bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Childhood dental caries and obesity: Opportunities for interdisciplinary approaches to prevention
Authors: Bhoopathi Vinodh , Tripicchio Gina
Published: February 2024

Dental caries and obesity are prevalent and preventable chronic childhood diseases. Evidence shows a strong connection between these two diseases, with overlapping common risk factors, including diet as a key driver of risk. Dental professionals are well‐positioned to perform nutritional counseling and obesity prevention in dental clinic settings, but training and clinical integration remain key challenges. This paper highlights the potential for leveraging the common risk factor approach (CRFA) framework and its principles to reduce the impact of childhood dental caries and obesity. Strategies and methods are provided to integrate meaningful didactic and clinical training experiences in dental academia, and the need to include effective and evidence‐based nutritional counseling techniques in dental settings is also described. Additionally, the potential for integrating CRFA and engaging health care providers across the spectrum of care, including primary care settings, to reduce the prevalence of these diseases in pediatric populations is highlighted. Finally, the authors propose future directions for multidisciplinary research to advance the scientific knowledge in this area and to inform effective and comprehensive interventions for dental settings.
Dispositional awe negatively predicts corruption via the sense of connectedness
Authors: Jiao Liming , Luo Li
Published: February 2024

Corruption is a political and economic issue that has a detrimental impact on social and economic development. This study investigated the predictive effect of dispositional awe on corruption, and the underlying mechanisms from the perspective of connectedness. A sample of 548 (Nfemale = 371) individuals, aged between 16 and 71 years old (M = 21.18, SD = 3.39), was collected. Participants completed scales to measure dispositional awe, the sense of connectedness, corruption, and social desirability. Structural equation modelling and a bootstrap procedure were used to analyze the relationship between the variables. Results showed that dispositional awe negatively predicted corruption, including the tendencies for giving and accepting bribes, and this could be explained by the sense of connectedness, after controlling for the effect of social desirability. The findings highlight the significance of dispositional awe in relation to corruption, enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms connecting the two variables, and provide practical implications for the prevention of corruption.
One hundred priority questions for advancing seagrass conservation in Europe
Authors: Nordlund Lina Mtwana , Unsworth Richard K. F. , Wallner‐Hahn Sieglind , Ratnarajah Lavenia , Beca‐Carretero Pedro , Boikova Elmira , Bull James C. , Chefaoui Rosa M. , de los Santos Carmen B. , Gagnon Karine , Garmendia Joxe Mikel , Gizzi Francesca , Govers Laura L. , Gustafsson Camilla , Hineva Elitsa , Infantes Eduardo , Canning‐Clode João , Jahnke Marlene , Kleitou Periklis , Kennedy Hilary , Klayn Stefania , Moller Tiia , Monteiro João , Piñeiro‐Juncal Nerea , Ponis Emanuele , Papathanasiou Vasillis , Poursanidis Dimitris , Pieraccini Riccardo , Serrano Oscar , Sousa Ana. I. , Schäfer Susanne , Rossi Francesca , Storey D. Sebastian , van Katwijk Marieke M. , Wall Dave , Ward Emma A. , Wilkes Robert
Published: February 2024

Societal Impact Statement

Seagrass ecosystems are of fundamental importance to our planet and wellbeing. Seagrasses are marine flowering plants, which engineer ecosystems that provide a multitude of ecosystem services, for example, blue foods and carbon sequestration. Seagrass ecosystems have largely been degraded across much of their global range. There is now increasing interest in the conservation and restoration of these systems, particularly in the context of the climate emergency and the biodiversity crisis. The collation of 100 questions from experts across Europe could, if answered, improve our ability to conserve and restore these systems by facilitating a fundamental shift in the success of such work.

Seagrass meadows provide numerous ecosystem services including biodiversity, coastal protection, and carbon sequestration. In Europe, seagrasses can be found in shallow sheltered waters along coastlines, in estuaries & lagoons, and around islands, but their distribution has declined. Factors such as poor water quality, coastal modification, mechanical damage, overfishing, land‐sea interactions, climate change and disease have reduced the coverage of Europe’s seagrasses necessitating their recovery. Research, monitoring and conservation efforts on seagrass ecosystems in Europe are mostly uncoordinated and biased towards certain species and regions, resulting in inadequate delivery of critical information for their management. Here, we aim to identify the 100 priority questions, that if addressed would strongly advance seagrass monitoring, research and conservation in Europe. Using a Delphi method, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers with seagrass experience from across Europe and with diverse seagrass expertise participated in the process that involved the formulation of research questions, a voting process and an online workshop to identify the final list of the 100 questions. The final list of questions covers areas across nine themes: Biodiversity & Ecology; Ecosystem services; Blue carbon; Fishery support; Drivers, Threats, Resilience & Response; Monitoring & Assessment; Conservation & Restoration; Governance, Policy & Management; and Communication. Answering these questions will fill current knowledge gaps and place European seagrass onto a positive trajectory of recovery.
In silico trial for the assessment of givinostat dose adjustment rules based on the management of key hematological parameters in polycythemia vera patients
Authors: Tosca Elena M. , De Carlo Alessandro , Bartolucci Roberta , Fiorentini Francesco , Di Tollo Silvia , Caserini Maurizio , Rocchetti Maurizio , Bettica Paolo , Magni Paolo
Published: February 2024

