bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of water scarcity assessments: Highlights of Mexico's water situation
Authors: Pacheco‐Treviño Silvana , Manzano‐Camarillo Mario Guadalupe Francisco
Published: February 2024

This article examines the situation of water scarcity and security in Mexico, with a focus on the drinking water supply issue in rural communities and the challenges posed by assessment methodologies. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to update the available information on the water crisis in Mexico and its impact on rural communities in the country, as well as the methodologies employed to assess water security and the methodological challenges associated with them. Among the most noteworthy findings is the persistent challenge in evaluating water scarcity and its implications for communities, due to the lack of consensus on the most precise methodology. Nevertheless, current methodological approaches suggest the integration of physical models with pertinent social, economic, and political data. The literature broadly agrees on the severity of the water scarcity crisis and the clear link between rural poverty and inadequate access to drinking water. Water scarcity is both a contributing factor to and a consequence of poverty, stemming from a complex interplay of socioeconomic pressures, inadequate institutional responses, and deficient water management. The paper concludes that water scarcity involves intricate interactions among various factors, encompassing physical water scarcity, pollution, and the impacts of climate change on the water cycle, and most critically, the complexities inherent in water management and regulatory frameworks. Therefore, the integration of well‐informed policies, effective management practices, and collaborative efforts is crucial for ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future. Effective water management can effectively mitigate the challenges of water scarcity and alleviate poverty.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Water, Health, and Sanitation

Human Water > Rights to Water

Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change
A review on computer model calibration
Authors: Sung Chih‐Li , Tuo Rui
Published: February 2024

Model calibration is crucial for optimizing the performance of complex computer models across various disciplines. In the era of Industry 4.0, symbolizing rapid technological advancement through the integration of advanced digital technologies into industrial processes, model calibration plays a key role in advancing digital twin technology, ensuring alignment between digital representations and real‐world systems. This comprehensive review focuses on the Kennedy and O'Hagan (KOH) framework (Kennedy and O'Hagan, Journal of the Royal Statistical Society: Series B 2001; 63(3):425–464). In particular, we explore recent advancements addressing the challenges of the unidentifiability issue while accommodating model inadequacy within the KOH framework. In addition, we explore recent advancements in adapting the KOH framework to complex scenarios, including those involving multivariate outputs and functional calibration parameters. We also delve into experimental design strategies tailored to the unique demands of model calibration. By offering a comprehensive analysis of the KOH approach and its diverse applications, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners aiming to enhance the accuracy and reliability of their computer models.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical Models > Semiparametric Models

Statistical Models > Simulation Models

Statistical Models > Bayesian Models
Switzerland
Authors: Ladner Andreas
Published: February 2024

Local governments play an important role in Switzerland. Despite their small size and their high number, municipalities are quite autonomous and fulfil key functions in the provision of tasks and services. What is especially noticeable is their fiscal and financial autonomy. Municipalities are regulated through cantonal constitutions and laws, which, from a federalist perspective, leads to remarkable diversity among the cantons. At the same time, the growing complexity of the policy landscape necessitates cooperation between municipalities and between different levels of government. Municipalities strive to avoid being reduced to simple agencies that execute tasks for the cantons and the national government without being involved on an equal basis in decision-making in questions that concern them. Formally, they all have the same status and competences, but time will tell whether this can continue or if more asymmetrical solutions will become necessary.
United States of America
Authors: Chertoff Meryl Justin
Published: February 2024

Municipalities in the United States (US), particularly those in its largest metropolitan areas, drive economic growth and innovation and are home to the majority of the nation’s population, but their political status under the federal constitutional system of divided government is relatively weak. That does not mean US cities lack political power; it means that the federalist structure weakens, rather than enhances, city power. The US Constitution does not even mention cities, and the US federal structure has not evolved to reflect ‘city power’. There is a mismatch between the rise of cities on the global stage and their role in the constitutional and federal structure of the US. The tension between localism, regionalism, and nationalism has growing salience in US political discourse. This chapter focuses on how local governments exercise power most effectively, whether internally or through a complex matrix of intergovernmental relationships, private-sector dealings, and civil society organisations.
Australia
Authors: Sansom Graham , Tan Su Fei
Published: February 2024

Australian local government is characterised by contradictions. There are some 537 elected municipalities, plus a small number of special-purpose entities, divided amongst seven separate systems created by the governments of six states and the Northern Territory. The Australia Capital Territory is a city-state with no separate local government. Municipalities are extremely diverse in terms of their physical size, geography, climate, populations, economies and financial capacity, but within each of the seven systems all operate as a single tier under essentially the same legislation. There are no ‘neighbourhood councils’ or regional municipalities. While they are subject to detailed regulation, close scrutiny and frequent interventions by the state or territory government, all municipalities have some sort of power of general competence. Local government is not recognised in Australia’s federal constitution, yet it enjoys extensive financial, policy and program links with the federal government and has a seat in several high-level inter-government forums. And so on. Overall, local government has limited functions and plays only a minor role in major state and national agendas, but an increasing number of large, well-resourced municipalities offer the potential to do much more. This chapter explores the factors underlying forces at work and considers future prospects.
Brazil
Authors: Garson Sol , Castro Kleber
Published: February 2024

