bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Cybernetic Avatars with Humanlike Presence and Lifelikeness
Authors: Ishiguro Hiroshi , Ogawa Kohei , Nakata Yoshihiro , Nakajima Mizuki , Shiomi Masahiro , Onishi Yuya , Sumioka Hidenobu , Yoshikawa Yuichiro , Sakai Kazuki , Minato Takashi , Ishi Carlos T. , Nakamura Yutaka
Published: November 2024

Cybernetic Avatars (CAs) are controlled by an operator through an interface that communicates movements, voice, or the intent of action. The operator can use the CA to perform activities remotely. In other words, the CA is the operator’s alter ego. Therefore, the CA should have humanlike presence and lifelikeness. This chapter introduces related research, focusing on the development of a humanlike and life-like CA along with its interface technology.
Human-Level Knowledge and Concept Acquisition
Authors: Harada Tatsuya , Gu Lin , Mukuta Yusuke , Suzuki Jun , Kurose Yusuke
Published: November 2024

To increase productivity, it is expected that a single user is able to operate multiple cybernetic avatars (CAs). However, the limited attention span of the user makes it difficult to send direct instructions to all CAs. Therefore, this chapter describes the essential technologies for CAs that solve these problems and behave autonomously according to the user's intentions. First, the realization of spatio-temporal recognition capabilities that enable CAs to move autonomously in an environments that change from moment to moment is described. Following that, methods to implement continuous learning and memory mechanisms to facilitate acquired information reuse in the future are described. In general, the observed data are time series, and future predictions are important to provide appropriate support to users. The time series analysis method is then explained, which is the most important technology. Advanced natural language processing technology is necessary to capture intentions through dialogue with the user and to process large amounts of textual data as prior knowledge and common sense. Examples of the application of these fundamental technologies in the medical field are also presented.
Enhancing detection of underground nuclear tests with unconventional tracers
Authors: Pazdniakou Aliaksei , Mourzenko Valeri , Thovert Jean-François , Adler Pierre M. , Pili Eric
Published: November 2024

Underground nuclear explosions (UNEs) can generate significant air flow that carry, in addition to the radionuclides produced by the explosion, naturally occurring tracers initially present in the surrounding rock or the overlying soil layer. Here we show that these tracers, observed not only at the monitoring sites but also at the test site, could be used to improve the monitoring of the radionuclides used to detect UNEs, which can be hampered by several factors. We first developed a model for non-isothermal single-phase flow, heat and mass transfer, and tracer transport through fractured porous media. Using the conditions relevant for the Punggye-ri site in North Korea as an example, we provide estimates for the emission of water vapor and $$\hbox {CO}_2$$

CO
2

at the test site, and for the emission of radon and radioxenon at the test site and at the Takasaki monitoring site in Japan. The influence of geological conditions is investigated. For a given monitoring station, it is possible to improve the detection of radioxenon from an underground nuclear explosion by detecting, shortly in advance, the emission of water vapor at the nuclear test site using satellite imagery. If $$\hbox {CO}_2$$

CO
2

is contributed only from the soil layer and is then scavenged by the gas seeping from a UNE, it cannot be detected by satellite imagery. Radon cannot be detected at the monitoring site, although this gas species is contributed from everywhere by the rock medium, including the rock vaporized to form the cavity.
„Man sitzt in einer Seifenblase, während die anderen Menschen leben.“ – Perspektiven geflüchteter ukrainischer Mütter mit Kindern von 0–3 Jahren
Authors: Chakraverty Digo , Neumann Anna , Renner Ilona
Published: November 2024

Hintergrund

Zur Situation von ukrainischen Eltern mit kleinen Kindern, die seit dem Krieg in der Ukraine nach Deutschland geflüchtet sind, ist bislang wenig bekannt. Ziel des Forschungsvorhabens des Nationalen Zentrums Frühe Hilfen (NZFH) ist die Exploration der Perspektive dieser Gruppe auf ihr Leben in Deutschland. In der vorliegenden Analyse wird auf die Belastungen und Ressourcen der Eltern und ihre Kenntnis und Nutzung von Unterstützungsangeboten fokussiert.

Methoden

In 17 ca. einstündigen Interviews wurden von Oktober bis Dezember 2022 aus der Ukraine nach Deutschland geflohene Eltern (16 Mütter, ein Vater) mit Kindern bis zu 3 Jahren befragt und ihre Antworten mittels strukturierender Inhaltsanalyse qualitativ ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

Als Belastungen beschrieben die Interviewten primär die psychische Belastung durch Krieg und Flucht, negative Emotionen wie Gefühle von Einsamkeit und Niedergeschlagenheit sowie Hindernisse bei der Integration. Ressourcen waren vor allem Netzwerke ukrainisch- und russischsprachiger Menschen in Deutschland sowie persönliche Ressourcen wie Selbstfürsorgekompetenz. Die Vermittlung von Angeboten geschah i. d. R. über elektronische Medien. Als besonders nützlich galten Angebote zur Kinderbetreuung, Sprachkurse und Unterstützung in Gesundheitsfragen. Fehlende Kinderbetreuung war der wichtigste Grund für die Nichtannahme weiterer Angebote.

