bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autocrine positive feedback of tumor necrosis factor from activated microglia proposed to be of widespread relevance in chronic neurological disease
Authors: Clark Ian A. , Vissel Bryce
Published: September 2023

Over a decade's experience of post‐stroke rehabilitation by administering the specific anti‐TNF biological, etanercept, by the novel perispinal route, is consistent with a wide range of chronically diminished neurological function having been caused by persistent excessive cerebral levels of TNF. We propose that this TNF persistence, and cerebral disease chronicity, largely arises from a positive autocrine feedback loop of this cytokine, allowing the persistence of microglial activation caused by the excess TNF that these cells produce. It appears that many of these observations have never been exploited to construct a broad understanding and treatment of certain chronic, yet reversible, neurological illnesses. We propose that this treatment allows these chronically activated microglia to revert to their normal quiescent state, rather than simply neutralizing the direct harmful effects of this cytokine after its release from microglia. Logically, this also applies to the chronic cerebral aspects of various other neurological conditions characterized by activated microglia. These include long COVID, Lyme disease, post‐stroke syndromes, traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, post‐chemotherapy, post‐irradiation cerebral dysfunction, cerebral palsy, fetal alcohol syndrome, hepatic encephalopathy, the antinociceptive state of morphine tolerance, and neurogenic pain. In addition, certain psychiatric states, in isolation or as sequelae of infectious diseases such as Lyme disease and long COVID, are candidates for being understood through this approach and treated accordingly. Perispinal etanercept provides the prospect of being able to treat various chronic central nervous system illnesses, whether they are of infectious or non‐infectious origin, through reversing excess TNF generation by microglia.
Uterine rupture in first versus second stage of labour—A case‐series study in a tertiary referral centre
Authors: Schalén Ida , Varli Ingela H. , Wollmann Charlotte L.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

To analyse at what point during delivery, and during what clinical circumstances uterine rupture occurs. Uterine rupture is a rare peripartum complication associated with severe outcome for both mother and child. To date, many studies have characterized potential risk factors to uterine rupture, however, the intrapartum course remains unclear.

Material and Methods

A case‐series study based on data collected from patient data records on all women with uterine rupture at a tertiary referral centre between 2008 and 2019. Data were compared on women with uterine rupture during first versus second stage of labour, and women with spontaneous onset versus induced labour.

Results

A total of 109 women were included, whereof 94.5% had one or more previous caesarean deliveries. Uterine rupture occurred during the whole course of labour. Women with uterine rupture during second stage of labour (n = 46) compared to women with uterine rupture during first stage of labour (n = 63), were more exposed to oxytocin (p < 0.0001), tended to use epidural anaesthesia more often during delivery (p = 0.053), had larger mean volume of haemorrhage (p = 0.015), and tended to have a higher occurrence of low Apgar score (p = 0.051) and asphyxia in the infant (p = 0.04). Women with induced labour (n = 42) tended to have shorter time‐to‐uterine‐rupture than women with spontaneous onset (n = 67) (p = 0.055).

Conclusions

Uterine rupture occur both in first and second stage of labour. Maternal and infant outcomes are worse when uterine rupture occurs in the second stage of labour. These results emphasize the importance of a close monitoring during the whole course of delivery.
A wind‐electric hybrid polar roaming robot: Design, modeling, and experiments
Authors: Guo Lefan , Liu Gangfeng , Luo Yongsheng , Jiang Peng , Zhao Jie
Published: September 2023

The background observation of the polar region is used to develop the requirements with regard to low carbon and no pollution for scientific research. Polar robots have certain advantages over human beings, but their long‐term residence still faces the problems of energy supply and autonomous control. To solve this problem, a hybrid wind‐ and electricity‐driven polar roaming robot is presented and includes the consideration of low carbon and energy savings. It innovatively uses wind energy as the main driving force and is assisted by electric energy, which is used when wind energy is not sufficiently available. In the ideal scenario, compared with traditional pure electric‐driven robots, it can save up to approximately 3/4 of energy. In this paper, the design principle is described, then the sail structure and some innovative mechanisms of the robot are designed, and the theoretical analysis and simulation of the mechanisms are carried out. The innovative mechanism enables good motion control under wind and electric drives, as well as the switching of the drive modes. Of particular importance, the aerodynamic performance of the sail structure is analyzed, and the optimal control scheme for sailing the robot is proposed. Then, a prototype of the polar robot is developed, the structure rationality and principle feasibility of which are verified in experiments, and the energy‐saving effect is confirmed by calculation.
Entwicklung der Rekristallisationskorngröße an kaltumgeformten hochfesten Stählen
Authors: Werner Tom , Nitschke‐Pagel Thomas , Dilger Klaus
Published: September 2023