With the aim of understanding the place and role of municipalities in the Brazilian federation, this chapter begins with an overview of the country’s key political and economic features, after which it explores the historical development of local government under a federal system that alternates between periods of power centralisation and decentralisation. Municipalities’ legislative and operational responsibilities are defined in the Constitution, which as such circumscribes their governance role in the federation. However, increased responsibilities for service delivery have required increased revenue, not only from federal and state transfers but from improved exploitation of municipal tax bases. Despite their progress in expanding funding sources, municipalities still rely heavily on federal and state support, a situation that highlights tensions between financial dependence and political autonomy. A discussion of relations with other orders of government reveals the possibilities for, and difficulties of, cooperation, as well as shows the importance of local political dynamics and instruments of popular participation. The final section draws attention to the importance of the metropolitan regions and identifies emerging issues relating to municipalities in Brazil.
Self-Awareness and Respect in East Africa: A Contextualised Approach to Defining the Constructs
Authors: Ngina Purity , Mwema Victoria , Akongo Stella Rose , Giacomazzi Mauro
Published: February 2024

The Assessment of Life Skills and Values in East Africa Study (ALiVE) focussed on four competencies with respect as the only selected value. This chapter explores the concepts of self-awareness and respect, delving into the process undertaken by ALiVE in the development of assessment tools to measure these constructs in East Africa. Self-awareness and respect are presented together due to some associations between them. Cultural influence on values such as respect is evident in worldwide perspectives, as well as in its local conceptualisation in East Africa. The chapter describes global and local perspectives on these constructs, and identifies the unique aspects of local conceptualisations in the East African region. The chapter discusses how self-awareness and respect are understood by adolescents, parents, and the communities in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, and the implications of this on the development of the assessment tools. In addition, the assessment frameworks for both constructs are presented. These are expanded through description of the hypothesized proficiency levels and illustrated by sample tasks.
Collaboration in East Africa: A Contextualised Approach to Defining the Construct
Authors: Scoular Claire , Otieno David Alelah
Published: February 2024

Collaboration has been highlighted internationally as a key skill for learning, working, and living in the twenty-first century. However, to teach it well, enhance its performance, and measure its growth, it is essential to have a clear and consistent definition of the skill. There are a number of frameworks that describe collaboration in a way that is meaningful to learning and growth. Despite some differences across frameworks, it is clear there is a common core set of contributing subskills. This suggests that collaboration is of global interest, and that there are components that transcend national or cultural specificities. Notwithstanding, definitions and frameworks need to be suitable for the context in which they will be applied, ensuring the approach is integrated and sustainable in education systems. One focus of the ALiVE project was to develop a collaboration framework suitable and relevant for the sub-Saharan African context. The approach included auditing frameworks internationally, curricula regionally, and conducting an ethnographic study. The resulting framework was used in the development of assessment tasks to sample the skill among adolescents in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The issues highlighted in this chapter reveal the need for further study of collaboration in specific contexts in order to understand local variations and ensure optimal approaches to measurement.
Approaches to Assessment of Twenty-First Century Skills in East Africa
Authors: Nansubuga Florence , Ariapa Martin , Baluku Martin , Kim Helyn
Published: February 2024

To address the challenges originating from changes in the global market and with technological progress, sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is adopting more holistic education systems that offer lifelong competence for workers in the twenty-first century. This transition requires integration of complex cognitive and social/interpersonal competencies, such as critical thinking, teamwork, cultural and diversity awareness, multilingualism, and the use of digital technologies into the traditional educational curricula. However, the transition from traditional to holistic curricula is complicated. Issues include how twenty-first century skills are defined in SSA, how they can be taught, how they can be integrated into curricula, and how they can be assessed. A review of the literature on assessments was first conducted in order to review approaches and tools used to measure twenty-first century skills in SSA. Five assessment approaches were identified: scenario-based, questionnaire, video recording and direct observation, portfolio, and technology-based. Seven tools that met study criteria were examined along five dimensions: purpose, type or form, target population, context, and specific skills, in order to determine their utility for assessment of twenty-first century skills. Findings indicate that five of the seven assessment tools support summative purposes while two support formative assessment. Further to this, two tools were designed for large-scale assessment and three targeted adolescents. In terms of method, scenario-based and self-report were the most common approaches used to collect information on twenty-first century skills in SSA. Notably, the outcomes of scenario-based assessments provided compelling evidence of proficiencies, demonstrating the method’s efficiency in task creation, analysis, and scoring rubrics that provide clear distinctions across performance levels.
Funktionale Kategorisierung der Knochenartefakte
Authors: Probst-Böhm Anja
Published: February 2024

