bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution Mechanism of Nonmetallic Inclusions in Fe‐1.5Al‐xSi (x = 0.5–3.0 wt%) Alloyed Steels
Authors: Kim Tae Sung , Park Geun Ho , Kim Dong Woon , Park Joo Hyun
Published: September 2024

The effects of Si content of steel melts containing 1.5% Al as well as alloying sequence of Si and Al on the evolution of inclusions are investigated. The SiO2 inclusion is primarily formed when Si (=0.5–3.0 wt%) is added to the melts at 1873 K, and the area fraction (AF) of the inclusions decreases over time. The subsequent addition of 1.5% Al to the Si‐alloyed steel (i.e., 3.0Si→1.5Al) increases the AF of inclusions due to the formation of Al2O3. The population density function (PDF) analysis for the preferential Si alloying shows a fractal distribution, indicating that the inclusions grow by a collision mechanism. PDF analysis shows a lognormal distribution because Al2O3 inclusion is formed and grows after subsequent Al alloying. Alternatively, when 1.5% Al is preferentially added to steel, Al2O3 clusters are formed. The AF of Al2O3 cluster decreases over time. When 3.0% Si is subsequently added to the Al‐alloyed steel (i.e., 1.5Al→3.0Si), singular Al2O3 particles are mainly observed. Because the Al alloying results in the formation of Al2O3 regardless of the alloying sequence and Si content, it is important to float up and separate Al2O3 cluster to improve the cleanliness of high‐Si‐Al‐alloyed steels such as electrical steels.
Effect of the Presence of Physiological Disorder Recognized as “yellow berry” on the Quality of Starch in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum) and Durum Wheat (Triticum durum)
Authors: Padilla‐Torres Cindy Veronica , López‐Ahumada Guadalupe Amanda , Mondaca‐Fernández Iram , Balderas‐Cortés José de Jesús , Meza‐Montenegro María Mercedes , Serna‐Saldívar Sergio Othon , Sosa‐Yáñez Lorena Carolina , Dórame‐Miranda Ramón Francisco , Gaytán‐Martínez Marcela
Published: September 2024

Genetic and environmental factors influence wheat grain quality, including vitreousness, protein, and starch content. Yellow berry (YB), a physiological condition, adversely affects wheat quality, particularly in irrigated fields with limited nitrogen application, leading to starch‐rich, low‐protein grains. This study examines common wheat, used in baking industries, and durum wheat, primarily employs for pasta production. The focus is on investigating how the physicochemical properties of these wheat types change with the presence of YB, that impacts protein content negatively, increasing total starch content. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy reveals structural changes in YB‐affected grains, while X‐ray diffraction indicates varying crystallinity. In determination of amylose, an increase of 6% in bread wheat with YB and 3% in durum wheat with YB is observed. In the case of RVA (Rapid Visco Analyzer) analysis, a notable increase in viscosity is evident in the treatments that included the yellow berry. This finding suggests that YB is associated with substantial modifications in starch properties, such as amylose‐to‐amylopectin ratio, chain length, and degree of branching, among several other components, which may have important implications for the texture and quality of food products. This study calls for further research to mitigate YB's impact and enhances the quality of wheat‐derived foods.
Sorafenib, a Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, Synergistically Enhances the Ferroptosis Effects of Asiatic Acid in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Chen Yong‐Syuan , Lee Chien‐Hsing , Hsieh Yi‐Hsien , Chiou Hui‐Ling , Hung Ming‐Chun , Lee Hsiang‐Lin
Published: September 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains one of the most common cancers worldwide. Asiatic acid (AA) is a natural triterpene, which is recognized as effect of antioxidant and antitumor. Sorafenib (Sor), an orally target drug, has been applicate for the HCC therapy. However, the synergistic effect of AA and Sor on human HCC is still unclear. Here, we explore the effect of combined treatment with AA and Sor in the HCC cell line SK‐HEP‐1 and HepG2. Compared with treating alone, our results demonstrated that AA combined with Sor synergistically inhibited proliferative rates in MTT assay and colony formation assay. We also found that AA combined with Sor in HCC cells strongly caused cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase and affected the protein level of cyclin D1 and SKP2. Furthermore, combination treatment strongly enhanced ferroptosis through cellular accumulation of iron ions, lipid peroxidation, and ferroptosis‐related proteins (GPX4 and FTH1) in HCC cells. In addition, the combined treatment resulted in higher phosphorylation of JNK1/2 in the promotion of ferroptosis than drug treatment alone. These results indicate that AA combined with Sor synergistically improved ferroptosis in HCC cells through the regulation of JNK1/2 signaling. Taken together, the combinatorial strategy may serve as the potential treatment in HCC.
Clinical and histopathological features of a chronic radiation‐induced dermatitis in a dog and management with an ultra‐hydrolysed collagen cream
Authors: Cochet Faivre Noëlle , Dropsy Hélène , Degorce Rubiales Frédérique , Monderna Emanuele
Published: September 2024