Die Gefahr der Versprödung von Stählen beim Schweißen in kaltumgeformten Bereichen führt zu vielen Fertigungsrestriktionen bzw. zu hohen Fertigungskosten. Der Grund der Versprödung liegt in der Grobkornbildung der Rekristallisationszone. In diesem Beitrag wurden drei hochfeste Stähle hinsichtlich ihrer Versprödungsneigung bei unterschiedlichen Umformgraden über ein Temperaturspektrum untersucht. Ziel war es, die Temperaturen während des Schweißens in der Rekristallisationszone zu simulieren und damit das Kornwachstum abzuschätzen. Dazu wurden die Werkstoffe auf maximale Dehnungen bis kurz vor der Gleichmaßdehnung gelängt. Die anschließende Wärmebehandlung erfolgte zwischen 500 °C und 800 °C mit verschiedenen Haltezeiten. Über die gesamte Versuchsreihe konnte kein nennenswerter Zusammenhang zwischen Kornwachstum, Umformgrad, Glühdauer und Glühtemperatur festgestellt werden. Die Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass beim Längen hochfester Stähle der kritische Umformgrad nicht erreicht werden kann und somit keine Grobkornbildung in der Rekristallisationszone stattfindet.
MiRNA‐26a‐5p inhibits preterm labor initiation by targeting and regulating TRPC3 ion channel protein expression
Authors: Chen Jing , Liu Tong , Cui Hong , Na Quan , Liu Sishi
Published: September 2023

The incidence of preterm birth (PTB) is increasing annually worldwide, leading to various health problems or even fetal deaths. Our previous work demonstrated the activation of transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily C 3 (TRPC3) in mice with PTB, and its activation could promote inward flow of calcium ions and uterine smooth muscle (USM) contraction via regulation of Cav3.2, Cav3.1, and Cav1.2. However, the upstream regulators of TRPC3 and its mechanisms remain unknown. In the present study, the binding of miR‐26a‐5p to the 3′ untranslated region of TRPC3 was predicted by bioinformatics databases (TargetScanHuman and starBase v3.0) and confirmed by a dual‐luciferase assay. MiR‐26a‐5p was downregulated, while TRPC3 was upregulated in the USM tissues of patients with PTB compared to people without PTB. The results showed that miR‐26a‐5p mimic transfection markedly reduced TRPC3 expression in LPS‐stimulated USM cells. Additionally, miR‐26a‐5p regulated intracellular Ca2+ levels in USM cells by targeting TRPC3. Furthermore, miR‐26a‐5p inhibited the CPI17/PKC/PLCγ signaling pathway and reduced the expression of Cav3.2, Cav3.1, and Cav1.2. In conclusion, miR‐26a‐5p regulated the initiation of PTB by targeting TRPC3 and regulating intracellular Ca2+ levels. This study provides a promising diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for PTB.
At the intersection of climate justice and reproductive justice
Authors: Sasser Jade S.
Published: September 2023

Climate justice and reproductive justice are distinct scholarly and activist frameworks that have received significant attention in recent years—particularly with respect to how they might be linked together. In this overview, I survey the main lenses through which various actors have linked climate justice and reproductive justice in the United States. First, I review the literatures: on climate justice, the perspective that those who are least responsible for the conditions causing climate change are disproportionately impacted by it; and on the reproductive justice, which focuses on rejecting reproductive oppression to achieve comprehensive reproductive autonomy for individuals and communities. Next, I analyze frameworks that seek to reframe reproductive justice through a populationist, climate‐centered lens. I contrast these framings with new approaches focused on racial health disparities and intergenerational justice. The article ends with questions about the next directions in climate justice and reproductive justice linkages: in particular, the role of eco‐anxiety in shaping reproductive futures. In so doing, I argue for approaches that challenge mainstream framings focused on population size and growth, and instead foreground the embodied reproductive outcomes of climate‐impacted communities.

This article is categorized under:

Climate, Nature, and Ethics > Ethics and Climate Change

Climate, Nature, and Ethics > Climate Change and Human Rights

Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change > Values‐Based Approach to Vulnerability and Adaptation
Oxohydroxo‐Tellurates(VI) K2[TeO2(OH)4] and K2[Fe2TeO6(OH)2] ⋅ 2H2O from Alkaline Hydroflux
Authors: He Huanyu , Li Yuxi , Albrecht Ralf , Ruck Michael
Published: September 2023

The ultra‐alkaline conditions of a hydroflux offer the possibility of redox chemistry far from the electrochemical standard potentials. We explored the possibilities of synthesizing tellurium(VI) compounds, using both tellurium(VI) and tellurium(IV) as starting materials. Colorless, block‐shaped crystals of the oxohydroxotellurate(VI) K2[TeO2(OH)4] were synthesized from (NH4)2TeO4 in a KOH hydroflux at 200 °C. In the triclinic crystal structure, [TeO2(OH)4]2− octahedra are connected via hydrogen bonds to form layers, which are separated from each other by potassium cations. Yellow‐colored platelets of the ferrate(III) tellurate(VI) K2[Fe2TeO6(OH)2] ⋅ 2H2O were obtained by oxidation of TeO2 with H2O2 followed by reaction with Fe(NO3)3 ⋅ 9H2O in a KOH hydroflux. In the monoclinic crystal structure, strongly corrugated anionic layers
Fe2TeO6(OH)2]2− are covered with water molecules and separated from each other by potassium cations. The octahedrally coordinated iron(III) atoms form a distorted honeycomb network, in which they are antiferromagnetically coupled at room temperature and in external fields up to at least 7 T.
Elevated systolic pulmonary artery pressure is a substantial predictor of increased mortality after transcatheter aortic valve replacement in males, not in females
Authors: Boxhammer Elke , Dienhart Christiane , Kletzer Joseph , Ramsauer Susanne , Kopp Kristen , Prinz Erika , Wintersteller Wilfried , Blessberger Hermann , Hammerer Matthias , Steinwender Clemens , Lichtenauer Michael , Hoppe Uta C.
Published: September 2023