Die Möglichkeiten der Funktionsbestimmung von Gebrauchsspuren werden vor allem stark von Lagerungseinflüssen und verwendungsbedingten Faktoren begrenzt. Aber auch Umfang und Grad des persönlichen Erfahrungswissens hinsichtlich des Erkennens und Unterscheidens der verschiedenen Spuren können die Gebrauchsspurenanalyse subjektiv färben und schränken damit ihre Gültigkeit ein.
Characterization of Stronghold Fortifications by 2D/3D/4D Electrical Resistivity Tomography: Major Push Towards Quantitative Interpretation
Authors: Klanica Radek , Štefan Ivo , Hasil Jan , Beránek Roman
Published: February 2024

Geophysical methods are widely used as noninvasive tools for archaeological prospection. In a first step is usually applied basic prospection of vast areas, when data are evaluated only in qualitative way. Sometimes is performed second step, during which take place more detailed multidimensional or combined surveys in order to image archeological monuments complexly, allowing quantitative interpretation. Hence, we used a unique and novel combination of multidimensional electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) on the Early Middle Ages stronghold fortifications at Vinoř (Czechia) to achieve such interpretation. The joint results of 2D/3D/4D (time-lapse) surveys allowed us to precisely characterize individual construction components of the fortifications, including a ditch and rampart enhanced by a front wall with a berm. The ERT results recovered the fortification dimensions and the volume of building material used. The surveyed fortification section was verified by excavations directly after the ERT measurements. A comparison of the excavated section with geophysics proved that ERT was able to infer all the important fortification characteristics. In addition, illustrative picture of the resistivity manifestations of the basic components of this very typical fortification construction were obtained. The results show that multidimensional ERT provide access to quantitative interpretation allowing to explain archaeological structures behind investigated anomalies. In result, sites containing cultural heritage can be leaved intact, excavations can be substituted in surprisingly large extent, while unprecedented amount of archaeological information is still retrieved.
Optimization of forward pulsed currents for combining the precision shaping and polishing of nickel micro mould tools to reduce demoulding defects
Authors: Zaki Sana , Zhang Nan , Gilchrist Michael D.
Published: February 2024

Precise tooling is vital for defect-free production of micro injection moulded (μ-IM) or hot-embossed products. The demoulding stage of such moulding and forming processes poses a serious challenge to the integrity of thin miniature features because of friction, adhesion, and thermal stresses. Typically, micro moulds involve geometrically textured patterns or features such as linear ridges, pillars, channels, and holes, the characteristic dimensions of which range from 10 to 300 μm. Realistically complex mould designs, containing precision micro features (enhanced fillet radius and positive draft angle) and high surface quality, are presented in this work. Electropolishing based on forward pulse currents (PC) has been used to shape and polish Ni micro moulds that contain sets of micron-scaled linear ridges and star patterns in order to ease the separation of moulded polymeric parts from the metallic mould during ejection and demoulding. The use of forward pulsed currents improved the mould design by increasing the fillet radii and draft angle while keeping the surface roughness low and maintaining a good surface shine. An optimization study of forward PC using a green solution of nickel sulfamate varied EP times (0–70 min) and duty cycles (40, 50, 60, and 70%) at a process conditions of 2.8 V, 50 °C, and 250 rpm. The best topographical and morphological changes were observed for a typical microfluidic channel (w × h, 100 × 110 μm) with an EP time of 70 min and 50% duty cycle: fillet radius increased by 3.8 μm, draft angle by 3.3°, and the channel width reduced by 11.4% while surface roughness changed by 8.6% and surface shine improved by 48.9%. Experimental validation was performed using hot embossing wherein the electropolished Ni mould replicated the micro channels and star patterns in PMMA chips with notably fewer burrs, material pile up, and no feature distortion. Moreover, there was a reduction in the side wall roughness of micro channels in PDMS casting with electropolished Ni mould by 16%. Hence, this work presents a significant scientific contribution to improving the efficiency of micro mould tools and reduces the defects caused by friction and adhesion in replicated polymeric parts.
Zhang neural networks: an introduction to predictive computations for discretized time-varying matrix problems
Authors: Uhlig Frank
Published: February 2024

