bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does public funding reduce financial constraints of young firms in Germany?
Authors: Weuschek Nadine
Published: January 2025

This paper examines the financing situation of young firms in Germany after receiving public funding. I find that, on average, public funding is associated with a significant reduction in the future probability of experiencing financial constraints. While grant tend to improve relationships with equity investors, subsidized loans or loan guarantees tend to improve relationships with external providers of both equity and debt capital. Additionally, I show that the effect of public funding is stronger for more financially constrained firms when provided as a subsidized loan or loan guarantee, and heterogeneous across entrepreneurs and startups. Furthermore, my results suggest that public funding is positively related to real outcomes, and that grants also help firms by stabilizing their economic position.
Influence of Neighborhood Socioeconomic Deprivation on Effectiveness of an Intensive Lifestyle Intervention
Authors: Sy Mamadou , Pilla Scott , Bennett Wendy , Yeh Hsin-Chieh , Baptiste-Roberts Kesha , Gary-Webb Tiffany L. , Vaidya Dhananjay , Clark Jeanne M.
Published: January 2025

Objective

To assess the influence of neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation on the effectiveness of an intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) in the Look AHEAD trial.

Research Design and Methods

Look AHEAD randomized adults with overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes to ILI for weight loss, or Diabetes Support and Education (DSE). We linked participant data from four study sites to the 2000 United States Census to generate a neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation score. We analyzed the effect of neighborhood deprivation in tertiles on various clinical outcomes including weight and HbA1c changes over 4 years using a mixed-effects linear model with random intercept and an interaction term between deprivation tertile and study arm over 4 years.

Results

Among 1213 participants at baseline, the mean age was 60 years, 41% were male, and 65% identified as White, 26% as Black, and 4% as Hispanic. Most participants had a college degree (84%) and reported an annual income over $40,000 (75%). The deprivation score ranged from −12.04 to −2.61 in the most deprived tertile and 2.01 to 18.69 in the least deprived tertile (the lower the score, the higher the deprivation). There were no statistically significant treatment differences by deprivation score in weight or HbA1c changes over the 4-year period.

Conclusions

In this clinical trial population, an intensive lifestyle intervention was equally effective across levels of neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation. However, these findings may not extend to individuals with the lowest income and educational attainment who are not typically represented in clinical trials and for whom more research is needed.
Clerkship Students’ Use of Clinical Reasoning Concepts After a Pre-clinical Reasoning Course
Authors: Kulkarni Shradha A. , Dhaliwal Gurpreet , Teherani Arianne , Connor Denise M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Many medical schools have incorporated clinical reasoning (CR) courses into their pre-clinical curricula to address the quality and safety issue of diagnostic error. It is unknown how students use concepts and practices from pre-clinical CR courses once in clerkships.

Objective

We sought to understand how students utilize CR concepts from a pre-clinical course during clerkships and to identify facilitators and barriers to the use of reasoning concepts.

Design

We used structured interviews to gain insight into medical students’ experiences with CR concepts in clerkships.

Participants

We interviewed 16 students who had completed a pre-clinical CR course and subsequently completed a neurology, internal medicine, or pediatrics clerkship.

Approach

We used constructivist grounded theory to perform a qualitative analysis and to develop a theoretical model to describe findings.

Key Results

Insights fell into three main areas: (1) CR concept carryover, representing concepts taught in the CR course, such as problem representation, illness scripts, schema, and prioritized differential diagnosis, which were utilized in clerkships; (2) CR concept reinforcers, which included the clerkship setting and supervising physicians who emphasized and provided feedback on CR; and (3) CR concept diminishers, which included time constraints and supervisors who were unfamiliar with or did not reinforce CR concepts.

Conclusions

Concepts taught in a pre-clinical CR course influenced how students prepared for and navigated clinical encounters. Contextual factors both enhanced and inhibited the utilization of CR concepts. Our findings align with social learning theories including social cognitive theory and ecological psychology. This contextual view—taking into account interactions between personal, social, and environmental factors—can help educators integrate CR education from the classroom to the clinical setting.
Laser speckle contrast imaging with principal component and entropy analysis: a novel approach for depth-independent blood flow assessment
Authors: Surkov Yu. , Timoshina P. , Serebryakova I. , Stavtcev D. , Kozlov I. , Piavchenko G. , Meglinski I. , Konovalov A. , Telyshev D. , Kuznetcov S. , Genina E. , Tuchin V.
Published: January 2025

Current study presents an advanced method for improving the visualization of subsurface blood vessels using laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), enhanced through principal component analysis (PCA) filtering. By combining LSCI and laser speckle entropy imaging with PCA filtering, the method effectively separates static and dynamic components of the speckle signal, significantly improving the accuracy of blood flow assessments, even in the presence of static scattering layers located above and below the vessel. Experiments conducted on optical phantoms, with the vessel depths ranging from 0.6 to 2 mm, and in vivo studies on a laboratory mouse ear demonstrate substantial improvements in image contrast and resolution. The method’s sensitivity to blood flow velocity within the physiologic range (0.98–19.66 mm/s) is significantly enhanced, while its sensitivity to vessel depth is minimized. These results highlight the method’s ability to assess blood flow velocity independently of vessel depth, overcoming a major limitation of conventional LSCI techniques. The proposed approach holds great potential for non-invasive biomedical imaging, offering improved diagnostic accuracy and contrast in vascular imaging. These findings may be particularly valuable for advancing the use of LSCI in clinical diagnostics and biomedical research, where high precision in blood flow monitoring is essential.