Background

While pulmonary hypertension (PH) in patients with severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) is associated with increased mortality after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), there is limited data on gender differences in the effects on long-term survival.

Objective

The aim of this retrospective, multicenter study was to investigate the prognostic impact of pre-interventional PH on survival of TAVR patients with respect to gender.

Methods

303 patients undergoing TAVR underwent echocardiography to detect PH prior to TAVR via measurement of systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP). Different cut-off values were set for the presence of PH. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality at 1, 3 and 5 years.

Results

Kaplan–Meier analysis by gender showed that only males exhibited significant increased mortality at elevated sPAP values during the entire follow-up period of 5 years (sPAP ≥ 40 mmHg: p ≤ 0.001 and sPAP ≥ 50 mmHg: p ≤ 0.001 in 1- to 5-year survival), whereas high sPAP values had no effect on survival in females. In Cox regression analysis based on the selected sPAP thresholds, male gender was an independent risk factor for long-term mortality after TAVR in all time courses.

Conclusion

Male gender was an isolated risk factor for premature death after TAVR in patients with echocardiographic evidence of PH and severe AS. This could mean that, the indication for TAVR should be discussed more critically in men with severe AS and an elevated sPAP, while in females, PH should not be an exclusion criterion for TAVR.

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract of the study (Created with BioRender.com)

Image material of CoreValve™ Evolut™ was kindly provided by © Medtronic Inc.
Comparison of MILP and CP models for balancing partially automated assembly lines
Authors: Dimény Imre , Koltai Tamás
Published: September 2023

The objective of Assembly Line Balancing (ALB) is to find the proper assignment of tasks to workstations, taking into consideration various types of constraints and defined management goals. Early research in the field focused on solving the Simple Assembly Line Balancing problem, a basic simplified version of the general problem. As the production environment became more complex, several new ALB problem types appeared, and almost all ALB problems are NP-hard, meaning that finding a solution requires a lot of time, resources, and computational power. Methods with custom-made algorithms and generic approaches have been developed for solving these problems. While custom-made algorithms are generally more efficient, generic approaches can be more easily extended to cover other variations of the problem. Over the past few decades, automation has played an increasingly important role in various operations, although complete automation is often not possible. As a result, there is a growing need for partially automated assembly line balancing models. In these circumstances, the flexibility of a generic approach is essential. This paper compares two generic approaches: mixed integer linear programming (MILP) and constraint programming (CP), for two types of partially automated assembly line balancing problems. While CP is relatively slower in solving the simpler allocation problems, it is more efficient than MILP when an increased number of constraints is applied to the ALB and an allocation and scheduling problem needs to be solved.
Biosilica as a New Stationary Phase in HILIC Mode
Authors: Al Saoud Hussam A. , Szumski Michał , Sprynskyy Myroslav , Bocian Szymon , Buszewski Bogusław
Published: September 2023

The aim of this work was to use the biosilica obtained from diatoms (microalgae) cultivated under laboratory conditions as a new stationary phase to fill the chromatographic column and test it in high-performance liquid chromatography. Biosilica is an inorganic polymer consisting of orthosilicate units formed by organisms such as diatoms or siliceous sponges. The results showed that the prepared columns were characterized by relatively high efficiency, comparable to a commercially available material HALO HILIC of dp = 2.7 μm. The retention of polar compounds under a high acetonitrile content was worse than that on HALO HILIC, but it was proportionally lower when the surface area of both materials was compared. As model test solutes, nucleosides and nucleobases have undergone testing. They were examined separately for retention, and attempts to separate test mixtures were successful.
Temporal changes in the beetle and spider communities in a Hessian (German) strict forest reserve
Authors: Schneider Alexander , Blick Theo , Dorow Wolfgang H. O. , Köhler Frank , Meyer Peter , Pauls Steffen U.
Published: September 2023

