bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comprehensive Review of Data‐Driven Co‐Speech Gesture Generation
Authors: Nyatsanga S. , Kucherenko T. , Ahuja C. , Henter G. E. , Neff M.
Published: May 2023

Gestures that accompany speech are an essential part of natural and efficient embodied human communication. The automatic generation of such co‐speech gestures is a long‐standing problem in computer animation and is considered an enabling technology for creating believable characters in film, games, and virtual social spaces, as well as for interaction with social robots. The problem is made challenging by the idiosyncratic and non‐periodic nature of human co‐speech gesture motion, and by the great diversity of communicative functions that gestures encompass. The field of gesture generation has seen surging interest in the last few years, owing to the emergence of more and larger datasets of human gesture motion, combined with strides in deep‐learning‐based generative models that benefit from the growing availability of data. This review article summarizes co‐speech gesture generation research, with a particular focus on deep generative models. First, we articulate the theory describing human gesticulation and how it complements speech. Next, we briefly discuss rule‐based and classical statistical gesture synthesis, before delving into deep learning approaches. We employ the choice of input modalities as an organizing principle, examining systems that generate gestures from audio, text and non‐linguistic input. Concurrent with the exposition of deep learning approaches, we chronicle the evolution of the related training data sets in terms of size, diversity, motion quality, and collection method (e.g., optical motion capture or pose estimation from video). Finally, we identify key research challenges in gesture generation, including data availability and quality; producing human‐like motion; grounding the gesture in the co‐occurring speech in interaction with other speakers, and in the environment; performing gesture evaluation; and integration of gesture synthesis into applications. We highlight recent approaches to tackling the various key challenges, as well as the limitations of these approaches, and point toward areas of future development.
A Survey of Indicators for Mesh Quality Assessment
Authors: Sorgente T. , Biasotti S. , Manzini G. , Spagnuolo M.
Published: May 2023

We analyze the joint efforts made by the geometry processing and the numerical analysis communities in the last decades to define and measure the concept of “mesh quality”. Researchers have been striving to determine how, and how much, the accuracy of a numerical simulation or a scientific computation (e.g., rendering, printing, modeling operations) depends on the particular mesh adopted to model the problem, and which geometrical features of the mesh most influence the result. The goal was to produce a mesh with good geometrical properties and the lowest possible number of elements, able to produce results in a target range of accuracy. We overview the most common quality indicators, measures, or metrics that are currently used to evaluate the goodness of a discretization and drive mesh generation or mesh coarsening/refinement processes. We analyze a number of local and global indicators, defined over two‐ and three‐dimensional meshes with any type of elements, distinguishing between simplicial, quadrangular/hexahedral, and generic polytopal elements. We also discuss mesh optimization algorithms based on the above indicators and report common libraries for mesh analysis and quality‐driven mesh optimization.
Worldwide organ allocation systems for pediatric lung transplantation
Authors: Avdimiretz Nicholas , Benden Christian
Published: May 2023

Pediatric lung transplantation (LTX) remains limited by the scarcity of small donor lungs, particularly in less populated parts of the world. Optimal organ allocation, including the prioritization and ranking of pediatric LTX candidates, and the appropriate matching of pediatric donors to recipients have been crucial elements in improving pediatric LTX outcomes. We aimed to elucidate the various pediatric lung allocation practices worldwide. A global survey of current pediatric solid organ transplantation deceased donation allocation practices was conducted by the International Pediatric Transplant Association (IPTA), and these policies were subsequently analyzed if publicly available, with focus on pediatric lung transplantation. Significant variation was found in lung allocation systems worldwide both in terms of prioritization and distribution for children. Definition of pediatrics varied from <12 years of age to <18 years of age. While several countries performing LTX for young children do not have a formal system to prioritize pediatric candidates, many countries that perform LTX at higher rates do offer prioritization methods for children: including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Australia, and countries serviced by Eurotransplant. Certain lung allocation practices for pediatrics are highlighted herein, including the newly instituted Composite Allocation Score (CAS) system in the United States, pediatric matching with Eurotransplant, and pediatric prioritization in Spain. The systems highlighted here explicitly aim to provide judicious and high quality LTX care for children.
Prognostic impact of translocation t(11;14) and of other cytogenetic abnormalities in patients with AL amyloidosis in the era of contemporary therapies
Authors: Fotiou Despina , Theodorakakou Foteini , Gavriatopoulou Maria , Migkou Magdalini , Malandrakis Panagiotis , Ntanasis‐Stathopoulos Ioannis , Kanellias Nikolaos , Eleutherakis Papaiakovou Evangelos , Terpos Evangelos , Papanikolaou Asimina , Gakiopoulou Charikleia , Dimopoulos Meletios Athanasios , Kastritis Efstathios
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Translocation t(11;14) is the most common cytogenetic abnormality in patients with systemic AL amyloidosis with prognostic and therapeutic relevance, which has not been clearly defined in the most recent therapeutic era.

