bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulation of the PPT Plume Process Based on Hybrid Particle–Fluid Models
Authors: Wu Jianjun , Li Jian , Zhao Yuanzheng , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2024

Pulsed plasma thrusters (PPTs) have advantages in terms of their structural mass and size, operational performance, and power supply requirements, making them widely applicable to tasks such as attitude control, drag compensation, orbit raising, and constellation phase control of microsatellites. With the development of space exploration technology, modern microsatellites are required to have higher functional density, lower manufacturing cost, and longer operational lifespans. However, the PPT plume may cause severe adverse effects (such as sputter erosion, sediment contamination, chemical contamination, thermal loads, and electromagnetic interference) on satellites.
Relative Completeness of Incorrectness Separation Logic
Authors: Lee Yeonseok , Nakazawa Koji
Published: October 2024

Incorrectness Separation Logic (ISL) is a proof system that is tailored specifically to resolve problems of under-approximation in programs that manipulate heaps, and it primarily focuses on bug detection. This approach is different from the over-approximation methods that are used in traditional logics such as Hoare Logic or Separation Logic. Although the soundness of ISL has been established, its completeness remains unproven. In this study, we establish relative completeness by leveraging the expressiveness of the weakest postconditions; expressiveness is a factor that is critical to demonstrating relative completeness in Reverse Hoare Logic. In our ISL framework, we allow for infinite disjunctions in disjunctive normal forms, where each clause comprises finite symbolic heaps with existential quantifiers. To compute the weakest postconditions in ISL, we introduce a canonicalization that includes variable aliasing.
Quantum Programming Without the Quantum Physics
Authors: Inoue Jun
Published: October 2024

We propose a quantum programming paradigm where all data are familiar classical data, and the only non-classical element is a random number generator that can return results with negative probability. Currently, the vast majority of quantum programming languages instead work with quantum data types made up of qubits. The description of their behavior relies on heavy linear algebra and many interdependent concepts and intuitions from quantum physics, which takes dedicated study to understand. We demonstrate that the proposed view of quantum programming explains its central concepts and constraints in more accessible, computationally relevant terms. This is achieved by systematically reducing everything to the existence of that negative-probability random generator, avoiding mention of advanced physics. This makes quantum programming more accessible to programmers without a deep background in physics or linear algebra. The bulk of this paper is written with such an audience in mind. As a working vehicle, we lay out a simple quantum programming language under this paradigm, showing that not only can it express all quantum algorithms, it also naturally captures the semantics of measurement without ever mentioning qubits or collapse.
Therapeutic potential of 4-phenylbutyric acid against methylmercury-induced neuronal cell death in mice
Authors: Miki Ryohei , Nomura Ryosuke , Iijima Yuta , Kubota Sho , Takasugi Nobumasa , Iwawaki Takao , Fujimura Masatake , Uehara Takashi
Published: October 2024

Methylmercury (MeHg) is an environmental neurotoxin that induces damage to the central nervous system and is the causative agent in Minamata disease. The mechanisms underlying MeHg neurotoxicity remain largely unknown, and there is a need for effective therapeutic agents, such as those that target MeHg-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR), which is activated as a defense mechanism. We investigated whether intraperitoneal administration of the chemical chaperone, 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA), at 120 mg/kg/day can alleviate neurotoxicity in the brains of mice administered 50 ppm MeHg in drinking water for 5 weeks. 4-PBA significantly reduced MeHg-induced ER stress, neuronal apoptosis, and neurological symptoms. Furthermore, 4-PBA was effective even when administered 2 weeks after the initiation of exposure to 30 ppm MeHg in drinking water. Our results strongly indicate that ER stress and the UPR are key processes involved in MeHg toxicity, and that 4-PBA is a novel therapeutic candidate for MeHg-induced neurotoxicity.
Baby’s first jets: a kinematic and hydrodynamic analysis of turning in cuttlefish hatchlings
Authors: Ganley Alissa M. , Krueger Paul S. , Bartol Ian K.
Published: October 2024

Turning is an important aspect of life underwater, playing integral roles in predator avoidance, prey capture, and communication. While turning abilities have been explored in a diversity of adult nekton, little is currently known about turning in early ontogeny, especially for cephalopods. In this study, we investigated the turning abilities of hatchling common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis, n = 49) and dwarf cuttlefish (Sepia bandensis, n = 30), using both kinematic and wake-based analyses. Using body tracking software and particle image velocimetry (PIV), we found that S. officinalis turned faster than S. bandensis, but both species completed equally tight turns. Orientation (arms-first or tail-first) did not have a significant effect on turning performance for either species. Cuttlefish hatchlings used multiple short jets for more controlled turning, with jet mode I (isolated vortex rings) being 3–4 times more common than jet mode II (elongated jets with leading ring structures) for both species. While both hatchlings turned more broadly than adult squid and cuttlefish, S. officinalis hatchlings turned faster than adult cuttlefish, and both hatchlings turned more tightly than other jet-propelled animals and some non-jet-propelled swimmers.
A finite element based approach for nonlocal stress analysis for multi-phase materials and composites
Authors: Tüfekci Mertol , Dear John P. , Salles Loïc
Published: October 2024