This paper wants to increase our understanding and computational know-how for time-varying matrix problems and Zhang Neural Networks. These neural networks were invented for time or single parameter-varying matrix problems around 2001 in China and almost all of their advances have been made in and most still come from its birthplace. Zhang Neural Network methods have become a backbone for solving discretized sensor driven time-varying matrix problems in real-time, in theory and in on-chip applications for robots, in control theory and other engineering applications in China. They have become the method of choice for many time-varying matrix problems that benefit from or require efficient, accurate and predictive real-time computations. A typical discretized Zhang Neural Network algorithm needs seven distinct steps in its initial set-up. The construction of discretized Zhang Neural Network algorithms starts from a model equation with its associated error equation and the stipulation that the error function decrease exponentially fast. The error function differential equation is then mated with a convergent look-ahead finite difference formula to create a distinctly new multi-step style solver that predicts the future state of the system reliably from current and earlier state and solution data. Matlab codes of discretized Zhang Neural Network algorithms for time varying matrix problems typically consist of one linear equations solve and one recursion of already available data per time step. This makes discretized Zhang Neural network based algorithms highly competitive with ordinary differential equation initial value analytic continuation methods for function given data that are designed to work adaptively. Discretized Zhang Neural Network methods have different characteristics and applicabilities than multi-step ordinary differential equations (ODEs) initial value solvers. These new time-varying matrix methods can solve matrix-given problems from sensor data with constant sampling gaps or from functional equations. To illustrate the adaptability of discretized Zhang Neural Networks and further the understanding of this method, this paper details the seven step set-up process for Zhang Neural Networks and twelve separate time-varying matrix models. It supplies new codes for seven of these. Open problems are mentioned as well as detailed references to recent work on discretized Zhang Neural Networks and time-varying matrix computations. Comparisons are given to standard non-predictive multi-step methods that use initial value problems ODE solvers and analytic continuation methods.
Longitudinal Cardiac Evaluation of Children with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C) Following COVID-19 by Conventional and Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: Anagnostopoulou Andriana , Dourdouna Maria-Myrto , Loukopoulou Sofia , Mpourazani Evdoxia , Poulakis Marios , Karanasios Evangelos , Michos Athanasios
Published: February 2024

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), is a rare but severe, hyperinflammatory complication of COVID-19, in which cardiovascular abnormalities are frequently detected. In this prospective study, we describe the echocardiographic findings in patients with MIS-C, with the use of conventional Echocardiography and Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography (STE) with Left Ventricular (LV) Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) analysis, in the acute and follow-up phase. In total, 25 MIS-C patients [64% females, mean (± SD) age: 8.3 (± 3.72) years] were included. In the acute phase, median (IQR) Troponin and NT-proBNP and mean heart rate, were 8.07 (14.52) pg/mL, 2875.00 (7713.00) pg/mL, and 102.87 (± 22.96) bpm, respectively. Median (IQR) LV Ejection Fraction (LVEF) was 66 (8)% and LVEF impairment was detected in 2/25 (8%) patients. On follow-up (mean time interval:9.50 ± 4.59 months), heart rate was significantly lower, with a mean value of 90.00 (± 14.56) bpm (p-value = 0.017). Median (IQR) LVEF was 66.00 (6.70)% (p-value = 0.345) and all 25 participants had normal LVEF. In 14/25 patients, additional LV-GLS analysis was performed. During the acute phase, mean LV-GLS was − 18.02 (± 4.40)%. LV-GLS was abnormal in 6/14 patients (42.9%) and among them, only one patient had reduced LVEF. On follow-up (median (IQR) time interval:6.93 (3.66) months), mean LV-GLS was -20.31 (± 1.91)% (p-value = 0.07) and in 1/14 patient (7.1%), the LV-GLS impairment persisted. In conclusion, in the acute and follow-up phase, we detected abnormal LV-GLS values in some patients, in the presence of normal LVEF, indicating that STE-GLS is a valuable tool for identifying subclinical myocardial injury in MIS-C.
Advanced detection of cervical cancer biomarkers using engineered filamentous phage nanofibers
Authors: Zhou Xu , Wang Yicun , Bao Meijing , Chu Yuqing , Liu Ruixue , Chen Qi , Lin Yang
Published: February 2024

Cervical cancer is a major global health concern, characterized by its high incidence and mortality rates. The detection of tumor markers is crucial for managing cancer, making treatment decisions, and monitoring disease progression. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and programmed death-ligand 1 (PDL-1) are key targets in cervical cancer therapy and valuable biomarkers in predicting treatment response and prognosis. In this study, we found that combining the measurement of VEGF and soluble PDL-1 can be used for diagnosing and evaluating the progression of cervical cancer. To explore a more convenient approach for detecting and assessing cervical cancer, we designed and prepared an engineered fd bacteriophage, a human-safe viral nanofiber, equipped with two peptides targeting VEGF and PD-L1. The dual-display phage nanofiber specifically recognizes and binds to both proteins. Utilizing this nanofiber as a novel capture agent, we developed a new enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. This method shows significantly enhanced detection sensitivity compared to conventional ELISA methods, which use either anti-VEGF or anti-PD-L1 antibodies as capture agents. Therefore, the phage dual-display nanofiber presents significant potential in detecting cancer markers, evaluating medication efficacy, and advancing immunotherapy drug development.