Graphical Abstract
Pseudogene Lamr1-ps1 Aggravates Early Spatial Learning Memory Deficits in Alzheimer’s Disease Model Mice
Authors: Wu Zhuoze , Liu Xiaojie , Wang Yuntai , Zeng Zimeng , Chen Wei , Li Hao
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder with complex etiologies, manifests through a cascade of pathological changes before clinical symptoms become apparent. Among these early changes, alterations in the expression of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as pivotal events. In this study, we focused on the aberrant expression of ncRNAs and revealed that Lamr1-ps1, a pseudogene of the laminin receptor, significantly exacerbates early spatial learning and memory deficits in APP/PS1 mice. Through a combination of bioinformatics prediction and experimental validation, we identified the miR-29c/Bace1 pathway as a potential regulatory mechanism by which Lamr1-ps1 influences AD pathology. Importantly, augmenting the miR-29c-3p levels in mice ameliorated memory deficits, underscoring the therapeutic potential of targeting miR-29c-3p in early AD intervention. This study not only provides new insights into the role of pseudogenes in AD but also consolidates a foundational basis for considering miR-29c as a viable therapeutic target, offering a novel avenue for AD research and treatment strategies.
Global, regional, and national trends in type 2 diabetes mellitus burden among adolescents and young adults aged 10–24 years from 1990 to 2021: a trend analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Xu Si-Te , Sun Mu , Xiang Yu
Published: January 2025

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses an escalating public health challenge among adolescents and young adults worldwide. Despite the rising incidence, comprehensive data on the burden and trends of T2DM in this demographic remain scarce. This study aims to evaluate the burden of T2DM among individuals aged 10–24 years globally, regionally, and nationally from 1990 to 2021.

Methods

Utilizing data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021, we assessed incidence rates, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), and average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) for T2DM in the specified age group. Analyses accounted for variations by age, sex, and socio-demographic index (SDI). Joinpoint regression analysis identified years of significant trend shifts.

Results

The global incidence of T2DM among adolescents and young adults rose from 56.02 per 100,000 (95% UI 43.03–72.32) in 1990 to 123.86 per 100,000 (95% UI 100.43–149.79) in 2021, reflecting an AAPC of 3.01 (95% CI 2.78–3.23). Notable increases were recorded in 1995, 2002, and 2009, with joinpoints indicating significant trend stabilization post-2010 for prevalence and DALYs. The largest relative incidence increase was observed in the 15–19 age group [AAPC 2.97 (95% CI 2.71–3.24)]. Although T2DM mortality was 2.4 times higher in the 15–19 age group compared to the 20–24 age group, the latter exhibited a significantly higher overall mortality rate. Regionally, Oceania recorded the highest incidence rates in 2021, while North Africa and the Middle East showed the greatest AAPCs. High-SDI countries experienced the most substantial increase in T2DM burden, with males comprising 54.8% of cases.

Conclusions

From 1990 to 2021, the global burden of T2DM among adolescents and young adults has markedly increased, underscoring the necessity for targeted, region-specific interventions to address this issue. The observed demographic disparities in mortality rates necessitate the implementation of age-specific strategies. Furthermore, the emergent trends in T2DM indicators warrant urgent attention to mitigate the rising burden in this vulnerable population.

Graphical abstract
(No) Need to Apply Agile?
Authors: Huck-Fries Veronika , Spitzer Rosa , Thatcher Jason , Krcmar Helmut
Published: January 2025

The continued popularity of agile information systems development (ISD) underscores its relevance to both researchers and practitioners. At the heart of the agile manifesto is the claim to value people over processes and, as a result, to increase employee job satisfaction. However, the research landscape on this topic is still heterogeneous and lacks a comprehensive overview. This manuscript develops a theoretical framework to guide future studies on job satisfaction in agile ISD. First, the status quo of job satisfaction in agile ISD within information systems and across the disciplines of computer science, psychology, and management is systematically reviewed and critically evaluated. Second, a theoretical framework consisting of three key themes is conceptualized. Third, based on the framework, significant research gaps are identified, and recommendations for future studies of agile ISD at the individual, team, and organizational levels are provided. Finally, strategic directions for the application of agile ISD practices are given.
Identification of biomarkers for chronic lymphocytic leukemia risk: a proteome-wide Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jin Changyu , Lu Zehong , Chen Yuzhan , Hu Huijie , Zhou Miao , Zhang Yanli , Ouyang Guifang , Li Tongyu , Sheng Lixia
Published: January 2025

Background

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a common hematologic malignancy. Although previous research has explored associations between plasma proteins and CLL, the causal relationships remain unclear. This study used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal relationship between 7156 plasma proteins and CLL risk.