This study proposes a numerical method for calculating the stress fields in nano-scale multi-phase/composite materials, where the classical continuum theory is inadequate due to the small-scale effects, including intermolecular spaces. The method focuses on weakly nonlocal and inhomogeneous materials and involves post-processing the local stresses obtained using a conventional finite element approach, applying the classical continuum theory to calculate the nonlocal stresses. The capabilities of this method are demonstrated through some numerical examples, namely, a two-dimensional case with a circular inclusion and some commonly used scenarios to model nanocomposites. Representative volume elements of various nanocomposites, including epoxy-based materials reinforced with fumed silica, silica (Nanopox F700), and rubber (Albipox 1000) are subjected to uniaxial tensile deformation combined with periodic boundary conditions. The local and nonlocal stress fields are computed through numerical simulations and after post-processing are compared with each other. The results acquired through the nonlocal theory exhibit a softening effect, resulting in reduced stress concentration and less of a discontinuous behaviour. This research contributes to the literature by proposing an efficient and standardised numerical method for analysing the small-scale stress distribution in small-scale multi-phase materials, providing a method for more accurate design in the nano-scale regime. This proposed method is also easy to implement in standard finite element software that employs classical continuum theory.
Antiemetic medications for preventing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in children: a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis
Authors: Walker R. , Dias S. , Phillips R. S.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Children continue to experience chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), despite effective antiemetic medications. Recommendations in clinical practice guidelines are underpinned by narrative syntheses and meta-analyses that compare only two treatments. This means not all antiemetics have been compared to one another, and estimates remain imprecise. We apply network meta-analysis (NMA) to overcome these limitations by comparing multiple treatments simultaneously.

Methods

A systematic review identified and critically appraised RCTs comparing antiemetics recommended and licensed for the prevention of CINV in children. Bayesian NMA compared and ranked antiemetic effectiveness for the outcomes complete (CR) and partial response (PR) in the acute, delayed, and overall phases, nausea, and decreased food intake. Antiemetics given with and without dexamethasone were compared in separate networks as their underlying populations differed.

Results

Sixteen RCTs (3115 patients receiving moderately (MEC) or highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC)) were included. When given with dexamethasone, NK1 antagonists with ondansetron ranked highest for CR and PR in the acute and overall phases, PR in the delayed phase, and decreased food intake. Post hoc analysis shows further a benefit of adding olanzapine to regimens of aprepitant and ondansetron. Ondansetron ranked lower than palonosetron, for CR in the delayed and overall phases, and ondansetron was less effective than palonosetron for nausea prevention. Rankings for other regimens, including those given without dexamethasone, were uncertain or inconsistent across outcomes.

Conclusions

Our findings serve to support the current recommendations of olanzapine (when given with aprepitant and ondansetron) and NK1 antagonists’ regimens receiving HEC, but note that evidence of a significant difference in relative benefit, between patients receiving MEC and HEC, does not yet exist. Recommendations for palonosetron as the preferred 5HT3 antagonists may be extended, particularly, to those who are at high risk of nausea.
Factors predicting treatment response to biological and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in psoriatic arthritis – a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Künzler Tabea , Bamert Manuel , Sprott Haiko
Published: October 2024

The therapeutic response of patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) varies greatly and is often unsatisfactory. Accordingly, it is essential to individualise treatment selection to minimise long-term complications. This study aimed to identify factors that might predict treatment response to biological and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs and tsDMARDs) in patients with PsA and to outline their potential application using artificial intelligence (AI). Five electronic databases were screened to identify relevant studies. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed for factors that were investigated in at least four studies. Finally, 37 studies with a total of 17,042 patients were included. The most frequently investigated predictors in these studies were sex, age, C-reactive protein (CRP), the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), BMI, and disease duration. The meta-analysis revealed that male sex (odds ratio (OR) = 2.188, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.912–2.503) and higher baseline CRP (1.537, 1.111–2.125) were associated with greater treatment response. Older age (0.982, 0.975–0.99), higher baseline HAQ score (0.483, 0.336–0.696), higher baseline DAPSA score (0.789, 0.663–0.938), and higher baseline tender joint count (TJC) (0.97, 0.945–0.996) were negatively correlated with the response to therapy. The other factors were not statistically significant but might be of clinical importance in the context of a complex AI test battery. Further studies are needed to validate these findings and identify novel factors that could guide personalised treatment decisions for PsA patients, in particular in developing AI applications. In accordance with the latest medical developments, decision-support tools based on supervised learning algorithms have been proposed as a clinical application of these predictors.