Key points

• The combined measurement of VEGF and soluble Programmed Death-Ligand 1(sPD-L1) demonstrates an additive effect in the diagnosis of cervical cancer. Fd phage nanofibers have been ingeniously engineered to display peptides that bind to VEGF and PD-L1, enabling the simultaneous detection of both proteins within a single assay

• Genetically engineered phage nanofibers, adorned with two distinct peptides, can be utilized for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer and can be mass-produced cost-effectively through bacterial infections

• Employing dual-display fd phage nanofibers as capture probes, the phage ELISA method exhibited significantly enhanced detection sensitivity compared to traditional sandwich ELISA. Furthermore, phage ELISA facilitates the detection of a single protein or the simultaneous detection of multiple proteins, rendering them powerful tools for protein analysis and diagnosis across various fields, including cancer research

Graphical Abstract
Discovery of psoralen as a quorum sensing inhibitor suppresses Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence
Authors: Wen Fulong , Wu Yi , Yuan Yang , Yang Xiting , Ran Qiman , Gan Xiongyao , Guo Yidong , Wang Xinrong , Chu Yiwen , Zhao Kelei
Published: February 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common opportunistic pathogen with growing resistance and presents heightened treatment challenges. Quorum sensing (QS) is a cell-to-cell communication system that contributes to the production of a variety of virulence factors and is also related to biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa. Compared to traditional antibiotics which kill bacteria directly, the anti-virulence strategy by targeting QS is a promising strategy for combating pseudomonal infections. In this study, the QS inhibition potential of the compounds derived from the Traditional Chinese Medicines was evaluated by using in silico, in vitro, and in vivo analyses. The results showed that psoralen, a natural furocoumarin compound derived from Psoralea corylifolia L., was capable of simultaneously inhibiting the three main QS regulators, LasR, RhlR, and PqsR of P. aeruginosa. Psoralen had no bactericidal activity but could widely inhibit the production of extracellular proteases, pyocyanin, and biofilm, and the cell motilities of the model and clinical P. aeruginosa strains. RNA-sequencing and quantitative PCR analyses further demonstrated that a majority of QS-activated genes in P. aeruginosa were suppressed by psoralen. The supplementation of psoralen could protect Caenorhabditis elegans from P. aeruginosa challenge, especially for the hypervirulent strain PA14. Moreover, psoralen showed synergistic antibacterial effects with polymyxin B, levofloxacin, and kanamycin. In conclusions, this study identifies the anti-QS and antibiofilm effects of psoralen against P. aeruginosa strains and sheds light on the discovery of anti-pseudomonal drugs among Traditional Chinese Medicines.

Key points

• Psoralen derived from Psoralea corylifolia L. inhibits the virulence-related phenotypes of P. aeruginosa.

• Psoralen simultaneously targets the three core regulators of P. aeruginosa QS system and inhibits the expression of a large part of downstream genes.

• Psoralen protects C. elegans from P. aeruginosa challenge and enhances the susceptibility of P. aeruginosa to antibiotics.
Recurrent benign fibrous histiocytoma of the bone benefits from denosumab followed by malignant transformation: a case report
Authors: Laureline Wetterwald , Patrick Omoumi , Tu Nguyen , Stephane Cherix , Ana Dolcan , Daniela Ferraro , Chiara Saglietti , Igor Letovanec , Antonia Digklia
Published: February 2024

Benign fibrous histiocytoma of the bone (BFHB) is a rare mesenchymal tumor, representing less than 1% of all benign bone tumors. This controversial entity is characterized by a mixture of fibroblasts arranged in a storiform pattern, varying amounts of osteoclast-type giant cells and foamy macrophages. Curettage or simple resection is usually curative. However, it was reported that up to 11% of the patients suffer from relapse. Here, we report a case of malignant transformation of BFHB after long-lasting disease stabilization under denosumab therapy.
Forensic taphonomic experimental design matters: a study assessing clothing and carrion biomass load on scavenging in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Adams Kara Sierra , Finaughty Devin Alexander , Gibbon Victoria Elaine
Published: February 2024