In the context of the Hessian strict forest program, the reserve Hasenblick was set aside from forest management in 1988. The program aims to document the faunas of forest reserves in unprecedented detail, using a set of many different sampling methods. Here data on ground dwelling spiders and beetles that were sampled with pitfall traps in 2000 and 2001 and again in 2012 and 2013 are analyzed to assess temporal changes. In light of putative insect declines, we hypothesized a significant decrease in abundance, biomass, diversity, and trait composition of the arthropod communities. No substantial changes in community trait composition were observed in any species group. Abundance, biomass, and functional diversity of beetles and spiders were higher in the second survey, with exception of the beetle biomass, when Anoplotrupes stercorosus was excluded, and the functional diversity of spiders showed only a tendency to be higher in the second survey. Additionally, the extrapolated number of ground dwelling beetle species was higher during the second survey. However, in all tested measures, the observed differences between the surveys were not significantly higher than differences observed between consecutive years. Therefore, we are not able to detect directed long-term trends of (functional) diversity or biomass in our dataset. The results rather indicate high stability of the arthropod communities in this naturally developing forest, although short-term fluctuations in populations are high. And while climatic factors affected abundance and biomass of beetles and spiders overall, the timespan of about 10 years may be too short to clearly detect effects of climate change or changes in forest structure on the trait composition of the beetle or spider communities.
Meteorological influences on airborne pollen and spores in Johannesburg (Gauteng), South Africa
Authors: Ajikah Linus B. , Roffe Sarah J. , Neumann Frank H. , Bamford Marion K. , Esterhuizen Nanike , Berman Dilys , Peter Jonny
Published: September 2023

Airborne fungal spores and pollen (aerospora), synergistic with air pollution, are key triggers of allergic respiratory diseases. Effective diagnosis and treatment requires up-to-date location-specific knowledge on the temporal variability of aerospora types and levels. Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and has grown substantially in three decades, with changes in ground cover, population density and air pollution, yet until now, no continuous aerospora sampling has occurred. We present a daily two-year (August 2019–July 2021) aerospora assemblage for Johannesburg and explore temporal characteristics of 13 dominant aerospora in relation to daily meteorological variables (pressure, rainfall, relative humidity, temperature and wind characteristics). February–July, July–September and January-July represent high-risk periods for fungal spores [(Alternaria alternata (Fries. ex Keissler), Ascospores, Aspergillus niger (Van Tieghem), Penicillium chrysogenum (Thom), Cladosporium graminum (Corda), Epicoccum nigrum (Link), Helminthosporium solani (Durieu and Montagne) Nigrospora sphaerica (Saccardo ex. Mason), Smuts Ustilago nuda (Jensen ex. Rostrup) and Torula herbarum (Link)], trees (Cupressus, Morus and Platanus) and grass (Poaceae), respectively. Using a generalised additive model, results show that daily meteorological characteristics explained 7–32% of daily aerospora variability, with the largest effect on tree pollen. Rainfall, relative humidity and temperature influenced daily fungal spore and Poaceae counts, with moderate/low rainfall (< 20 mm), higher/mid-ranging relative humidity (~ 40–60%) and temperatures of ~ 15–20 °C associated with higher counts during high-risk periods. Rainfall predominantly influenced tree counts during high-risk periods, with higher counts occurring on low rainfall (<10 mm) days. These results update the aerospora profile of Johannesburg, South Africa, providing important information to inform allergy care.
Expression of toxic genes in Methylorubrum extorquens with a tightly repressed, cumate-inducible promoter
Authors: Pöschel Laura , Gehr Elisabeth , Jordan Paulina , Sonntag Frank , Buchhaupt Markus
Published: September 2023

Methylorubrum extorquens is an important model methylotroph and has enormous potential for the development of C1-based microbial cell factories. During strain construction, regulated promoters with a low background expression level are important genetic tools for expression of potentially toxic genes. Here we present an accordingly optimised promoter, which can be used for that purpose. During construction and testing of terpene production strains harbouring a recombinant mevalonate pathway, strong growth defects were observed which made strain development impossible. After isolation and characterisation of suppressor mutants, we discovered a variant of the cumate-inducible promoter PQ2148 used in this approach. Deletion of 28 nucleotides resulted in an extremely low background expression level, but also reduced the maximal expression strength to about 30% of the original promoter. This tightly repressed promoter version is a powerful module for controlled expression of potentially toxic genes in M. extorquens.
Influence of Ridge Spacing, Ridge Width, and Reynolds Number on Secondary Currents in Turbulent Channel Flow Over Triangular Ridges
Authors: Zhdanov Oleksandr , Jelly Thomas O. , Busse Angela
Published: September 2023

Most studies of secondary currents (SCs) over streamwise aligned ridges have been performed for rectangular ridge cross-sections. In this study, secondary currents above triangular ridges are systematically studied using direct numerical simulations of turbulent channel flow. The influence of ridge spacing on flow topology, mean flow, and turbulence statistics is investigated at two friction Reynolds numbers, 550 and 1000. In addition, the effects of ridge width on SCs, which have not previously been considered for this ridge shape, are explored. The influence of SCs on shear stress statistics increases with increased ridge spacing until SCs fill the entire channel. One of the primary findings is that, for ridge configurations with pronounced secondary currents, shear stress statistics exhibit clear Reynolds number sensitivity with a significant growth of dispersive shear stress levels with Reynolds number. In contrast to rectangular ridges, no above-ridge tertiary flows are observed for the tested range of ridge widths. Flow visualisations of SCs reveal the existence of corner vortices that form at the intersection of the lateral ridge sides and the smooth-wall sections. These are found to gradually disappear as ridges increase in width. Premultiplied spectra of streamwise velocity fluctuations show strong dependency on the spanwise sampling location. Whereas spanwise averaged spectra show no strong modifications by SCs, a significant increase of energy levels emerges at higher wavelengths for spectra sampled at the spanwise locations that correspond to the centres of the secondary currents.
Computing Quantiles of Functions of the Agent Distribution Using t-Digests
Authors: Kirkby Robert
Published: September 2023

