bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robustness verification of k-nearest neighbors by abstract interpretation
Authors: Fassina Nicolò , Ranzato Francesco , Zanella Marco
Published: April 2024

We study the certification of stability properties, such as robustness and individual fairness, of the k-nearest neighbor algorithm (kNN). Our approach leverages abstract interpretation, a well-established program analysis technique that has been proven successful in verifying several machine learning algorithms, notably, neural networks, decision trees, and support vector machines. In this work, we put forward an abstract interpretation-based framework for designing a sound approximate version of the kNN algorithm, which is instantiated to the interval and zonotope abstractions for approximating the range of numerical features. We show how this abstraction-based method can be used for stability, robustness, and individual fairness certification of kNN. Our certification technique has been implemented and experimentally evaluated on several benchmark datasets. These experimental results show that our tool can formally prove the stability of kNN classifiers in a precise and efficient way, thus expanding the range of machine learning models amenable to robustness certification.
Revisiting the use of the EORTC QLQ-STO22 to assess health-related quality of life of patients with gastric cancer: incorporating updated treatment options and cross-cultural perspectives
Authors: Sodergren S. C. , Hurley-Wallace A. , Vassiliou V. , Alkhaffaf B. , Batsaikhan B. , Darlington A. S. , Fleitas-Kanonnikof T. , Guren M. G. , Honda M. , Kim Y. W. , Kim S. , Krishnamurthy M. N. , Loh S. Y. , Turhal N. S. , Zhou J. , Dennis K. , Krishnatry R. , Terashima M. , Tsironis G. , Yoshikawa T. , Terada M. ,   On behalf of the EORTC Quality of Life Group, Georgiou Loukia , Harvey Alice , Hikage Makoto , Hirano Hidekazu , Iglesias Loli , Ishiki Hiroto , Lau Peng Choong , Lopez Beatriz , Papageorgiou Elisavet , Rees Charlotte , Rowsell Alison , Stylianou Ioannis , Wada Takeyuki , Wedge Elizabeth , Wong Wei Jin
Published: April 2024

Background

The EORTC QLQ-STO22 (QLQ-STO22) is a firmly established and validated measure of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) for people with gastric cancer (GC), developed over two decades ago. Since then there have been dramatic changes in treatment options for GC. Also, East Asian patients were not involved in the development of QLQ-STO22, where GC is most prevalent and the QLQ-STO22 is widely used. A review with appropriate updating of the measure was planned. This study aims to capture HRQoL issues associated with new treatments and the perspectives of patients and health care professionals (HCPs) from different cultural backgrounds, including East Asia.

Methods

A systematic literature review and open-ended interviews were preformed to identify potential new HRQoL issues relating to GC. This was followed by structured interviews where HCPs and patients reviewed the QLQ-STO22 alongside new issues regarding relevance, importance, and acceptability.

Results

The review of 267 publications and interviews with 104 patients and 18 HCPs (48 and 9 from East Asia, respectively) generated a list of 58 new issues. Three of these relating to eating small amounts, flatulence, and neuropathy were recommended for inclusion in an updated version of the QLQ-STO22 and covered by five additional questions.

Conclusions

This study supports the content validity of the QLQ-STO22, suggesting its continued relevance to patients with GC, including those from East Asia. The updated version with additional questions and linguistic changes will enhance its specificity, but further testing is required.
What challenges impede the adoption of agroforestry practices? A global perspective through a systematic literature review
Authors: Tranchina Margherita , Reubens Bert , Frey Marco , Mele Marcello , Mantino Alberto
Published: April 2024

Despite the extensive amount of evidence in the literature regarding the benefits of agroforestry systems including carbon sequestration, soil erosion reduction, climate change resilience, biodiversity conservation and other ecosystem services, the adoption of agroforestry practices presents several barriers for farmers and other stakeholders, thus requiring comprehensive examination from the scientific community. We performed a systematic literature review following the methodology described in the PRISMA framework, to provide a novel comprehensive and systematic overview of what is present in the literature regarding the obstacles stakeholders perceive with regards to agroforestry adoption, gathered through participatory research methods, which are methodologies that engage stakeholders in the research process. In this work, we highlighted and categorized 31 obstacles that stakeholders around the globe perceive according to the examined literature (n = 90) with regards to agroforestry adoption, pertaining to i) technical-agronomic, ii) socio-economic and iii) policy-legislative aspects. We produced a consultable database of the examined literature presenting the extracted and categorized data including 1) Region of interest; 2) Investigated agroforestry system; 3) Methodologies utilized in the papers; 4) Number, gender ratio and type of stakeholders; 5) Main relevant obstacles found in the paper. We highlighted the five most frequently encountered issues i) the availability or quality of knowledge or experience on technical and agronomic matters, or knowledge diffusion necessary to implement or maintain agroforestry systems ii) the perceived socio-economic issue related to the market, marketing of agroforestry products, supply chain or jobs in agroforestry; iii) issues related to the amount of labor or time necessary to implement or maintain agroforestry systems; iv) issues related to the upfront economic investment necessary to establish an agroforestry system and availability of capital; and v) issues related to the availability of technical support necessary to implement or maintain agroforestry systems.
Exact and approximation algorithms for covering timeline in temporal graphs
Authors: Dondi Riccardo , Popa Alexandru
Published: April 2024