Polycythemia vera (PV) is a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by excessive levels of platelets (PLT), white blood cells (WBC), and hematocrit (HCT). Givinostat (ITF2357) is a potent histone‐deacetylase inhibitor that showed a good safety/efficacy profile in PV patients during phase I/II studies. A phase III clinical trial had been planned and an adaptive dosing protocol had been proposed where givinostat dose is iteratively adjusted every 28 days (one cycle) based on PLT, WBC, and HCT. As support, a simulation platform to evaluate and refine the proposed givinostat dose adjustment rules was developed. A population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model predicting the givinostat effects on PLT, WBC, and HCT in PV patients was developed and integrated with a control algorithm implementing the adaptive dosing protocol. Ten in silico trials in ten virtual PV patient populations were simulated 500 times. Considering an eight‐treatment cycle horizon, reducing/increasing the givinostat daily dose by 25 mg/day step resulted in a higher percentage of patients with a complete hematological response (CHR), that is, PLT ≤400 × 109/L, WBC ≤10 × 109/L, and HCT < 45% without phlebotomies in the last three cycles, and a lower percentage of patients with grade II toxicity events compared with 50 mg/day adjustment steps. After the eighth cycle, 85% of patients were predicted to receive a dose ≥100 mg/day and 40.90% (95% prediction interval = [34, 48.05]) to show a CHR. These results were confirmed at the end of 12th, 18th, and 24th cycles, showing a stability of the response between the eighth and 24th cycles.
Preparation of a High‐Performance Anti‐Aging Polypropylene Composite with Titanium Oxide and Calcium Sulfate Shielding Agents
Authors: Cong Shanshan , Lan Tianyu , Wang Yazhen , Zu Liwu , Dong Shaobo , Zhan Zuoyuan
Published: February 2024

Polypropylene is a thermoplastic synthetic resin that is widely used across industries. However, it tends to fracture easily and get oxidized under ultraviolet light and high temperatures. This not only reduces its service life but also causes pollution and waste. Although the use of TiO2 as a shielding agent has improved the aging performance of PP composite materials, it still has poor mechanical and processing properties that do not meet the actual demand for high‐performance polypropylene.This limitation seriously impacts the development of polypropylene products. In this paper, we propose the use of the ATRP method with UV shielding titanium dioxide (TiO2) and high‐toughness calcium sulfate whiskers (CSW) coated with coupling agent KH570 surface modification after grafting acrylonitrile (AN). This material has a dual shielding effect on UV light. TiO2‐PAN (TP) mainly plays the role of anti‐aging, whereas CSW‐PAN(CP) mainly enhances the compatibility and mechanical strength between TP and CP. Additionally, CP has a certain UV shielding function due to grafting acrylonitrile. When added to PP in a certain proportion, TP and CP work together to improve the overall performance of polypropylene.
Light‐Induced Vicinal Dichlorination of Alkenes Using FeCl3 as the Dichlorination Reagent
Authors: Li Minghao , Qiu Ming , Ren Yun‐Lai , Li Hui , An Wan‐Kai
Published: February 2024

We report a ligand‐to‐metal charge‐transfer (LMCT) process that used ferric (III) chloride as efficient chlorination reagent to mediate the vicinal dichlorination of alkenes. Under 420 nm LED light, the easily available and safe ferric (III) chloride could facilitate various alkenes to transform as 1,2‐dichloride compounds with good to excellent yields (19 examples). The strategy showed a more economic protocol than CuCl2, and provided a significant reference for the light‐Induced dichlorination in industrial catalysis.
Nanoparticles Targeting Lymph Nodes for Cancer Immunotherapy: Strategies and Influencing Factors
Authors: Li Zi‐Zhan , Zhong Nian‐Nian , Cao Lei‐Ming , Cai Ze‐Min , Xiao Yao , Wang Guang‐Rui , Liu Bing , Xu Chun , Bu Lin‐Lin
Published: February 2024

Immunotherapy has emerged as a potent strategy in cancer treatment, with many approved drugs and modalities in the development stages. Despite its promise, immunotherapy is not without its limitations, including side effects and suboptimal efficacy. Using nanoparticles (NPs) as delivery vehicles to target immunotherapy to lymph nodes (LNs) can improve the efficacy of immunotherapy drugs and reduce side effects in patients. In this context, this paper reviews the development of LN‐targeted immunotherapeutic NP strategies, the mechanisms of NP transport during LN targeting, and their related biosafety risks. NP targeting of LNs involves either passive targeting, influenced by NP physical properties, or active targeting, facilitated by affinity ligands on NP surfaces, while alternative methods, such as intranodal injection and high endothelial venule (HEV) targeting, have uncertain clinical applicability and require further research and validation. LN targeting of NPs for immunotherapy can reduce side effects and increase biocompatibility, but risks such as toxicity, organ accumulation, and oxidative stress remain, although strategies such as biodegradable biomacromolecules, polyethylene glycol (PEG) coating, and impurity addition can mitigate these risks. Additionally, this work concludes with a future‐oriented discussion, offering critical insights into the field.
Piezoelectric Hydrogels: Hybrid Material Design, Properties, and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Zhang Chi , Kwon Sun Hwa , Dong Lin
Published: February 2024