Methods

A two-sample MR analysis assessed the impact of specific plasma proteins on CLL risk, using data from the Finngen Proteomics project (analyzing 828 participants) and the UK Biobank. Additional analyses included colocalization, phenomenon-wide MR, and protein–protein interaction networks.

Results

The study identified nine plasma proteins significantly associated with CLL risk. Increased levels of Peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase E (PPIE) (OR = 1.66, 95% CI 1.22–2.27, P = 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of developing CLL, whereas Protein O-Mannosyltransferase 2 (POMGNT2) (OR = 0.62, 95% CI 0.41–0.91, P = 0.017) and C–C Motif Chemokine Ligand 14(CCL14) (OR = 0.80, 95% CI 0.67–0.94, P = 0.010) were associated with a reduced risk of CLL. Colocalization analysis suggested that PPIE may share pathogenic variants with CLL (PP.H4 = 0.758). Phenomenon-wide MR analysis of PPIE also indicated associations with other clinical features, including rheumatic diseases and type 2 diabetes. Protein–protein interaction and drug-gene interaction analyses highlighted CDC5L and SNW1 as potential therapeutic targets.

Conclusion

This study identifies nine plasma proteins linked to CLL risk, with PPIE offering new insights into the disease's pathogenesis. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore their potential as therapeutic targets.
The effect of age on ankle versus hip proprioceptive contribution in balance recovery: application of vibratory stimulation for altering proprioceptive performance
Authors: Asghari Mehran , Elali Karam , Toosizadeh Nima
Published: January 2025

While tripping is the leading cause of injurious falls in older adults, the influence of ankle and hip proprioceptive information in balance recovery among older adults is still not clearly understood. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of ankle vs. hip proprioceptive information by altering muscle spindle performance using vibratory stimulation among older adults and healthy young control participants. Two groups of young (n =  20, age =  22.2 ± 3.1 years) and older adult (n  =  33, age = 74.0 ± 3.8 years) participants were recruited and went through treadmill perturbation (sudden backward treadmill movement mimicking a trip), while they were equipped with vibratory devices (no vibration, and 40 and 80 Hz) on either ankle or hip muscles. Kinematics of the recovery were measures using motion sensors on lower extremities and the trunk. Results showed that vibratory stimulation on ankle significantly influenced balance recovery response (i.e., increased reaction time by 18% and increased recovery step length by 21%) among healthy young control, while it showed no effect when placed on hip muscles. On the other hand, while vibratory stimulation on ankle showed no effect on balance recovery among older adults, it significantly influenced balance recovery when applied to the hip muscles (i.e., increased reaction time by 12% and increased recovery step length by 10%). Current findings suggest that the role of ankle vs. hip proprioceptive information in balance recovery may change by aging. Findings may potentially be used for targeting the appropriate location for balance interventions and reducing the fall risk in older adults.
Adenovirus nephritis in adult kidney allograft recipients: a systematic review of literature
Authors: Kiran Pothumarthy Venkata Swathi , Gupta Nitin , Prabhu Attur Ravindra , Sebastian Anjely , Boodman Carl , Kumar Tirlangi Praveen
Published: January 2025

Background

Adenovirus nephritis is an increasingly recognized complication in adult kidney transplant recipients, characterized by its diverse clinical presentations and diagnostic challenges. This systematic review summarises the clinical profiles and outcomes of adenoviral nephritis in kidney allograft recipients.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for studies (case reports or series) with individual patient data on adult kidney transplant recipients with confirmed or presumptive adenoviral nephritis up to October 2, 2024. Clinical profile, treatment and outcome data with adenoviral nephritis were collected and summarised for all patients. We compared features of early and late adenoviral nephritis (diagnosis before and after 90 days post-transplantation).

Results

Thirty-nine studies met inclusion criteria, involving 57 patients with a mean age of 45.7 years and a male predominance. The median time to infection post-transplant was 168 days. The most common symptoms were fever (68.5%), dysuria (49%) and diarrhoea (21%). Early adenoviral infection was more common in cadaveric graft recipients. Fever and gross haematuria were more common in late adenoviral infections. Biopsies showed interstitial nephritis (100%), with some having acute tubular necrosis (53%). Granulomas were seen in 61.2%. Glomeruli and peritubular capillaries were not affected in any of the biopsies. Reversible graft dysfunction was observed in 75% of cases, while mortality was noted in three patients.