We introduce t-Digests as an accurate and computationally efficient way to calculate the quantiles of functions of the agent distribution for models in which the full distribution is too large to work with directly; e.g., to calculate the Top 1% of the wealth distribution. When it is possible to fit the entire agent distribution (and a function evaluation on it) into memory, the quantiles can easily be calculated directly. Evaluating a function on the agent distribution can be done much faster using a GPU, however this frequently introduces a memory bottleneck as GPU memory is typically an order of magnitude smaller than CPU memory. For Heterogeneous Agent models the full distribution of agents may fit in CPU memory, but not in GPU memory. We partition the agent distribution into (non-overlapping) subspaces and because these subspaces are much smaller we can fit the subspaces in GPU memory one at a time. For each subspace we then evaluate the function and calculate a t-Digest. t-Digests are a form of data structure that are fast to compute, require less memory, and provide high accuracy for the quantiles of the distribution; t-Digests are a ’sketch’ of the subspace. Having computed and stored a t-Digest for each subspace we can then merge them to get a t-Digest for the full agent distribution. The resulting t-Digest is an accurate representation of the quantiles and can form the basis of Lorenz Curves as well as many other distributional and inequality statistics of interest in Economics.
Objective detection of visual field defects with multifrequency VEPs
Authors: Crux Katja , Huchzermeyer Cord , Kremers Jan , Horn Folkert K.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To correlate multifrequency pattern reversal VEPs in quadrants (QmfrVEPs) with perimetric field losses for objective detection of visual field losses.

Methods

QmfrVEP measurements were performed using four LED-based checkerboard stimulators to stimulate the four quadrants of the visual field. QmfrVEPs were measured monocularly in 5 normal subjects and in 5 glaucoma patients who showed losses in conventional Octopus perimetry. The pattern reversal frequency varied slightly between the stimulators: (11.92, 12.00, 12.08 and 12.16 reversals/sec). The responses to the different stimuli were identified by discrete Fourier analysis. VEPs were recorded using different electrode configurations, and the recording with the highest signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was used for further analysis.

Results

QmfrVEP responses from the different quadrants can be reliably measured and separated using the 0.08 reversals/sec interstimulus reversal frequency differences. The signal-to-noise ratio in the four quadrants was significantly correlated with the equivalent visual field losses obtained with perimetry (Spearman rank correlation: P < 0.001). In the five glaucoma patients, the SNR was reduced in 15 out of the 16 quadrants with a perimetric defect, in comparison to the results in quadrants of healthy subjects. This confirms the sensitivity of the procedure.

Conclusion

QmfrVEP responses can be measured reliably. This pilot study suggests that high SNR values exclude visual field defects and that focal defects can be identified in glaucoma patients.

Trial registration: www.clinicaltrials.gov. NCT00494923.
Spaced Retrieval Practice: Can Restudying Trump Retrieval?
Authors: Higham Philip A. , Fastrich Greta M. , Potts Rosalind , Murayama Kou , Pickering Jade S. , Hadwin Julie A.
Published: September 2023

We investigated spaced retrieval and restudying in 3 preregistered, online experiments. In all experiments, participants studied 40 Swahili–English word pair translations during an initial study phase, restudied intact pairs or attempted to retrieve the English words to Swahili cues twice in three spaced practice sessions, and then completed a final cued-recall test. All 5 sessions were separated by 2 days. In Experiment 1, we manipulated the response format during retrieval (covert vs. overt) and the test list structure (blocked vs. intermixed covert/overt retrieval trials). A memory rating was required on all trials (retrieval: “Was your answer correct?”; restudy: “Would you have remembered the correct translation?”). Response format had no effect on recall, but surprisingly, final test performance for restudied items exceeded both the overt and covert retrieval conditions. In Experiment 2, we manipulated the requirement to make a memory rating. If a memory rating was required, final test restudy performance exceeded retrieval performance, replicating Experiment 1. However, the pattern was descriptively reversed if no rating was required. In Experiment 3, the memory rating was removed altogether, and we examined recall performance for items restudied versus retrieved once, twice, or thrice. Performance improved with practice, and retrieval performance exceeded restudy performance in all conditions. The reversal of the typical retrieval practice effect observed in Experiments 1 and 2 is discussed in terms of theories of reactivity of memory judgments.
Do RESTful API design rules have an impact on the understandability of Web APIs?
Authors: Bogner Justus , Kotstein Sebastian , Pfaff Timo
Published: September 2023

Context

Web APIs are one of the most used ways to expose application functionality on the Web, and their understandability is important for efficiently using the provided resources. While many API design rules exist, empirical evidence for the effectiveness of most rules is lacking.