Methods

We assessed its prognostic role in 146 newly‐diagnosed patients who received novel agent‐based treatment combinations. Event‐free survival (EFS), a composite endpoint defined by hematological progression, start of a new treatment‐line or death, and overall survival (OS) were the primary endpoints.

Results

Half of the patients had at least one FISH abnormality; 40% had t(11;14) which was inversely associated with other cytogenetic abnormalities. At 1, 3, and 6‐month landmarks, hematologic response rates were numerically but not statistically higher in the non‐t(11;14) group. Patients with t(11;14) were more frequently switched to second‐line treatment within 12 months (p = .015). At median follow‐up of 31.4 months, t(11;14) was associated with shorter EFS [17.1 (95% CI 3.2–10.6) vs. 27.2 months (95% CI 13.8–40.6), p = .021] and retained its prognostic significance in the multivariate model (HR:1.66, p = .029). The effect on OS was neutral, possibly due to the use of effective salvage therapies.

Conclusions

Our data support the use of targeted therapies for patients with t(11;14) to avoid delays in the achievement of deep hematologic responses.
RNA‐Seq‐based discovery of genetic variants and allele‐specific expression of two layer lines and broiler chicken
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Arsalan , Hadlich Frieder , Reyer Henry , Oster Michael , Trakooljul Nares , Murani Eduard , Perdomo‐Sabogal Alvaro , Wimmers Klaus , Ponsuksili Siriluck
Published: May 2023

Recent advances in the selective breeding of broilers and layers have made poultry production one of the fastest‐growing industries. In this study, a transcriptome variant calling approach from RNA‐seq data was used to determine population diversity between broilers and layers. In total, 200 individuals were analyzed from three different chicken populations (Lohmann Brown (LB), n = 90), Lohmann Selected Leghorn (LSL, n = 89), and Broiler (BR, n = 21). The raw RNA‐sequencing reads were pre‐processed, quality control checked, mapped to the reference genome, and made compatible with Genome Analysis ToolKit for variant detection. Subsequently, pairwise fixation index (FST) analysis was performed between broilers and layers. Numerous candidate genes were identified, that were associated with growth, development, metabolism, immunity, and other economically significant traits. Finally, allele‐specific expression (ASE) analysis was performed in the gut mucosa of LB and LSL strains at 10, 16, 24, 30, and 60 weeks of age. At different ages, the two‐layer strains showed significantly different allele‐specific expressions in the gut mucosa, and changes in allelic imbalance were observed across the entire lifespan. Most ASE genes are involved in energy metabolism, including sirtuin signaling pathways, oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. A high number of ASE genes were found during the peak of laying, which were particularly enriched in cholesterol biosynthesis. These findings indicate that genetic architecture as well as biological processes driving particular demands relate to metabolic and nutritional requirements during the laying period shape allelic heterogeneity. These processes are considerably affected by breeding and management, whereby elucidating allele‐specific gene regulation is an essential step towards deciphering the genotype to phenotype map or functional diversity between the chicken populations. Additionally, we observed that several genes showing significant allelic imbalance also colocalized with the top 1% of genes identified by the FST approach, suggesting a fixation of genes in cis‐regulatory elements.
Phosphorylation of glucocorticoid receptor induced by 16‐kauren‐2‐beta‐18, 19‐triol decreases expression of Melanophilin through JNK signalling
Authors: Myung Cheol‐Hwan , Jo Chan‐Song , Hwang Jae‐Sung
Published: May 2023

16‐kauren‐2‐beta‐18, 19‐triol (16‐kauren) is a natural diterpenoid substance derived from Asteraceae psiadia punctulata, a small tropical shrub in Africa and Asia, and it can reduce Mlph expression without affecting the expression of Rab27a and MyoVa in melanocytes. Melanophilin (Mlph) is an important linker protein in the melanosome transport process. However, the signal transduction pathway for the regulation of Mlph expression has not been fully established. We examined the mechanism of 16‐kauren on Mlph expression. Murine melan‐a melanocytes were used for in vitro analysis. Western blot analysis, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and luciferase assay were performed. The inhibition of Mlph expression by 16‐kauren‐2β‐18,19‐triol (16‐kauren) occurs through the JNK signal and is reversed following glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activation by dexamethasone (Dex). Especially, 16‐kauren activates JNK and c‐jun signalling, part of the MAPK pathway, with subsequent Mlph repression. When the JNK signal is weakened by siRNA, the inhibition of Mlph expression by 16‐kauren was not seen. JNK activation by 16‐kauren induces GR phosphorylation, which leads to Mlph repression. These results demonstrate that 16‐kauren regulates Mlph expression through the phosphorylation of GR via the JNK signalling pathway.
The impact of resilience on headache disability as measured by the Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS)
Authors: Hans Avneet , Stonnington Cynthia M. , Zhang Nan , Butterfield Richard , Friedman Deborah I.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Our objectives were to examine cross‐sectional correlations of headache disability with measures of resilience, anxiety, and depression, and to determine if resilience modified the association between headache severity/frequency and disability.