Hydrogels show great potential in biomedical applications due to their inherent biocompatibility, high water content, and resemblance to the extracellular matrix. However, they lack self‐powering capabilities and often necessitate external stimulation to initiate cell regenerative processes. In contrast, piezoelectric materials offer self‐powering potential but tend to compromise flexibility. To address this, creating a novel hybrid biomaterial of piezoelectric hydrogels (PHs), which combines the advantageous properties of both materials, offers a systematic solution to the challenges faced by these materials when employed separately. Such innovative material system is expected to broaden the horizons of biomedical applications, such as piezocatalytic medicinal and health monitoring applications, showcasing its adaptability by endowing hydrogels with piezoelectric properties. Unique functionalities, like enabling self‐powered capabilities and inducing electrical stimulation that mimics endogenous bioelectricity, can be achieved while retaining hydrogel matrix advantages. Given the limited reported literature on PHs, here recent strategies concerning material design and fabrication, essential properties, and distinctive applications are systematically discussed. The review is concluded by providing perspectives on the remaining challenges and the future outlook for PHs in the biomedical field. As PHs emerge as a rising star, a comprehensive exploration of their potential offers insights into the new hybrid biomaterials.
Estimation of the density for censored and contaminated data
Authors: Van Keilegom Ingrid , Kekeç Elif
Published: February 2024

Consider a situation where one is interested in estimating the density of a survival time that is subject to random right censoring and measurement errors. This happens often in practice, like in public health (pregnancy length), medicine (duration of infection), ecology (duration of forest fire), among others. We assume a classical additive measurement error model with Gaussian noise and unknown error variance and a random right censoring scheme. Under this setup, we develop minimal conditions under which the assumed model is identifiable when no auxiliary variables or validation data are available, and we offer a flexible estimation strategy using Laguerre polynomials for the estimation of the error variance and the density of the survival time. The asymptotic normality of the proposed estimators is established, and the numerical performance of the methodology is investigated on both simulated and real data on gestational age.
I4.0 Holonic Multi-agent Testbed Enabling Shared Production
Authors: Bernhard Alexis T. , Jungbluth Simon , Karnoub Ali , Sidorenko Aleksandr , Motsch William , Wagner Achim , Ruskowski Martin
Published: February 2024

This chapter aims at presenting the system architecture of a distributed production testbed embedded in an interoperable Shared Production network. The goal of the modular architecture is to enable flexible, resilient and distributed production. The presented approach illustrates how Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) can be incorporated in the manufacturing domain for distributed components on different hierarchy layers based on a holonic approach. The concept is validated on the real-world demonstrator testbed of the SmartFactoryKL. Furthermore, the MAS is combined with Industry 4.0 technologies such as the Asset Administration Shell and OPC UA.
Human in the AI Loop via xAI and Active Learning for Visual Inspection
Authors: Rožanec Jože M. , Montini Elias , Cutrona Vincenzo , Papamartzivanos Dimitrios , Klemenčič Timotej , Fortuna Blaž , Mladenić Dunja , Veliou Entso , Giannetsos Thanassis , Emmanouilidis Christos
Published: February 2024

Industrial revolutions have historically disrupted manufacturing by introducing automation into production. Increasing automation reshapes the role of the human worker. Advances in robotics and artificial intelligence open new frontiers of human-machine collaboration. Such collaboration can be realized considering two sub-fields of artificial intelligence: active learning and explainable artificial intelligence. Active learning aims to devise strategies that help obtain data that allows machine learning algorithms to learn better. On the other hand, explainable artificial intelligence aims to make the machine learning models intelligible to the human person. The present work first describes Industry 5.0, human-machine collaboration, and state-of-the-art regarding quality inspection, emphasizing visual inspection. Then it outlines how human-machine collaboration could be realized and enhanced in visual inspection. Finally, some of the results obtained in the EU H2020 STAR project regarding visual inspection are shared, considering artificial intelligence, human-digital twins, and cybersecurity.
Why and How Textbooks Matter for Youth Wellbeing
Authors: Gellman Mneesha
Published: February 2024

This chapter presents what is at stake regarding representation in US history textbooks. The chapter highlights why education is so strongly linked with youth identity, and what the implications are for minority students who do not see themselves represented accurately or even at all in their history textbooks. The data sample, textbook coding methods, literature review, ethnographic data, and terminology are all described to ensure readers know the research context of this book.
Digital Twin for 6G Networks
Authors: Zhang Yan
Published: February 2024

Digital twin is a technology that has the potential to help sixth-generation (6G) networks to realize digitization. In this chapter, we first introduce the combination of digital twin and 6G and then discuss two key use cases in terms of reconfigurable intelligent surfaces and digital twin and digital twins for stochastic offloading.
A Survey on Perceptions of Data Sharing in the Norwegian Public Sector
Authors: Knutsen Leif Z. , Ngereja Bertha , Bjaaland Ingebjørg Flaata , Hannay Jo E. , Tanilkan Sinan S.
Published: February 2024