Diskussion

Die psychischen Belastungen der Befragten indizieren einen Bedarf an möglichst muttersprachlichen Versorgungsangeboten. Kinderbetreuungsplätze können ukrainischen Eltern den Besuch integrationsförderlicher Sprachkurse ermöglichen. Die selbstorganisierten Netzwerke der ukrainisch- und russischsprachigen Community sollten bei der Entwicklung von Interventionen von Beginn an partizipativ eingebunden werden.
Effect of cutting fluid supply conditions on tool loads during continuous and interrupted orthogonal cutting
Authors: Liu Hui , Meurer Markus , Bergs Thomas
Published: November 2024

In metalworking, cutting fluids play an important role by reducing heat and friction during machining, extending tool life, and improving surface finish. Although the positive effects of cutting fluid have been confirmed in many studies, the relevant cutting fluid parameters such as nozzle cross-section area and supply pressure, as well as their influence on the thermo-mechanical loads of the cutting tool, have been insufficiently investigated. This study investigates the effects of cutting fluid supply conditions on tool loads during continuous and interrupted orthogonal cutting processes. The research specifically addresses the impact of nozzle geometry and fluid jet orientation on the thermo-mechanical loads on the cutting tool, which have been underexplored in previous studies. A prototype tool holder, designed and additively manufactured for this purpose, allows for variations in nozzle geometry and jet orientation. Experiments were conducted under varying cutting parameters, nozzle geometries, and fluid pressures, with tool temperature being monitored through an embedded thermocouple. The results show that nozzle geometry significantly affects chip shape, which directly affects cooling efficiency and, consequently, tool temperature. The study also uses an inversely calibrated analytical model to analyze the tool temperature distribution, which shows that the highest temperatures occur in the tool-chip contact area, while temperatures outside this area decrease rapidly. In addition, the percentage of heat conducted into the tool decreases with increasing Péclet number, which is consistent in both continuous and interrupted cutting scenarios. These findings provide a deeper understanding of how cutting fluid nozzle design affects tool performance and establish a foundation for model-based temperature analysis in machining processes.
Coagulation Equations for Non-spherical Clusters
Authors: Cristian Iulia , Velázquez Juan J. L.
Published: November 2024

In this work, we study the long time asymptotics of a coagulation model which describes the evolution of a system of particles characterized by their volume and surface area. The aggregation mechanism takes place in two stages: collision and fusion of particles. During the collision stage, the two particles merge at a contact point. The newly formed particle has volume and area equal to the sum of the respective quantities of the two colliding particles. After collision, the fusion phase begins and during it the geometry of the interacting particles is modified in such a way that the volume of the total system is preserved and the surface area is reduced. During their evolution, the particles must satisfy the isoperimetric inequality. Therefore, the distribution of particles in the volume and area space is supported in the region where $$\{a\ge (36\pi )^{\frac{1}{3}}v^{\frac{2}{3}}\}$$

{
a
≥

(
36
π
)

1
3

v

2
3

}

. We assume the coagulation kernel has a weak dependence on the area variable. We prove existence of self-similar profiles for some choices of the functions describing the fusion rate for which the particles have a shape that is close to spherical. On the other hand, for other fusion mechanisms and suitable choices of initial data, we show that the particle distribution describes a system of ramified-like particles.
Unravelling the Holomorphic Twist: Central Charges
Authors: Bomans Pieter , Wu Jingxiang
Published: November 2024

The holomorphic twist provides a powerful framework to study minimally protected sectors in supersymmetric quantum field theories. We investigate the algebraic structure underlying the holomorphic twist of $$\mathcal {N}=1$$

N
=
1

superconformal field theories in four dimensions. In particular, in holomorphically twisted theories the flavour and conformal symmetry algebras are enhanced to infinite-dimensional higher Kac Moody and higher Virasoro symmetry algebras respectively. We explicitly compute the binary and ternary $$\lambda $$
λ
-brackets and clarify their relation with the underlying infinite-dimensional symmetry algebra. Doing so we show that the central extensions of said symmetry algebras precisely encode the conformal anomalies a and c as well as the flavour central charges of the physical four-dimensional theory. This parallels the familiar story in two dimensions where the conformal anomaly c is encoded in the central extension of the Virasoro algebra.
Accuracy of transabdominal ultrasound to diagnose functional constipation and fecal impaction in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vos Johanna M. B. W. , Bloem Michelle N. , de Geus Anna , Leeflang Mariska M. G. , Spijker René , Koppen Ilan J. N. , Baaleman Desiree F. , Benninga Marc A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Functional constipation is common in children and accurate diagnostic methods are essential for early diagnosis and effective management. The diagnostic accuracy of transabdominal ultrasound to diagnose functional constipation is unclear.

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of transverse rectal diameter measurement via transabdominal ultrasound in diagnosing children with functional constipation and in identifying fecal impaction.

Materials and methods

Electronic databases were searched from inception to March 2023. Original studies investigating the diagnostic accuracy of measuring transverse rectal diameter via transabdominal ultrasound, including children with and without functional constipation, or with and without fecal impaction were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers.