In this report, we present a case of chronic radiation‐induced dermatitis, controlled with an ultra‐hydrolysed marine collagen cream. We also describe the clinical and histopathological features of chronic radiation dermatitis in a dog.
Epitheliotropic T‐cell lymphoma in a Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus)
Authors: Stalder Sandro , Kühn Nicolas , Wegelin Maria , Howard Judith , Wernick Morena Bernadette
Published: September 2024

A 2‐year‐2‐month‐old, male Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) was referred for ulceration and encrustation of the abdominal skin. The affected skin was surgically excised. Histological examination revealed changes consistent with an epitheliotropic T‐cell lymphoma. Two months after the surgery, no clinical signs of disease or tumour recurrence were evident. When patients with consistent clinical signs are presented, cutaneous neoplasia should be considered, especially in older animals. Surgical excision may offer short‐term remission for epitheliotropic lymphoma.
Assessment of the impacts of constructing artificial structures on the water quality and hydrological environment of a meandering river
Authors: Kwon Yongju , Kim Jongyeong , Choi Joowon , Kim Taeyang , Cha Sung Min , Kwon Soonchul
Published: September 2024

When an artificial structure is built in a river, the river changes significantly in water quality and hydraulic properties. In this study, the effects of the weirs constructed in the middle section of a river as a four major rivers restoration project in Korea on water quality and hydrological characteristics were analyzed. For multi‐dimensional data analysis, a self‐organizing map was applied, and statistical techniques including analysis of variation were used. As a result of analysis, the cross‐sectional area of the river increased significantly after the construction of the weir compared to before the construction of the weir, and the flow velocity decreased at a statistically significant level. In the case of water quality, nitrogen, phosphorus, and suspended solids tended to improve after weir construction, and chlorophyll‐a and bacteria tended to deteriorate. Some water quality parameters such as chlorophyll‐a were also affected by seasonal influences. In order to improve the water quality deteriorated by the construction of the weir, it is necessary to consider how to improve the flow velocity of the river through partial opening or operation of the weir. In addition, in order to determine the effect of sedimentation of particulate matter due to the decrease in flow rate, it is necessary to conduct investigations on sediments around weirs in the future.

Practitioner Points

Compared to before the construction of the weir, there was no significant change in the flow rate of the river after the construction of the weir.

In the case of chlorophyll‐a and bacteria, the water quality was deteriorated after weir construction.

To improve the deteriorated water quality, it is required to consider the fundamental management of each pollutant source and the flexible operation of both weirs.

For some improved water quality parameters, further research is needed to determine whether these improvements are directly attributable to the construction of a weir.
Effectiveness of laryngeal reinnervation compared to medialization thyroplasty in the treatment of unilateral vocal fold paralysis: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: AlGhamdi Muhnnad A. , Alghamdi Lama Nasser , AlQazenli Mohamed Khalid , Alrashid Dhay Saleh , Bakhsh Zainab
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Unilateral vocal fold paralysis (ULVP) is characterized by the complete immobility of a single vocal fold which can cause significant health challenges, including voice impairment, difficulty swallowing, and a high risk of aspiration due to glottic incompetency. The aim of this study is to systematically review the effectiveness of laryngeal reinnervation (LR) and medialization thyroplasty (MT) in the treatment of ULVP.

Materials and Methods

Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, OVID, Scopus, Springer Nature Journals, ScienceDirect, and Directory of Open Access Journals databases were searched. Restriction to non‐English studies were applied. Studies were excluded if subjects had previous treatment for ULVP, if they had co‐existing neuromuscular disease affecting the larynx, and if they had significant non‐laryngeal speech abnormalities

Results

Fifteen articles were reviewed, all conducted between 2003 and 2023. Among the 864 participants included, 48 underwent LR, 348 underwent MT, and the remaining 432 were in the comparison group, which involved injection laryngoplasty (IL), voice therapy (VT), placebo, and medialization with arytenoid adduction. Meta‐analyses compared LR to MT and MT to alternative treatments, revealing a preference for MT. The comparison between LR and MT in the network meta‐analysis yielded a mean difference of 0.33 (95% CI: −11.79, 12.6) favoring the MT group, ranking using SUCRA values highlighted that MT is the best treatment modality followed by LR.

Discussion

The results of the network meta‐analysis and the subgroup meta‐analysis showed that MT is better than alternative treatments that were included in this study. Moreover, management modalities should be individualized to each patient as many factors are important and may affect the final outcomes.

Conclusions

While the network meta‐analysis indicates that MT may be more effective than alternative treatments for managing ULVP, the results should be interpreted with caution due to potential confounding factors. One notable limitation is the small sample size in the LR group. Despite these limitations, the findings contribute to the existing literature and can help guide future research on optimal interventions for the treatment of ULVP.
Intraoperative wound irrigation to prevent surgical site infection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Filardi Kaique Flavio Xavier Cardoso , Wegner Gustavo Roberto Minetto , dos Santos Arnaldo Bastos , Filardi Rafaela Goes Machado , Vasques Luana Ferreira , Massoni Marília Cardoso , Da Costa Milena Poliana Chimanski
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The potential benefit of intraoperative wound irrigation (IOWI) in preventing surgical site infection (SSI) remains unclear. The use of antimicrobial agents (AMA) or antiseptic agents (ASA) is controversial worldwide.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials comparing AMA or ASA with saline solution in patients who underwent abdominal surgery. Sub‐analyses were performed on the type of surgery, type of intervention agent, and wound classification.