Conclusion

Adenoviral nephritis is associated with diverse clinical manifestations with differing chronology post-transplantation. Graft dysfunction is associated with reversible interstitial nephritis. Further research is necessary to improve outcomes.
Effect of residual carbon on crystallization and solidification behavior of coal gasification coarse slag
Authors: Meng Ze , Xu Rongsheng , Feng Qian , Lin Xiongchao , Li Mei
Published: January 2025

This work investigates the influence of carbon residue on the crystallization and solidification behavior of slag at different temperatures and cooling methods as it has a significant impact on the flow and discharge of slag, as well as the proper functioning of gasification equipment. The experimental approach involves the utilization of various techniques, namely ash fusion temperature (AFT) tests, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential thermal analysis (DSC), and K-value semiquantitative analysis. The results obtained from ash fusion temperature (AFT) tests indicate that the coarse slag exhibits a relatively higher flow temperature compared to the decarburized coarse slag. XRD analysis reveals the presence of diffraction peaks corresponding to Fe and Fe3Si when residue carbon is present in the slag. In contrast, no such peaks are observed in the decarburized coarse slag subjected to the same temperature and cooling mode. This implying that the carbothermal reaction affects the slag's crystallization behavior, consequently influencing the flow temperature in the presence of residual carbon. SEM analysis illustrates that the spheroidization phenomenon is obvious when there is residual carbon in the coarse slag, but there is no spheroidization phenomenon in the decarburized coarse slag. This shows that the surface tension of slag is affected by the presence of residual carbon. Furthermore, DSC results confirm the crystallization transformation and mineral decomposition of the slag at high temperatures. For both carbon-containing slag and decarburized coarse slag, the content of crystals obtained under quenching condition is obviously lower than that under natural cooling condition.
The impact of the digital economy on sustainable development in the face of geopolitical risks
Authors: Mohammedi Walid , Mgadmi Nidhal , Abidi Ameni , Moussa Wajdi
Published: January 2025

Our study focuses on analyzing the impact of the digital economy on sustainable development, taking current geopolitical risks (GPR) in seventeen developed and thirteen developing countries over the period 1990–2022. We found a lack of scientific work addressing our original issue. To address this scarcity, we synthesized previous research on the contribution of the digital economy to sustainable development, the influence of geopolitical factors on this development, and the repercussions of the digital economy on socio-economic development during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our analysis based on Environmental Performance Index (EPI) and the Human Development Index (HDI) as two proxies for sustainable development, using macroeconomic indicators, various measures of the digital economy, and a global geopolitical risk index (GPRI). We adopted the Static and Dynamic Panel methodology, revealing a significantly positive contribution of the digital economy to environmental and socio-economic development in developed countries, as well as a high positive impact in developing countries. However, it is important to note that GPR have had a negative influence on environmental performance and have degraded the Human Development Index of each country. In conclusion, we highlight the strong dependence of environmental performance and socio-economic development on measures of the digital economy and macroeconomic indicators, while emphasizing the importance of mitigating geopolitical risks.
Assessment of ante mortem welfare indicators and the pathophysiology of captive-bolt trauma in equids at slaughter
Authors: Fletcher Katharine A , Padalino Barbara , Felici Martina , Bigi Daniele , Limon-Vega Georgina , Grist Andrew , Gibson Troy J
Published: January 2025

There is limited research into horse slaughter, particularly ante mortem welfare, and the effectiveness of captive-bolt gun (CBG) stunning, despite this being a widely used method worldwide. To address this evidence gap and explore associations between ante and post mortem factors, the welfare of 62 horses was assessed at a commercial Italian abattoir. Animal-based measures were used to identify stress-related behaviours and stunning effectiveness. A sub-sample (44%; 27/62) of heads were assessed for gross brain pathology. All animals in the study showed stress-related behaviours at all stages of the slaughter process. Additionally, 53% (33/62) of horses slipped in the stunning box, with poor floor surface condition and use of force associated with this. At least one sign of an ineffective stun was observed in 22% (14/62) of animals. Six animals were shot twice, with the application of a second shot significantly associated with a higher stress behaviour index score in the stunning box. Damage to critical brainstem structures was found in 85% (23/27) of heads that were assessed with gross pathology. An absence of damage to critical brainstem structures meant that animals were ten times more likely to show signs of ineffective stunning. These results highlight the risks to equine welfare throughout the slaughter process and suggest that mitigating ante mortem stress could improve stunning effectiveness, whilst CBG usage should be refined to ensure that critical brainstem structures are targeted.
Investigation and Analysis of Disaster Preparedness among Nurses in Chinese Non-First-tier (Inland) Cities: A Case Study from Yongcheng City, Henan Province
Authors: Wu Min , Li Xueyan , Wang Yanshen , Xu Li
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Compared with first-tier cities in China that are of abundant funds and resources like legions of high-level hospitals, the degree of nurses’ disaster nursing preparedness in non-first-tier cities (inland) is relatively lower. For example, nurses’ knowledge reserve of specific disasters is not comprehensive enough. And nurses are diffident when it comes to the skills of handling disaster rescue. Furthermore, their understanding of the roles to take in disaster coordination management is ambiguous. Conquering these challenges could be conducive to the improvement of local medical staffs’ confidence and capabilities in disaster relief. Consequently, the objective of this research is to probe for approaches of improving the strategies of disaster nursing in Chinese small cities.