Objective

We therefore wanted to study 1) the impact of RESTful API design rules on understandability, 2) if rule violations are also perceived as more difficult to understand, and 3) if demographic attributes like REST-related experience have an influence on this.

Method

We conducted a controlled Web-based experiment with 105 participants, from both industry and academia and with different levels of experience. Based on a hybrid between a crossover and a between-subjects design, we studied 12 design rules using API snippets in two complementary versions: one that adhered to a rule and one that was a violation of this rule. Participants answered comprehension questions and rated the perceived difficulty.

Results

For 11 of the 12 rules, we found that violation performed significantly worse than rule for the comprehension tasks. Regarding the subjective ratings, we found significant differences for 9 of the 12 rules, meaning that most violations were subjectively rated as more difficult to understand. Demographics played no role in the comprehension performance for violation.

Conclusions

Our results provide first empirical evidence for the importance of following design rules to improve the understandability of Web APIs, which is important for researchers, practitioners, and educators.
Social Anxiety in Autistic People: Does the Clark and Wells Model fit?
Authors: Wilson Alexander C. , Gullon-Scott Fiona
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Cognitive behaviour therapy based on the Clark and Wells (1995) model is a first-line treatment for neurotypical people seeking support for social anxiety. While autistic people frequently report high social anxiety, it is unclear how appropriate the model is for this population.

Methods

Over 300 autistic and non-autistic adults completed an online survey measuring key variables of the Clark and Wells model (socially-related negative thoughts, safety behaviours, self-focused attention). Using multiple regression and structural equation modelling, we assessed whether these variables accounted for the link between autism and social fears.

Results

In multiple regression, autistic people experienced greater social fears than expected based on Clark and Wells variables, and safety behaviours were less predictive of social fears in autistic people. In structural equation modelling, Clark and Wells variables only mediated half the link between autistic traits and social fears. In exploratory analysis, we found that distress relating to uncertainty was an additional variable that needed to be taken into consideration in the relationship between autistic traits and social fears.

Conclusion

The Clark and Wells variables were relevant in autism, but did not fully explain elevated social fears in autistic people, which suggests that other factors are also important in accounting for social anxiety in autistic people. This means that therapy informed by the model may not be optimal for autistic people. We recommend further research developing adapted therapy for social anxiety in autistic people.
Behaviours that Challenge in SATB2-associated Syndrome: Correlates of Self-injury, Aggression and Property Destruction
Authors: Shelley Lauren , Waite Jane , Tarver Joanne , Oliver Chris , Crawford Hayley , Richards Caroline , Bissell Stacey
Published: September 2023

SATB2-associated syndrome (SAS) is a genetic syndrome characterised by intellectual disability, severe speech delay, and palatal and dental problems. Behaviours that challenge (BtC) are reported frequently; however, there is limited research on specific forms of BtC and the correlates of these behaviours. The current study explores correlates of well-defined BtC, self-injury, aggression, and property destruction, in SAS. Eighty-one parents/caregivers of individuals with SAS (53.1% male, Mage 10.12 years) completed questionnaire measures of health, behavioural, emotional, and autism characteristics. Individuals with SAS were grouped based on caregiver responses to the presence or absence of self-injury, aggression, and property destruction on the Challenging Behaviour Questionnaire. Rates of self-injury, aggression and property destruction were 42%, 77% and 49%, respectively. Between-group comparisons were conducted to compare characteristics between behaviour groups. Significantly differing characteristics were entered into separate hierarchical logistic regressions for each form of BtC. Behavioural comparisons indicated variation in the characteristics associated with each behaviour. All hierarchical logistic regression models were significant (p < .001): self-injury (χ2(5) = 38.46, R2 = 0.571), aggression (χ2(4) = 25.12, R2 = 0.414), property destruction (χ2(4) = 23.70, R2 = 0.346), explaining between 34.6% and 57.1% of the variance in behaviour presence. This is the first study to identify correlates of self-injury, aggression, and property destruction in SAS. Variability in the characteristics associated with each behaviour highlights the importance of specificity when examining BtC. Understanding correlates of specific forms of BtC has important implications for informing SAS-associated pathways to behavioural outcomes and the implementation of tailored behavioural interventions.
Repetitive Behaviours in Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults: Associations with Sensory Sensitivity and Impact on Self-Efficacy
Authors: Nwaordu Gabrielle , Charlton Rebecca A.
Published: September 2023

Purpose: Restricted and repetitive behaviours are a core feature of autism diagnoses but have not been widely studied in adulthood. This study examined the rates of and associations between repetitive behaviours and sensory sensitivity in autistic and non-autistic adults; and whether repetitive behaviours described as “stimming” impacted coping with difficulties (self-efficacy). Methods: Diagnosed autistic (n = 182), undiagnosed autistic (n = 163) and non-autistic (n = 146) adults completed online measures of repetitive behaviours, sensory sensitivity, and self-efficacy for when able and not able to stim. Results: Repetitive behaviours and sensory sensitivity correlated significantly in each group, although ratings were higher in autistic compared to non-autistic groups. When people were able to stim, no differences between the groups were observed on self-efficacy ratings. However when unable to stim, autistic people reported lower self-efficacy than non-autistic people. Conclusions: Results suggest that repetitive behaviours are significantly associate with sensory sensitivities. Rather than repetitive behaviours being viewed as negative, stimming was associated with increased self-efficacy. Results suggest that stimming may have beneficial effects. Further work is needed to better understand how repetitive behaviours and stimming manifest in adulthood, how they change over time and their effects for autistic adults.
Theory of Commercial Gravitational Fields in Economics: The Case of Europe
Authors: Capoani Luigi
Published: September 2023