Results

Nineteen studies comprising 4915 patients undergoing abdominal surgery were included. SSI was observed in 207 out of 2504 patients in the intervention group (8.26 %) and 344 out of 2411 patients in the control group (14.27%). Overall, intraoperative wound irrigation (IOWI) with AMA or ASA was associated with a lower SSI (Odds ratio (OR) 0.62; 95% CI 0.47, 0.82; p < 0.01; I2 = 50%). Sub‐analyses have shown a tendency for decreased SSI in patients from emergency surgery (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.30, 0.70; p < 0.01; I2 = 23%), patients with contaminated wound (OR 0.48; 95% CI 0.31, 0.74; p < 0.01; I2 = 24%), and either the use of AMA or ASA (OR 0.53 vs. 0.65).

Conclusion

The overall use of AMA or ASA before skin closure was associated with decreased SSI. Lower rates of SSI were observed in the subgroup analysis. Furthermore, we must consider the critical heterogeneity of the studies.
Anomaly inflow for dipole symmetry and higher form foliated field theories
Authors: Ebisu Hiromi , Honda Masazumi , Nakanishi Taiichi
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In accordance with recent progress of fracton topological phases, unusual topological phases of matter hosting fractionalized quasiparticle excitations with mobility constraints, new type of symmetry is studied — multipole symmetry, associated with conservation of multipoles. Based on algebraic relation between dipole and global charges, we introduce a series of (d + 1)-dimensional BF theories with p-form gauge fields, which admit dipole of spatially extended excitations, and study their physical properties. We elucidate that gauge invariant loops have unusual form, containing linear function of the spatial coordinate, which leads to the position dependent braiding statistics and unusual ground state degeneracy dependence on the system size. We also show that the theories exhibit a mixed ’t Hooft anomaly between p-form and (d − p)-form dipole symmetries, which is canceled by an invertible theory defined in one dimensional higher via anomaly inflow mechanism.
Beyond Hawks and Doves: Can inequality ease coordination?
Authors: Bigoni Maria , De Paz Mario Blazquez , Le Coq Chloé
Published: September 2024

It is often argued that inequality may worsen coordination failures as it exacerbates conflicts of interests, making it difficult to achieve an efficient outcome. This paper shows that this needs not to be always the case. In a context in which two interacting populations have conflicting interests, we introduce ex-ante inequality, by making one population stronger than the other. This reduces the cost of miscoordination for the weakest population, and at the same time it makes some equilibria more equitable than others, thus more focal and attractive for inequality-averse players. Hence, both social preferences and strategic risk considerations may ease coordination. We provide experimental support for this hypothesis, by considering an extended two-population Hawk–Dove game, where ex-ante inequality, number of pure-strategy equilibria, and cost of coordination vary across treatments. We find that subjects coordinate more often on the efficient outcomes in the treatment with ex-ante inequality.
Towards characterization of cell culture conditions for reliable proteomic analysis: in vitro studies on A549, differentiated THP-1, and NR8383 cell lines
Authors: Ledwith Rico , Stobernack Tobias , Bergert Antje , Bahl Aileen , Pink Mario , Haase Andrea , Dumit Verónica I.
Published: September 2024

Proteomic investigations result in high dimensional datasets, but integration or comparison of different studies is hampered by high variances due to different experimental setups. In addition, cell culture conditions can have a huge impact on the outcome. This study systematically investigates the impact of experimental parameters on the proteomic profiles of commonly used cell lines—A549, differentiated THP-1 macrophage-like cells, and NR8383—for toxicity studies. The work focuses on analyzing the influence at the proteome level of cell culture setup involving different vessels, cell passage numbers, and post-differentiation harvesting time, aiming to improve the reliability of proteomic analyses for hazard assessment. Mass-spectrometry-based proteomics was utilized for accurate protein quantification by means of a label-free approach. Our results showed that significant proteome variations occur when cells are cultivated under different setups. Further analysis of these variations revealed their association to specific cellular pathways related to protein misfolding, oxidative stress, and proteasome activity. Conversely, the influence of cell passage numbers on the proteome is minor, suggesting a reliable range for conducting reproducible biological replicates. Notable, substantial proteome alterations occur over-time post-differentiation of dTHP-1 cells, particularly impacting pathways crucial for macrophage function. This finding is key for the interpretation of experimental results. These results highlight the need for standardized culture conditions in proteomic-based evaluations of treatment effects to ensure reliable results, a prerequisite for achieving regulatory acceptance of proteomics data.
Internal Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment by Endonasal Hyaluronic Acid Injection
Authors: Gagnieur Pierre , Fieux Maxime , Saloner Laurie , Louis Bruno , Vertu-Ciolino Delphine , Mojallal Alain-Ali
Published: September 2024

Objective

Internal nasal valve collapse (IVC) is a common functional complication of rhinoplasty and injecting hyaluronic acid is one of the treatment options available, but its effectiveness has never been evaluated. The objective of this study was to assess the evolution of IVC after injection of hyaluronic acid using objective and subjective measures of nasal obstruction.