Methods

In order to ascertain the factors that influence disaster preparedness, a cross-sectional study with SPSS 25.0 data analysis method is adopted. The sample of the study is nursing personnel from 4 comprehensive hospitals at or above the second level in Yongcheng, Henan Province, China, as nurses are first-line responders in disasters and pandemics and the largest group in disaster rescue.

Results

From 813 distributed questionnaires, 784 completed questionnaires were returned, for a response rate of 96.43%. The total average score of the Disaster Preparedness Evaluation Tool is 146.76 ± 34.98, and the average score of all the entries is 3.26 ± 0.45, indicating moderate performance. The results indicate that age affects post disaster management (
P
< 0.05), meaning that as age increases, the scores also tend to be higher. Work experience, professional titles, disaster relief experience, and disaster training significantly differ in terms of knowledge, skills, post disaster management, and total scores (P < 0.01). The result of multivariate analysis indicates that titles, disaster relief experiences, and disaster training are the main factors affecting the disaster preparedness of nurses in Chinese non-first-tier (inland) cities(
P
< 0.05).

Conclusions

For the sake of upgrading the efficiency of disaster nursing preparedness in Chinese non-first-tier (inland) cities with limited funds and resources, it is very important to formulate training and education methods that are suitable for the local area, conduct characteristic simulation exercises, and expand experience exchange between hospitals. It’s certain that the local government will also play an important role in coordinating and organizing the division of labor, resource allocation, and management of hospitals at all levels in different phases of disasters, which can help nursing staff have a clearer understanding of their roles when preparing for disasters.
Adaptation of the Disaster Literacy Scale to Individuals Aged 60 Years and Older and Exploring its Psychometric Properties
Authors: Güzel Aysun
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This methodological study aimed to adapt the DLS, introduced for individuals aged 18-60 years, to those aged 60 years and older and to determine its psychometric properties.

Methods

We collected the data between December 15, 2021 and April 18, 2022. We carried out the study with a sample of 60 years and older living in the city center of Burdur, Turkey. The sample was selected using snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling technique. We collected the data using a questionnaire booklet covering an 11-item demographic information form and the DLS. We utilized reliability and validity analyses in the data analysis. The analyses were performed on SPSS 23.0, and a P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean age of the participants was found to be 68.29 (SD = 6.36). The 61-item measurement tool was reduced to 57 items by removing a total of 4 items from the scale. We also calculated Cronbach’s α values to be 0.936 for the mitigation/prevention subscale, 0.935 for the preparedness subscale, 0.939 for the response subscale, and 0.945 for the recovery/rehabilitation subscale.

Conclusions

As adapted in this study, the DLS-S can be validly and reliably used for individuals aged 60 years and older.
The Assessment of Post-Earthquake Quality of Life of Earthquake Survivors
Authors: Dincer Metin , Akyol Mesut , Karatas Yunus Emre , Kocakaya Mustafa
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aims to assess the quality of life (QoL) of earthquake survivors who experienced 2 major earthquakes in Türkiye on February 6, 2023, with different measurement tools.

Methods

The study was conducted in 2 centers with a total of 467 participants. For QoL measurement, face-to-face Euroqol EQ-5D-5L, Euroqol Visual Analog Scale (EQ-VAS), and Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) measurement tools were used.

Results

On the EQ-5D-5L scale, most of the participants stated that they struggled the most with the anxiety/Depression dimension. In NHP, the highest mean score is in the Emotional Reaction section. Females and the 55+ age group were found to have worse QoL. A linear and moderate correlation was found between the EQ-5D-5L index value and the EQ-VAS score; an inverse, weak, or moderate correlation was found between the EQ-VAS score and the sections of the NHP scores; an inverse and strong correlation was found between the Nottingham Health Profile Distress (NHP-D) score and the EQ-5D-5L index value.

Conclusions

The findings obtained with the measurement tools used in this study reveal various dimensions affecting the QoL of different cohorts. In addition, the study provides important evidence for policies to be developed to increase post-earthquake QoL.
Twisted finite wing at low Reynolds number: cellular vortex shedding, wing-tip vortex and aerodynamic performance
Authors: Pandi Jawahar Sivabharathy Samuthira , Mittal Sanjay
Published: January 2025

The effect of geometric twist (

$\delta$

) of a finite wing of various semi-aspect ratios, on the flow, aerodynamic forces and strength of wing-tip vortex, is investigated. The number of vortex shedding cells increases with increase in

$\delta$

. In general, the vortex shedding frequency at the root and tip of the wing is approximately the same as that for an untwisted wing. However, close to the

$\delta$

, where the number of cells changes, the end-cell frequency of the twisted wing undergoes a departure from the value for the untwisted wing. Dislocations at the junction of neighbouring cells are of fork-type for