Background

Resilience is associated with quality of life and functioning among patients with chronic conditions. We investigated whether resilience strongly mitigates headache‐related disability as measured by the Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS).

Methods

We prospectively recruited 160 patients with primary headache disorders seen in a tertiary headache medicine program between February 20, 2018 and August 2, 2019. Each participant completed the MIDAS, Conner Davidson Resilience Scale (CDRS‐25), Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder‐7 (GAD‐7), and WHO‐5 Well‐Being Index.

Results

The CDRS‐25 score was negatively correlated with the total MIDAS (r = −0.21, p = 0.009), GAD‐7 (r = −0.56, p < 0.001), and PHQ‐9 scores (r = −0.34, p < 0.001). Well‐being inversely correlated with disability (r = −0.37, p < 0.001). Increases in anxiety and depression increased the odds of disability. A 1 point increase in the CDRS‐25 score decreased the odds of being severely disabled by 4% (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.94 to 0.99, p = 0.001). However, the CDRS‐25 score did not significantly moderate the association between headache days and disability.

Conclusion

Traits associated with resilience decreased the odds of severe disability from headaches, whereas anxiety, depression, and headache frequency were strongly associated with higher disability from headache.
Tropical savanna conversion to exotic pastures negatively affects taxonomic and functional diversity of dung beetle assemblages, but not dung removal
Authors: Maciel Rafaella , Braga Rodrigo Fagundes , Carvalho Raquel L. , Louzada Júlio , Slade Eleanor M.
Published: May 2023

1. The replacement of natural systems with agricultural lands is the main factor resulting in land use change in tropical regions. Tropical savannas cover more than 20% of the global land surface, and one‐fifth of the world's population depends directly on these systems.

2. Here, we aim to understand how the conversion of tropical savanna into exotic pastures affects the taxonomic and functional metrics of communities and dung removal, using dung beetles as a focal group in a biodiversity hotspot—the Brazilian Cerrado biome. We used species richness, abundance, total biomass, and species composition as assemblage metrics, and functional richness, equitability and dispersion indices, and functional composition as functional diversity metrics.

3. The replacement of native savanna with exotic pastures negatively affected taxonomic and functional metrics, suggesting a simplified system where some disturbance‐tolerant species become dominant. However, the relationship between dung removal and functional richness was higher in pastures compared to savanna.

4. Our results demonstrated that responses of dung beetle assemblages and dung removal to land use changes are decoupled, idiosyncratic and context‐dependent, presenting challenges for making predictions and generalisations about the effects of land use change on ecological processes mediated by animals.
Wet vacuum impregnation assisted in malting; its implication on steeping degree, germination energy and malt properties
Authors: Gonu Hellie , Zarnkow Martin , Withayagiat Ulaiwan
Published: May 2023

The wet vacuum impregnation (WVI) was used in malting process to reduce soaking period. To implement WVI during steeping, vacuum pressure of 500 mmHg for 300 s, was applied twice on five Thai barley cultivars. The effect of WVI on germination energy, moisture content, phenolic acids, antioxidant activity (AOA) and malt quality were examined relative to Central European Commission for Brewing Analysis (MEBAK) malting condition. Moisture content in barley soaked by WVI and MEBAK steeping method were in the range of 36.1–39.9% and 39.9–47.8%, respectively with germination energy of 96–97%. The physicochemical properties of malt from steeping via WVI and MEBAK showed the malts were protein‐rich cultivars, adequate β enzyme and low α amylase activities, hence, low‐malt extract. Total fermentable sugars were relative higher in MEBAK malts than WVI malts. Nevertheless, steeping by WVI had higher free and bound phenolic acids, which led to higher AOA via ABSTS and DPPH assays in some barley cultivars than MEBAK. This research highlights the WVI did not limit barley gemination and the potential of this technology in malting process by limiting steeping time. Further study is required to reduce air‐rest period and optimise condition to achieve moisture content of 40–45% in soaked barley.
Cutting and packing problems under uncertainty: literature review and classification framework
Authors: Hadj Salem Khadija , Silva Elsa , Oliveira José Fernando
Published: May 2023

Cutting and packing problems are hard combinatorial optimization problems that arise in several manufacturing and process industries or in their supply chains. The solution of these problems is not only a scientific challenge but also has a large economic impact, as it contributes to the reduction of one of the major cost factors for many production sectors, namely raw materials, together with a positive environmental impact. The explicit consideration of uncertainty when solving cutting and packing problems with optimization techniques is crucial for a wider adoption of research results by companies. However, current research has paid little attention to the role of uncertainty in these problems. In this paper, we review the existing literature on uncertainty in cutting and packing problems, propose a classification framework, and highlight the many research gaps and opportunities for scientific contributions.
Data envelopment analysis of two‐stage processes: an alternative (non‐conventional) approach
Authors: Despotis Dimitris K. , Sotiros Dimitris , Koronakos Gregory
Published: May 2023