Study Design

A prospective interventional study was conducted.

Methods

Adult patients consulting for nasal obstruction after (septo)rhinoplasty and diagnosed with IVC were included. Patients underwent 4-phase rhinomanometry, completed nasal obstruction symptoms evaluation (NOSE) and visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaires and received hyaluronic acid injections. Measurements were repeated immediately, one month and one year later. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients below the rhinomanometric diagnostic threshold for IVC at one month.

Results

Among the 22 patients included, 20 (91%) had rhinomanometry measurements below the diagnostic threshold for IVC one month after injection. It decreased to 53% (8/15 patients) at one year post injection. The mean NOSE score decreased from 74.5 (± 18.0) before injection to 35.2 (± 23.3) after injection (p < 0.0001). The mean VAS score decreased from 7.0 (± 1.4) before injection to 3.4 (± 1.9) after injection (p < 0.0001). In these patients with post-(septo)rhinoplasty IVC, hyaluronic acid injection into the internal nasal valve substantially improved subjective and objective measures of nasal obstruction.

Conclusion

These results suggest hyaluronic acid injection (performed as described) is an effective treatment for IVC and is an excellent alternative to surgical treatment.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors https://www.springer.com/00266.
MRI and active surveillance: thoughts from across the pond
Authors: Campbell Rebecca A. , Wood Andrew , Schwen Zeyad , Ward Ryan , Weight Christopher , Purysko Andrei S.
Published: September 2024

In the United States (US), urological guidelines recommend active surveillance (AS) for patients with low-risk prostate cancer (PCa) and endorse it as an option for those with favorable intermediate-risk PCa with a > 10-year life expectancy. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) is being increasingly used in the screening, monitoring, and staging of PCa and involves the combination of T2-weighted, diffusion-weighted, and dynamic contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging.

The American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines provide recommendations about the use of mpMRI in the confirmatory setting for AS patients but do not discuss the timing of follow-up mpMRI in AS. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) discourages using it more frequently than every 12 months. Finally, guidelines state that mpMRI can be used to augment risk stratification but should not replace periodic surveillance biopsy.

In this review, we discuss the current literature regarding the use of mpMRI for patients with AS, with a particular focus on the approach in the US. Although AS shows a benefit to the addition of mpMRI to diagnostic, confirmatory, and follow-up biopsy, there is no strong evidence to suggest that mpMRI can safely replace biopsy for most patients and thus it must be incorporated into a multimodal approach.

Clinical relevance statement

According to the US guidelines, regular follow-ups are important for men with prostate cancer on active surveillance, and prostate MRI is a valuable tool that should be utilized, in combination with PSA kinetics and biopsies, for monitoring prostate cancer.

Key Points

According to the US guidelines, the addition of MRI improves the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer.

Timing interval imaging of patients on active surveillance remains unclear and has not been specifically addressed.

MRI should trigger further work-ups, but not replace periodic follow-up biopsies, in men on active surveillance.
Cost-efficient payoffs under model ambiguity
Authors: Bernard Carole , Junike Gero , Lux Thibaut , Vanduffel Steven
Published: September 2024

Dybvig (1988a, 1988b) solves in a complete market setting the problem of finding a payoff that is cheapest possible in reaching a given target distribution (“cost-efficient payoff”). In the presence of ambiguity, the distribution of a payoff is, however, no longer known with certainty. We study the problem of finding the cheapest possible payoff whose worst-case distribution stochastically dominates a given target distribution (“robust cost-efficient payoff”) and determine solutions under certain conditions. We study the link between “robust cost-efficiency” and the maxmin expected utility setting of Gilboa and Schmeidler (1989), as well as more generally in a possibly nonexpected robust utility setting. Specifically, we show that solutions to maxmin robust expected utility are necessarily robust cost-efficient. We illustrate our study with examples involving uncertainty both on the drift and on the volatility of the risky asset.
Current clinical framework on nitric oxide role in periodontal disease and blood pressure
Authors: Lima Leonel , Gaspar Sara , Rocha Bárbara S. , Alves Ricardo , Almeida M. Gabriela
Published: September 2024

Objectives

In this review, we explored potential associations between NO and its derivatives, nitrite and nitrate, with periodontal and cardiovascular diseases, with special emphasis on the former. By providing a state-of-the-art and integrative understanding of this topic, we aimed to shed light on the potential role of these three nitrogen oxides in the periodontitis-hypertension nexus, identify knowledge gaps, and point out critical aspects of the experimental methodologies.

Materials and methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted on human salivary and plasma concentrations of nitrate and nitrite, and their impact on periodontal and cardiovascular health.