Results

Sixteen studies were included (n = 1,801 children, 0–17 years). Thirteen studies investigated the diagnostic accuracy for functional constipation, and five for fecal impaction. High risk of bias was found across the majority of studies mainly due to un-blinded case–control designs. Cut-off transverse rectal diameter values to diagnose functional constipation ranged from 2.4 cm to 3.8 cm. Meta-analysis (seven studies, n = 509 children) estimated mean sensitivity and specificity to diagnose functional constipation were 0.68 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.55–0.78) and 0.81 (95% CI 0.71–0.88), respectively. Meta-analysis of diagnostic accuracy of identifying fecal impaction was not feasible. Studies reported a sensitivity and specificity ranging between 68–100% and 83–100%, respectively.

Conclusion

Transabdominal ultrasound may be a valuable non-invasive diagnostic tool to diagnose functional constipation by measuring transverse rectal diameter and identifying fecal impaction in children. Heterogeneous study methods and lack of age-dependent normal values impair current clinical recommendations. Future research should focus on separating age groups and developing a standardized protocol.

Graphical Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Kellenberger Christian Johannes
Published: November 2024

Pulmonary hypertension is a rare but serious disease in children with potentially poor prognosis in the long term. Direct measurement of increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation requires right-heart catheterisation. Echocardiography is the imaging modality commonly used for suggesting the presence of pulmonary hypertension and estimating its severity. Recognition of structural and haemodynamic signs of increased pulmonary arterial pressure and pressure overload of the right ventricle at magnetic resonance (MR) imaging may contribute to the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension and management of these patients. In this article, the structural, functional, and haemodynamic cardiovascular MR findings of paediatric pulmonary hypertension are reviewed. Typical diagnostic MR scenarios in children with suspected pulmonary hypertension or in children with disease associated with pulmonary hypertension are presented and discussed.

Graphical Abstract
Niche-Aware Metagenomic Screening for Enzyme Methioninase Illuminates Its Contribution to Metabolic Syntrophy
Authors: Khamespanah Erfan , Asad Sedigheh , Vanak Zeynab , Mehrshad Maliheh
Published: November 2024

The single-step methioninase-mediated degradation of methionine (as a sulfur containing amino acid) is a reaction at the interface of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and methane metabolism in microbes. This enzyme also has therapeutic application due to its role in starving auxotrophic cancer cells. Applying our refined in silico screening pipeline on 33,469 publicly available genome assemblies and 1878 metagenome assembled genomes/single-cell amplified genomes from brackish waters of the Caspian Sea and the Fennoscandian Shield deep groundwater resulted in recovering 1845 methioninases. The majority of recovered methioninases belong to representatives of phyla Proteobacteria (50%), Firmicutes (29%), and Firmicutes_A (13%). Prevalence of methioninase among anaerobic microbes and in the anoxic deep groundwater together with the relevance of its products for energy conservation in anaerobic metabolism highlights such environments as desirable targets for screening novel methioninases and resolving its contribution to microbial metabolism and interactions. Among archaea, majority of detected methioninases are from representatives of Methanosarcina that are able to use methanethiol, the sulfur containing product from methionine degradation, as a precursor for methanogenesis. Branching just outside these archaeal methioninases in the phylogenetic tree, we recovered three methioninases belonging to representatives of Patescibacteria reconstructed from deep groundwater metagenomes. We hypothesize that methioninase in Patescibacteria could contribute to their syntrophic interactions where their methanogenic partners/hosts benefit from the produced 2-oxobutyrate and methanethiol. Our results underscore the significance of accounting for specific ecological niche in screening for enzyme variates with desired characteristics. Finally, complementing of our findings with experimental validation of methioninase activity confirms the potential of our in silico screening in clarifying the peculiar ecological role of methioninase in anoxic environments.
Structure stability of confined bismuth sesquioxide phases – low-temperature experimental and computational studies
Authors: Nowagiel Maciej , Garbarczyk Jerzy E. , Wasiucionek Marek , Keblinski Pawel , Pietrzak Tomasz K.
Published: November 2024

Several bismuth sesquioxide (Bi$$_{2}$$

2

O$$_{3}$$

3

) phases (namely $$\upbeta$$
β
, $$\upgamma$$
γ
and $$\updelta$$
δ
-like) were previously stabilized at room temperature by nanocrystallization of bismuthate glasses. Normally, a monoclinic $$\upalpha$$
α
phase is the stable one at ambient conditions in polycrystalline materials. In this work, we wanted to observe if any phase transitions would occur below the room temperature for $$\upbeta$$
β
, $$\upgamma$$
γ
and $$\updelta$$
δ
-like phases confined in a residual glassy matrix. Observations were made down to 100 K using X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Both experimental techniques showed no traces of phase transition upon cooling to the temperature limit of our equipment. From XRD studies, the lattice parameter of the δ-like phase was determined. The values were compared to the values calculated by molecular dynamics studies of overcooled $$\updelta$$
δ
-Bi$$_{2}$$

2

O$$_{3}$$

3

phase.
Machine Learning Insights into Ascorbic Acid-Enhanced Germination of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) under Cadmium Stress
Authors: Ghiyasi Mahdi , Rezaee Danesh Younes , Amirnia Reza , Sharifi Leila , Najafi Solmaz , Mulet José M. , Porcel Rosa
Published: November 2024