We consider a variant of vertex cover on temporal graphs that has been recently defined for summarization of timeline activities in temporal graphs. The problem has been proved to be NP-hard, even for several restrictions of the time domain and vertex degree. We present novel algorithmic contributions for the problem and we give an approximation algorithm of factor $$O(T \log {n})$$

O
(
T
log
n
)

, on a temporal graph of T timestamps and n vertices. We focus then on the NP-hard restriction of the problem, where at most one temporal edge is defined in each timestamp. For this restriction we present a $$4(T-1)$$

4
(
T
-
1
)

approximation algorithm and a parameterized algorithm (a reduction to kernel) for parameter the cost, called span, of the solution.
The spectral evolution of white dwarfs: where do we stand?
Authors: Bédard Antoine
Published: April 2024

White dwarfs are the dense, burnt-out remnants of the vast majority of stars, condemned to cool over billions of years as they steadily radiate away their residual thermal energy. To first order, their atmosphere is expected to be made purely of hydrogen due to the efficient gravitational settling of heavier elements. However, observations reveal a much more complex situation, as the surface of a white dwarf (1) can be dominated by helium rather than hydrogen, (2) can be polluted by trace chemical species, and (3) can undergo significant composition changes with time. This indicates that various mechanisms of element transport effectively compete against gravitational settling in the stellar envelope. This phenomenon is known as the spectral evolution of white dwarfs and has important implications for Galactic, stellar, and planetary astrophysics. This invited review provides a comprehensive picture of our current understanding of white dwarf spectral evolution. We first describe the latest observational constraints on the variations in atmospheric composition along the cooling sequence, covering both the dominant and trace constituents. We then summarise the predictions of state-of-the-art models of element transport in white dwarfs and assess their ability to explain the observed spectral evolution. Finally, we highlight remaining open questions and suggest avenues for future work.
Sleep quality, PIU in adolescents with ADHD. Is there a relationship between sleep quality and problematic internet use in adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?
Authors: Çelikkol Sadiç Çağla , Kara Aziz , Gerçek Hacer Gizem , Özkan Yekta
Published: April 2024

This research aimed to compare the sleep quality and problematic internet use (PIU) of adolescents diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) compared to the group of healthy control. There were 53 ADHD-diagnosed individuals (19 ADHD- combined type, 34 ADHD- inattentive type) in the research population, ages 12 to 18, and 53 healthy adolescents in the control group. A child psychiatrist applied the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime Version (K-SADS-PL) to each case, and sociodemographic information was collected. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) were also applied to all the cases. The Turgay DSM-IV-Based Disruptive Behaviour Disorders, Child and Adolescent Evaluation and Screening Scale (T-DSM-IV-S) was completed by the parents of all the adolescents. The ADHD group's IAT and PSQI total points were found to be statistically significantly higher than those of the healthy control group (p < 0.001). The results of the covariance analysis showed a significant positive correlation between the T-DSM-IV-S subscales and the IAT mood points in the ADHD patients. The T-DSM-IV-S attention deficit points were found to be significantly higher in the ADHD children with PIU (independently of age and gender) compared to those without PIU. The results of the study showed that adolescents with ADHD had greater rates of poor sleep quality and PIU than the control group. The study results also suggested that the severity of the inattentive subtype of ADHD could play a potential role in the development of PIU in children diagnosed with ADHD. Based on this foundation, it is crucial to acknowledge and address poor sleep quality and PIU in adolescents with ADHD.
A Geometric Theory for Binary Classification of Finite Datasets by DNNs with Relu Activations
Authors: Yang Xiao-Song
Published: April 2024

In this paper we investigate deep neural networks for binary classification of datasets from geometric perspective in order to understand the working mechanism of deep neural networks. First, we establish a geometrical result on injectivity of finite set under a projection from Euclidean space to the real line. Then by introducing notions of alternative points and alternative number, we propose an approach to design DNNs for binary classification of finite labeled points on the real line, thus proving existence of binary classification neural net with its hidden layers of width two and the number of hidden layers not larger than the cardinality of the finite labelled set. We also demonstrate geometrically how the dataset is transformed across every hidden layers in a narrow DNN setting for binary classification task.
Multimodal brain age prediction using machine learning: combining structural MRI and 5-HT2AR PET-derived features
Authors: Dörfel Ruben P. , Arenas-Gomez Joan M. , Svarer Claus , Ganz Melanie , Knudsen Gitte M. , Svensson Jonas E. , Plavén-Sigray Pontus
Published: April 2024