$\delta > -2^\circ$

and of reverse fork-type for

$\delta < -2^\circ$

. Additional ring-like vortex structures are observed for

$\delta =-4^\circ$

. Despite a significant effect of the twist on the flow and spanwise variation of the local force coefficients, low to moderate twist of the wing has a relatively minor effect on the span-integrated force coefficients. Larger positive

$\delta$

, however, results in a significant decrease in the time-averaged force coefficients and rolling moment at the wing root, their unsteadiness and an increase in the strength of the wing-tip vortex. Twist can be utilized as a design parameter for an air vehicle operating at low Reynolds number. Positive twist results in a decrease in unsteadiness in the flow and lower rolling moment at the wing root that can enable lowering the structural weight. Negative twist, on the other hand, weakens the wing-tip vortices that assists in formation and swarm flying by causing lower disturbance to downstream air vehicles.
Nonlinear coherent structures in 2-D plane Couette flow with constant throughflow
Authors: Cuthbert Jamie , Walton Andrew
Published: January 2025

The nonlinear stability of two-dimensional (2-D) plane Couette flow subject to a constant throughflow is analysed at finite and asymptotically large Reynolds numbers

$\textit {Re}$

. The speed of this throughflow is quantified by the non-dimensional throughflow number

$\eta$

. The base flow exhibits a linear instability provided

$\eta \gtrsim 3.35$

, with multi-deck upper and lower branch structures developing in the limit

$1\ll \eta \ll \mathit {O}(\textit {Re})$

. This instability provides a springboard for the computation of nonlinear travelling waves which bifurcate subcritically from the linear neutral curve, allowing us to map out a neutral surface at different values of

$\eta$

. Using strongly nonlinear critical layer theory, we investigate the waves that bifurcate from the upper branch at asymptotically large

$\textit {Re}$

. This asymptotic structure exists provided the throughflow number is larger than the critical value of

$\eta _c\approx 1.20$

and is shown to give quantitatively similar results to the numerical solutions at Reynolds numbers of

$\mathit {O}(10^5)$

.
The Generalized Cognitive Diagnosis Model Framework for Polytomous Attributes
Authors: de la Torre Jimmy , Qiu Xuelan , Santos Kevin Carl
Published: January 2025

For classroom teaching and learning, classifying students’ skills into more than two categories (e.g., no, basic, and advanced masteries) is more instructionally relevant. Such classifications require polytomous attributes, for which most existing cognitive diagnosis models (CDMs) are inapplicable. This paper proposes the saturated polytomous cognitive diagnosis model (sp-CDM), a general model that subsumes existing CDMs for polytomous attributes as special cases. The generalization is shown by mathematically illustrating the relationships between the proposed and existing CDMs. Moreover, algorithms to estimate the proposed model is proposed. A simulation study is conducted to evaluate the parameter recovery of the sp-CDM using the proposed estimation algorithms, as well as to illustrate the consequences of improperly fitting constrained or unnecessarily complex polytomous-attribute CDMs. A real-data example involving polytomous attributes is presented to demonstrate the practical utility of the proposed model.
A Family of Sequential Item Response Models for Multiple-Choice, Multiple-Attempt Test Items
Authors: Lu Yikai , Fowler Jim , Cheng Ying
Published: January 2025

We consider a test which allows students to attempt a multiple-choice question multiple times (i.e., multiple attempts). The most extreme form of multiple attempts is the answer-until-correct (AUC) procedure. Previous research has demonstrated that multiple-attempt procedures such as AUC could potentially enhance learning and increase reliability. However, for multiple-choice items, guessing is still non-ignorable. Traditional models of sequential item response theory (SIRT) could model multiple-attempt procedures but fail to take guessing into account. The purpose of this study is to propose SIRT models for multiple-choice, multiple-attempt items (SIRT-MM). First, we defined a family of SIRT-MM models to account for the idiosyncrasies of items, answer options, and examinee behavior. We also explained how these models could improve person parameter estimates by taking into account partial (mis)information of examinees. Second, we conducted model comparisons between the SIRT-MM models, the graded response model, and the nominal response model. Third, we discussed how the item and person parameters can be estimated, and evaluated item and person parameter recovery of SIRT-MM models under different conditions through a simulation study. Finally, we applied the SIRT-MM models to a real dataset and demonstrated their utility through model selection, person parameter recovery, and information functions.
Deriving Models of Change with Interpretable Parameters: Linear Estimation with Nonlinear Inference
Authors: McCormick Ethan M.
Published: January 2025