Network data envelopment analysis (NDEA) is an extension of standard DEA that models the efficiency assessment of decision‐making units (DMUs) by considering their internal structure. While in standard DEA, the DMU is regarded as a single process, in NDEA, the DMU is viewed as a network of interconnected sub‐processes (stages, divisions), where the flow of the intermediate products (measures) is essential in the efficiency assessment. In the prevalent conventional methodological approach to NDEA, the sub‐processes are assumed as distinct entities with distinct inputs and outputs. Thus, each sub‐process has its own production possibility set (PPS), which can be derived axiomatically from a set of assumptions using the minimum extrapolation principle. The PPS of the overall system is defined as the composition of the individual PPSs. The conventional approach comprises all the methods, in which the system and the divisional efficiencies are computed jointly in a single mathematical program. A fundamental property connecting the system with the divisional efficiencies is that a system is overall efficient if and only if its divisions are all efficient. In NDEA, regardless of the method used, there are cases where none of the observed DMUs is rendered overall efficient as corroborated by real‐world case studies. This is the main issue we discuss in this paper and the motivation to propose an alternative, non‐conventional, approach to address it in the frame of two‐stage processes. We consider the two‐stage process as a system that can be viewed from two perspectives depending on the role of the intermediate measures: the system as producer and as consumer of the intermediates. As our approach is based on standard DEA, it satisfies the basic desirable properties. The fundamental NDEA property, that the overall system is efficient if and only if both perspectives are efficient, is met. The efficient frontier of the system is explicitly defined by the overall efficient observed DMUs, and the inefficient DMUs are projected on the efficient frontier of the system. A convergent procedure is presented for this purpose. The proposed models are equivalently expressed in both the multiplier and the envelopment forms due to strict primal‐dual correspondence and can operate under both constant and variable returns‐to‐scale assumptions. We use the case of 22 automotive manufacturers for the fiscal year 2019 as an example to illustrate our approach. Comparison with other NDEA methods is also provided.
Atomistic simulation of α‐Al2O3 nanoparticle plastic anisotropy under compression
Authors: Xu Qinqin , Chevalier Jérome , Amodeo Jonathan
Published: May 2023

Alumina (α‐Al2O3) is one of the major ceramic oxides commonly used for its advanced mechanical properties. Since recently, nanoscale α‐Al2O3 requires more in‐depth characterization related to ceramic powder compaction and sintering as well as for applications in the field of biomedical engineering. In this study, we use classical molecular dynamics simulations with a 2/3‐body interatomic potential to investigate the mechanical response and the elementary deformation processes of α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles under compression. Results show that α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles resist up to particularly elevated critical force before yielding due to a surface nucleation process including various kinds of dislocations and nanotwins strongly sensitive to orientation and temperature. Results are rationalized in terms of stacking‐fault energy and shear stress analysis and are discussed in the light of recent micromechanical tests as well as more fundamental observations performed in the bulk material.
Rapid and controllable synthesis of LiCoO2 cathode materials by reactive flash sintering
Authors: Gou Yunjie , Li Guangdong , Sun Wang , Qiao Jinshuo , Sun Kening , Wang Zhenhua
Published: May 2023

LiCoO2 (LCO) has been widely adopted as the electrode for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) which provide a solution for settling problems referring to energy and environment. The demand for rapid and controllable synthesis of LCO increases dramatically. In this work, reactive flash sintering (RFS), for the first time, was introduced to synthesize LCO rapidly and controllably based on simple oxide precursors. The as‐prepared LCO, investigated by physicochemical property characterization, showed well‐constructed and high crystallinity and controllable morphologies, in which the grain size varied with the magnitude of the applied limited current value, allowing for grain size modulation. Furthermore, the as‐prepared LCO exhibited excellent performance in cyclic stability and rate capacity by contrast with that synthesized by the conventional solid‐phase sintering method. This is admittedly attributed to better crystallinity and less lithium loss. Therefore, RFS provides a new approach for the manufacture of LCO electrode and has the potential to be applied to other electrode materials for LIBs.
Comparative diets and prey resource competition between early‐juvenile common snookCentropomus undecimalisand non‐native pike killifishBelonesox belizanus
Authors: Smith Geoffrey H. , Murie Debra J.
Published: May 2023