To better assess the pathology of neurodegenerative disorders and the efficacy of neuroprotective interventions, it is necessary to develop biomarkers that can accurately capture age-related biological changes in the human brain. Brain serotonin 2A receptors (5-HT2AR) show a particularly profound age-related decline and are also reduced in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. This study investigates whether the decline in 5-HT2AR binding, measured in vivo using positron emission tomography (PET), can be used as a biomarker for brain aging. Specifically, we aim to (1) predict brain age using 5-HT2AR binding outcomes, (2) compare 5-HT2AR-based predictions of brain age to predictions based on gray matter (GM) volume, as determined with structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and (3) investigate whether combining 5-HT2AR and GM volume data improves prediction. We used PET and MR images from 209 healthy individuals aged between 18 and 85 years (mean = 38, std = 18) and estimated 5-HT2AR binding and GM volume for 14 cortical and subcortical regions. Different machine learning algorithms were applied to predict chronological age based on 5-HT2AR binding, GM volume, and the combined measures. The mean absolute error (MAE) and a cross-validation approach were used for evaluation and model comparison. We find that both the cerebral 5-HT2AR binding (mean MAE = 6.63 years, std = 0.74 years) and GM volume (mean MAE = 6.95 years, std = 0.83 years) predict chronological age accurately. Combining the two measures improves the prediction further (mean MAE = 5.54 years, std = 0.68). In conclusion, 5-HT2AR binding measured using PET might be useful for improving the quantification of a biomarker for brain aging.
On the Efficient and Accurate Non-linear Computational Modeling of Multilayered Bending Plates. State of the Art and a Novel Proposal: The $$2\text {D}+$$ Multiscale Approach
Authors: Wierna Pablo , Yago Daniel , Lloberas-Valls Oriol , Huespe Alfredo , Oliver Javier
Published: April 2024

After conducting a comprehensive historical review of presently established methods for computational modeling of multilayered bending plates, the present work introduces a novel 2D multiscale strategy, termed the 2D+ approach. The proposed approach is based on the computational homogenization formalism and is envisaged to serve as an appealing alternative to current methodologies for modeling multilayered plates in bending-dominated situations. Such structural elements involve modern and relevant materials, such as laminated composites characterized by the heterogeneous distribution of low-aspect-ratio layers showing substantial non-linear mechanical behavior across their thickness.

Within this proposed approach, the 2D plate mid-plane constitutes the macroscopic scale, while a 1D filament-like Representative Volume Element (RVE), orthogonal to the plate mid-plane and spanning the plate thickness, represents the mesoscopic scale. Such RVE, in turn, is capturing the non-linear mechanical behavior throughout the plate thickness at each integration point of the 2D plate-midplane finite element mesh. The chosen kinematics and discretization at the considered scales are particularly selected to (1) effectively capture relevant aspects of non-linear mechanical behavior in multilayered plates under bending-dominated scenarios, (2) achieve affordable computational times (computational efficiency), and (3) provide accurate stress distributions compared to the corresponding high-fidelity 3D simulations (computational accuracy).

The proposed strategy aligns with the standard, first-order, hierarchical multiscale setting, involving the linearization of the macro-scale displacement field along the thickness. It employs an additional fluctuating displacement field in the RVE to capture higher-order behavior, which is computed through a local 1D finite element solution of a Boundary Value Problem (BVP) at the RVE. A notable feature of the presented 2D+ approach is the application of the Hill–Mandel principle, grounded in the well-established physical assumption imposing mechanical energy equivalence in the macro and meso scales. This links the 2D macroscopic plate and the set of 1D mesoscopic filaments, in a weakly-coupled manner, and yields remarkable computational savings in comparison with standard 3D modeling. Additionally, solving the resulting RVE problem in terms of the fluctuating displacement field allows the enforcement of an additional condition: fulfillment of linear momentum balance (equilibrium equations). This results in a physically meaningful 2D-like computational setting, in the considered structural object (multilayered plates in bending-dominated situations), which provides accurate stress distributions, typical of full 3D models, at the computational cost of 2D models.
Coping style and benefit finding among informal caregivers of patients with lung cancer: a moderated mediation model of co-caregivers and caregiving capability
Authors: Lin Xiaoyuan , Chang Guangting , Xie Haidan , Zhou Xiaozhou
Published: April 2024

Benefit finding (BF), as a positive psychological response, has the potential to alleviate caregiving stress for informal caregivers. However, the impact of coping style and caregiving capability on the perception of BF throughout the caregiving process still needs to be explored, particularly in light of the changing caregiving situation. This study aimed (1) to explore the correlation among coping style, caregiving capability, and BF; (2) to determine whether caregiving capability mediates the relationship between coping style and BF; and (3) to determine whether this mediating effect varies with the caregiving situation. A cross-sectional study was conducted. 272 participants completed the Sociodemographic Questionnaire, Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire, Family Caregiver Task Inventory, and Benefit Finding Scale. Correlation analysis and multiple stepwise regression were used for data analysis; Hayes’ PROCESS macro was used to determine the significance of the moderated mediation analysis. The results showed that (1) Coping style and BF were positively correlated, while caregiving capability was negatively correlated with coping style and BF. (2) Caregiving capability partially mediated the relationship between coping styles and BF. (3) Co-caregivers moderated the direct path of the relationship between coping style and BF, showing a substitution relationship. Improving the caregiving capability may be a novel approach to enhancing BF. Nursing staff should start with a positive coping style and caregiving capability and consider the factors of caregiving situations (co-caregivers) to maximize the intervention effect.
Mendelian randomization reveals association of gut microbiota with Henoch–Schönlein purpura and immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Jiang Chendong , Deng Shu , Ma Xiaohan , Song Juan , Li Jinpeng , Yuan Enwu
Published: April 2024