This article is a theoretical development of the gravitational model through an econophysical approach and physical tools. Therefore, this paper attempts to answer the following research question: “Can physics still contribute to the development of the gravitational model in economics?”. To tackle the question, this paper begins with an overview of the basic concepts of Newton’s universal gravitational theory, which was first applied in economics by the distinguished American scientist Isard (1954). Then the concepts and formulas of gravitational fields in physics will be translated into economics, thus reviving Isard’s original multilateralism through the elaboration of an extension of his model apt to describe the multilateralism and multi-country exchanges which characterize international trade. In this regard, the superposition principle of vector is used to offer vector analysis as a tool for mapping the interactions between the economic forces produced by the individual gravitational fields of different countries. A representation of the gravitational field of the European market will be provided. The field concept will extend the analysis from bilateral flows to the analysis of markets in two dimensions.
Making contributions: personal reflections from the co-creative evolution of entrepreneurship research
Authors: Davidsson Per
Published: September 2023

This essay reflects on the last few decades’ evolution of Ideas, Evidence, Concepts, and Methods in the multidisciplinary, multi-level, and multi-methodological field of entrepreneurship research. Using illustrations from my own career and how prior recipients of the Global Award for Entrepreneurship Research guided and inspired them, I describe the journey from early empirical exploration to understand the nature of the phenomenon to more recent, endogenous theory-development and -testing, heralding each as an indispensable steppingstone in meaningful knowledge development. The essay ends with an ode to the collective, co-creating nature of our knowledge-building enterprise.
Modelling and predicting fat deposition rates in various South African sheep crosses using ultrasound technology
Authors: Theron P. G. , Brand T. S. , Cloete S. W. P. , van Zyl J. H. C.
Published: September 2023

Producers require an accurate predictive tool that can determine the optimal point of slaughter based on fat depth. The modelling of fat deposition with a simple mathematical model could supply in this need. Dohne Merino and Merino ewes were crossed with Dorper, Dormer and Ile de France rams or rams of their own breeds to create two purebred (Dohne Merino and Merino) and six crossbred groups (Dohne x Dorper, Dohne x Dormer, Dohne x Ile de France, Merino x Dorper, Merino x Dormer and Merino x Ile de France) of offspring. Fat deposition of four lambs of each sex per genotypic group was monitored from 80 to 360 days using ultrasound, and the data subsequently fitted to various equations and evaluated for goodness of fit. A linear fitting of fat depth to age (R2 > 0.77) and live weight (R2 > 0.56) were deemed to provide the best fit. The slope parameters of the equations indicated that ewes deposited fat faster than rams and that Dorper crosses had the highest fat deposition rate. An attempt was also made to model loin muscle growth, but the model fit was judged to be unsatisfactory. The predictive models developed here are deemed suitable for inclusion in feedlot management systems to aid in the production of optimally classified lamb carcasses.
Non-contrast dual-energy CT using X-map for acute ischemic stroke: region-specific comparison with simulated 120-kVp CT and diffusion-weighted MR images
Authors: Shinohara Yuki , Ohmura Tomomi , Ibaraki Masanobu , Itoh Toshihide , Sasaki Fumiaki , Sato Yuichiro , Inomata Takato , Anbo Kanata , Kinoshita Toshibumi
Published: September 2023

Purpose

X-map is a non-contrast dual-energy CT (DECT) application to identify acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Our aim was to verify region-specific characteristics of early ischemic changes (EIC) on X-map compared with simulated 120-kVp mixed-CT image and DWI.

Methods

Fifty AIS patients who underwent DECT and DWI were enrolled (mean age, 76 years; 34 men, 16 women). All datasets including mixed-CT image, X-map, and DWI were transformed into a standard brain atlas with 11 × 2 ROIs based on the ASPECTS + W system. ROIs with EIC on DWI, mixed-CT image, and X-map were defined as DWI-positive, mixed-CT-positive, and X-map-positive, and those with normal finding were DWI-negative, mixed-CT-negative, and X-map-negative respectively, in visual assessment by two neuroradiologists in consensus.

Results

EIC on X-maps were visually relevant to those on the other images: of 221 ROIs with mixed-CT-positive and X-map-positive, 198 (89.6%) were DWI-positive. X-map revealed moderate diagnostic accuracy for AIS compared with DWI in ROC curve analysis (AUC = 0.732). X-map identified EIC in deep white matter more sensitively than mixed-CT image: of 15 ROIs with mixed-CT-negative and X-map-positive in W segments, 14 (93.3%) were DWI-positive. X-map often showed EIC in cortical regions that were not detected on the other images: of 67 ROIs with mixed-CT-negative and X-map-positive in I and M1-M6 segments, 47 (70.1%) were DWI-negative.