The objective of the present work is to study the impact of seed priming with varying concentrations of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) on the germination process of black cumin (Nigella sativa) under cadmium (Cd) stress. As expected, Cd had a great effect on germination rates and seedling growth. However, the application of ascorbic acid during seed priming effectively alleviated Cd stress and significantly increased seed vigor. Primed seeds exhibited markedly elevated final germination percentage, germination index, mean germination time, seedling length, seedling vigor index, and reduced abnormal seedling percentage. Additionally, vitamin priming reduced membrane lipid peroxidation, in treated seeds. Moreover, seed priming elicited a considerable increase in peroxidase and catalase activity, thus mitigating stress effects and augmenting seed vitality. Our experimental data allowed us to establish 100–150 mg/L as the optimal concentration range for ascorbic acid in seed priming of black cumin. These insights were further corroborated through modeling techniques based on supervised machine learning. Notably, XGBoost emerged as a proficient tool for predicting final germination percentage, mean germination time, seedling vigor index, abnormal seedling percentage, and peroxidase activity, while SVR demonstrated aptitude in forecasting catalase activity and germination index. The Gaussian method exhibited superior performance in predicting malondialdehyde content. These comprehensive findings substantiate the premise that vitamin priming with ascorbic acid serves as a promising strategy to ameliorate germination outcomes under Cd-induced stress conditions.
Responding to the challenges of Global Children Surgery: a unique program in Burkina Faso
Authors: Inglin Sophie , Bara Anata , Traoré Yacouba , Ganame Saïd N. , Coulibaly Abou , Ki Bertille , Barro Seydou , Barro Karim , Bandre Emile , Kouanda Seni , Wildhaber Barbara E.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The challenges are immense when it comes to enhancing the development of pediatric surgery in low- and middle-income countries in line with current recommendations for holistic and sustainable approaches. The Pediatric surgery development plan in Burkina Faso was started in 2020. This paper reports on our unique experience, focusing on the main actions and indicators monitored.

Methods

The program was developed based on the core principles of the Global Initiative for Children's Surgery, employing a comprehensive health system-strengthening strategy. Our approach aimed to address the pediatric surgical ecosystem through partnerships, research, and interventions at all levels of the healthcare system.

Results

Significant actions were implemented across various domains, including infrastructure, quality of care, workforce, community awareness, research, and advocacy. These efforts have led to a substantial strengthening of the pediatric surgical ecosystem in the country, achieving major milestones and outcomes in each of these areas.

Conclusion

This program has not only helped to create a major impulse for the expansion of pediatric surgery in Burkina Faso, but also enriched the community of interest with a robust implementation program to confirm the main challenge to succeed: integrating this most essential discipline into the wider framework of global health.
Is there a rationale for hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the patients with Post COVID syndrome?
Authors: Pawlik MT , Rinneberg G , Koch A , Meyringer H , Loew TH , Kjellberg A
Published: November 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in 762 million infections worldwide from 2020 to date, of which approximately ten percent are suffering from the effects after infection in 2019 (COVID-19) [1, 40]. In Germany, it is now assumed that at least one million people suffer from post-COVID condition with long-term consequences. These have been previously reported in diseases like Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Symptoms show a changing variability and recent surveys in the COVID context indicate that 10–30 % of outpatients, 50 to 70% of hospitalised patients suffer from sequelae. Recent data suggest that only 13% of all ill people were completely free of symptoms after recovery [3, 9]. Current hypotheses consider chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, latent viral persistence, autoimmunity, changes of the human microbiome or multilocular sequelae in various organ system after infection. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is applied since 1957 for heart surgery, scuba dive accidents, CO intoxication, air embolisms and infections with anaerobic pathogens. Under hyperbaric pressure, oxygen is physically dissolved in the blood in higher concentrations and reaches levels four times higher than under normobaric oxygen application. Moreover, the alternation of hyperoxia and normoxia induces a variety of processes at the cellular level, which improves oxygen supply in areas of locoregional hypoxia. Numerous target gene effects on new vessel formation, anti-inflammatory and anti-oedematous effects have been demonstrated [74]. The provision of intermittently high, local oxygen concentrations increases repair and regeneration processes and normalises the predominance of hyperinflammation. At present time only one prospective, randomized and placebo-controlled study exists with positive effects on global cognitive function, attention and executive function, psychiatric symptoms and pain interference. In conclusion, up to this date HBO is the only scientifically proven treatment in a prospective randomized controlled trial to be effective for cognitive improvement, regeneration of brain network and improvement of cardiac function. HBOT may have not only theoretical but also potential impact on targets of current pathophysiology of Post COVID condition, which warrants further scientific studies in patients.
Application of DSP2 for biological sex estimation in a Spanish sample: analysis based on sex and side
Authors: San-Millán Marta , Warrier Varsha , Carrera Anna , Reina Francisco
Published: November 2024