Gut microbiota have been linked to immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP) in recent studies, but a cause-and-effect relationship is unclear. We used Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess causal relationships between gut microbiota and HSP/ITP using summary statistics from the GWAS dataset of the international MiBioGen and FinnGen consortium. The IVW method was used as the main evaluation indicator. MR analysis of 196 intestinal flora and HSP/ITP/sTP phenotypes showed that 12 flora were potentially causally associated with ITP, 6 with HSP, and 9 with sTP. The genes predicted that genus Coprococcus3 (p = 0.0264, OR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.09–3.88)and genus Gordonibacter (p = 0.0073, OR = 1.38; 95% CI 1.09–1.75) were linked to a higher likelihood of developing ITP. Additionally, family Actinomycetaceae (p = 0.02, OR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.28–0.90) and order Actinomycetales (p = 0.0199, OR = 0.50, 95% CI 0.28–0.90) linked to reduced HSP risk. Genus Ruminococcaceae UCG013 (p = 0.0426, OR = 0.44, 95% CI 0.20–0.97) negatively correlated with sTP risk. Our MR analyses offer evidence of a possible cause-and-effect connection between certain gut microbiota species and the likelihood of HSP/ITP.
Child Laborers’ Exposure to Neglect in Rural Bangladesh: Prevalence and Risk Factors
Authors: Ahad Md. Abdul , Parry Yvonne Karen , Willis Eileen , Ullah Shahid
Published: April 2024

Abuse and neglect among child laborers are serious public health concerns. In particular, neglect of child laborers both at home and in the workplace exacerbates their social and health risks. Despite this, the issue continues to be overlooked by researchers and policy makers. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and factors of child labor neglect in rural Bangladesh. Using the snowball sampling method, 200 parents and employers were recruited for this cross-sectional study. We performed a multivariable linear regression analysis using SPSS 28 version. Child laborers are found to be severely neglected, primarily deprived of food and water, and are inadequately supervised. Elements of parental risk, including poor household income (β = 0.07, CI = 0.03, 0.11, p < 0.01) and a history of their own early childhood maltreatment (β = 0.22, CI = 0.07, 0.36, p < 0.01) were identified as significant predictors of neglect among child laborers. Further, child laborers working in agriculture were significantly more likely to experience neglect than those in the domestic sectors.This finding was based on their vulnerable traits, such as working with more than five co-workers (β = 0.08, CI = 0.02, 0.15, p < 0.01), working for extended hours (β = 0.14, CI = 0.01, 0.28, p = 0.04), and suffering from malnutrition (β = 0.30, CI = 0.04, 0.57, p = 0.03). The findings of this study suggest further research on outcome variables are required. Specifically, the study suggests that two intervention strategies could be implemented to alleviate child labor and neglect in Bangladesh, namely financial support programs and amendments to existing policies.
33 Jahre danach: Ostdeutsche in Führungspositionen des gesamtdeutschen Sports
Authors: Thieme Lutz
Published: April 2024

Die Untersuchung ergänzt die vorliegenden Ergebnisse zur Unterrepräsentanz ostdeutsch Sozialisierter in gesamtdeutschen Führungspositionen erstmals um Daten aus dem Sport. Dafür wurde die Herkunft der Positionsinhaber in den ehrenamtlich geprägten entscheidungsstärksten Gremien im Deutschen Olympischen Sportbund (DOSB), den olympischen und paralympischen Spitzenverbänden, den Landessportbünden sowie der entsprechenden hauptamtlichen Leitungspositionen ermittelt und mit dem Anteil an der Wohnbevölkerung verglichen. Es zeigt sich auch im Sport eine Unterrepräsentanz ostdeutsch Sozialisierter und von Frauen, aber auch ein Unterrepräsentanz westdeutsch Sozialisierter in ostdeutschen LSB. Dies gilt gleichermaßen für ehrenamtliche wie für hauptamtliche Positionen. Allerdings ist die Unterrepräsentanz weniger stark ausgebildet als in anderen gesellschaftlichen Domänen. Darüber hinaus scheint der Zugang zu Spitzenämtern im Sport für ostdeutsch Sozialisierte zusätzlich erschwert (gläserne Decke). Als Ursachen für die Befunde werden Zuschreibung von angenommenen kollektiven Merkmalen zu Individuen und die Delegitimierung individueller Merkmale diskutiert, die zu Selektions- und Selbstselektionsprozessen führen.
Factors influencing adoption of organic matter management on smallholder farms in the Rwenzori region of Uganda
Authors: Ekyaligonza Deous Mary , Tibasiima Thaddeo Kahigwa , Bwambale Bosco , Kagorora John Patrick Kanahe , Freyer Bernhard
Published: April 2024

Context specific studies on the factors influencing the adoption of organic matter management (OMM) practices on smallholder farms could be crucial for soil fertility improvement. This study aimed to understand the factors influencing the adoption of OMM practices by smallholder farmers. A hybridized theoretical framework was used to map the farmers’ adoption process. This framework states: the adoption process of OMM practices can be facilitated if an individual’s characteristics and the institutional-related factors can support it; information about the OMM practices and the required inputs are available, and he/she can apply the required technology with ease. Data collection involved observations on 100 smallholder farms, interviews with 10 smallholder farmers and 18 experts, as well as two focus group discussions with 10 farmers each. The results indicated that a composite of technical, social, cultural, and economic-driven factors influence farmer adoption of OMM strategies. These factors included the farmer characteristics of age, education status, gender, culture, and knowledge about the use and application of an OMM practice; availability of labor and inputs; availability of appropriate equipment; the existence of supportive policy framework and social support. The factors cut across the adoption components of the hybridized theoretical framework: nature of technology, farmer characteristics, and input-related, information transfer-related and institutional-related adoption factors. The study findings can inform decision-makers to make investment decisions. Future studies should assess the feasibility of the hybridized theoretical framework before experts can apply it in devising strategies for the adoption of OMM practices on smallholder farms.
Facile phosphorus and oxygen heteroatom functionalization of biochar based on biomass prepared by microwave pyrolysis for adsorption process of cadmium in aqueous solution
Authors: Teğin İbrahim , Öc Sema , Saka Cafer
Published: April 2024