Key messages

• Given the often unsatisfactory and unpredictable therapeutic response in patients with Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), treatment selection must be highly individualized.• A systematic literature review was conducted to identify the most reliable predictors of treatment response to biologic and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in PsA patients.• The potential integration of these predictors into AI tools for routine clinical practice is discussed.
Harnessing biomass waste-to-energy for sustainable electricity generation: prospects, viability, and policy implications for low-carbon urban development
Authors: Aduba Joseph , Shimada Koji , Longfor Nkweauseh Reginald
Published: October 2024

Biomass waste-to-energy (WtE) generation is a potential pathway for green urban transition in developing countries which can contribute significantly to sustainable development goal 7: affordable and clean energy. However, unlike fossil fuel energy systems, the economic returns from WtE systems are low because WtE generation is capital-intensive and requires subsidies. This study examines the prospects of a sustainable biomass electricity generation from rice husk (RH) using a large dataset of rice milling activities in a fast paced urban transition economy. The study analyzes the viability of several RH biomass electricity generation scenarios using indicators such as net electricity output, economic returns (benefits), and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). The results show that several mills/mill clusters generate sufficient daily RH that can power between 0.8 and 2.2 MW plant with a combined electricity output of about 500,000 MWh per annum. The economic analyses show that all RH biomass electricity generation scenarios return positive economic benefits under reduced social discount rates of 2–6%. Moreover, the LCOE of all scenarios are less than those of electricity generated from other sources. These results demonstrate that biomass waste-to-energy generation is viable for green urban development through low-carbon decentralized energy systems. Several policy implications of the findings are highlighted, including the need for policymakers and energy stakeholders to adopt sustainable biomass energy generation models such as “design, build, and operate” (DBO) to achieve sustainable WtE generation regimes that ensure green urban transition. Such a model will contribute to a circular economy and facilitates sustainable urban development that satisfies climate-related SDGs.

Graphic abstract
Politics and city growth in Italy: Do connections matter?
Authors: Cerruti Gianluca
Published: October 2024

In this paper, I assess the existence of a political connection premium for Italian municipalities during the so-called “Second Republic” (1991–2011). The early 1990s witnessed a seminal event in Italian political history with the “Mani Pulite” (“Clean Hands”) investigation following the fall of the Berlin Wall. Subsequently, major political parties dissolved, culminating in a bipolar political landscape characterized by cyclical alternation between center-right and center-left factions (extending until at least 2011). Exploiting population data on small and medium-sized Italian municipalities between 1991 and 2011, I found that “politically connected” municipalities showed a population premium of about 2.5% compared to “non-politically connected” ones. The results are robust to NUTS-3 fixed effects, to a comprehensive set of controls, and to a full set of robustness checks. The relationship is confirmed using aggregate municipal income data as an additional proxy of local economic growth. Over and above this, social capital and the quality of local institutions seem to play a pivotal role in enabling the political connection. Election-related checks suggest the connection as two-way: using municipal data from the 2013 and 2018 general elections, I found that the treated municipalities depicted a higher turnout and fewer populist votes.
Agreement and reproducibility between 3DStent vs. Optical Coherence Tomography for evaluation of stent area and diameter
Authors: Ruberti Andrea , Rinaldi Riccardo , Occhipinti Giovanni , Ramus Liliane , Guagliumi Giulio , Sabate Manel , Brugaletta Salvatore
Published: October 2024

3DStent is a novel rotational angiography imaging capable of 3D reconstruction and measuring stent area and diameter, without need for intravascular imaging. To compare 3DStent and OCT-derived stent area and diameter after PCI. Patients with de novo coronary lesions who underwent treatment with a single DES and evaluated by OCT and 3DStent were included. Stent area and diameter were measured by 3DStent, at abluminal, mid and endoluminal side and by OCT. From September 2023 to February 2024 six coronary lesions were analyzed. Post-PCI stent area measured by OCT was (mean ± standard deviation) 7.03 ± 2.85 mm2 and by 3DStent 9.41 ± 2.79 mm2, 7.21 ± 2.23 mm2 and 5.63 ± 1.83 mm2 at abluminal, mid and endoluminal side, respectively. Stent diameter by OCT was 2.93 ± 0.58 mm, and by 3DStent 3.27 ± 0.50 mm, 2.86 ± 0.49 mm and 2.52 ± 0.45 mm at abluminal, mid and endoluminal side, respectively. Significant correlation was observed between OCT and 3DStent in relation to stent area (Exp(B) 3.35, mean of difference 0.19 ± 1.01 mm2, 95%CI -1.80–2.17 mm2, p < 0.001) and diameter (Exp(B) 3.18, mean difference − 0.07 ± 0.18 mm, 95%CI -0.43–0.30 mm, p < 0.001), particularly when 3DStent measurements performed at the mid side. Very high reproducibility was demonstrated by intra- and inter-observer analysis (r = 0.92 and r = 0.93 respectively). 3DStent appears to be an easy and reproducible tool to assess post-PCI stent area and diameter as compared to OCT.
How Banks are Impacted by and Mediate the Economic Consequences of Natural Disasters and Climate Shocks: A Review
Authors: Peters Vinzenz
Published: October 2024