Results

A nitrate-rich diet increases nitrate and nitrite levels in saliva and plasma, promoting oral health by favorably altering the oral microbiome. Chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthrinses disrupt the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway, reducing NO bioavailability, and potentially affecting blood pressure. This is because CHX eliminates nitrate-reducing bacteria, which are essential for NO production. Although endogenous NO production may be insufficient, the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway plays a critical role in maintaining appropriate endothelial function, which is balanced by the microbiome and dietary nitrate intake. Dietary nitrate supplementation may lead to beneficial changes in the oral microbiome, thereby increasing the NO bioavailability. However, NO bioavailability can be compromised by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the uncoupling of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), leading to further ROS generation and creating a detrimental cycle. Studies on NO and periodontal disease have shown increased nitrite concentrations in patients with periodontal disease, although these studies have some methodological limitations. In terms of blood pressure, literature suggests that CHX mouthrinses may reduce the capacity of nitrate-reducing bacteria, potentially leading to an increase in blood pressure.

Conclusions

Several studies have suggested an association between NO levels and the development of cardiovascular and periodontal diseases. However, the exact mechanisms linking these diseases remains to be fully elucidated.

Clinical relevance

Nitric oxide (NO) is a signaling molecule that plays a crucial role in several physiological processes such as vascular homeostasis, inflammation, immune cell activity, and pathologies such as hypertension and periodontitis.
Study on the mechanisms of retardation of cement hydration by zinc and acceleration of hardening by sodium aluminate from crystallographic phase analysis
Authors: Yamada Kazuo , Ichikawa Tsuneki , Arai Hiroyuki , Yasukochi Takahito , Endo Kazuto
Published: September 2024

Zinc was focused on as an element causing hardening retardation due to delayed hydration of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), and its hardening inhibitory effect and the mechanism of hardening enhancement by sodium aluminate were analyzed by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The addition of zinc hydroxide retarded hardening at more than 0.3 mass%, as previously reported, and zinc produced calcium zincate hydrates (qatranaite) and inhibited the hydration of tricalcium silicate (C3S), the main component of hydration of OPC. After the zinc had been fully consumed in qatranaite formation, C3S started normal hydration. The addition of sodium aluminate caused earlier re-hydration of C3S, which was inhibited by hydration, as the hydrates produced appeared to consume zincate anions. The rapid setting effect of sodium aluminate addition was also delayed by zinc hydroxide, but it was estimated that the addition of the same amount of zinc would ensure initial strength through early formation of hydrocalumite. In the longer term, strength was considered to be more enhanced by the onset of C3S hydration.
The maximum geometric mean criterion: revisiting the Markowitz–Samuelson debate: survey and analysis
Authors: Levy Haim
Published: September 2024

By the Almost First-degree Stochastic Dominance (AFSD) rule, corresponding only to economically relevant preferences, for an infinite horizon the $$theoretical$$

theoretical

claim of both Markowitz and Samuelson is not intact. However, for the practically more relevant case of the long but finite horizon, with stocks-bonds portfolios, Markowitz $$empirically$$

empirically

is right as we find that the MGM portfolio coincides with the optimal myopic portfolio for all risk aversion parameters $$\alpha < 1.7$$

α
<
1.7

. For $$\alpha \ge 1.7$$

α
≥
1.7

the MGM portfolio dominates by AFSD rule all optimal myopic portfolios, as long as the investment horizon is 12–15 years or longer.
Temporal graphs anomaly emergence detection: benchmarking for social media interactions
Authors: Lazebnik Teddy , Iny Or
Published: September 2024

Temporal graphs have become an essential tool for analyzing complex dynamic systems with multiple agents. Detecting anomalies in temporal graphs is crucial for various applications, including identifying emerging trends, monitoring network security, understanding social dynamics, tracking disease outbreaks, and understanding financial dynamics. In this paper, we present a comprehensive benchmarking study that compares 12 data-driven methods for anomaly detection in temporal graphs. We conduct experiments on two temporal graphs extracted from Twitter and Facebook, aiming to identify anomalies in group interactions. Surprisingly, our study reveals an unclear pattern regarding the best method for such tasks, highlighting the complexity and challenges involved in anomaly emergence detection in large and dynamic systems. The results underscore the need for further research and innovative approaches to effectively detect emerging anomalies in dynamic systems represented as temporal graphs.
Parental Overprotection and Locus of Control as the Mechanisms Explaining the Relationship Between Parent and Child Anxiety: A Multiple Mediation Model
Authors: Yaffe Yosi
Published: September 2024