In this study, in the first stage, biochar is produced from green pistachio hulls (PGHMAC) by microwave heating method, which saves energy, time and cost. In the second step, with the activation of phosphoric acid (H3PO4), the surface properties of the biochar were modified by phosphorus (P) and oxygen (O) doping (O- and P-doped PGHMAC). This adsorbent obtained was applied to remove cadmium (Cd(II)) from wastewater. FTIR, SEM, EDX, and ICP-OES analyses were used for the characterization of the samples. FTIR, EDX, and ICP-OES analysis results showed the presence of oxygen and phosphorus groups on the surface of the relevant adsorbent. The contents of C and O atoms for P- and O-doped PGHMAC were found to be 62.54% and 36.12%, respectively. Also, about 1.29% of P atoms were found with H3PO4 activation. The kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamic parameters of the adsorption studies were investigated. Maximum Cd(II) adsorption capacities of P- and O-doped PGHMAC at 298 K, 308 K, and 318 K temperatures were calculated as 78.74, 109.89, and 133.33 mg/g by Langmuir model, respectively. The mechanism of Cd(II) adsorption on O- and P-doped PGHMAC has been proposed.
A case of pulmonary melioidosis in Germany: a rare differential diagnosis in returning travelers from South-East Asia
Authors: Gottschalk Claudius , Stojković Marija , Zange Sabine , Wolf Peter , Klein Julian A. F.
Published: April 2024

Background

Melioidosis is a bacterial infection associated with high mortality. The diagnostic approach to this rare disease in Europe is challenging, especially because pulmonary manifestation of melioidosis can mimic pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Antibiotic therapy of melioidosis consists of an initial intensive phase of 2–8 weeks followed by an eradication therapy of 3–6 months.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 46-year-old female patient with pulmonary melioidosis in Germany. The patient showed chronic cough, a pulmonary mass and a cavitary lesion, which led to the initial suspicion of pulmonary TB. Melioidosis was considered due to a long-term stay in Thailand with recurrent exposure to rice fields.

Results

Microbiologic results were negative for TB. Histopathology of an endobronchial tumor showed marked chronic granulation tissue and fibrinous inflammation. Melioidosis was diagnosed via polymerase chain reaction by detection of Burkholderia pseudomallei/mallei target from mediastinal lymph-node tissue.

Conclusion

This case report emphasizes that melioidosis is an important differential diagnosis in patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis and recent travel to South-East Asia.
Changes in Lower Limb Biomechanics Across Various Stages of Maturation and Implications for ACL Injury Risk in Female Athletes: a Systematic Review
Authors: Ramachandran Akhilesh Kumar , Pedley Jason S. , Moeskops Sylvia , Oliver Jon L. , Myer Gregory D. , Lloyd Rhodri S.
Published: April 2024

Background

Female athletes are four to six times more likely to sustain an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury than male athletes. Jump-landing biomechanics are influenced by maturation, with post-pubertal female athletes at a heightened risk of ACL injuries.

Objective

The aim of our systematic review was to identify and summarise the current evidence regarding the changes in kinematic and kinetic risk factors associated with ACL injuries during jump-landing tasks in female athletes at various stages of maturity.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, EMBASE and Scopus. Articles were included if they: (1) conducted the research on uninjured female athletes with no restriction on playing level/experience; (2) provided information regarding the stage of the maturity and the scale used for estimating the maturity status of the participants; and (3) reported a biomechanical risk factor associated with ACL injuries during jump-landing tasks across at least two different maturity groups (e.g. pre-pubertal vs post-pubertal).

Results

Sixteen articles involving 2323 female athletes were included in our review. A total of 12 kinematic and 8 kinetic variables were identified across these studies. Of the 12 kinematic variables reported in our review, we found strong evidence for higher peak knee abduction angle in post-pubertal female individuals compared with pre-pubertal girls (p < 0.05). With regard to the 8 kinetic variables, we found strong evidence for lower relative peak vertical ground reaction force, higher external knee abduction moment and internal rotation moment in post-pubertal compared with pre-pubertal athletes. The strength of evidence for the remaining kinematic and kinetic variables ranged from conflicting to moderate and, in some instances, could not be determined.