Pike killifishBelonesox belizanus is an established non‐native fish species in Florida, USA, that was first documented in south Florida in 1957 and then in Tampa Bay tributaries in 1994. Decreases in small‐bodied fish abundances have been linked to the introduction of B. belizanus in both of these regions. Increases in the range and abundance ofB. belizanus in the Tampa Bay area and overlap in habitat usage have led to concerns about potential competition with, and predation on, early‐juvenile common snookCentropomus undecimalis[≤100 mm standard length (SL)]. Stomach contents of B. belizanus (N = 422; 14–127 mm SL) and early‐juvenileC. undecimalis(N = 1132; 5–119 mm SL) were collected to examine the dietary overlap of these two species and potential differences in the diet of early‐juvenileC. undecimalisfrom locations with and without B. belizanus co‐occurring. Prey resources were collected by seine to assess prey resource limitation and prey selectivity. Stomach content analysis indicated that there was low overlap in the diet of early‐juvenileC. undecimalisand B. belizanus (C ≤ 0.40). Early‐juvenileC. undecimalishad a wider diet breadth, consuming many organisms that are not consumed by B. belizanus and which make up a large portion of the early‐juvenileC. undecimalisdiet. Analysis of prey resources indicated that some prey groups may have lower abundances in locations where B. belizanus are present, with some of these differences reflected in the diet of early‐juvenileC. undecimalis. Despite these differences, there was minimal difference in the diet overlap of early‐juvenileC. undecimalisfrom locations with and without B. belizanus co‐occurring. Currently B. belizanus appear to be competing minimally with early‐juvenileC. undecimalisfor prey resources, with no substantial impacts being detected.
Micronutrient status in children and adolescents with Down syndrome: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Barišić A. , Ravančić M. E. , Majstorivić D. , Vraneković J.
Published: May 2023

Background

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic disorder. To date, the scientific literature regarding micronutrient status in children and adolescents with DS has not been systematically reviewed. Therefore, our aim was to provide a systematic review and meta‐analysis on this topic.

Methods

We identified all relevant case–control studies published by 1 January 2022, by searching the PubMed and Scopus databases for original English‐language articles analysing the micronutrient status of individuals with DS. Forty studies were included in the systematic review and 31 in the meta‐analysis.

Results

Statistically significant differences between individuals with DS (cases) and non‐DS (controls) (P ≤ 0.05) were obtained for zinc, selenium, copper, vitamin B12, sodium and calcium. Serum, plasma and whole blood analyses showed lower zinc levels in cases than controls {standardised mean difference [SMD] serum [95% confidence interval (CI)] = −2.32 [−3.22, −1.41], P < 0.00001; SMD plasma [95% CI] = −1.29 [−2.26, −0.31], P < 0.01; SMD blood [95% CI] = −1.59 [−2.29, −0.89], P < 0.00001}. Similarly, plasma and blood selenium concentrations were significantly lower in cases than controls (SMD plasma [95% CI] = −1.39 [−2.26, −0.51], P = 0.002; SMD blood [95% CI] = −1.86 [−2.59, −1.13], P < 0.00001). Intraerythrocytic copper and serum B12 were higher in cases than controls (SMD Cu [95% CI] = 3.33 [2.19, 4.46], P < 0.00001; SMD B12 [95% CI] = 0.89 [0.01, 1.77], P = 0.048). Blood calcium was lower in cases than controls (SMD Ca [95% CI] = −0.77 [−1.34, −0.21], P = 0.007).

Conclusions

This study provides the first systematic overview of micronutrient status in children and adolescents with DS and has shown that relatively little consistent research has been executed in this field. There is a clear need for more well‐designed, clinical trials to study the micronutrient status and effects of dietary supplements in children and adolescents with DS.
Cold anesthesia for pain reduction during intralesional steroid injection for nodulocystic acne
Authors: Park Su Jung , Shin Sun Hye , Koh Young Gue , Kim Gun‐Ho , Rho Nark Kyoung , Park Kui Young
Published: May 2023

Background

In any dermatologic procedure, patient acceptance of treatment is heavily influenced by intraprocedural pain. Intralesional triamcinolone injections are very important in keloid scar and nodulocystic acne treatment. However, the main problem of needle‐stick procedures is pain. Cryoanesthesia is ideally intended to cool only the epidermis during treatment and has advantage which did not require application time.

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the pain‐reducing effect and safety of CryoVIVE® (newly introduced cryoanesthesia device) during triamcinolone injections for nodulocystic acne in actual clinical settings.

Patients/Methods

In this two‐staged, non‐randomized clinical trial, a total of 64 subjects underwent intralesional triamcinolone injections for their acne lesions with cold anesthesia using CryoVIVE®. The pain intensity was assessed with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores. Safety profile was also evaluated.

Results

The mean pain VAS scores on the lesion with and without cold anesthesia were 3.667 and 5.933, respectively (p = 0.0001). No side effects, discoloration, and scarring were observed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the anesthetic use of CryoVIVE® with intralesional corticosteroid injections is a practical and well‐tolerated modality.
Addressing the grand challenges of poverty with data‐driven creative service offerings
Authors: Akter Shahriar , Hossain Md Afnan , Hani Umme , Vrontis Demetris , Thrassou Alkis , Arslan Ahmad
Published: May 2023