The study probes the role played by parenting control practices and parental locus of control in the relationship between parent and child anxiety. The study particularly aims at probing these matters in light of the parental gender-specific role, striving to improve our understanding of the differential etiological contribution of mothers’ and fathers’ anxiety and parental practices to child’s anxiety. The study consisted of 316 parents (159 mothers and 157 fathers) who reported their own and their child’s anxiety using valid instruments. The general path model used in the study exhibited an adequate fit to the data, generally confirming our theory regarding the direct and indirect associations between parent–child anxiety. Using SEM multiple group analysis for parental gender, a strong-direct unique association was found between parent and child anxiety. For mothers, this association was partially mediated by maternal overprotection. Finally, maternal external locus of control was positively associated with child anxiety, after accounting for the effects of all other maternal variables. The study’s findings and limitations are profoundly discussed in light of parental gender differences.
Training to Increase Processing of Positive Content Paradoxically Decreases Positive Memory Bias in High Levels of Depression
Authors: Kardosh Nour , Mor Nilly
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Depressive symptoms are associated with reduced processing of and memory for positive content. These cognitive biases maintain depressive states, and are presumed to be interrelated. This study examined the effect of a single-session training to process (or inhibit) positive stimuli, on memory of new emotional content.

Methods

Participants (N = 138) were randomly assigned to conditions designed to increase or inhibit processing of positive content. Then, they made self-referential judgments concerning positive, negative and neutral words. Lastly, they free-recalled the words and completed a depression questionnaire.

Results

Training was effective in directing participants’ processing efforts. However, the effect of the training on self-referential judgment and memory for new positive content was only significant when contingent on depression levels. Positive endorsement and recall biases were negatively affected by the positive training among participants with higher depression scores.

Conclusions

These findings shed light on possible adverse effects of extensive exposure to positive content in depression.
Modeling Asset Price Process: An Approach for Imaging Price Chart with Generative Diffusion Models
Authors: Park Jinseong , Ko Hyungjin , Lee Jaewook
Published: September 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) models have been recently studied to discover data patterns for prediction and forecasting tasks in finance. However, the use of deep generative models in finance remains relatively unexplored. In this paper, we investigate the potential of deep generative diffusion models to estimate unknown dynamics using multiple simulations based on stock chart images. We first demonstrate a novel pre-processing framework and synthetic image generation using opening, high, low, and closing stock chart images to train neural networks. Without assuming the specific process as the underlying asset price process, we can generate synthetic data without predetermined assumptions of the underlying movements of stock prices by trained generative diffusion models. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method successfully replicates well-known asset price processes. With various simulation paths, we can also accurately estimate option pricing on the S &P 500. We conclude that financial simulation with AI can be a novel approach to financial decision-making.
Comparative analysis of phytoplankton diversity using microscopy and metabarcoding: insights from an eLTER station in the Northern Adriatic Sea
Authors: Neri Francesca , Ubaldi Marika , Accoroni Stefano , Ricci Sara , Banchi Elisa , Romagnoli Tiziana , Totti Cecilia
Published: September 2024

The monitoring of phytoplankton is crucial to highlight changes in the marine ecosystems. In the present study, the phytoplankton community of an eLTER station in the Northern Adriatic Sea was analysed combining two approaches, i.e. microscopy and eDNA metabarcoding (targeting V4 and V9 regions of the 18S rRNA gene, and using PR2 and SILVA as reference databases), to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of these two methods. Metabarcoding revealed a so far unknown phytoplankton diversity (99 genera and 151 species), while microscopy detected 14 genera and 44 species not revealed by metabarcoding. Only a small percentage of genera and species were shared by the two methods (microscopy and metabarcoding), 18S regions (V4 and V9) and reference databases (PR2 and SILVA). Metabarcoding showed a community characterized by a higher number of phytoflagellate and dinoflagellate genera and species, in comparison with microscopy where diatom and dinoflagellate taxa were the most represented. Moreover, metabarcoding failed to reveal almost all the coccolithophores. The results confirmed metabarcoding as a powerful tool, but it should still be combined with microscopy to have a more detailed information on the community and to counteract the drawbacks of metabarcoding, such as gaps in the reference databases.
A Conceptual Framework for Digital Twin in Healthcare: Evidence from a Systematic Meta-Review
Authors: Pellegrino Giulia , Gervasi Massimiliano , Angelelli Mario , Corallo Angelo
Published: September 2024

Digital Twin (DT) technology monitors, simulates, optimizes, models, and predicts the behavior of physical entities. Healthcare is a significant domain where a DT can be functional for multiple purposes. However, these diverse uses of DTs need a clear understanding of both general and specific aspects that can affect their adoption and integration. This paper is a meta-review that leads to the development of a conceptual framework designed to support the high-level evaluation of DTs in healthcare. Using the PRISMA methodology, the meta-review synthesizes insights from 20 selected reviews out of 1,075 studies. Based on this comprehensive analysis, we extract the functional, technological, and operational aspects that characterize DTs in healthcare. Additionally, we examine the structural (e.g., hierarchical) relationships among these aspects to address the various complexity scales in digital health. The resulting framework can promote the effective design and implementation of DTs, offering a structured approach for their assessment.
German Parents Attaining Intrapersonal Work-Family Balance While Implementing the 50/50-Split-Model with Their Partners
Authors: Schaber Ronja , Patella Tirza , Simm Josefine , Garthus-Niegel Susan
Published: September 2024