Applying existing sexing methodologies to different populations, and reporting these findings is important to enhance their applicability and accuracy in real cases across the world. DSP was published in 2005 (Murail et al., 2005) and updated as a DSP2 in 2017 (Brůžek et al., 2017) based on a database of 10 pelvic measurements from 2040 individuals worldwide. These tools have been applied subsequently to various populations, however, its applicability to a dry Spanish population is lacking. 303 hipbones belonging to 157 individuals from the School of Legal Medicine from the University Complutense of Madrid (Spain), of which 140 individuals were documented, were analyzed to investigate the reliability, applicability and accuracy of the DSP2 sex estimation methodology, examining side and sex-based potential differences for the first time. In most of the DSP variables, intra-rater reliability showed excellent results and % applicability was higher than 85.0%. Overall % accuracy was higher than 94.0% regardless of the number or discriminant power of the utilized DSP variables. However, % sexing decreased when less variables or less discriminant ones were used for estimations, reaching 45.51% (left) and 43.31% (right). Regarding sexual dimorphism, females’ results of % applicability, % sexing and % accuracy were higher compared to males. In addition, left os coxae achieved better outcomes (aforementioned percentages) in most of the cases in the sex-pooled sample. Decreasing the mandatory posterior probability by 10% yielded an increase in the % sexing but reduced % accuracy, and thus, does not seem to enhance the approach’s performance. The present study validates the applicability and reliability of DSP for sexing a Spanish population. Future investigations will attempt to assess its applicability within virtual anthropology.
On the localization of reward effects in overlapping dual tasks
Authors: Langsdorf Leif E. , Darnstaedt Daniel , Schubert Torsten
Published: November 2024

In dual-task (DT) situations, performance deteriorates compared with single-task situations. Such performance decrements are frequently explained with the serial scheduling of the response selection stages constituting a bottleneck. Proof of this assumption stems from the observation that response times for the second task (task 2; RT 2) increase with decreasing stimulus-onset asynchrony (SOA).

In this study, we investigated how the reward prospect for task 1 performance affects task 1 and task 2 processing. For that purpose, we relied on the psychological refractory period paradigm (PRP) as a chronometric tool, to determine the locus of the reward effect in the processing chain of both tasks.

We obtained improved task 1 and task 2 performance; as indicated by reduced RTs in the reward compared to the no reward condition of task 1 and task 2. Furthermore, the reward effect propagated at short SOA from task 1 onto task 2, suggesting that the locus of the reward effect can be pinpointed before or at the bottleneck of task 1. Importantly, the mean reward effect on task 1 was increased compared to task 2, thus indicating that parts of the reward effect were not propagated onto task 2, therefore affecting task 1 motor processes.

In Experiment 2, we tested for the locus of the effect propagation to task 2. Therefore, we implemented a difficulty manipulation of the response selection of task 2. The results indicate that the reward effect is propagated from task 1 onto the response selection stage of task 2.
How a co-actor’s (Un-) reliability modulates goal selection in a novel joint goal-setting paradigm
Authors: Götz Felix J. , Dreisbach Gesine
Published: November 2024

Sociomotor theory – an extension of ideomotor theory – suggests that actions can also be represented in terms of the effects they elicit from others. But what if those others violate one’s action effect anticipations? Here, we introduce a novel joint goal-setting paradigm to investigate effects of co-actors’ occasional and overall unreliability on an individual’s goal selection. In a first step, the participant moved a target halfway from the bottom center to the top left or right corner of the computer screen. In the second step, the co-actor moved the target to its final left or right position. In a learning block, the co-actor always continued the participant’s target movements. In the test block(s), the co-actor produced congruent action effects in 50% (unreliable) vs. 80% (reliable co-actor) of the trials. Experiment 1 consisted of one (between-participants), Experiment 2 and 3 of two (within-participants) test blocks; in Experiment 3, the co-actor changed between blocks. Results of Experiments 1 and 3 reveal that participants repeated their corner choice more often after incongruent trials, but only when the co-actor was generally reliable. Implications in terms of sociomotor action control and joint action are discussed.
Enhancing reservoir inflow forecasting precision through Bayesian Neural Network modeling and atmospheric teleconnection pattern analysis
Authors: Vasheghani Farahani Ehsan , Massah Bavani Ali Reza , Roozbahani Abbas
Published: November 2024