Big data‐driven innovation gains momentum in the developing world by tackling grand challenges and making a pronounced and lasting impact. However, research has still not answered the key question regarding the dimensions of big poverty data analytics (BPDA) capabilities for creative service offerings nor their effects on economic and social outcomes. This study fills this gap by conducting a two‐phase Delphi study and two rounds of surveys focusing on a globally leading microcredit institute in a developing country. The study conceptualizes management (analytics climate, cross‐functional integration), platform (technology and data), and talent (pattern spotting and market ambidexterity) capabilities as the dimensions of BPDA capability. It further investigates creative service offerings (meaningfulness and novelty) as the mediator between BPDA—new service performance (economic outcome from the firm's end) as well as BPDA—quality of life (social outcome from consumer's end). Our research advances, first, the microfoundational view of dynamic capability (DC) theory in the emerging data‐driven innovation paradigm by specifically identifying the complementary and co‐specialization attributes of six microfoundations (i.e., analytics climate, cross‐functional integration, data, technology, pattern spotting, and ambidexterity). In addition to DC, our study extends social innovation literature by establishing the connection between the instrument (BPDA capability) and outcome view (quality of life) of social innovation to tackle grand challenges in the developing world. Finally, our study extends creativity theory by introducing creative service offerings as a mediator and highlighting its role in the novel and meaningful solutions to social problems. Overall, this study is a pioneer in conceptualizing and empirically validating a research model that uncovers the potentially complex nuances between BPDA capability‐creative offerings and innovation outcomes to tackle the grand challenge of poverty. Its findings are scholarly significant and executive worthy and constitute a major advancement in extant studies regarding how creative services are developed using BPDA and their impact on the firm's profitability and consumer well‐being.
Effect of pituitary‐dependent hypercortisolism on the survival of dogs treated with radiotherapy for pituitary macroadenomas
Authors: Rapastella Sofia , Morabito Simona , Sharman Mellora , Benoit Jérôme , Schiavo Luca , Morris Joanna , Dobson Jane Margaret , Scudder Christopher John
Published: May 2023

Background

Radiotherapy (RT) is an effective treatment for dogs presented with neurologic signs caused by pituitary tumors. However, its impact on the outcome of concurrent pituitary‐dependent hypercortisolism (PDH) is controversial.

Objectives

Determine whether dogs with PDH have longer survival after pituitary RT compared with dogs with nonhormonally active pituitary masses and to evaluate whether clinical, imaging, and RT variables affect survival.

Animals

Ninety‐four dogs divided into 2 groups: PDH and non‐PDH, based on the presence of hypercortisolism. Forty‐seven dogs were allocated to the PDH group and 47 to the non‐PDH group.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study in which clinical records of dogs undergoing RT for pituitary macroadenomas between 2008 and 2018 at 5 referral centers were retrospectively evaluated.

Results

Survival was not statistically different between PDH and non‐PDH groups (median survival time [MST], 590 days; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0‐830 days and 738 days; 95% CI, 373‐1103 days, respectively;P = .4). A definitive RT protocol was statistically associated with longer survival compared with a palliative protocol (MST 605 vs 262 days,P = .05). The only factor statistically associated with survival from multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis was total radiation dose (Gy) delivered (P < .01).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

No statistical difference in survival was identified between the PDH and non‐PDH groups, and longer survival was associated with higher Gy delivered.
Digital user rights and their enforcement: What is the copyright directive asking for?
Authors: Brieske Jasmin
Published: May 2023

Art 17 Directive 2019/790 on copyright and related rights in the Digital Single Market (CDSMD) offers not only a new perspective on service provider liability but also on user rights in the digital sphere of copyright law. The Directive obliges Member States to enable users of online content sharing service providers to assert the use of an exception or limitation before a court or another judicial authority. Hence, art 17 CDSMD foresees a subjective, that is, enforceable, right of the user deriving out of the exceptions and limitations of copyright and related rights. Yet, there is no clear guidance on how to transpose this requirement into national law, neither in art 17 CDSMD nor within the judgment of the CJEU in the annulment proceeding or the guidance of the EU Commission. This generates uncertainty for Member States, for which the concept of enforceable user rights is novel. The paper examines the requirements which art 17 CDSMD sets out for digital user rights and the difficulties for Member States to comply with them. The example of the German transposition of art 17 CDSMD shows that a high standard of user protection is not necessarily accompanied by a respective enforceability mechanism.
Bayesian neural networks with physics‐aware regularization for probabilistic travel time modeling
Authors: Olivier Audrey , Mohammadi Sevin , Smyth Andrew W. , Adams Matt
Published: May 2023

The integration of data‐driven models such as neural networks for high‐consequence decision making has been largely hindered by their lack of predictive power away from training data and their inability to quantify uncertainties often prevalent in engineering applications. This article presents an ensembling method with function‐space regularization, which allows to integrate prior information about the function of interest, thus improving generalization performance, while enabling quantification of aleatory and epistemic uncertainties. This framework is applied to build a probabilistic ambulance travel time predictor, leveraging historical ambulance data provided by the Fire Department of New York City. Results show that the integration of a non‐Gaussian likelihood and prior information from a road network analysis yields appropriate probabilistic predictions of travel times, which could be further leveraged for emergency medical service (EMS) decision making.
Phytochrome higher order mutants reveal a complex set of light responses in the moss Physcomitrium patens
Authors: Yuan Jinhong , Xu Tengfei , Hiltbrunner Andreas
Published: May 2023

Phytochromes are photoreceptors enabling plants to respond to various light conditions. Independent gene duplications resulted in small phytochrome families in mosses, ferns and seed plants. This phytochrome diversity is hypothesised to be critical for sensing and adapting to different light conditions, but experimental evidence for this idea is lacking for mosses and ferns.