Work-family balance (WFB) is attained if parents combine work and family roles aligned with their values. For an egalitarian parent aiming to implement a 50/50-split-model, this means sharing paid work, childcare, and housework equally with their partner (involvement balance), performing well in all roles (effective balance), while having positive emotions (emotional balance). This is difficult since work and family are competing for time and attention. Therefore, this article presents resources which can help parents attain WFB within a 50/50-split-model. Quantitative data of n = 1036 couples participating in the Dresden Study on Parenting, Work, and Mental Health (DREAM) were used to calculate the implementation rate of the 50/50-split-model at 14 months postpartum. Quantitative DREAM data were screened to purposively select n = 25 participants implementing a 50/50-split-model for the qualitative study DREAMTALK. Problem-centered interviews were conducted and analyzed via qualitative content analysis. Quantitative results showed a 50/50-split-model implementation rate of 3.8–17.5% among German parents. Qualitative results revealed 14 individual- and eight macro-level resources to facilitate WFB within a 50/50-split-model. Individual-level examples are acknowledging benefits of childcare assistance, segmentation from paid work and controversially, in other situations, integration of paid work and family. Macro-level examples are availability of childcare assistance, of solo paternal leave, paid work < 39 h/week, employee flexibility options, and family-friendly workplace cultures. To conclude, the full potential of individual-level resources applied by parents is attained when supported by macro-level resources provided by politics and employers. Parents, politics, and employers can facilitate WFB within the 50/50-split-model to foster gender equality.
On the synthesis and formability of high-entropy oxides
Authors: Kandage Manjula M. , Marszewski Michal
Published: September 2024

This paper reports on a straightforward and general solution-based synthesis method for high-entropy oxides (HEOs) of different types and compositions. The flexibility and simplicity of this method are hoped to drive development of new HEOs and study of their properties and applications. Thirteen HEOs with rock salt, fluorite, spinel, and perovskite structures were synthesized using a Pechini-type synthesis at temperatures significantly lower than those necessary in solid-state synthesis (400–900 °C). Metal nitrates, nitrites, chlorides, and even water-sensitive alkoxides were used as the metal precursors with the present method. The HEOs were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Relaxation of cation size and charge rules and formability of HEOs are also discussed. The present results indicate that the classical criteria for material stability do not readily translate to high-entropy systems. For example, the well-known criteria for Goldschmidt and octahedral tolerance factors established for ordinary perovskites do not seem to describe formability of perovskite HEOs well. The discussed relaxation of cation size and charge rules will contribute to the understanding of HEO systems and development of new HEO phases.
High-temperature oxidation behaviour of additively manufactured and wrought HAYNES 282
Authors: Kopec Mateusz , Mierzejewska Izabela , Gorniewicz Dominika , Sitek Ryszard , Jóźwiak Stanisław
Published: September 2024

Direct Metal Laser Sintered Haynes 282 specimens as well as wrought ones were subjected to high-temperature exposure at 1000 °C for 100h in air to compare their oxidation behaviour. The specimens were removed from the furnace after 1h, 5h, 25h, 50h and 100h to reveal and study oxidation mechanisms through morphological and cross-sectional examination by using scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy attachment and X-ray diffraction. Microstructural studies revealed that the oxidation kinetics, determined by changes in thickness scale and depth of aluminium diffusion zone, were mainly driven by the formation of Cr2O3 for the wrought material, and TiO2 for DMLS one. The wrought material was characterized by the oxidation rate equal to 0.96 and followed the logarithmic law. On the other hand, DMLS-manufactured Haynes 282 exhibited oxidation rate of 0.90 and follows the linear law for the thickness scale considerations. However, when the depth of aluminium diffusion was investigated, it had an oxidation rate of 0.87 and followed cubic law.
Relationships between the qNOX, qCON, burst suppression ratio, and muscle activity index of the CONOX monitor during total intravenous anesthesia: a pilot study
Authors: Linassi Federico , Vide Sergio , Ferreira Ana , Schneider Gerhard , Gambús Pedro , Kreuzer Matthias
Published: September 2024