Via the framework of this research, a Bayesian Neural Network (BNN) machine learning model integrated with atmospheric teleconnection patterns was employed to predict the monthly inflow to three major dams (Zayanderood, Amirkabir, and Karun 3) in Iran. The impact of eight teleconnection indices throughout 1 to 12 months, as well as local station variables such as precipitation and inflow, was assessed. Optimal input variables and time delays were determined utilizing the Mutual Information index, identifying specific teleconnection patterns as significant influencers on dam inflow. The performance of the BNN model was compared to an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model using both deterministic and probabilistic metrics. For deterministic evaluation, the Normalized Root Mean Square Error (NRMSE) for the BNN model in the best prediction scenarios was 10.93%, 9.07%, and 7.55% for Zayanderood, Amirkabir, and Karun 3 dams, respectively. The corresponding values for the ANN model were 12.27%, 10.72%, and 7.71%. Additionally, probabilistic evaluation using CRPS demonstrated that BNN outperformed ANN in the test phase, with CRPS values of 8.98 m3/s compared to 14.69 m3/s (Zayanderood), 1.77 m3/s compared to 3.17 m3/s (Amirkabir), and 36.16 m3/s compared to 51.22 m3/s (Karun 3), highlighting BNN’s superior predictive skill. Despite these results, both models exhibited limitations in accurately predicting inflow peaks. This study highlights the potential of teleconnection patterns as predictive variables for dam inflow and underscores the importance of further exploration across different regions. Using BNN for dam inflow prediction is a significant contribution to the field of hydrological forecasting and offers a generalizable approach for incorporating large-scale climate patterns into water resources management.
Revolutionizing cardiovascular health: integrating deep learning techniques for predictive analysis of personal key indicators in heart disease
Authors: Talaat Fatma M.
Published: November 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a global burden, highlighting the need for innovative approaches for early detection and intervention. This study investigates the potential of deep learning, specifically convolutional neural networks (CNNs), to improve the prediction of heart disease risk using key personal health markers. Our approach revolutionizes traditional healthcare predictive modeling by integrating CNNs, which excel at uncovering subtle patterns and hidden interactions among various health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and lifestyle factors. To achieve this, we leverage advanced neural network architectures. The model utilizes embedding layers to transform categorical data into numerical representations, convolutional layers to extract spatial features, and dense layers to model complex interactions and predict CVD risk. Regularization techniques like dropout and batch normalization, along with hyperparameter optimization, enhance model generalizability and performance. Rigorous validation against conventional methods demonstrates the model’s superiority, with a significantly higher R2 value of 0.994. This achievement underscores the model’s potential as a valuable tool for clinicians in CVD prevention and management. The study also emphasizes the need for interpretability in deep learning models and addresses ethical considerations to ensure responsible implementation in clinical practice.
Liver transplantation for gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine liver metastasis: optimal patient selection and perioperative management in the era of multimodal treatments
Authors: Kasai Yosuke , Ito Takashi , Masui Toshihiko , Nagai Kazuyuki , Anazawa Takayuki , Uchida Yoichiro , Ishii Takamichi , Umeshita Koji , Eguchi Susumu , Soejima Yuji , Ohdan Hideki , Hatano Etsuro
Published: November 2024

Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NET) often metastasize to the liver. Although curative liver resection provides a favorable prognosis for patients with neuroendocrine liver metastasis (NELM), with a 5-year survival rate of 70–80%, recurrence is almost inevitable, mainly in the remnant liver. In Western countries, liver transplantation (LT) has been performed in patients with NELM, with the objective of complete removal of macro- and micro-NELMs. However, prognosis had been unsatisfactory, with 5-year overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates of approximately 50 and 30%, respectively. In 2007, the Milan criteria were proposed as indications for LT for NELM. The criteria included: (1) confirmed histology of NET-G1 or G2; (2) a primary tumor drained by the portal system and all extrahepatic diseases removed with curative resection before LT; (3) liver involvement ≤50%; (4) good response or stable disease for at least 6 months before LT; (5) age ≤ 55 years. A subsequent report demonstrated outstanding LT outcomes for NELM within the Milan criteria, with 5-year overall survival and recurrence rates of 97 and 13%, respectively. In Japan, living donor LT (LDLT) for NELM has been performed sporadically in only 16 patients by 2021 in Japan; however, no consensus has been reached on the indications or perioperative management of LDLT. This article presents the outcomes of these 16 patients who underwent LDLT in Japan and reviews the literature to clarify optimal indications and perioperative management of LDLT for NELM in the era of novel multimodal treatments.
The beach: tourism tax competition along the Italian coasts
Authors: Cavallero Chiara , Zagler Martin
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates how tourism taxes are used by municipalities to attract tourists. We analyze how municipalities compete among each other, explicitly accounting for the spatial dimension. This paper provides a novel contribution to the literature on tax competition by explicitly modeling and testing the spatial dimension. First, we present a spatial model of tax competition, which is an adoption of the Hotelling model of imperfect competition in the linear city. We find that tax rates are strategic complements, as a change in taxes of one town will lead to a similar change of tax rates in neighboring towns. Second, we test the model with data from tourism taxes along the Italian coastline. We find that towns on the Tyrrhenian coast loose tourists to municipalities in the (south)east, if those reduce their tourism tax rate, and compete by lowering their own tax rates with respect to towns in the (north)west. We do not find similar behavior along the Adriatic coast.
Visibility of alveolar bone thicknesses on CBCT images–a study on minimum bone requirements using various reconstruction techniques, viewing modes, and resolutions
Authors: Lennholm Camilla , Andreasen Hanna , Westerlund Anna , Lund Henrik
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To evaluate at which thickness marginal bone becomes visible to the observer on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images and how reconstruction technique and viewing mode affect assessment.

Materials and methods

Fourteen anterior teeth from six human mandibles were examined with two CBCT resolution protocols: standard- and high-resolution. Distance from the cementoenamel junction to the visible marginal bone level (MBL) was measured in three groups of reconstructed CBCT images: multiplanar reformation (MPR) with grey scale, MPR with inverted grey scale, and 3D rendering. These measurements were used to identify the bone level where marginal bone width should be measured on histological photographs of sliced teeth. Gold standards comprised measurements of bone thickness at the superior MBL on histological photographs.