Conclusions

Our study provides an overview of the changes in biomechanical risk factors in female athletes during jump-landing tasks at various stages of maturity. We found moderate-to-limited evidence for most kinematic and kinetic variables, highlighting the need for further research.
A syntactic features and interactive learning model for aspect-based sentiment analysis
Authors: Zou Wang , Zhang Wubo , Tian Zhuofeng , Wu Wenhuan
Published: April 2024

The aspect-based sentiment analysis (ABSA) consists of two subtasks: aspect term extraction (AE) and aspect term sentiment classification (ASC). Previous research on the AE task has not adequately leveraged syntactic information and has overlooked the issue of multi-word aspect terms in text. Current researchers tend to focus on one of the two subtasks, neglecting the connection between the AE and ASC tasks. Moreover, the problem of error propagation easily occurs between two independent subtasks when performing the complete ABSA task. To address these issues, we present a unified ABSA model based on syntactic features and interactive learning. The proposed model is called syntactic interactive learning based aspect term sentiment classification model (SIASC). To overcome the problem of extracting multi-word aspect terms, the model utilizes part-of-speech features, words features, and dependency features as textual information. Meanwhile, we designs a unified ABSA structure based on the end-to-end framework, reducing the impact of error propagation issues. Interaction learning in the model can establish a connection between the AE task and the ASC task. The information from interactive learning contributes to improving the model’s performance on the ASC task. We conducted an extensive array of experiments on the Laptop14, Restaurant14, and Twitter datasets. The experimental results show that the SIASC model achieved average accuracy of 84.11%, 86.65%, and 78.42% on the AE task, respectively. Acquiring average accuracy of 81.35%, 86.71% and 76.56% on the ASC task, respectively. The SIASC model demonstrates superior performance compared to the baseline model.
Stability of price and quantity to a long-run equilibrium: a dynamic Leontief model with bounded rationality
Authors: Wang Yangyuzi
Published: April 2024

The notorious ‘dual stability’ paradox is stated as follows: in a closed dynamic Leontief model, when the quantity system is relatively stable, its corresponding price system will be unstable, and vice versa. This paradox arises from the neoclassical assumptions of full utilization of capacity and perfect foresight, which have caused serious complications in the dynamic Leontief model. In this study, we aim to construct a dynamic input–output model within an evolutionary framework, departing from neoclassical assumptions. Two new assumptions are introduced: incomplete utilization of capital stocks and bounded rationality in decision-making. Our findings reveal that the ‘dual stability’ paradox of the quantity and price systems can be addressed by including these two assumptions, and some special conditions are proposed for the stability properties in both the systems. Furthermore, we prove that the distance between the time paths and equilibrium position converges to a constant, which is related to the initial position.
Kodieren und Auswerten von Kategorien in der Interaktionalen Linguistik
Authors: Proske Nadine
Published: April 2024

Der vorliegende Artikel thematisiert das Zusammenspiel von qualitativen, interpretativen Praktiken und quantifizierenden Methoden in der Interaktionalen Linguistik. Dieser Forschungsansatz arbeitet mit Daten aus gesprochenen Interaktionen, die in Korpora aufbereitet sind. Die Auswertung der Korpusdaten umfasst sowohl Schritte, die aus der Analyse von Schriftkorpora bekannt sind, als auch solche Schritte, die spezifisch für die Analyse mündlicher Daten sind. Ein zentraler Prozess, der sowohl bereits interpretativ ist als auch der eigentlichen Ergebnisinterpretation vorausgeht, ist die Kodierung der Korpusbelege. Kodiert werden in der Interaktionalen Linguistik sowohl klassische sprachwissenschaftliche, z. B. syntaktische Kategorien als auch für Ansätze zur gesprochenen Interaktion spezifische Kategorien, z. B. im Bereich der Prosodie und der verbalen Handlungen. Der Artikel stellt zunächst vorhandene Korpora, typische Fragestellungen und methodische Vorgehensweisen der Interaktionalen Linguistik vor. Anschließend wird anhand zweier Beispiele aus eigenen interaktionslinguistischen Untersuchungen zur verbalen Pseudo-Koordination im Deutschen (Sie können sich nicht hinstellen und sagen: »Das geht nicht.«) gezeigt, welche interpretativen Herausforderungen Kodierkategorien und Quantifizierungen im Bereich der Prosodie und Pragmatik bergen. Abschließend wird reflektiert, inwiefern der Begriff der Hermeneutik für die diskutierten interpretativen Prozesse passend ist.
Generation mechanism of Region 1 field-aligned current and energy transfer from solar wind to polar ionosphere
Authors: Ebihara Yusuke , Tanaka Takashi
Published: April 2024

Field-aligned current (FAC) is of importance in energy transfer from space to the Earth. The Region 1 current, which flows in the polar region, is the most significant one, but the generation region and mechanism are long-lasting questions. By using the global magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) simulation, we traced packets of the Alfvén waves traveling parallel to the magnetic field in the rest frame of moving plasma. The low-latitude magnetospheric boundary layer is found to be the major generation region, where the plasma pulls newly reconnected magnetic field lines. The generation region is far from the original magnetic field lines extending from the Region 1 FAC in the ionosphere because of low Alfvén velocity in the outer magnetosphere and beyond. The Region 1 FACs are surrounded by the integral curves of the Poynting vector (called S-curve). The S-curve shows a helix with its center moving toward the Earth. The Region 1 FACs, circular motion of plasma (probably related to the magnetospheric convection), and transfer of magnetic energy to the Earth are closely related with each other. The new method can be widely applied to search for the generation region of FACs and useful for better understanding of the dynamics of the magnetosphere.
Early Maladaptive Schemas in Sex Offenders and Non-Sexual Violent Offenders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Turhan Huseyin Mert , Shoaib Khalisah , Tully John , Nixon Elena
Published: April 2024