Sharing data among public institutions is essential for reaping the benefits of data-driven capabilities. Literature to date has identified several types of benefits that are likely to accrue to a wide range of sectors, as well as challenges and obstacles to implementing data-sharing solutions. We sought to identify perceptions of possible benefits, likely challenges, and the likelihood of overcoming them in the Norwegian public sector. Our survey of IT practitioners interested in the subject suggests that optimism about data sharing is high, concerns about a wide range of challenges are also high, and confidence in public institutions is tenuous. Responses also suggest that divisional management may be critical in implementing data sharing solutions. The pattern of responses suggests uncertainty consistent with low maturity in the field. We posit that data sharing among public institutions is part of a broader set of capabilities needed for public service innovation across institutions.
Investigating the Barriers that Women Face in Software Development Teams Focusing on the Context of Proprietary Software Ecosystems
Authors: do Outão Juliana Carvalho Silva , da Costa Luiz Alexandre Martins , dos Santos Rodrigo Pereira , Serebrenik Alexander
Published: February 2024

Despite the growing discussion and concern about the topic, gender diversity in the Exact Sciences and Technology still requires attention. It has been observed by several authors that gender diversity is not present in a significant way in development teams, despite the potential positive effects. Moreover, with the growing demand for software that meet complex business needs, the concept of Software Ecosystems (SECO) has emerged and opens opportunities for external developers and strategies for fostering gender diversity. A Proprietary Software Ecosystem (PSECO) is a type of SECO that comprises a common technological platform with contributions protected by intellectual property. This work aims to investigate which barriers women face in software development teams focusing on the context of PSECO and what strategies can be used to increase inclusion based on a multivocal literature review. To do so, 29 studies were selected and 13 gender barriers were identified, with the 3 most cited barriers being: sexism, lack of peer parity, and imposter syndrome. Furthermore, it was observed that external PSECO actors can significantly interfere in the occurrences of gender barriers, in addition to the internal actors of the central organization (keystone).
Business and Ethical Concerns in Domestic Conversational Generative AI-Empowered Multi-robot Systems
Authors: Rousi Rebekah , Samani Hooman , Mäkitalo Niko , Vakkuri Ville , Linkola Simo , Kemell Kai-Kristian , Daubaris Paulius , Fronza Ilenia , Mikkonen Tommi , Abrahamsson Pekka
Published: February 2024

Business and technology are intricately connected through logic and design. They are equally sensitive to societal changes and may be devastated by scandal. Cooperative multi-robot systems (MRSs) are on the rise, allowing robots of different types and brands to work together in diverse contexts. Generative artificial intelligence has been a dominant topic in recent artificial intelligence (AI) discussions due to its capacity to mimic humans through the use of natural language and the production of media, including deep fakes. In this article, we focus specifically on the conversational aspects of generative AI, and hence use the term Conversational Generative artificial intelligence (CGI). Like MRSs, CGIs have enormous potential for revolutionizing processes across sectors and transforming the way humans conduct business. From a business perspective, cooperative MRSs alone, with potential conflicts of interest, privacy practices, and safety concerns, require ethical examination. MRSs empowered by CGIs demand multi-dimensional and sophisticated methods to uncover imminent ethical pitfalls. This study focuses on ethics in CGI-empowered MRSs while reporting the stages of developing the MORUL model.
What Is the Cost of AI Ethics? Initial Conceptual Framework and Empirical Insights
Authors: Kemell Kai-Kristian , Vakkuri Ville
Published: February 2024

AI ethics has become a common topic of discussion in both media and academic research. Companies are also increasingly interested in AI ethics, although there are still various challenges associated with bringing AI ethics into practice. Especially from a business point of view, AI ethics remains largely unexplored. The lack of established processes and practices for implementing AI ethics is an issue in this regard as well, as resource estimation is challenging if the process is fuzzy. In this paper, we begin tackling this issue by providing initial insights into the cost of AI ethics. Building on existing literature on software quality cost estimation, we draw parallels between the past state of quality in Software Engineering (SE) and the current state of AI ethics. Empirical examples are then utilized to showcase some elements of the cost of implementing AI ethics. While this paper provides an initial look into the cost of AI ethics and useful insights from comparisons to software quality, the practice of implementing AI ethics remains nascent, and, thus, a better empirical understanding of AI ethics is required going forward.
Are Business Expectations Aligned with the Development Plan Made by the Software Architecture Area? A Case Study on Agile Teams in a Large Company
Authors: da Silva Marcelo Augusto , Costa Inaldo Capistrano , Guerra Eduardo Martins
Published: February 2024

In the current scenario of digital transformation, understanding the interaction between the areas of business and software architecture is essential for delivering successful projects. This research aims to elucidate perceptions related to both domains, thus seeking a more efficient collaboration in the context of agile software development projects. Based on a qualitative research method, we conducted semi-structured interviews with product owners and software architects. The collected data were analyzed using Thematic Analysis to discover patterns and themes regarding the perceptions of the interviewed professionals. We found out that business areas often have a limited understanding of the technical complexities involved in software architecture, while software architects sometimes have no knowledge about business development plans. However, a continuous iteration process, supported by proper communication channels, could drive better project results. The study also revealed the potential for a proactive, integrated approach to architecture, focusing on continuous education and team alignment. Finally, bridging the knowledge gap and fostering collaboration between the two areas may lead to more efficient and effective software development processes. Future research perspectives could reveal strategies that would improve this collaboration or explore similar dynamics in different organizational contexts.
Experimentation in Early-Stage Video Game Startups: Practices and Challenges
Authors: Edison Henry , Melegati Jorge , Bjarnason Elizabeth
Published: February 2024