Results

MPR grey scale images exposed at high-resolution settings yielded highest validity: bone widths of 0.173 mm (buccal) and 0.356 mm (lingual) were necessary for visibility on a CBCT image. 3D-rendered lingual surfaces exposed with high-resolution settings had lowest validity. Intra-observer agreement for all CBCT and histological measurements was high.

Conclusion

The best CBCT resolution protocol, reconstruction technique, and viewing mode for analyzing buccal and lingual surfaces of the alveolar bone margin are images exposed with a high-resolution protocol, reconstructed using MPR, and viewed in grey scale. Bone thickness required to be visualized was twice lingually compared to buccally.

Clinical relevance

The visualization of bone thickness in CBCT requires a greater thickness on the lingual side compared to the buccal side. 3D-rendered reconstructions should be avoided when evaluating thin bony structures.
Sympathetic nerve activity and response to physiological stress in Takotsubo syndrome
Authors: Ekenbäck Christina , Persson Jonas , Tornvall Per , Forsberg Lena , Spaak Jonas
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The prevailing hypothesis posits that Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is caused by massive sympathetic activation, yet supporting evidence remains inconsistent. The objectives of the present study were to determine whether sympathetic activity and reactivity are enhanced in the recovery phase of TTS, and to evaluate the effect of selective β1-receptor blockade on sympathetic reactivity.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study that included 18 female patients with TTS and 13 age- and sex-matched controls. Muscle sympathetic nerve activity was measured through microneurography of the peroneal nerve at rest and during the cold pressor test. In the TTS group, recordings were repeated after randomisation to intravenous metoprolol or placebo. In 10 TTS patients, cardiac sympathetic activity was assessed using iodine 123-metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy. Blood samples were collected during hospitalisation.

Results

Microneurography was performed a median of 27.5 days after patient admission. There were no significant differences in burst incidence, burst frequency, burst height or burst area between the TTS patients and the controls at rest, during stress or after administration of intravenous metoprolol. Iodine 123-metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy was performed a median of 12.5 days after admission, revealing decreased early 1.54 ± 0.13 and late 1.40 ± 0.13 heart-to-mediastinum ratios, and an increased washout rate of 41.8 ± 12.1%. Catecholamine metabolites were comparable between the study groups.

Conclusion

General sympathetic hyperactivity or hyperreactivity unlikely contributes to TTS, as catecholamine levels and muscle sympathetic nerve activity at rest and during stress were similar between the TTS patients and the controls. As scintigraphy showed increased cardiac sympathetic activity, a pathological cardiac adrenergic response and vulnerability to sympathetic activation may be crucial for the development of the syndrome.
Enhancing tuberculosis surveillance in quarry workers: identifying vulnerable subgroups
Authors: Sousa Sofia , Carvalho Carlos , Alves Catarina Magalhães , Santos Sofia , Gonçalves Guilherme , Duarte Raquel
Published: November 2024

Background

Stone quarry workers and others exposed to silica are especially vulnerable to tuberculosis (TB). Silicosis is a known risk factor for TB disease, but other common comorbidities and habits such as diabetes and alcohol and tobacco consumption may increase risk. We aimed to estimate the risk of TB infection among stone quarry workers and to identify associated factors.

Methods

An annual TB infection screening strategy using interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) was implemented in 2018 for quarry workers in two high-incidence municipalities in Portugal. Workers with a first negative IGRA test were followed up and stratified by age group, preconditions including silicosis, diabetes and hypertension, and alcohol and tobacco abuse. Incidence rates and adjusted risks for TB infection were quantified using Cox regression hazard rates.

Result

From 2018 to 2022, 997 stone quarry workers were screened for TB. Of those, 347 were negative in their first and performed at least one additional IGRA test, being included in the analysis. The overall rate of infection was 3.2 per 100 person-year. Silicosis, diabetes, and age above 45 years were independent risk factors for TB infection [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 2.9 (95% CI: 1.4–5.9), 2.9 (1.1–7.7), and 2.73 (1.1–6.6) respectively].

Conclusions

Silicosis and diabetes seem to be independent risk factors for TB infection and should be targeted to reduce the burden of TB further. We suggest periodic screening of TB infection in people with silicosis, but more broadly in all those exposed to silica, especially if they also have other comorbidities such as diabetes.
Extending The Realm of Reason: On The Epistemic Profile of Perceptual Experience
Authors: Grad Paweł
Published: November 2024

Are perceptual experiences epistemically appraisable? In this paper, I argue, contra Siegel (Rationality of perception, Oxford 2017) that they are not (§§ 2–3). I also show how the problem of hijacked experience can be solved without endorsing the view that perceptual experience is epistemically appraisable (§§ 4–5). A key idea behind my proposal is a disjunctivist view on rationalising and epistemic powers of perceptual experience.
The Role of the Axes of the Three Metal Nano-ellipsoids of Size Constant in the Energy Absorption Rate Change in the Hybrid System
Authors: Hashim Hala M. , Abd-Elnabi Somia
Published: November 2024