Conclusions

X-map is useful to detect EIC, especially in deep white matter, and may also provide additional information in acute ischemic lesions where DWI cannot be detected.
Designing Multi-Modal Conversational Agents for the Kitchen with Older Adults: A Participatory Design Study
Authors: Kuoppamäki Sanna , Jaberibraheem Razan , Hellstrand Mikaela , McMillan Donald
Published: September 2023

Conversational agents (CA) are increasingly used to manage and coordinate household chores and everyday activities at home. However, these technologies should be adaptive to age-specific characteristics in order to be considered beneficial for the ageing population. This study presents a participatory design of a conversational agent to provide cognitive support in recipe following and nutrition advice for adults aged 65 and over. Through a qualitative thematic analysis, the study explores older adults’ expectations, interactions and experiences with the agent in order to identify age-specific challenges of interacting with CAs. Data consists of a participatory design workshop with eight older adults (aged 65 and over), followed by a Wizard of Oz study with ten older adults interacting with the agent in the kitchen environment in a laboratory setting. Results demonstrate that older adults consider conversational agents as beneficial for providing personalised recipe recommendations, advising the user to choose appropriate ingredients and reminding them of their dietary intake. When interacting with the agent older adults displayed challenges with confirmation and repetition, questioning and correcting, the lack of conversational responses, and difficulties in hearing and understanding the multi-modal interaction. Older adults experience agents as collaborators, but not as conversational partners. The study concludes that the accessibility and inclusiveness of conversational agents regarding voice interaction could be improved by further developing participatory methods with older adults.
Organic carbon isotope stratigraphy of Devonian-Carboniferous boundary sections in the Rhenish Mountains
Authors: Korn Dieter , Schmid Franziska E. , Struck Ulrich
Published: September 2023

The boundary between the Devonian and the Carboniferous has been drawn using ammonoids, conodonts and miospores, while geochemical data have only rarely been used. The sampling of eight sections (Aprath, Apricke, Effenberg, Wocklum, Stockum, Drewer WJ, Drewer WA, Marsberg) at the northern margin of the Rhenish Mountains demonstrates the potential of the isotope ratio of organic carbon to regionally correlate sections in different facies areas. With the help of the carbon isotopes, a distinct stratigraphic succession is documented, which is characterised by several positive and negative excursions; this succession was recorded in all examined sections. The carbon isotopes can therefore make a significant contribution to the stratigraphic subdivision of sections and complement the biostratigraphic methods.
Modeling a GDPR Compliant Data Wallet Application in Prova and AspectOWL
Authors: Mitsikas Theodoros , Schäfermeier Ralph , Paschke Adrian
Published: September 2023

We present a GDPR-compliant data privacy and access use case of a distributed data wallet and we explore its modeling using two options, AspectOWL and Prova. This use case requires a representation capable of expressing the dynamicity and interaction between parties. While both approaches provide the expressiveness of non-monotonic states and fluent state transitions, their scope and semantics are vastly different. AspectOWL is a monotonic contextualized ontology language, able to represent dynamic state transitions and knowledge retention by wrapping parts of the ontology in isolated contexts, called aspects, while Prova can handle state transitions at runtime using non-monotonic state transition semantics. We present the two implementations and we discuss the similarities, advantages, and differences of the two approaches.
Questionnaires for the Assessment of Central Sensitization in Endometriosis: What Is the Available Evidence? A Systematic Review with a Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Cetera Giulia Emily , Merli Camilla Erminia Maria , Barbara Giussy , Caia Carlotta , Vercellini Paolo
Published: September 2023

It has been suggested that central sensitization (CS) may be involved in the failure of standard medical and surgical treatment to relieve endometriosis-related pain. However, there is no gold standard for the diagnosis of CS, and self-reported questionnaires are used as diagnostic surrogates. The main objective of this review was to identify all CS questionnaires used in clinical endometriosis studies. The secondary objective was to qualitatively analyze strengths and weaknesses of each questionnaire. A PubMed and EMBASE systematic literature search conducted in April 2023 using the terms “endometriosis; central pain; central sensitization; questionnaire; patient-reported outcome measure; screening tool” identified 122 publications: six articles were included in the review. The Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) is the most frequently used questionnaire for the detection of CS in patients with endometriosis. It has been validated in patients with endometriosis, in whom it appears to have good psychometric proprieties. The Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire (FSQ) has also been used, although it has not been specifically validated in endometriosis patients. The debate regarding these questionnaires’ construct validity is still open and will be so until a gold standard diagnostic tool for CS is found. In fact, some authors argue these questionnaires are measuring psychological vulnerability and a hypervigilant state that is associated with pain, rather than CS itself. However, their use should not be discouraged as they are able to identify chronic pain patients which warrant further attention and who may benefit from broader treatment strategies.