Natural hazard shocks (such as natural disasters, extreme weather events, and climate shocks) have significant negative consequences for real economic activity. The banking sector can mitigate (or exacerbate) some of these consequences. This paper reviews the recent empirical literature on how banks are affected by such shocks, and how banks mediate the economic consequences to households and the real economy. After conceptualizing the theoretical transmission channels between the real economy and the banking sector, the review proceeds in two steps. First, it synthesises the existing literature on the direct effects of natural hazard shocks on bank stability, bank profitability, and credit supply. Then, the critical role of banking in economic recovery is analysed, including research on spillovers into unaffected regions through the banking system. Negative direct effects of natural hazard shocks on banks can be significant but are often transitory. Banking systems in less developed countries appear more vulnerable and are less able to maintain credit supply under adverse conditions. Banks that are better capitalised and that have incentives to support affected economies contribute to economic resilience. The review identifies several avenues for future research and highlights specific features and trade-offs relevant to policymakers interested in enabling the banking system to contribute to sustained economic development in the face of worsening physical climate risks.
On the Existence of Extreme Coherent Distributions with No Atoms
Authors: Cichomski Stanisław , Osȩkowski Adam
Published: October 2024

The paper is devoted to the study of extremal points of

$${\mathcal {C}}$$

C

, the family of all bivariate coherent distributions on

$$[0,1]^2$$

[
0
,
1
]

2

. It is well-known that the set

$${\mathcal {C}}$$

C

is convex and

$$\hbox {weak}^*$$

weak
∗

compact, and all extreme points of

$${\mathcal {C}}$$

C

must be supported on sets of Lebesgue measure zero. Conversely, examples of extreme coherent measures with a finite or countably infinite number of atoms have been successfully constructed in the literature. The main purpose of this article is to bridge the natural gap between those two results: We provide an example of extreme coherent distribution with an uncountable support and with no atoms. Our argument is based on classical tools and ideas from dynamical systems theory. This unexpected connection can be regarded as an independent contribution of the paper.
BioMoon: a concept for a mission to advance space life sciences and astrobiology on the Moon
Authors: Cockell Charles S. , Green David A. , Caplin Nicol , Grenouilleau Jessica , McDonald Francesca E. , Calvaruso Marco , Billi Daniela , Cullen David C. , Davey Matthew P. , De Micco Veronica , Elsaesser Andreas , Etheridge Timothy , Gläßer Christine , Hellweg Christine E. , Ilea Crina S. , Lecocq Antoine , Leys Natalie , Martin-Torres Javier , Nazarious Miracle , Pacelli Claudia , Przybyla Cyrille , Rabbow Elke , Brown Kate Robson , Soria-Salinas Alvaro , Szewczyk Nathaniel , Tinganelli Walter , Tranfield Erin M. , de Vera Jean-Pierre , Verseux Cyprien
Published: October 2024

As humans advance their presence in space and seek to improve the quality of life on Earth, a variety of science questions in support of these two objectives can be answered using the Moon. In this paper, we present a concept for an integrated mission focused on answering fundamental and applied biological questions on the Moon: BioMoon. The mission was designed to investigate the effects of the lunar radiation, gravity, and regolith on biological systems ranging from biomolecules to systems with complex trophic interactions, spanning a range of model organisms. Using common analytical systems and data processing, BioMoon represents a systems-level integrated life sciences mission. It would provide fundamental insights into biological responses to the lunar environment, as well as applied knowledge for In-Situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU), closed-loop life support system development, planetary protection and human health care. The mission was conceived to test biotechnology and sensor technology for lunar and terrestrial application and provide education and outreach opportunities. Although BioMoon was considered in the context of the European Space Agency’s Argonaut (European Large Logistics Lander) concept, the mission design provides a template for any integrated life sciences experimental suite on the Moon and other celestial bodies, implemented either robotically or by human explorers.
Credentialed pharmacist-led home medicines reviews targeting treatable traits and their impact on health outcomes in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a pre- and post-intervention study
Authors: Sarwar Muhammad Rehan , McDonald Vanessa Marie , Abramson Michael J. , Wilson Sally , Holland Anne E. , Bonevski Billie , Mahal Ajay , Paul Eldho , Meier Brian , George Johnson
Published: October 2024

Background

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should engage in self-management strategies targeting behavioural traits and lifestyle risk-factors for optimal outcomes.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of credentialed pharmacist-led home medicines review (HMR) targeting treatable traits (TTs) on health outcomes in COPD in primary care.

Method

A pre- and post-intervention study was nested within a cluster-randomised controlled trial. A total of 81 participants with COPD from 21 Australian general practices received an HMR with a credentialed pharmacist targeting TTs. Changes in health outcomes at 6 and 12 months from baseline were assessed.

Results

Ten TTs were assessed and targeted during the HMR. At baseline, no-one had a written action plan for managing exacerbations, and medication adherence was sub-optimal in 85% of patients. Additionally, 53% of participants demonstrated inadequate inhaler device technique, while 52% were current smokers. At 6-months follow-up, significant improvements were observed in health-related quality of life (St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire score = 34.6 versus 39.1 at baseline, p = 0.006), health status (COPD Assessment Test score = 12 versus 16, p = 0.002), anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)–Anxiety score = 2.0 versus 5.0, p < 0.001), depression (HADS-Depression score = 1.0 versus 5.0, p < 0.001), self-reported smoking (47% versus 51.9%, p = 0.031) and treatment adherence (Tool for Adherence Behaviour Screening score = 12.5 versus 10.0, p = 0.002). At 12-months: health status, anxiety, depression, smoking abstinence and adherence to treatment, continued to show statistically significant improvements compared to baseline measurements.