In modeling change over time, developmental theories often emphasize meaningful quantities like peaks, inflections, timing, and tempo. However, longitudinal analyses typically rely on simple polynomial models that estimate powered terms of time in a linear, additive form which are disconnected from these meaningful quantities. While these linear parameterizations are computationally efficient and produce stable results, the quantities estimated in these models are difficult to directly connect to theoretical hypotheses. To address this disconnect between estimation and theory development, I propose several approaches for linear estimation with nonlinear inference (LENI), a framework that transforms results from stable, easily-estimated linear models into nonlinear estimates which align with theoretical quantities of interest through a set of principled transformation functions. I first outline derivations for the interpretable nonlinear parameters, and transform the results of the corresponding linear model—including fixed and random effects as well as conditional covariates effects —into the results we would have obtained by fitting a nonlinear version of the model. I conclude by summarizing a linearized structural equation model approach which can flexibly accommodate any known nonlinear target function within a linearly-estimable framework. I conclude with recommendations for applied researchers and directions for fruitful future work in this area.
Generalized Bayesian method for diagnostic classification models
Authors: Yamaguchi Kazuhiro , Liu Yanlong , Xu Gongjun
Published: January 2025

This study extends the loss function-based parameter estimation method for diagnostic classification models proposed by Ma, de la Torre, et al. (2023, Psychometrika) to consider prior knowledge and uncertainty of sampling. To this end, we integrate the loss function-based estimation method with the generalized Bayesian method. We establish the consistency of attribute mastery patterns of the proposed generalized Bayesian method. The proposed generalized Bayesian method is compared in a simulation study and found to be superior to the previous nonparametric diagnostic classification method—a special case of the loss function-based method. Moreover, the proposed method is applied to real data and compared with previous parametric and nonparametric estimation methods. Finally, practical guidelines for the proposed method and future research directions are discussed.
Implications of Alternative Parameterizations in Structural Equation Models for Longitudinal Categorical Variables
Authors: Bianconcini Silvia , Bollen Kenneth A.
Published: January 2025

When analyzing scaling conditions in latent variable structural equation models (SEMs) with continuous observed variables, analysts scaling a latent variable typically set the factor loading of one indicator to one and either set its intercept to zero or the mean of its latent variable to zero. When binary and ordinal observed variables are part of SEMs, the identification and scaling choices are more varied and multifaceted. Longitudinal data further complicate this. In SEM software, such as lavaan and Mplus, fixing the underlying variables’ variances or the error variances to one are two primary scaling conventions. As demonstrated in this paper, choosing between these constraints can significantly impact longitudinal analysis, affecting model fit, degrees of freedom, and assumptions about the dynamic process and error structure. We explore alternative parameterizations and conditions of model equivalence with categorical repeated measures.

Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997, we empirically explore how different parameterizations lead to varying conclusions in longitudinal categorical analysis. More specifically, we provide insights into the specifications of the autoregressive latent trajectory model and its special cases—the linear growth curve and first-order autoregressive models—for categorical repeated measures. These findings have broader implications for a wide range of longitudinal models.
Stability analysis of partially ionized plasma in a porous medium with local thermal non-equilibrium effects
Authors: Chandel Vishal , Sunil
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the impact of local thermal non-equilibrium on the stability analysis of partially ionized plasma within a porous medium. The plasma, heated from below, is enclosed by various combinations of bounding surfaces. Both nonlinear (via the energy method) and linear (utilizing the normal mode analysis method) analyses are performed. Eigenvalue problems for both analyses are formulated and solved using the Galerkin method. The study also explores the effects of compressibility, medium permeability and magnetic fields on system stability. The collisional frequency among plasma components and the thermal diffusivity ratio significantly influence energy decay. The results reveal that the Rayleigh–Darcy number is identical for both nonlinear and linear analyses, thus eliminating the possibility of a subcritical region and confirming global stability. The principle of exchange of stabilities is validated, indicating the absence of oscillatory convection modes. Medium permeability, heat-transfer coefficient and compressibility delay the onset of convection, demonstrating stabilizing effects. Conversely, the porosity-modified conductivity ratio hastens the convection process, indicating destabilizing effects. Rigid–rigid bounding surfaces are found to be thermally more stable for confining the partially ionized plasma. Additionally, the magnetic field exerts a stabilizing influence.
Goodbye human annotators? Content analysis of social policy debates using ChatGPT
Authors: Gielens Erwin , Sowula Jakub , Leifeld Philip
Published: January 2025

Content analysis is a valuable tool for analysing policy discourse, but annotation by humans is costly and time consuming. ChatGPT is a potentially valuable tool to partially automate content analysis for policy debates, largely replacing human annotators. We evaluate ChatGPT’s ability to classify documents using pre-defined argument descriptions, comparing its performance with human annotators for two policy debates: the Universal Basic Income debate on Dutch Twitter (2014–2016) and the pension reforms debate in German newspapers (1993–2001). We use the API (GPT-4 Turbo) and user interface version (GPT-4) and evaluate multiple performance metrics (accuracy, precision and recall). ChatGPT is highly reliable and accurate in classifying pre-defined arguments across datasets. However, precision and recall are much lower, and vary strongly between arguments. These results hold for both datasets, despite differences in language and media type. Moreover, the cut-off method proposed in this paper may aid researchers in navigating the trade-off between detection and noise. Overall, we do not (yet) recommend a blind application of ChatGPT to classify arguments in policy debates. Those interested in adopting this tool should manually validate bot classifications before using them in further analyses. At least for now, human annotators are here to stay.
Rights to Her Labor: Women Workers on Mexico’s Southeastern Railroads
Authors: Reed Kate
Published: January 2025