Sex offenders and non-sexual violent offenders display distinct cognitive distortions that shape their offenses. Some evidence suggests that early maladaptive schemas which reflect individuals’ fundamental cognitions and beliefs, contribute to these cognitive distortions. However, these have not been systematically appraised. We conducted a systematic review to synthesize the evidence regarding the schema profiles of sex offenders and non-sexual violent offenders, and to explore differences in schemas between these offender types. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Within the sex offender category, rapists and child sex offenders endorsed similar schemas. For non-sexual violent offenders, schemas related to self-control issues and self-entitlement were most prominent. Sex offenders demonstrated more schemas that endorsed negative perceptions of themselves and others than violent offenders. Findings also suggest that atypical sexual interests and mental disorders may be important. This evidence highlights the need for a more fine-tuned understanding of the cognitive profiles of sexual and non-sexual violent offenders and for developing schema-based offender management and rehabilitation services.
Adaptive composite bandwidth and automatic gain control receiver for 6G wireless optical communication
Authors: Das Bhagwan , Agbinya Johnson Ihyeh , Abdullah Mohammad Faiz Liew , Mahdi Osama A. , Ali Nawfal , Ghaffar Abdul , Gyasi-Agyei Amoakoh
Published: April 2024

The advent of 6G communication promises a transformative leap in wireless connectivity, ushering in an era of unprecedented data rates, ultra-low latency, and pervasive connectivity. To harness the full potential of 6G networks, it is imperative to address the unique challenges posed by evolving communication environments. In this context, we present a novel framework that integrates Adaptive Composite Bandwidth and Automatic Gain Control techniques into the 6G communication paradigm. Optical wireless receivers experience large input current difference due to the large transmitted power, noise from ambient light and the varying efficiencies of different photodiode receivers. With its large dynamic range of μA to mA, transimpedance amplifiers are suitable to handle photodiode efficiency with a large dynamic range. The receiver design proposed in this article incorporates two characteristic parameter adjustments, namely, bandwidth and automatic gain. By adjusting the bandwidth the signal-to-noise ratio of the incoming signal is automatically controlled. By controlling the bandwidth, the unwanted noise is reduced and amplifier output is liable to low noise and enhances the dynamic range without extra filtering. The automatic gain control adapts its gain based on slight change in the input signal at the receiver front-end. This optimization technique ensures low photo-detection and amplification noise to achieve better quality of service. The results indicate that the bootstrap transimpedance amplifier gain is around 53.3 dB and frequency cut-off at 109.7 MHz. Thus, when gain control capacitance is varied between 50 pF to 1 nF, the bandwidth adjustment falls in the range 7.5–104.1 MHz, and the amplifier’s second stage gain becomes 10.4 dB. The overall gain of the proposed configuration with automatic gain control integrated into the transimpedance amplifier increases up to 31.1 dB, while the bandwidth increases from 9.4 to 60.7 MHz. Consequently, the gain bandwidth product is optimized from 10.4 to 31.1 dB. The main contribution of this work is optimizing the product by selecting a capacitance value within the given range that maximizes the gain-bandwidth product. This optimization paradigm is predicated on identifying a capacitance value that minimizes the gain-bandwidth product, thereby effectuating effective noise mitigation. This proposed framework embodies a significant contribution to the domain of 6G communications, heralding a new epoch in the optimization of wireless connectivity through the strategic integration of adaptive bandwidth and automatic gain control mechanism.
Development of a Ferrofluid-Based Attitude Control Actuator for Verification on the ISS
Authors: Zajonz Sebastian , Korn Christian , Großmann Steffen , Dietrich Janoah , Kob Maximilian , Philipp Daniel , Turco Fabrizio , Steinert Michael , O’Donohue Michael , Heinz Nicolas , Gutierrez Elizabeth , Wagner Alexander , Bölke Daniel , Sütterlin Saskia , Schneider Maximilian , Remane Yolantha , Kreul Phil , Wank Bianca , Buchfink Manuel , Acker Denis , Hofmann Sonja , Karahan Bahar , Ruffner Silas , Ehresmann Manfred , Schäfer Felix , Herdrich Georg
Published: April 2024

Ferrofluid-based systems provide an opportunity for increasing the durability and reliability of systems, where mechanical parts are prone to wear and tear. Conventional reaction control systems are based on mechanically mounted rotating disks. Due to inherent friction, they suffer from degradation, which may eventually lead to failure. This problem is further intensified due to the limited possibility for repair and maintenance. Ferrofluid-based systems aim to replace mechanical components by exploiting ferrofluidic suspended motion. Ferrofluids consist of magnetic nanoparticles suspended in a carrier fluid and can be manipulated by external magnetic fields. This paper describes the working principle, design, and integration of a working prototype of a ferrofluid-based attitude control system (ACS), called Ferrowheel. It is based on a stator of a brushless DC motor in combination with a rotor on a ferrofluidic bearing. The prototype will be verified in a microgravity environment on the International Space Station, as part of the Überflieger 2 student competition of the German Aerospace Center. First ground tests deliver positive results and confirm the practicability of such a system.
Biochar as a highly efficient adsorption carrier for sewage sludge-derived nutrients and biostimulants: component fixation and mechanism
Authors: Hao Jiahou , Zhang Xi , Zong Shaojie , Zhuo Yang , Zhang Yue , Wang Shuo , Deng Yun , Zhang Xiaokai , Li Ji
Published: April 2024