Conclusion

HMRs targeting TTs improved health outcomes in people with COPD. Credentialed pharmacists in primary care can work alongside general practitioners to optimise COPD management.
Drivers of plant biodiversity on cemeteries in the Ruhr Metropolitan Region (W Germany)
Authors: Buch Corinne , Hering Daniel , Keil Peter
Published: October 2024

Cemeteries are biodiversity hotspots in urban areas, while the drivers of their floristic diversity are poorly understood. We investigated 153 cemeteries in the western Ruhr Metropolitan Region and generated comprehensive species lists of wild plants. Altogether, we found 964 species, equivalent to 53.6% of the flora known from the region. Cluster analysis revealed five distinct cemetery types based on their species composition and prevalence. Subsequently, we used ANOVAs to relate the most effective environmental descriptors identified with a CCA to the five clusters, thus revealing the drivers of species composition. Two of the main clusters had clear regional foci, which could be explained by soil types, while the third main cluster included most of the large cemeteries with many different habitat types, and encompassed sites from the entire study region. Here, the number of species is highest. Two smaller clusters included old historic and Jewish cemeteries, respectively, which were characterized by a smaller number of neophytes and heat indicators. Through the various functional types, the cemeteries contribute to the biodiversity of urban areas like the Ruhr Metropolitan Region and thus counteract the floristic homogenization of cities.
Model for atomization droplet size and energy distribution ratio at the distal end of an electrostatic nozzle
Authors: Jia Dongzhou , Jiang Keke , Zhang Yanbin , Lv Zhenlin , Li Changhe
Published: October 2024

Electrostatic atomization minimum quantity lubrication (EMQL) employs the synergistic effect of multiple physical fields to atomize minute quantities of lubricant. This innovative methodology is distinguished by its capacity to ameliorate the atomization attributes of the lubricant substantially, which subsequently augments the migratory and infiltration proficiency of the droplets within the complex and demanding milieu of the cutting zone. Compared with the traditional minimum quantity lubrication (MQL), the EMQL process is further complicated by the multiphysical field influences. The presence of multiple physical fields not only increases the complexity of the forces acting on the liquid film but also induces changes in the physical properties of the lubricant itself, thus making the analysis of atomization characteristics and energy distribution particularly challenging. To address this objective reality, the current study has conducted a meticulous measurement of the volume average diameter, size distribution span, and the percentage concentration of inhalable particles of the charged droplets at various intercept positions of the EMQL nozzle. A predictive model for the volume-averaged droplet size at the far end of the EMQL nozzle was established with the observed statistical value F of 825.2125, which indicates a high regression accuracy of the model. Furthermore, based on the changes in the potential energy of surface tension, the loss of kinetic energy of gas, and the electric field work at different nozzle orifice positions in the EMQL system, an energy distribution ratio model for EMQL was developed. The energy distribution ratio coefficients under operating conditions of 0.1 MPa air pressure and 0 to 40 kV voltage on the 20 mm cross-section ranged from 3.094‰ to 3.458‰, while all other operating conditions and cross-sections had energy distribution ratios below 2.06‰. This research is expected to act as a catalyst for the progression of EMQL by stimulating innovation in the sphere of precision manufacturing, providing theoretical foundations, and offering practical guidance for the further development of EMQL technology.
The equity crowdfunding choice: A demand-side perspective
Authors: Löher Jonas
Published: October 2024

In recent years, equity crowdfunding has become increasingly popular for capital-seeking start-ups. A widely held assumption is that these ventures have no other risk capital options and see it as their “last resort” to obtain funding. However, not much is known about their narrow and broader motivational backgrounds. Based on case studies of ten crowdfunded ventures, this study unveils the motives to use equity crowdfunding and links them with organisational characteristics. The analysis shows that ventures’ risk capital choices in this setting are motivated by crowdfunding-specific investment conditions, value-add features, and their fit with ongoing organisational challenges. Thus, I provide a detailed picture of the specific role that equity crowdfunding is intended to play in these firms. Based on the analysis, a theoretical model of four motivational types is developed that could stimulate future research. I argue that instead of focusing exclusively on cost and control arguments, research about investor decisions in equity crowdfunding should also consider different forms of resourcefulness.
Efficacy of the ABC Pathway for Integrated Care Across Phenotypes of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Latent-Class Analysis Report from the mAFA-II Clinical Trial
Authors: Corica Bernadette , Romiti Giulio Francesco , Mei Davide Antonio , Proietti Marco , Zhang Hui , Guo Yutao , Lip Gregory Y. H. ,   on behalf of the mAF-App II trial investigators
Published: October 2024

Background

The mAFA-II cluster randomised trial demonstrated the efficacy of a mobile health-technology implemented ‘Atrial fibrillation Better Care’ (ABC) pathway (mAFA intervention) for integrated care management of patients with AF.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of mAFA intervention across phenotypes of patients with AF.