Background: Processed electroencephalographic (EEG) indices can help to navigate general anesthesia. The CONOX (Fresenius Kabi) calculates two indices, the qCON (hypnotic level) and the qNOX (nociception). The CONOX also calculates indices for electromyographic (EMG) activity and EEG burst suppression (BSR). Because all EEG parameters seem to influence each other, our goal was a detailed description of parameter relationships. Methods: We used qCON, qNOX, EMG, and BSR information from 14 patients receiving propofol anesthesia. We described index relationships with linear models, heat maps, and box plot representations. We also evaluated associations between qCON/qNOX and propofol/remifentanil effect site concentrations (ceP/ceR). Results: qNOX and qCON (qCON = 0.79*qNOX + 5.8; p < 0.001; R2 = 0.84) had a strong linear association. We further confirmed the strong relationship between qCON/qNOX and BSR for qCON/qNOX < 25: qCON=-0.19*BSR + 25.6 (p < 0.001; R2 = 0.72); qNOX=-0.20*BSR + 26.2 (p < 0.001; R2 = 0.72). The relationship between qCON and EMG was strong at higher indices: qCON = 0.55*EMG + 33.0 (p < 0.001; R2 = 0.68). There was no qCON > 80 without EMG > 0. The relationship between ceP and qCON was qCON=-3.8*ceP + 70.6 (p < 0.001; R2 = 0.11). The heat maps also suggest that the qCON and qNOX can at least partially separate the hypnotic and analgetic components of anesthesia. Conclusion: We could describe relationships between qCON, qNOX, EMG, BSR, ceP, and ceR, which may help the anaesthesiologist better interpret the information provided. One major finding is the dependence of qCON > 80 on EMG activity. This may limit the possibility of detecting wakefulness in the absence of EMG. Further, qNOX seems generally higher than qCON, but high opioid doses may lead to higher qCON than qNOX indices.
Post-separation Child Contact and Domestic Violence and Abuse: The Experiences of Children with a Disability
Authors: Gregory Soma , Elliffe Ruth , Holt Stephanie , Donnellan Rachel , Cahill Lynne
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This article addresses a gap in empirical knowledge on post-separation contact in the context of domestic violence and abuse (DVA) for children with disabilities. The intersection of disability and DVA is explored through the mother’s perspective and brings to the fore the unique experiences of children with disabilities in the post-separation contact space.

Methods

Known to be a difficult to reach population, the experience of disabled children were captured through in-depth qualitative interviews with a sample of eight victim/survivor mothers. Mothers were recruited through gatekeepers from a voluntary children’s organization and specialist DVA services. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was the most common disability occurring in the sample.

Results

Three major themes relating to the disabled child’s experience were identified: (i) Courts’ (lack of) consideration of children’s disability in post-separation child contact decision-making; (ii) Disruption to routine; and (iii) Quality of contact. Participating mothers reported that these experiences caused serious emotional distress for the children; distress that was heightened and compounded by their disability status.

Conclusion

Applying an intersectional lens to the experiences of children with a disability who live with DVA, this study simultaneously illuminates children’s vulnerability and marginalization in this context, whilst also identifying gaps in policy and practice responses to identify and address the individual needs of these children. Lastly, given the nascent evidence base on this topic, research which directly elicits the voice of the child is urgently needed.
The EUropeanisation of Research Infrastructure Policy
Authors: Cramer Katharina C. , Rüffin Nicolas V.
Published: September 2024

Political interest in Research Infrastructures on a European scale has been a new phenomenon, marked in the early 2000s with the launch of the Lisbon Strategy and the European Research Area. European Research Infrastructure policy then developed through, first, the strategic incorporation of incumbents through new modes of coordination; second, the European Commission’s emphasis of joint responsibility at the supranational level, claiming its own accountability and mobilizing the subsidiarity principle to its advantage; third, the incentivization of conformity to the European Commission’s policy agenda through generous financial schemes and fourth, the implementation of tailor-made legislation. While this topic speaks to current debates in EU studies, it also amends analyses of Big Science as an empirical puzzle within European politics and integration and launches a scholarly effort to come to terms with the new phenomenon of Research Infrastructures.
Not All Stroop-Type Tasks Are Alike: Assessing the Impact of Stimulus Material, Task Design, and Cognitive Demand via Meta-analyses Across Neuroimaging Studies
Authors: Müller Veronika I. , Cieslik Edna C. , Ficco Linda , Tyralla Sandra , Sepehry Amir Ali , Aziz-Safaie Taraneh , Feng Chunliang , Eickhoff Simon B. , Langner Robert
Published: September 2024

The Stroop effect is one of the most often studied examples of cognitive conflict processing. Over time, many variants of the classic Stroop task were used, including versions with different stimulus material, control conditions, presentation design, and combinations with additional cognitive demands. The neural and behavioral impact of this experimental variety, however, has never been systematically assessed. We used activation likelihood meta-analysis to summarize neuroimaging findings with Stroop-type tasks and to investigate whether involvement of the multiple-demand network (anterior insula, lateral frontal cortex, intraparietal sulcus, superior/inferior parietal lobules, midcingulate cortex, and pre-supplementary motor area) can be attributed to resolving some higher-order conflict that all of the tasks have in common, or if aspects that vary between task versions lead to specialization within this network. Across 133 neuroimaging experiments, incongruence processing in the color-word Stroop variant consistently recruited regions of the multiple-demand network, with modulation of spatial convergence by task variants. In addition, the neural patterns related to solving Stroop-like interference differed between versions of the task that use different stimulus material, with the only overlap between color-word, emotional picture-word, and other types of stimulus material in the posterior medial frontal cortex and right anterior insula. Follow-up analyses on behavior reported in these studies (in total 164 effect sizes) revealed only little impact of task variations on the mean effect size of reaction time. These results suggest qualitative processing differences among the family of Stroop variants, despite similar task difficulty levels, and should carefully be considered when planning or interpreting Stroop-type neuroimaging experiments.