Across the twentieth century, hundreds of women worked as nurses, cooks, cleaners, and teachers on Mexico’s railroads. They have been overlooked in histories of the railroads and Mexican industrialization more broadly, their limited number perhaps suggesting that their work is not of analytical importance in understanding processes of economic development and class formation. On the contrary, these women’s work constituted many of the most coveted labor rights of the postrevolutionary railroad workforce, itself a symbolic vanguard of Mexico’s working class and one of the most important beneficiaries of the expansion of social and economic rights ushered in by the Mexican Revolution. The gendered division of labor characteristic of the railroads was neither accidental nor insignificant. Railroads used the feminization of the work of social reproduction to write off structural failures and predictable shortcomings in welfare provision as failures of femininity. Women became scapegoats for the consistent violation of workers’ rights through underfunding and understaffing. In tracing this process, the article models a historiographical and methodological intervention with broader relevance. It suggests that the social and labor rights that expanded around the world in the late-nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries must be studied not only from the vantage of legal or political history, but as themselves questions of social and labor history. Making these rights real depended on socially reproductive work that has often been marginal in accounts of industrialization and economic development. It is impossible to understand the political economy of social and economic rights without understanding women’s work.
Diagnostic accuracy of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment in screening for cognitive impairment in initially hospitalized COVID-19 patients: Findings from the prospective multicenter NeNeSCo study
Authors: Klinkhammer Simona , Verwijk Esmée , Geurtsen Gert , Duits Annelien A. , Matopoulos Georgios , Visser-Meily Johanna M.A. , Horn Janneke , Slooter Arjen J.C. , van Heugten Caroline M. ,   NeNeSCo study group
Published: January 2025

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and nature of cognitive impairment among severely ill COVID-19 patients and the effectiveness of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) in detecting it.

Method:

We evaluated cognition in COVID-19 patients hospitalized during the first wave (March to June 2020) from six Dutch hospitals, nine months post-discharge, using a comprehensive multi-domain neuropsychological test battery. Test performance was corrected for sex, age, and education differences and transformed into z-scores. Scores within each cognitive domain were averaged and categorized as average and above (z-score ≥ −0.84), low average (z-score −1.28 to −0.84), below average (z-score −1.65 to −1.28), and exceptionally low (z-score < −1.65). Patients were classified with cognitive impairment if at least one domain’s z-score fell below −1.65. We assessed the MoCA’s accuracy using both the original cutoff (<26) and an “optimal” cutoff determined by Youden’s index.

Results:

Cognitive impairment was found in 12.1% (24/199) of patients, with verbal memory and mental speed most affected (6.5% and 7% below −1.65, respectively). The MoCA had an area under the curve of 0.84. The original cutoff showed sensitivity of 83% and specificity of 66%. Using the identified optimal cutoff of <24, maintained sensitivity while improving specificity to 81%.

Conclusions:

Cognitive impairment prevalence in initially hospitalized COVID-19 patients is lower than initially expected. Verbal memory and processing speed are primarily affected. The MoCA is a valuable screening tool for these impairments and lowering the MoCA cutoff to <24 improves specificity.
Rainfall‐Runoff Modeling in Rocky Headwater Catchments for the Prediction of Debris Flow Occurrence
Authors: Bernard Martino , Barbini Matteo , Berti Matteo , Boreggio Mauro , Simoni Alessandro , Gregoretti Carlo
Published: January 2025

In the Dolomites, steep rocky cliffs are marked by numerous narrow gullies. When high‐intensity short‐duration precipitation occurs, these gullies concentrate and direct surface runoff to the screes at the foot of rock cliffs. Surface runoff mixes with loose sediments, creating a solid‐liquid surge that, as it moves downhill, increases its volume entraining debris material and transforms into a granular debris flow. Given the ongoing challenge of modeling the relationship between intense rainfall, surface runoff, and debris flow initiation, we take advantage of data from three monitoring stations operating in distinct debris flow active catchments in our study area to make progress. These stations, strategically positioned close to debris flows initiation zones, record videos and different types of flow‐stage data, helping us pinpoint the timing and form of incoming discharge hydrographs. Over a 15‐year period of observation, we collected a comprehensive data set on runoff and mass movement in these catchments, offering valuable insights into their hydrological behavior and the initiation of granular debris flows. To compute infiltration excess runoff generation, we refined an already existing hydrological model and calibrated it using discharge measured at one of the monitoring stations. Testing this updated model against observations from two other larger debris flow sites showed that it can reproduce the initial phases of a debris flow, when sediment concentration rapidly rises. These findings suggest that a well‐tuned hydrological model can predict the discharge from intense, short rainfall events that typically trigger debris flows, as well as the early stages of these phenomena.