Experimentation has been considered critical for successful software product and business development, including in video game startups. Video game startups need “wow” qualities that distinguish them from the competition. Thus, they need to continuously experiment to find these qualities before running out of time and resources. In this study, we aimed to explore how these companies perform experimentation. We interviewed four co-founders of video game startups. Our findings identify six practices, or scenarios, through which video game startups conduct experiments and challenges associated with these. The initial results could inform these startups about the possibilities and challenges and guide future research.
Research Streams of Barriers to Digital Transformation: Mapping Current State and Future Directions
Authors: Brink Henning , Paul Fynn-Hendrik , Packmohr Sven
Published: February 2024

Digital Transformation (DT) strives to alter an entity by substantially changing its characteristics facilitated by integrating digital technologies. Albeit numerous barriers hinder the realization of its potential. Barriers are subject to scientific research. Generally, scientific works result in research streams. The existing literature already examines the DT streams. Although these works make an essential contribution, they cannot sufficiently explore the field of barriers. Keeping track of the concepts and themes in a growing research field is challenging. Therefore, the aims of this mapping study are (1) to show which domain-specific research streams are explicitly dealing with the DT barriers, (2) to highlight which topics research currently addresses, and (3) which topics should be investigated in the future. Combining elements of a bibliometric analysis with a systematic literature review, we mapped nine different streams based on 203 publications. The results indicate that much research focuses on industrial companies or sectors but needs an overarching perspective. Also, many studies are only concerned with identifying the barriers, while systematic approaches to overcoming them still need to be developed.
Neutrino amplitude decomposition, S matrix rephasing invariance, and reparametrization symmetry
Authors: Minakata Hisakazu
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The S matrix rephasing invariance is one of the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics that originates in its probabilistic interpretation. For a given S matrix which describes neutrino oscillation, one can define the two different rephased amplitudes $$ {S}_{\alpha \beta}^{\textrm{Reph}-1}\equiv {e}^{i\left({\lambda}_1/2E\right)x}{S}_{\alpha \beta} $$

S
αβ

Reph
−
1

≡

e

i

λ
1

/
2
E

x

S
αβ

and $$ {S}_{\alpha \beta}^{\textrm{Reph}-2}\equiv {e}^{i\left({\lambda}_2/2E\right)x}{S}_{\alpha \beta} $$

S
αβ

Reph
−
2

≡

e

i

λ
2

/
2
E

x

S
αβ

, which are physically equivalent to each other, where λk/2E denotes the energy eigenvalue of the k-th mass eigenstate. We point out that the transformation of the reparametrization (Rep) symmetry obtained with “Symmetry Finder” maps $$ {S}_{\alpha \beta}^{\textrm{Reph}-1} $$

S
αβ

Reph
−
1

to $$ {S}_{\alpha \beta}^{\textrm{Reph}-2} $$

S
αβ

Reph
−
2

, and vice versa, providing a local and manifest realization of the S matrix rephasing invariance by the Rep symmetry of the 1–2 state exchange type. It is strongly indicative of quantum mechanical nature of the Rep symmetry. The rephasing and Rep symmetry relation, though its all-order treatment remains incomplete, is shown to imply absence of the pure 1–3 exchange symmetry in Denton et al. perturbation theory. It then triggers a study of convergence of perturbation series.
Effective 2HDM Yukawa interactions and a strong first-order electroweak phase transition
Authors: Anisha  , Azevedo Duarte , Biermann Lisa , Englert Christoph , Mühlleitner Margarete
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The top quark as the heaviest particle in the Standard Model (SM) defines an important mass scale for Higgs physics and the electroweak scale itself. It is therefore a well-motivated degree of freedom which could reveal the presence of new interactions beyond the SM. Correlating modifications of the top-Higgs interactions in the 2-Higgs-Doublet Model (2HDM), we analyse effective field theory deformations of these interactions from the point of view of a strong first-order electroweak phase transition (SFOEWPT). We show that such modifications are compatible with current Higgs data and that an SFOEWPT can be tantamount to a current overestimate of exotic Higgs searches’ sensitivity at the LHC in $$ t\overline{t} $$
t

t
¯

and four top quark final states. We argue that these searches remain robust from the point of accidental signal-background interference so that the current experimental strategy might well lead to 2HDM-like discoveries in the near future.
Dark Patterns: manipulative Designstrategien in digitalen Gesundheitsanwendungen
Authors: Mildner Thomas , Savino Gian-Luca , Schöning Johannes , Malaka Rainer
Published: February 2024

Digitale Gesundheitsanwendungen unterstützen Nutzer:innen unter anderem dabei, ihre physische und mentale Gesundheit durch digitale Daten besser zu verstehen, und fördern dadurch ein positives Gesundheitsverhalten. Neben den staatlich geprüften digitalen Gesundheitsanwendungen (DiGA) und digitalen Pflegeanwendungen (DiPA) besteht durch eine Vielzahl weiterer kommerzieller Gesundheitsanwendungen ein breites Angebot für Nutzer:innen. Gerade bei nicht geprüften Angeboten werden von Entwickler:innen häufig, beabsichtigt oder unbeabsichtigt, manipulative Designstrategien (Dark Patterns) verwendet, die Nutzer:innen dazu verleiten, bestimmte Entscheidungen zu treffen. Dieser Artikel bietet einen Überblick über aktuelle und weitverbreitete Dark Patterns und ordnet ein, welche Risiken von ihnen in digitalen Gesundheitsanwendungen ausgehen können.