The moss model species Physcomitrium patens contains seven phytochromes grouped into three clades, PHY1/3, PHY2/4 and PHY5. Here, we used CRISPR/Cas9‐generated single and higher order mutants to investigate their role in light regulation of protonema and gametophore growth, protonema branching and induction of gametophores.

We found both specific and partially overlapping roles for the three phytochrome clades in regulating these responses in different light conditions. PHY1/3 clade phytochromes act as primary far‐red light receptors, while PHY5 clade phytochromes are the primary red light receptors. PHY2/4 clade phytochromes have functions in both red and far‐red light. We also observed that PHY1/3 and PHY2/4 clade phytochromes promote gametophore growth in simulated canopy shade and also play a role in blue light.

Similar to seed plants, gene duplications in the phytochrome lineage in mosses were followed by functional diversification into red and far‐red light‐sensing phytochromes.
How to measure mast seeding?
Authors: Bogdziewicz Michał , Calama Rafael , Courbaud Benoit , Espelta Josep M. , Hacket‐Pain Andrew , Journé Valentin , Kunstler Georges , Steele Michael , Qiu Tong , Zywiec Magdalena , Clark James S.
Published: May 2023

The periodic production of large seed crops, or masting, is a widespread phenomenon in perennial plants. This behavior can enhance the reproductive efficiency of plants, leading to increased fitness, and produce ripple effects on food webs. While variability from year to year is a defining characteristic of masting, the methods used to quantify this variability are highly debated. The commonly used coefficient of variation lacks the ability to account for the serial dependence in mast data and can be influenced by zeros, making it a less suitable choice for various applications based on individual‐level observations, such as phenotypic selection, heritability, and climate change studies, which rely on individual‐plant‐level datasets that often contain numerous zeros. To address these limitations, we present three case studies and introduce volatility and periodicity, which account for the variance in the frequency domain by emphasizing the significance of long intervals in masting. By utilizing examples of Sorbus aucuparia, Pinus pinea, Quercus robur, Quercus pubescens, and Fagus sylvatica, we demonstrate how volatility captures the effects of variance at both high and low frequencies, even in the presence of zeros, leading to improved ecological interpretations of the results. The growing availability of long‐term, individual‐plant datasets promises significant advancements in the field, but requires appropriate tools for analysis, which the new metrics provide.
Achieving food security in Ghana: Does governance matter?
Authors: Asare‐Nuamah Peter , Amoah Anthony , Asongu Simplice A.
Published: May 2023

This study complements the extant literature by assessing the role of governance dynamics in food security in Ghana for the period 1980–2019. The empirical evidence is based on the fully modified ordinary least squares technique and governance is categorized into political (entailing political stability and voice and accountability), economical (consisting of regulatory quality and government effectiveness), and institutional (entailing corruption‐control and the rule of law) governance dynamics. The study finds that the engaged governance dynamics improve food security in Ghana. Policy implications are discussed with specific emphasis on the sustainable development goals.

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Men and women differ in their interest and willingness to participate in exercise and sports science research
Authors: Nuzzo James L. , Deaner Robert O.
Published: May 2023

Unequal proportions of male and female participants in exercise research might be attributed, in part, to differences in interest and willingness to participate. We tested if men and women are equally interested and willing to undergo exercise research procedures and if they consider different factors when deciding to participate. Two samples completed an online survey. Sample 1 (129 men, 227 women) responded to advertisements on social media and survey‐sharing websites. Sample 2 (155 men, 504 women) was comprised of undergraduate psychology students. In both samples, men were significantly more interested to learn their muscle mass amount, running speed, jump height, and ball throwing ability, and more willing to receive electrical shocks, cycle or run until exhaustion, complete strength training that causes muscle soreness, and take muscle‐building supplements (all p ≤ 0.013, d = 0.23–0.48). Women were significantly more interested to learn their flexibility, and more willing to complete surveys, participate in stretching and group aerobics interventions, and participate in home exercise with online instruction (all p ≤ 0.021, d = 0.12–0.71). Women rated the following significantly more important when deciding to participate: study's implications for society; personal health status; confidence in own abilities; potential anxiety during testing; type of research facility; time to complete study; and invasiveness, pain/discomfort, and possible side effects of procedures (all p < 0.05, d = 0.26–0.81). Differences in interest and willingness to participate in research probably contribute to different proportions of men and women as participants in exercise research. Knowledge of these differences might help researchers develop recruitment strategies aimed at encouraging both men and women to participate in exercise studies.
Associations between blood donor sex and age, and outcomes of transfused newborn infants
Authors: Bahr Timothy M. , Christensen Thomas R. , Tweddell Sarah M. , Henry Erick , Rees Terry , Astin Mark E. , Kelley Walter E. , Ilstrup Sarah J. , Ohls Robin K. , Christensen Robert D.
Published: May 2023

Background

It is controversial whether the sex or age of red blood cell (RBC) donors affects mortality or morbidities of transfused newborn infants. We assessed these issues using a multi‐year, multi‐hospital database linking specific outcomes of neonatal transfusion recipients with RBC donor sex and age.