Design

We conducted a latent-class analysis (LCA) according to eight variables, including age and comorbidities.

Participants

The mAFA-II trial enrolled AF patients between June 2018 and August 2019 across 40 centres in China.

Main Measures

We evaluated the interaction between the groups identified through LCA, and the effect of mAFA intervention on the risk of the primary composite outcome of all-cause death, stroke/thromboembolism, and rehospitalisations. Results were expressed as adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Key Results

Across the 3324 patients included in the trial (mean age 68.5 ± 13.9 years, 38.0% females), we identified three phenotypes: (i) low morbidity phenotype (n = 1234, 37.1%), (ii) hypertensive/coronary artery disease (CAD) phenotype (n = 1534, 46.2%), and (iii) mixed morbidity phenotype (n = 556, 16.7%). The effect of mAFA intervention on the primary outcome appeared greater in the low morbidity phenotype (aHR, 0.08; 95% CI 0.02–0.33) compared to the hypertensive/CAD (aHR, 0.30; 95% CI 0.16–0.58) and the mixed morbidity phenotype (aHR, 0.68; 95% CI 0.37–1.24), with a statistically significant interaction (pint = 0.004).

Conclusions

In patients with AF, the ABC pathway improved prognosis across different comorbidity phenotypes, although with some differences in the magnitude of risk reduction. Patients with more complex phenotypes require further efforts to improve their outcomes, considering their high baseline risk of adverse events.

Trial Registration

WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) Registration number: ChiCTR-OOC-17014138.
Enhancing the Precision of the Self-Compassion Scale Short Form (SCS-SF) with Rasch Methodology
Authors: Adu Peter , Popoola Tosin , Bartholomew Emerson , Iqbal Naved , Roemer Anja , Jurcik Tomas , Collings Sunny , Aspin Clive , Medvedev Oleg N. , Simpson Colin R.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Precise measurement of self-compassion is essential for informing well-being–related policies. Traditional assessment methods have led to inconsistencies in the factor structure of self-compassion scales. We used Rasch methodology to enhance measurement precision and assess the psychometric properties of the Self-Compassion Scale Short Form (SCS-SF), including its invariance across Ghana, Germany, India, and New Zealand.

Method

We employed the Partial Credit Rasch model to analyse responses obtained from 1000 individuals randomly selected (i.e. 250 from each country) from a total convenience sample of 1822 recruited from the general populations of Germany, Ghana, India, and New Zealand.

Results

The initial identification of local dependency among certain items led to a significant misfitting of the SCS-SF to the Rasch model (χ2 (108) = 260.26, p < 0.001). We addressed this issue by merging locally dependent items, using testlets. The solution with three testlets resulted in optimal fit of the SCS-SF to the Rasch model (χ2 (27) = 23.84, p = 0.64), showing evidence of unidimensionality, strong sample targeting (M = 0.20; SD = 0.72), and good reliability (Person Separation Index = 0.71), including invariance across sociodemographic factors. We then developed ordinal-to-interval conversion tables based on the Rasch model’s person estimates. The SCS-SF showed positive correlations with measures of compassion towards others, optimism, and positive affect, alongside negative associations with psychological distress and negative affect.

Conclusions

The current study supports the reliability, as well as the structural, convergent, and external validity of the SCS-SF. By employing the ordinal-to-interval conversion tables published here, the precision of the measure is significantly enhanced, offering a robust tool for investigating self-compassion across different cultures.
Glucose deprivation impairs hypoxia-inducible factor-1α synthesis
Authors: Hubert Mia , Stuart Sarah , Ohh Michael
Published: October 2024

Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are key transcriptional mediators of the hypoxic response and are implicated in oncogenesis. HIFα is regulated by a well-characterized, oxygen-dependent degradation pathway involving the von Hippel Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor protein. However, comparatively little is known about HIFα regulation at the translational level, particularly under cellular stress. There is evidence that HIFα expression not only responds to changes in oxygen tension, but also nutrient availability. In this study, we monitored global translation rates, ATP levels and HIF1α synthesis rates in response to glucose starvation or glycolysis inhibition. We found that both global and HIF1α-specific translation rates decline under glucose deprivation that is concomitant with ATP reduction. These results are in contrast with previous reports showing preferential HIF1α synthesis despite global translation suppression under hypoxia and suggest that a glucose requirement in cellular metabolism is associated with HIF1α translation.
Discretization of Fractional Fully Nonlinear Equations by Powers of Discrete Laplacians
Authors: Chowdhury Indranil , Jakobsen Espen R. , Lien Robin Ø
Published: October 2024

We study discretizations of fractional fully nonlinear equations by powers of discrete Laplacians. Our problems are parabolic and of order $$\sigma \in (0,2)$$