Zukünftig sollte „Licht“ auf Dark Patterns geworfen werden, indem mehr Transparenz für Nutzer:innen geschaffen wird, Regulator:innen ein genaueres Verständnis von Dark Patterns erlangen und verstärkt auf die Umsetzung von Richtlinien geachtet wird. So können Nutzer:innen Autonomie im Umgang mit Gesundheitsanwendungen gewinnen und ihre Daten besser geschützt werden.
Assessment of Involuntary PFM Contractions in Comparison with Existing Literature and IUGA/ICS Terminology Reports
Authors: de Jong J. , Burkhard F. , Zwahlen M. , Junginger B. , Dumoulin C.
Published: February 2024

Introduction and Hypothesis

Involuntary pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contractions are thought to occur during an increase in intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). Although no studies have assessed their presence in women with normal pelvic floor (PF) function, existing literature links the absence of involuntary PFM contractions to various PF dysfunctions. This study rectifies this lacuna by evaluating involuntary PFM contractions during IAP in healthy nulliparous women with no PF dysfunction, using visual observation and vaginal palpation. Results were compared with the literature and the IUGA/ICS Terminology Reports.

Methods

Nulliparous (n=149) women performed three sets of three maximal coughs. Visual observation and vaginal palpation were conducted in the standing and supine positions. The women were not instructed to contract their PFMs. Occurrence rates were calculated for each assessment method and position; differences between positions were analyzed using the Chi-squared test.

Results

Rates of occurrence of involuntary PFM contraction were low across both assessments and positions (5–17%). Significant differences were found between standing (5%) and supine (15%) positions for visual observation, but not vaginal palpation (15%, 17% respectively). Occurrence rates also differed compared with the literature and terminology reports.

Conclusions

Contrary to clinical expectations, rates of occurrence of involuntary PFM contraction among our cohort of nulliparous women were extremely low. Digital palpation results showed high agreement with the terminology reports, but only partial agreement was observed for the visual observation results. Our study underscores the need for more research aimed at defining normal involuntary PF functions, a review of our understanding of involuntary PFM contractions, and better standardized guidelines for involuntary PFM assessment methods.
Adjuvant holmium-166 radioembolization after radiofrequency ablation in early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma patients: a dose-finding study (HORA EST HCC trial)
Authors: Hendriks Pim , Rietbergen Daphne D. D. , van Erkel Arian R. , Coenraad Minneke J. , Arntz Mark J. , Bennink Roel J. , Braat Andries E. , Crobach Stijn , van Delden Otto M. , Dibbets-Schneider Petra , van der Hulle Tom , Klümpen Heinz-Josef , van der Meer Rutger W. , Nijsen J. Frank W. , van Rijswijk Catharina S. P. , Roosen Joey , Ruijter Bastian N. , Smit Frits , Stam Mette K. , Takkenberg R. Bart , Tushuizen Maarten E. , van Velden Floris H. P. , de Geus-Oei Lioe-Fee , Burgmans Mark C. ,   Dutch Hepatocellular and Cholangiocarcinoma Group
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the biodistribution of (super-)selective trans-arterial radioembolization (TARE) with holmium-166 microspheres (166Ho-MS), when administered as adjuvant therapy after RFA of HCC 2–5 cm. The objective was to establish a treatment volume absorbed dose that results in an absorbed dose of ≥ 120 Gy on the hyperemic zone around the ablation necrosis (i.e., target volume).

Methods

In this multicenter, prospective dose-escalation study in BCLC early stage HCC patients with lesions 2–5 cm, RFA was followed by (super-)selective infusion of 166Ho-MS on day 5–10 after RFA. Dose distribution within the treatment volume was based on SPECT-CT. Cohorts of up to 10 patients were treated with an incremental dose (60 Gy, 90 Gy, 120 Gy) of 166Ho-MS to the treatment volume. The primary endpoint was to obtain a target volume dose of ≥ 120 Gy in 9/10 patients within a cohort.

Results

Twelve patients were treated (male 10; median age, 66.5 years (IQR, [64.3–71.7])) with a median tumor diameter of 2.7 cm (IQR, [2.1–4.0]). At a treatment volume absorbed dose of 90 Gy, the primary endpoint was met with a median absorbed target volume dose of 138 Gy (IQR, [127–145]). No local recurrences were found within 1-year follow-up.

Conclusion

Adjuvant (super-)selective infusion of 166Ho-MS after RFA for the treatment of HCC can be administered safely at a dose of 90 Gy to the treatment volume while reaching a dose of ≥ 120 Gy to the target volume and may be a favorable adjuvant therapy for HCC lesions 2–5 cm.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03437382. (registered: 19-02-2018)
Phaseless Sampling on Square-Root Lattices
Authors: Grohs Philipp , Liehr Lukas
Published: February 2024