The identification of unknown human remains is a significant and ongoing challenge in South Africa, worsened by the country’s high murder rate. The rate of decomposition in South Africa is significantly influenced by vertebrate scavenging, which, if not considered, can impede the accurate estimation of the post-mortem interval. Scavenging patterns vary greatly depending on the environment and ecological region, and there is limited data for the Western Cape province. To address this gap, two clothed and uncaged pig carcasses weighing 60 kg each were placed in the field in July 2021 and January 2022, respectively. Motion-activated infrared-capable trail cameras were used to observe decomposition, scavenger species, and their activities. Additionally, a comparative sample of 16 unclothed carcasses deployed between 2014 and 2016 in the same habitat were analyzed to assess the impact of clothing and biomass load. The study found three main results: (1) Regardless of habitat or biomass load, it took significantly less time to reach decomposition milestones (25%, 50%, and 75%) during the summer season; (2) the presence of mongoose scavengers had a greater impact on the time required to reach milestones during winter compared to summer; and (3) single carcass deployments reached the milestones faster than multi-carcass deployments in both seasons. This research highlights the potential inaccuracy of current methods for estimating the post-mortem interval when scavenging activity is not considered or documented in the underlying experimental data, particularly for environments or ecological biomes where scavengers actively impact decomposition rates.
Drooling may be Associated with Dysphagia Symptoms in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Sapmaz Atalar Merve , Genç Gençer , Bulut Serpil
Published: February 2024

During the process of the multiple sclerosis (MS), persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) may experience drooling (sialorrhea) issues that are frequently disregarded. The exact cause of drooling in PwMS is poorly understood. This study aims to assess potential risk factors for drooling seen in PwMS. The study included 20 PwMS with drooling and 19 PwMS without drooling. The participants’ sociodemographic data and clinical parameters were noted. To evaluate dysphagia, fatigue, and hypersalivation, the Dysphagia in Multiple Sclerosis Questionnaire (DYMUS), the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and objective saliva flow rate measurement with cottons placed in Stensen ducts and under the tongue (swab test) were used, respectively. The study employed univariate and multivariate logistic regression models to identify the risk factors linked to drooling. Gender, age, disease duration, MS type, and Expanded Disability Status Scale scores did not differ between the two groups. There was a significant increase in the DYMUS and submandibular/sublingual (SM/SL) saliva flow rate values in PwMS with drooling (p = 0.009 and p = 0.019, respectively). However, in our study, hypersalivation was not observed in PwMS with or without drooling. In the univariate model, DYMUS, SM/SL saliva flow rate, and FSS were found to be risk factors for drooling in PwMS. But only DYMUS was shown to be a significant risk factor in the multivariate model obtained by the backward (Wald) elimination method (p = 0.023). Finally, our research is the first to demonstrate the relationship between drooling and the presence of dysphagia symptoms in PwMS. This is a very important study to determine the nature of drooling in PwMS. This finding shows that our study will serve as a reference for choosing the best method for drooling treatment.
EvoFolio: a portfolio optimization method based on multi-objective evolutionary algorithms
Authors: Guarino Alfonso , Santoro Domenico , Grilli Luca , Zaccagnino Rocco , Balbi Mario
Published: February 2024

Optimal portfolio selection—composing a set of stocks/assets that provide high yields/returns with a reasonable risk—has attracted investors and researchers for a long time. As a consequence, a variety of methods and techniques have been developed, spanning from purely mathematics ones to computational intelligence ones. In this paper, we introduce a method for optimal portfolio selection based on multi-objective evolutionary algorithms, specificallyNondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II), which tries tomaximizethe yield andminimizethe risk, simultaneously. The system, namedEvoFolio, has been experimented on stock datasets in a three-years time-frame and varying the configurations/specifics of NSGA-II operators.EvoFoliois aninteractivegenetic algorithm, i.e., users can provide their own insights and suggestions to the algorithm such that it takes into account users’ preferences for some stocks. We have performed tests with optimizations occurring quarterly and monthly. The results show howEvoFoliocan significantly reduce the risk of portfolios consisting only of stocks and obtain very high performance (in terms of return). Furthermore, considering the investor’s preferences has proved to be very effective in the portfolio’s composition and made it more attractive for end-users. We argue thatEvoFoliocan be effectively used by investors as a support tool for portfolio formation.
An end-to-end machine learning approach with explanation for time series with varying lengths
Authors: Schneider Manuel , Greifzu Norbert , Wang Lei , Walther Christian , Wenzel Andreas , Li Pu
Published: February 2024