Study Design and Methods

We performed retrospective analyses of all neonates receiving ≥ one RBC transfusion during a 12‐year period in all Intermountain Healthcare hospitals, matching mortality and specific morbidities of each transfusion recipient with the sex and age of each donor.

Results

There were 6396 RBC transfusions administered to 2086 infants in 15 hospitals. A total of 825 infants were transfused exclusively with RBC from female donors, 935 infants were transfused exclusively with RBC from male donors, and 326 infants were transfused with RBC from both female and male donors. No differences in baseline characteristics were identified among the three groups. Infants who received blood from both male and female donors had more RBC transfusions (5.3 ± 2.9 transfusions if received both male and female donor blood vs. 2.6 ± 2.2 if received blood from only one sex, mean ± SD, p < .001). We identified no significant differences in mortality or morbidities associated with the sex or the age of blood donors. Similarly, an analysis of matched vs. mismatched donor/recipient sex revealed no associations with death or neonatal morbidities.

Conclusion

These data support the practice of transfusing newborn infants with RBC obtained from donors of either sex and regardless of donor age.
A New Palaeolithic Giant Handaxe from Britain: Initial Results from Excavations at Maritime Academy, Medway, Kent
Authors: Ingrey Letty , Bates Martin , Duffy Sarah , Pope Matt
Published: May 2023

This paper will present initial results from excavations at Maritime Academy, Frindsbury which produced several handaxes, two of which can be classed as ‘giant handaxes’. Artefacts were recovered from fluvial deposits in the Medway Valley and are thought to date from the Marine Isotope Stage 9 interglacial. This paper will focus on the largest of these handaxes and will present metrical data for the artefact and initial comparison with similar artefacts from the British Palaeolithic.
Developing a Biomechanical Testing Setup of the Pelvis—Part II: Experimental Testing
Authors: Soliman Ahmed , Ricci Pierre-Louis , Kedziora Slawomir , Kelm Jens , Gerich Torsten , Maas Stefan
Published: May 2023

Biomechanical testbench emulating the physiological loading of the pelvis is crucial in developing reconstructive implants for fragility fractures of the pelvis. Additionally, it will help understand the influence of the common daily loading on the pelvic ring. However, most reported experimental studies were mainly comparative with simplified loading and boundary conditions. In Part I of our study, we described the concept of the computational experiment design to design and construct a biomechanical testbench emulating the gait movement of the pelvis. The 57 muscles and joints' contact forces were reduced to four force actuators and one support, producing a similar stress distribution. The experimental setup is explained in this paper and some experimental results are presented. In addition, a series of repeatability and reproducibility tests were conducted to assess the test stand capabilities of replicating the gait physiological loading. The calculated stresses and the experimentally recorded strains showed that the pelvic ring response to the loading always follows the loaded leg side during the gait cycle. Furthermore, the experimental results of the pelvis displacement and strain at selected locations match the numerical ones. The developed test stand and the concept of computational experiment design behind it provide guidelines on how to design biomechanical testing equipment with physiological relevance.
Numerical Simulation of Local Scour Around a Square Artificial Reef
Authors: Yang Mingda , Tang Yanli , Zhao Fenfang , Xu Shiji , Fang Guangjie
Published: May 2023

Artificial reefs (ARs) are one of the key anthropogenic constructs used to restore offshore fishery resources and recover the ecological environment. However, many ARs lose their stability and function due to scour. To ensure the functional effect of ARs, it is of great significance to study the factors causing AR instability, such as burying caused by scour under different flow conditions. In present study, a three-dimensional numerical model is established in FLOW-3D to study the local scour characteristics around an AR in steady currents. Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations, closed with the renormalization group (RNG) k–ɛ turbulence model, are established to simulate a stable flow field around one AR. The simulation results are compared with previous experimental results, exhibiting good agreement. The effects of the opening number and the incident angles of ARs on the scour characteristics, equilibrium scour depth, and maximum scour volume were also investigated. The results indicate that the scour depth and scour volume decreased as the opening number increased. Furthermore, empirical equations are proposed herein based on the numerical results derived for the effects of the AR opening number on the equilibrium scour depth and maximum scour volume. A change in the incident angle affected the bed shear stress at the most-upstream corner of the AR. The greater the bed shear stress was, the more intense the scour was. In this study, we provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the optimized engineering design and construction of ARs.