Production of liquid fertilizers containing nitrogenous nutrients and biostimulants from sewage sludge (SS-NB) has been attracting increasing attention due to its excellent fertilization effect and resource recycling attributes. To better understand the functional effects of nutrients and biostimulants in SS-NB on soil, the adsorption capacity and mechanism of straw biochar (SB) and wood chip biochar (WCB) for alkaline and neutral SS-NB components were investigated. The adsorption of total organic carbon (TOC) from alkaline and neutral SS-NB by WCB was 61.14% and 89.73%, respectively, higher than that by SB, which was 56.25% and 83.36%. Moreover, TOC from neutral SS-NB was more readily adsorbed, especially for fulvic and humic acids. SB had a strong adsorption capacity for calcium ions and nitrogen (TKN, nitrate N, protein, amino acid) and released large amounts of P. In addition, WCB and SB showed a strong affinity for macromolecules (proteins) and reducing substances (lignin and lipids) and excellent fixation ability for phytohormones and allelochemicals. However, WCB adsorbed more types of molecular substances than SB while maintaining a high immobilization rate. Analysis of the adsorption mechanism showed that surface amino groups of the biochar were involved in adsorption, while WCB had additionally high adsorption efficiencies through pore adsorption, hydrogen bonding adsorption and pore size-exclusion effects. The study revealed that biochar can be used as an efficient adsorption carrier for SS-NB to improve soil fertility management.

Graphical Abstract
Birkhoff–James classification of norm’s properties
Authors: Guterman Alexander , Kuzma Bojan , Singla Sushil , Zhilina Svetlana
Published: April 2024

For an arbitrary normed space $$\mathcal {X}$$
X
over a field $$\mathbb {F}\in \{ \mathbb {R}, \mathbb {C}\},$$

F
∈
{
R
,
C
}
,

we define the directed graph $$\Gamma (\mathcal {X})$$

Γ
(
X
)

induced by Birkhoff–James orthogonality on the projective space $$\mathbb P(\mathcal {X}),$$

P
(
X
)
,

and also its nonprojective counterpart $$\Gamma _0(\mathcal {X}).$$

Γ
0

(
X
)

.

We show that, in finite-dimensional normed spaces, $$\Gamma (\mathcal {X})$$

Γ
(
X
)

carries all the information about the dimension, smooth points, and norm’s maximal faces. It also allows to determine whether the norm is a supremum norm or not, and thus classifies finite-dimensional abelian $$C^*$$

C
∗

-algebras among other normed spaces. We further establish the necessary and sufficient conditions under which the graph $$\Gamma _0({\mathcal {R}})$$

Γ
0

(
R
)

of a (real or complex) Radon plane $${\mathcal {R}}$$
R
is isomorphic to the graph $$\Gamma _0(\mathbb {F}^2, {\Vert \cdot \Vert }_2)$$

Γ
0

(

F

2

,

‖
·
‖

2

)

of the two-dimensional Hilbert space and construct examples of such nonsmooth Radon planes.
Career Paths of Doctoral Recipients in Engineering and Computer Science: Trends by Sex, Race, Citizenship, and Discipline with an Emphasis on Biomedical Engineering
Authors: Denton Maya , Knight David B. , Deters Jessica R. , Grote Dustin M. , Borrego Maura
Published: April 2024

We summarize national-scale data for Ph.D. earners in engineering or computer science from 2015 to 2019 whose post-graduate school employment is known, highlighting outcomes for biological/biomedical/biosystems engineering students. We use NSF’s Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED), which has collected information from Ph.D. recipients in the USA since 1957. The data are collected at the time of degree completion and constitute a greater than 90% response rate. Compared to all engineering and computer science disciplines, biological/biomedical/biosystems engineering has a higher proportion going to 4yr/med/research institutions (52% vs. 33%) and non-profit (3.6% vs. 2.9%) and lower proportion going to industry (33% vs. 48%), government (4.3% vs. 8.4%), and is similar for non-US positions (6.1% vs. 5.7%). Compared to 2010–2014 biological/biomedical/biosystems engineering Ph.D. recipients, more 2015–2019 recipients are going to industry (25% to 33%) and fewer to 4yr/med/research institutions (59% to 52%) and governmet (5.3% to 4.3%). Across all engineering and computer science disciplines, a smaller proportion of females entered industry (43%) compared to males (49%), while a larger proportion of females entered 4yr/med/research institutions (37%) compared to males (32%). Over half of Asian doctoral recipients entered industry, as compared to 38% of Hispanic doctoral recipients. In contrast, a higher proportion of Hispanic individuals (37%) entered 4yr/med/research institutions after their doctoral programs, as compared to 31% of Asian doctoral recipients. Black doctoral recipients had the highest proportion enter positions in government (14%) and non-profit (4%) sectors. Our results are situated in the broader literature focused on postdoctoral career, training, and employment sectors and trends in STEM. We discuss implications for graduate programs, policymakers, and researchers.