An accurate prediction of complex product quality parameters from process time series by an end-to-end learning approach remains a significant challenge in machine learning. A special difficulty is the application of industrial batch process data because many batch processes generate variable length time series. In the industrial application of such methods, explainability is often desired. In this study, a 1D convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithm with a masking layer is proposed to solve the problem for time series of variable length. In addition, a novel combination of 1D CNN and class activation mapping (CAM) technique is part of this study to better understand the model results and highlight some regions of interest in the time series. As a comparative state-of-the-art unsupervised machine learning method, the One-Nearest Neighbours (1NN) algorithm combined with dynamic time warping (DTW) was used. Both methods are investigated as end-to-end learning methods with balanced and unbalanced class distributions and with scaled and unscaled input data, respectively. The FastDTW and DTAIDistance algorithms were investigated for the DTW calculation. The data set is made up of sensor signals that was collected during the production of plastic parts. The objective was to predict a quality parameter of plastic parts during production. For this research, the quality parameter will be a difficult or only destructively measurable parameter and both methods will be investigated for their applicability to this prediction task. The application of the proposed approach to an industrial facility for producing plastic products shows a prediction accuracy of 83.7%. It can improve the reverence method by approximately 1.4%. In addition to the slight increase in accuracy, the CNN training time was significantly reduced compared to the DTW calculation.
Postural control and trunk stability on sway parameters in adults with and without chronic low back pain
Authors: Sung Paul S. , Lee Dongchul
Published: February 2024

Background

Postural sway changes often reflect functional impairments in adults with chronic low back pain (LBP). However, there is a gap in understanding how these individuals adapt their postural strategies to maintain stability.

Purpose

This study investigated postural sway distance and velocity, utilizing the center of pressure (COP) and center of gravity (COG), between adults with and without LBP during repeated unilateral standing trials.

Methods

Twenty-six subjects with LBP and 39 control subjects participated in the study. Postural sway ranges, COP/COG sways, and sway velocities (computed by dividing path length by time in anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) directions over 10 s) were analyzed across three unilateral standing trials.

Results

A significant group interaction in sway range difference was observed following repeated trials (F = 5.90, p = 0.02). For COG sway range, significant group interactions were demonstrated in both directions (F = 4.28, p = 0.04) and repeated trials (F = 5.79, p = 0.02). The LBP group demonstrated reduced ML sway velocities in the first (5.21 ± 2.43 for the control group, 4.16 ± 2.33 for the LBP group; t = 1.72, p = 0.04) and second (4.87 ± 2.62 for the control group, 3.79 ± 2.22 for the LBP group; t = 1.73, p = 0.04) trials.

Conclusion

The LBP group demonstrated decreased ML sway velocities to enhance trunk stability in the initial two trials. The COG results emphasized the potential use of trunk strategies in augmenting postural stability and optimizing neuromuscular control during unilateral standing.
Der algebraische Hintergrund eines prä-algebraischen Zugangs zu den ganzen Zahlen und zu den Brüchen
Authors: Wittmann Erich Ch.
Published: February 2024

In diesem Beitrag wird ein von Hans Freudenthal eröffneter Zugang zu den ganzen Zahlen und zu den Brüchen ausgearbeitet und mit einer algebraischen Hintergrundtheorie versehen. Charakteristisch für diesen Zugang ist, dass er vom Rechnen ausgeht und neben dem Hankelschen Permanenzprinzip auch vom Leibnizschen Identitätsprinzip Gebrauch macht.

Die hier entwickelte Theorie ist für den Unterricht handlungsleitend und kann daher Platz in praxisnahen Mathematikvorlesungen für Lehramtsstudierende sowie in Fortbildungen für Lehrkräfte finden.
Deciding whether a lattice has an orthonormal basis is in co-NP
Authors: Hunkenschröder Christoph
Published: February 2024

We show that the problem of deciding whether a given Euclidean lattice L has an orthonormal basis is in NP and co-NP. Since this is equivalent to saying that L is isomorphic to the standard integer lattice, this problem is a special form of the lattice isomorphism problem, which is known to be in the complexity class SZK. We achieve this by deploying a result on characteristic vectors by Elkies that gained attention in the context of 4-manifolds and Seiberg-Witten equations, but seems rather unnoticed in the algorithmic lattice community. On the way, we also show that for a given Gram matrix $$G \in \mathbb {Q}^{n \times n}$$

G
∈

Q

n
×
n

, we can efficiently find a rational lattice that is embedded in at most four times the initial dimension n, i.e. a rational matrix $$B \in \mathbb {Q}^{4n \times n}$$

B
∈

Q

4
n
×
n

such that $$B^\intercal B = G$$

B
⊺

B
=
G

.
Developing the littering behavior model focusing on implementation intention: a challenge to anti-environmental behavior
Authors: Mori Yasuhiro , Nakamata Tomoko , Kuwayama Risa , Yuki Shintaro , Ohnuma Susumu
Published: February 2024