This work discusses the three-dimensional hybrid system of three metal nano-ellipsoids and semiconductor quantum dot to obtain the energy absorption rate caused by the direct and indirect contribution of the interaction between the semiconductor quantum dot and the three metal nano-ellipsoids. We investigate the interaction between excitons and surface plasmons by applying three electromagnetic fields in the three-dimensional directions. We calculate the polarization of the three metal nano-ellipsoids to evaluate the energy absorption rate for all three metal nano-ellipsoids. The energy absorption rate of the semiconductor quantum dot via three electromagnetic fields in the three dimensions is studied. We demonstrated that although the size of the three metal nano-ellipsoids is equal, the axes of the three metal nano-ellipsoids can play a distinct role in influencing energy absorption. We also demonstrated the varying distances between the three metal nano-ellipsoids affect the energy absorption rate. We found the dielectric constant of the surrounding material and semiconductor quantum dot influence the energy absorption rate of the semiconductor quantum dot.
Nationale Aktivitäten zur Stärkung der Klimakompetenz in den Gesundheitsberufen in Österreich
Authors: Brugger Katharina , Horváth Ilonka , Schmidt Andrea E. , Marent Johannes
Published: November 2024

Hintergrund

Der Klimawandel und seine Auswirkungen auf die Gesundheit rücken zunehmend in den gesundheitspolitischen Blickpunkt. Herausforderungen ergeben sich u. a. durch häufigere Hitzewellen, erhöhte Pollenbelastung, vermehrtes Auftreten von Vektoren. Auch sind Personen in vulnerablen Kontexten überproportional betroffen. Dem Gesundheitssystem kommt durch Gesundheitsförderung, Prävention und Krankenversorgung in diesem Zusammenhang eine wesentliche Rolle zu. In einem klimaresilienten Gesundheitssystem haben klimakompetente Angehörige der Gesundheitsberufe eine zentrale Rolle. Der Artikel beleuchtet die Arbeiten auf nationaler Ebene, die darauf abzielen, ein gemeinsames Verständnis aufzubauen und einen adäquaten inhaltlichen Rahmen der gesundheitsbezogenen Klimakompetenz auszuarbeiten.

Materialien und Methoden

Zur Erarbeitung der Fragestellung wurde eine explorative Herangehensweise mit einer Kombination verschiedener Methoden ausgewählt. Basierend auf einer Literaturrecherche wurde der inhaltliche Rahmen entlang internationaler Beispiele guter Praxis für die österreichischen gesetzlich Gesundheitsberufe abgeleitet. Zur Qualitätssicherung und -verbesserung erfolgte eine Begutachtung durch Expert:innen aus den Bereichen Klima, Gesundheit und Bildung.

Ergebnisse

Zur langfristigen Verankerung der Klimakompetenz in den Gesundheitsberufen braucht es drei Implementierungsprozesse, um die Zielgruppen, d. h. jene, die eine Ausbildung absolvieren, die bereits in Gesundheitsberufen Tätigen und Lehrende für Gesundheitsberufe, zu adressieren. Den inhaltlichen Rahmen dafür bildet das berufsgruppenübergreifende Handbuch zur Stärkung der Klimakompetenz in den Gesundheitsberufen.

Schlussfolgerung

Ein systematischer Aufbau und die Stärkung der Klimakompetenz im Gesundheitssystems, insbesondere bei den Angehörigen der Gesundheitsberufe, ist zielführend, um die vielfältigen und erheblichen Auswirkungen des Klimawandels auf die Gesundheit und das Wohlbefinden der Menschen abzufedern.
Comparing self-rated health among exclusive e-cigarette users and traditional cigarette smokers: an analysis of the Health Survey for England 2019
Authors: Adebisi Yusuff Adebayo , Bafail Duaa Abdullah
Published: November 2024

The health implications of e-cigarette use compared to traditional cigarette smoking continue to attract significant public health interest. This study examines self-rated health (SRH) outcomes among exclusive e-cigarette users versus exclusive traditional cigarette smokers, using data from the Health Survey for England 2019. From an initial sample of 10,299 participants, the study focused on 8204 adults, excluding those aged 0–15. Further refinement to exclusive nicotine product users led to 274 e-cigarette users and 1017 cigarette smokers, after excluding dual users, never users, ex-users, non-responders, and users of other tobacco products such as pipes and cigars. SRH was derived from participants’ responses to a question asking how they rated their general health, with five possible options: “very good”, “good”, “fair”, “bad”, and “very bad”. For the purposes of this study, these responses were collapsed into two categories: “Good Health” (combining “very good” and “good”) and “Poor Health” (combining “fair”, “bad”, and “very bad”). Consequently, 834 participants were classified as reporting good health, while 457 reported poor health. Binary logistic regression, adjusted for factors such as age, sex, ethnicity, residence, education, body mass index, alcohol use, age started smoking, physical or mental health conditions, and frequency of GP visits, revealed that exclusive e-cigarette users were significantly more likely to report good health compared to exclusive cigarette smokers, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.59 (95% CI: 1.10 – 2.32, p = 0.014). As a sensitivity analysis, a generalized ordered logistic regression model was performed using the original five SRH categories. The adjusted model confirmed consistent results, with exclusive e-cigarette users showing higher odds of reporting better health across the full range of SRH outcomes (OR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.08–1.82, p = 0.011). These findings suggest that exclusive e-cigarette users perceive their health more positively than traditional cigarette smokers, contributing useful insights to the discussions around harm reduction strategies.