Due to its appearance in a remarkably wide field of applications, such as audio processing and coherent diffraction imaging, the short-time Fourier transform (STFT) phase retrieval problem has seen a great deal of attention in recent years. A central problem in STFT phase retrieval concerns the question for which window functions$$g \in {L^2({\mathbb R}^d)}$$g∈L2(Rd)and which sampling sets$$\Lambda \subseteq {\mathbb R}^{2d}$$Λ⊆R2dis every$$f \in {L^2({\mathbb R}^d)}$$f∈L2(Rd)uniquely determined (up to a global phase factor) by phaseless samples of the form$$\begin{aligned} |V_gf(\Lambda )| = \left\{ |V_gf(\lambda )|: \lambda \in \Lambda \right\} , \end{aligned}$$|Vgf(Λ)|=|Vgf(λ)|:λ∈Λ,where$$V_gf$$Vgfdenotes the STFT offwith respect tog. The investigation of this question constitutes a key step towards making the problem computationally tractable. However, it deviates from ordinary sampling tasks in a fundamental and subtle manner: recent results demonstrate that uniqueness is unachievable if$$\Lambda $$Λis a lattice, i.e$$\Lambda = A{\mathbb Z}^{2d}, A \in \textrm{GL}(2d,{\mathbb R})$$Λ=AZ2d,A∈GL(2d,R). Driven by this discretization barrier, the present article centers around the initiation of a novel sampling scheme which allows for unique recovery of any square-integrable function via phaseless STFT-sampling. Specifically, we show that square-root lattices, i.e., sets of the form$$\begin{aligned} \Lambda = A \left( \sqrt{{\mathbb Z}} \right) ^{2d}, \ \sqrt{{\mathbb Z}} = \{ \pm \sqrt{n}: n \in {\mathbb N}_0 \}, \end{aligned}$$Λ=AZ2d,Z={±n:n∈N0},guarantee uniqueness of the STFT phase retrieval problem. The result holds for a large class of window functions, including Gaussians
What’s metacognition got to do with the relationship between test anxiety and mathematics achievement?
Authors: Aydın Utkun , Özgeldi Meriç
Published: February 2024

Research examining the joint relationships between test anxiety, metacognition, and mathematics achievement revealing the mediational role of metacognition in the relationship between test anxiety and mathematics achievement is sparse. A mediation study was designed to redress this imbalance. The Children’s Test Anxiety Scale (CTAS), Junior Metacognitive Awareness Inventory (Jr. MAI), and Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT) were distributed to 943 (442 males and 501 females) Grade 7 (n = 477) and Grade 8 (n = 466) students aged between 11–12 (Mage = 11.5, SD = .88) and 11–13 (Mage = 12, SD = .91) years, respectively. In this study, multiple mediation models were tested to explore the role of metacognition as a mediator of the effect of test anxiety on mathematics achievement. Results indicate that although both test anxiety and metacognition were significantly related to mathematics achievement, metacognition was not a statistically significant mediator in the relationship between test anxiety and mathematics achievement. Specifically, the knowledge of cognition component of metacognition was the only significant mediator, mediating the relationship between off-task behaviors and mathematics achievement. Findings support the beneficial role of metacognition with the rewarding side of a key implication that without developing metacognitive knowledge, efforts at alleviating test anxiety to maximize achievement in mathematics may well be fruitless. Educational and practical implications are discussed.
Learning team-based navigation: a review of deep reinforcement learning techniques for multi-agent pathfinding
Authors: Chung Jaehoon , Fayyad Jamil , Younes Younes Al , Najjaran Homayoun
Published: February 2024

Multi-agent pathfinding (MAPF) is a critical field in many large-scale robotic applications, often being the fundamental step in multi-agent systems. The increasing complexity of MAPF in complex and crowded environments, however, critically diminishes the effectiveness of existing solutions. In contrast to other studies that have either presented a general overview of the recent advancements in MAPF or extensively reviewed Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) within multi-agent system settings independently, our work presented in this review paper focuses on highlighting the integration of DRL-based approaches in MAPF. Moreover, we aim to bridge the current gap in evaluating MAPF solutions by addressing the lack of unified evaluation indicators and providing comprehensive clarification on these indicators. Finally, our paper discusses the potential of model-based DRL as a promising future direction and provides its required foundational understanding to address current challenges in MAPF. Our objective is to assist readers in gaining insight into the current research direction, providing unified indicators for comparing different MAPF algorithms and expanding their knowledge of model-based DRL to address the existing challenges in MAPF.
Operads, Operadic Categories and the Blob Complex
Authors: Batanin Michael , Markl Martin
Published: February 2024

We will show that the Morrison–Walker blob complex appearing in Topological Quantum Field Theory is an operadic bar resolution of a certain operad composed of fields and local relations. As a by-product we develop the theory of unary operadic categories and study some novel and interesting phenomena arising in this context.
Associations Between Distinct Trauma Classes and Mental Health Care Utilization in Norwegian Adolescents: A National Registry Study
Authors: Skandsen Annika , Nilsen Sondre Aasen , Hysing Mari , Teicher Martin H. , Sand Liv , Bøe Tormod
Published: February 2024

