcomes measured in intervention studies were health knowledge, intentions and other psychological factors, self-reported and observed behaviours, clinical outcomes and health service utilization. Intervention studies overall demonstrated positive trends in health literacy-related outcomes, although the benefit declined after 3–6 months. Research on using waiting areas for health literacy purposes is increasing globally. Future research investigating the needs of consumers to inform optimal intervention design is needed.
Pomegranate sarcotesta lectin (PgTeL) inhibits planktonic growth and disrupts biofilm formed by Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Ferreira Gustavo Ramos Salles , da Silva Pollyanna Michelle , Lopes William , Feitosa Ana Paula Sampaio , Coelho Luana Cassandra Breitenbach Barroso , Brayner Fábio André , Alves Luiz Carlos , Paiva Patrícia Maria Guedes , de Moura Maiara Celine , Vainstein Marilene Henning , Napoleão Thiago Henrique
Published: July 2023

Aims

We investigated the putative fungistatic and fungicidal activities of pomegranate sarcotesta lectin (PgTeL) against Cryptococcus neoformans B3501 (serotype D), specifically the ability of PgTeL to inhibit yeast capsule and biofilm formation in this strain.

Methods and results

PgTeL showed a minimum inhibitory concentration of 172.0 μg ml−1, at which it did not exhibit a fungicidal effect. PgTeL concentrations of 4.0–256.0 μg ml−1 reduced biofilm biomass by 31.0%–64.0%. Furthermore, 32.0–256.0 μg ml−1 PgTeL decreased the metabolic activity of the biofilm by 32.0%–93.0%. Scanning electron microscopy images clearly revealed disruption of the biofilm matrix. Moreover, PgTeL disrupted preformed biofilms. At concentrations of 8.0–256.0 μg ml−1, PgTeL reduced metabolic activity in C. neoformans by 36.0%–92.0%. However, PgTeL did not inhibit the ability of B3501 cells to form capsules under stress conditions.

Conclusions

PgTeL inhibited biofilm formation and disrupted preformed biofilms, demonstrating its potential for use as an anticryptococcal agent.
A novel method to create realistic synthetic medication data
Authors: Hodges Robert , Tokunaga Kristen , LeGrand Joseph
Published: July 2023

Objective

Synthea is a synthetic patient generator that creates synthetic medical records, including medication profiles. Prior to our work, Synthea produced unrealistic medication data that did not accurately reflect prescribing patterns. This project aimed to create an open-source synthetic medication database that could integrate with Synthea to create realistic patient medication profiles.

Materials and Methods

The Medication Diversification Tool (MDT) created from this study combines publicly available prescription data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) and standard medication terminology/classifications from RxNorm/RxClass to produce machine-readable information about medication use in the United States.

Results

The MDT was validated using a chi-square goodness-of-fit test by comparing medication distributions from Synthea, Synthea+MDT, and the MEPS. Using a pediatric asthma population, results show that Synthea+MDT had no statistical difference compared to the real-world MEPS with a P value = .84.

Discussion

The MDT is designed to generate realistic medication distributions for drugs and populations. This tool can be used to enhance medication records generated by Synthea by calculating medication-use data at a national level or specific to patient subpopulations. MDT’s contributions to synthetic data may enable the acceleration of application development, access to more realistic healthcare datasets for education, and patient-centered outcomes’ research.

Conclusions

The MDT, when used with Synthea, provides a free and open-source method for making synthetic patient medication profiles that mimic the real world.
Senso-immunology: the past, present, and future
Authors: Miyamoto Satoshi , Kondo Takeshi , Maruyama Kenta
Published: July 2023

Pain and mechanical stimulation are thought to be alarm systems that alert the brain to physical abnormalities. When we experience unpleasant feelings in infected or traumatized tissues, our awareness is directed to the afflicted region, prompting activities such as resting or licking the tissue. Despite extensive research into the molecular biology of nociceptors, it was unclear whether their role was limited to the generation and transmission of unpleasant feelings or whether they actively modulate the pathogenesis of infected or traumatized tissues. Recently, it has become clear how the sensory and immune systems interact with one another and share similar receptors and ligands to modify the pathogenesis of various diseases. In this paper, we summarize the mechanisms of crosstalk between the sensory and immune systems and the impact of this new interdisciplinary field, which should be dubbed ‘senso-immunology,’ on medical science.
Resistance againstLeucoptera sinuella(Lepidoptera: Lyonetiidae) among hybrid clones ofPopulusspp. in central Chile
Authors: Yánez-Segovia Sebastián , Ramírez Claudio C , Lindroth Richard L , Fuentes-Contreras Eduardo
Published: July 2023

Leucoptera sinuella (Reutti) (Lepidoptera: Lyonetiidae) is a leaf miner specialist on Salicaceae recently introduced to Chile and Argentina, where it is causing economic damage to poplar plantations. We report a field survey in a poplar nursery naturally infested showing that regardless of the poplar hybrid taxon, high variability in resistance was observed among clones within families for oviposition and leaf-mining damage. A group of susceptible and resistant hybrid poplar clones was then selected for a laboratory evaluation of oviposition (antixenosis) and leaf-mining damage (antibiosis) on potted, rooted shoot cuttings. The concentration of condensed tannins (CTs) and salicinoid phenolic glucosides (SPGs) of the leaves of the selected clones from the laboratory study was also measured. Total oviposited eggs were positively correlated with leaf area, with the lowest oviposition on TMxT 11372 clone. The lowest percentage of mined leaf area was obtained for clones TMxT 11372, TMxT 11463, and TDxD 17574, but surprisingly no correlation between the percentage of mined leaf area and concentration of CTs and SPGs was found. Resistant poplar hybrids of our study could be suitable for breeding programs aimed for L. sinuella integrated pest management.