σ
∈
(
0
,
2
)

since they involve fractional Laplace operators $$(-\Delta )^{\sigma /2}$$

(
-
Δ
)

σ
/
2

. They arise e.g. in control and game theory as dynamic programming equations – HJB and Isaacs equation – and solutions are non-smooth in general and should be interpreted as viscosity solutions. Our approximations are realized as finite-difference quadrature approximations and are 2nd order accurate for all values of $$\sigma $$
σ
. The accuracy of previous approximations of fractional fully nonlinear equations depend on $$\sigma $$
σ
and are worse when $$\sigma $$
σ
is close to 2. We show that the schemes are monotone, consistent, $$L^\infty $$

L
∞

-stable, and convergent using a priori estimates, viscosity solutions theory, and the method of half-relaxed limits. We also prove a second order error bound for smooth solutions and present many numerical examples.
Where Technology Leads, the Problems Follow. Technosolutionism and the Dutch Contact Tracing App
Authors: Siffels Lotje E. , Sharon Tamar
Published: October 2024

In April 2020, in the midst of its first pandemic lockdown, the Dutch government announced plans to develop a contact tracing app to help contain the spread of the coronavirus – the Coronamelder. Originally intended to address the problem of the overburdening of manual contract tracers, by the time the app was released six months later, the problem it sought to solve had drastically changed, without the solution undergoing any modification, making it a prime example of technosolutionism. While numerous critics have mobilised the concept of technosolutionism, the questions of how technosolutionism works in practice and which specific harms it can provoke have been understudied. In this paper we advance a thick conception of technosolutionism which, drawing on Evgeny Morozov, distinguishes it from the notion of technological fix, and, drawing on constructivism, emphasizes its constructivist dimension. Using this concept, we closely follow the problem that the Coronamelder aimed to solve and how it shifted over time to fit the Coronamelder solution, rather than the other way around. We argue that, although problems are always constructed, technosolutionist problems are badly constructed, insofar as the careful and cautious deliberation which should accompany problem construction in public policy is absent in the case of technosolutionism. This can lead to three harms: a subversion of democratic decision-making; the presence of powerful new actors in the public policy context – here Big Tech; and the creation of “orphan problems”, whereby the initial problems that triggered the need to develop a (techno)solution are left behind. We question whether the most popular form of technology ethics today, which focuses predominantly on the design of technology, is well-equipped to address these technosolutionist harms, insofar as such a focus may preclude critical thinking about whether or not technology should be the solution in the first place.
Cannabidiol (CBD) modulates the transcriptional profile of ethanol-exposed human dermal fibroblast cells
Authors: Gurgul Artur , Żurowski Jakub , Szmatoła Tomasz , Kucharski Mirosław , Sawicki Sebastian , Semik-Gurgul Ewelina , Ocłoń Ewa
Published: October 2024

Cannabidiol (CBD) is abundant in the Cannabis sativa plant and exhibits complex immunomodulatory, anxiolytic, antioxidant, and antiepileptic properties. Several studies suggest that CBD could be used for different purposes in alcohol use disorder (AUD) and alcohol-related injuries to the brain and the liver. In this study, we focused on analyzing transcriptional alterations in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) cell line challenged simultaneously with ethanol and CBD as an ethanol-protective agent. We aimed to expose the genes and pathways responsible for at least some of the CBD effects in those cells that can be related to the AUD. Transcriptome analysis was performed using HDFs cell line that expresses both cannabinoid receptors and can metabolize ethanol through alcohol dehydrogenase activity. Fibroblasts are also responsible for the progression of liver fibrosis, a common comorbidity in AUD. With the use of a cellular test, we found that CBD at the lowest applied concentration (0.75 μM) was able to stimulate depressed metabolism and reduce the level of apoptosis of cells treated with different concentrations of ethanol to the level observed in the control cells. Similar observations were made at the transcriptome level, in which cells treated with ethanol and CBD had similar expression profiles to the control cells. CBD also affects several genes connected with extracellular matrix formation (especially its collagen constituent), which can have potential implications for, e.g., fibrosis process.
Polymorphic insertions of DcSto miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements reveal genetic diversity structure within the cultivated carrot
Authors: Hadagali Santosh , Stelmach-Wityk Katarzyna , Macko-Podgórni Alicja , Cholin Sarvamangala , Grzebelus Dariusz
Published: October 2024

Miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements (MITEs) are a potent source of polymorphisms in plant genomes. A genotyping system, named DcS-ILP, based on polymorphic insertions of Stowaway MITEs (DcStos) localized in introns and identified in the reference genome DH1, has been developed for carrot. Here, we report an extension of the DcS-ILP genotyping system by incorporation of non-reference insertions identified in resequenced genomes representing the eastern gene pool. We genotyped 52 carrot accessions representing the eastern and western carrot gene pools with 92 markers developed previously (western DcS-ILP panel) together with 84 newly developed markers (eastern DcS-ILP panel). Overall, the DcS-ILP markers revealed a highly structured genetic diversity separating the eastern and the western carrot accessions at K = 2 and differentiating Indian breeding lines from the eastern accessions at K = 3. The eastern DcS-ILP panel proved to be more robust with respect to the eastern carrot gene pool, while it provided little information on the western accessions, as many of the DcSto insertions present in the eastern gene pool were absent in the western gene pool. As the western carrot accessions represent improved cultivars, DcSto insertional polymorphisms allowed detection of a selection-driven bottleneck at the improvement stage. Selection in the course of the improvement stage generally operated on standing variation, as the subset of DcSto insertions present in the western carrot likely originated from transposition events preceding the separation of both gene pools. However, occasional frequency shifts in the opposite direction were also revealed, possibly indicating selection for favorable variants associated with DcSto insertions.
Towards ML Models’ Recommendations
Authors: Kallab Lara , Mansour Elio , Chbeir Richard
Published: October 2024

Artificial Intelligence encompasses a range of technologies that replicate human-like cognitive abilities through computer systems, enabling the execution of tasks associated with intelligent beings. A prominent way to achieve this is machine learning (ML), which optimizes system performance by employing learning algorithms to create models based on data and its inherent patterns. Today, a multitude of ML models exist having diverse characteristics, including the algorithm type, training dataset, and resultant performance. Such diversity complicates the selection of an appropriate model for a specific use case, answering user demands. This paper presents an approach for ML models retrieval based on the matching between user inputs and ML models criteria, all described in a semantic ML ontology named SML model (Semantic Machine Learning model), which facilitates the process of ML models selection. Our approach is based on similarities measures that we tested and experimented to score the ML models and retrieve the ones matching, at best, user inputs.
Towards Human Sensory Augmentation: A Cognitive Neuroscience Framework for Evaluating Integration of New Signals within Perception, Brain Representations, and Subjective Experience
Authors: Nardini Marko , Scheller Meike , Ramsay Melissa , Kristiansen Olaf , Allen Chris
Published: October 2024

New wearable devices and technologies provide unprecedented scope to augment or substitute human perceptual abilities. However, the flexibility to reorganize brain processing to use novel sensory signals during early sensitive periods in infancy is much less evident at later ages, making integration of new signals into adults’ perception a significant challenge. We believe that an approach informed by cognitive neuroscience is crucial for maximizing the true potential of new sensory technologies. Here, we present a framework for measuring and evaluating the extent to which new signals are integrated within existing structures of perception and experience. As our testbed, we use laboratory tasks in which healthy volunteers learn new, augmented perceptual-motor skills. We describe a suite of measures of (i) perceptual function (psychophysics), (ii) neural representations (fMRI/decoding), and (iii) subjective experience (qualitative interview/micro-phenomenology) targeted at testing hypotheses about how newly learned signals become integrated within perception and experience. As proof of concept, we provide example data showing how this approach allows us to measure changes in perception, neural processing, and subjective experience. We argue that this framework, in concert with targeted approaches to optimizing training and learning, provides the tools needed to develop and optimize new approaches to human sensory augmentation and substitution.
»Tiefe Lektüren«
Authors: Albrecht Andrea , Mateescu Kristina , Semmler Louisa
Published: October 2024

Im Beitrag wird am Beispiel von Publikationen aus dem Umfeld der Zeitschrift Sezession und des Verlags Antaios argumentiert, dass sich die sogenannte Neue Rechte zur Rekrutierung ihres rechtsextremen intellektuellen Nachwuchses esoterischer Kommunikations- und Interaktionsformen bedient. Zentrale Bedeutung kommt dabei der Aktivierung der Lesenden zum neurechten Denken und Schreiben zu. Doppelt codierte Kommunikationsformen haben demnach auch eine gruppenstrukturierende Funktion, die zur Elitebildung und zur internen Durchsetzung rechtsintellektueller Führungsansprüche dient.
Conversational Agent Utilization Patterns of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Aghakhani S. , Rousseau A. , Mizrahi S. , Tan X. , Dosovitsky G. , Mlodzianowski L. , Marshall Z. , Bunge E. L.
Published: October 2024

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face unique challenges in their social interactions. The use of conversational agents (CA) can provide support and help reduce barriers to care. However, research on CA’s by individuals with ASD is limited. The present study sought to better understand CA utilization patterns by users with ASD. A subset of data was collected from users of Wysa, a mental health CA. Engagement with the CA, utilization of offered mental health interventions (CA tools), collection of energy scores, depression (PHQ-9), and anxiety (GAD-7) outcomes were gathered and analyzed. Users engaged with Wysa on average 8.59 days and had a median of 97 conversational exchanges. Almost half of the users utilized at least one of the 230 tools offered. The most frequently used interventions focused on mindfulness, thought recording, sleep, grounding, and social support. Energy scores were reported on average 10.59 times, and the mean energy score was 42.77 out of 100. Mean baseline PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores were 10.34 and 8.81, respectively. Overall, the current findings show that users with ASD engaged regularly with a CA, despite its targeted design for other mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety, rather than ASD. If users with ASD engage with these types of resources, this could become a new avenue of support to a population facing multiple challenges to accessing treatment.