Adolescents who experience potentially traumatic experiences (PTEs) have an increased risk of psychopathology. PTEs often co-occur and may form interrelated patterns of exposure. This study investigated underlying classes of PTE exposure among Norwegian adolescent participants in the youth@hordaland study, and whether such classes were associated with contact with child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) and psychiatric diagnoses. The data stem from the population-based youth@hordaland study conducted in 2012 which was linked to the Norwegian Patient Registry (NPR, n = 8845). Exposure to PTEs was assessed by adolescent self-report whereas psychiatric disorders (Axis 1) were derived from the NPR. Latent Class Analysis was used to identify distinct classes of PTE exposure-patterns in the data. Logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate associations between classes of PTEs and contact with CAMHS and psychiatric diagnoses. Three classes of PTE exposure were identified based on model fit indices and theoretical considerations. Compared with participants in the low trauma class (88% of participants), those in the Situational-(6%) and Interpersonal trauma class (6%) had higher odds-ratios (ORs) for contact with CAMHS (OR = 2.27 (95% CI [1.78, 2.87])) and (OR = 3.26 (95% CI [2.61, 4.04])) respectively, and for being diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder in CAMHS (ORs ranged from 2.19 – 10.4) after adjusting for sex and parental education. There were more participants diagnosed with ADHD within the Interpersonal trauma class compared to the Situational trauma class when adjusting for sex and parental education (OR = 2.22 (95% CI [1.17, 4.40])). Three relatively homogeneous PTE classes, consisting of distinct patterns of trauma exposure were associated with a higher odds of contact with CAMHS and of being diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder in CAMHS. The study highlights the co-occurrence of PTEs and their impact across the diagnostic spectrum.
Screening Smarter, Not Harder: A Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Screening Algorithms and Heuristic Stopping Criteria for Systematic Reviews in Educational Research
Authors: Campos Diego G. , Fütterer Tim , Gfrörer Thomas , Lavelle-Hill Rosa , Murayama Kou , König Lars , Hecht Martin , Zitzmann Steffen , Scherer Ronny
Published: February 2024

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are crucial for advancing research, yet they are time-consuming and resource-demanding. Although machine learning and natural language processing algorithms may reduce this time and these resources, their performance has not been tested in education and educational psychology, and there is a lack of clear information on when researchers should stop the reviewing process. In this study, we conducted a retrospective screening simulation using 27 systematic reviews in education and educational psychology. We evaluated the sensitivity, specificity, and estimated time savings of several learning algorithms and heuristic stopping criteria. The results showed, on average, a 58% (SD = 19%) reduction in the screening workload of irrelevant records when using learning algorithms for abstract screening and an estimated time savings of 1.66 days (SD = 1.80). The learning algorithm random forests with sentence bidirectional encoder representations from transformers outperformed other algorithms. This finding emphasizes the importance of incorporating semantic and contextual information during feature extraction and modeling in the screening process. Furthermore, we found that 95% of all relevant abstracts within a given dataset can be retrieved using heuristic stopping rules. Specifically, an approach that stops the screening process after classifying 20% of records and consecutively classifying 5% of irrelevant papers yielded the most significant gains in terms of specificity (M = 42%, SD = 28%). However, the performance of the heuristic stopping criteria depended on the learning algorithm used and the length and proportion of relevant papers in an abstract collection. Our study provides empirical evidence on the performance of machine learning screening algorithms for abstract screening in systematic reviews in education and educational psychology.
Less variability when growing faster? Experimental assessment of the relationship of growth rate with functional traits of the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum
Authors: Klip Helena Cornelia Laurentia , Meunier Cédric Léo , Boersma Maarten
Published: February 2024

Diversity and its drivers and consequences are at the heart of ecological research. Mostly, studies have focused on different species, but if the causes for increases or decreases in diversity are general, the observed patterns should also be observable within genotypes. As previous research shows that there is higher variability in nitrogen to phosphorus ratios (N/P) between slow-growing unicellular algal populations, compared to fast-growing ones, we expected to observe similar patterns within genetically identical strains growing at different rates. We tested this hypothesis in a laboratory experiment performed with a monoculture of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Using a growth rate gradient obtained with 10 chemostats, we were able to determine the effect of growth rate on the diatom’s elemental stoichiometry as well as on selected traits, such as cell size and shape. Our results showed indeed less intercellular variability (in the selected traits assessed on single-cell level) in the faster-growing populations, which was accompanied by a downward trend in bulk N/P ratios. We pose that this higher variability at lower growth rates potentially results in higher variability of the food sources available for higher trophic levels with potential consequences for the transfer efficiency of energy and matter in marine food webs.
How Many Digits are Needed?
Authors: Herbst Ira W. , Møller Jesper , Svane Anne Marie
Published: February 2024

Let $$X_1,X_2,...$$

X
1

,

X
2

,
.
.
.

be the digits in the base-q expansion of a random variable X defined on [0, 1) where $$q\ge 2$$

q
≥
2

is an integer. For $$n=1,2,...$$

n
=
1
,
2
,
.
.
.

, we study the probability distribution $$P_n$$

P
n

of the (scaled) remainder $$T^n(X)=\sum _{k=n+1}^\infty X_k q^{n-k}$$

T
n

(
X
)

=

∑

k
=
n
+
1

∞

X
k

q

n
-
k

: If X has an absolutely continuous CDF then $$P_n$$

P
n

converges in the total variation metric to the Lebesgue measure $$\mu $$
μ
on the unit interval. Under weak smoothness conditions we establish first a coupling between X and a non-negative integer valued random variable N so that $$T^N(X)$$

T
N

(
X
)

follows $$\mu $$
μ
and is independent of $$(X_1,...,X_N)$$

(

X
1

,
.
.
.
,

X
N

)

, and second exponentially fast convergence of $$P_n$$

P
n

and its PDF $$f_n$$

f
n

. We discuss how many digits are needed and show examples of our results.