Marine litter and plastic pollution are pressing concerns demanding immediate attention. Understanding psychological processes causing anti-environmental behavior is crucial to prevent littering. Even when people have the intention not to litter, they may still engage in littering behaviors. Therefore, this study develops a littering behavior model that incorporates the concept of implementation intention. This proposed model suggests that the willingness to admit to littering within a specific context is introduced between the behavioral intention and the actual behavior. For this study, a web questionnaire survey was conducted in Japan, yielding 4642 valid responses. We developed question items considering response bias toward socially undesirable content. Through this approach, we gathered participant responses that revealed a tendency to litter depending on the situation. The results of structural equation modeling confirmed the model’s validity, suggesting that implementation intention was a direct determinant of littering behavior. The model demonstrated that individuals may still engage in littering behavior in specific situations, despite having a goal of not littering, due to the influence of implementation intention. Accordingly, efficient interventions should be designed in alignment with this behavioral model.
Age and sex-dependent sensitivity analysis of a common carotid artery model
Authors: Schäfer Friederike , Sturdy Jacob , Hellevik Leif Rune
Published: February 2024

The common carotid artery (CCA) is an accessible and informative site for assessing cardiovascular function which makes it a prime candidate for clinically relevant computational modelling. The interpretation of supplemental information possible through modelling is encumbered by measurement uncertainty and population variability in model parameters. The distribution of model parameters likely depends on the specific sub-population of interest and delineation based on sex, age or health status may correspond to distinct ranges of typical parameter values. To assess this impact in a 1D-CCA-model, we delineated specific sub-populations based on age, sex and health status and carried out uncertainty quantification and sensitivity analysis for each sub-population. We performed a structured literature review to characterize sub-population-specific variabilities for eight model parameters without consideration of health status; variations for a healthy sub-populations were based on previously established references values. The variabilities of diameter and distensibility found in the literature review differed from those previously established in a healthy population. Model diameter change and pulse pressure were most sensitive to variations in distensibility, while pressure was most sensitive to resistance in the Windkessel model for all groups. Uncertainties were lower when variabilities were based on a healthy sub-population; however, the qualitative distribution of sensitivity indices was largely similar between the healthy and general population. Average sensitivity of the pressure waveform showed a moderate dependence on age with decreasing sensitivity to distal resistance and increasing sensitivity to distensibility and diameter. The female population was less sensitive to variations in diameter but more sensitive to distensibility coefficient than the male population. Overall, as hypothesized input variabilities differed between sub-populations and resulted in distinct uncertainties and sensitivities of the 1D-CCA-model outputs, particularly over age for the pressure waveform and between males and females for pulse pressure.
The 'Tilt' and the 'Pacific Uplift' in 'Global Britain's' ties with the Pacific Islands
Authors: Saddington Liam
Published: February 2024

Following the 2016 vote to leave the European Union, the British government sought to construct the UK as “Global Britain” to reinvigorate its foreign policy. Subsequently, in 2019, the UK government announced a “Pacific Uplift” to facilitate greater engagement with the Pacific Island States. Alongside Australia’s “Pacific Step Up” and New Zealand’s “Pacific Reset”, this engagement is part of a wider shift in foreign relations as Western powers seek to counter perceived Chinese influence in the region. Within this article, I consider the changing relationship between the UK and the Pacific Island States. I argue that the UK’s “Pacific Uplift” was shaped by colonial legacies despite the absence of discussion of them. I contend that the UK’s re-engagement with Pacific Islanders is influenced by the announcement of the Australian-UK-US (AUKUS) security alliance and the UK’s wider military presence continues to be framed by colonial legacies. Finally, I argue that climate-ocean governance has been utilised by the UK to leverage influence as a partner rather than a former colonial power. I advocate for greater scrutiny of the UK’s changing relationship with Pacific Island States.
Kenyan Free-Tailed Bats Demonstrate Seasonal Birth Pulse Asynchrony with Implications for Virus Maintenance
Authors: Lunn Tamika J. , Jackson Reilly T. , Webala Paul W. , Ogola Joseph , Forbes Kristian M.
Published: February 2024

Ecological information on wildlife reservoirs is fundamental for research targeting prevention of zoonotic infectious disease, yet basic information is lacking for many species in global hotspots of disease emergence. We provide the first estimates of synchronicity, magnitude, and timing of seasonal birthing in Mops condylurus, a putative ebolavirus host, and a co-roosting species, Mops pumilus (formerly Chaerephon pumilus). We show that population-level synchronicity of M. condylurus birthing is wide (~ 8.5 weeks) and even wider in M. pumilus (> 11 weeks). This is predicted to promote the likelihood of filovirus persistence under conditions of bi-annual birthing (two births per year). Ecological features underlying the magnitude of the birth pulse—relative female abundance (higher than expected for M. condylurus and lower for M. pumilus, based on literature) and reproductive rate (lower than expected)—will have countering effects on birthing magnitude. Species-specific models are needed to interpret how identified birth pulse attributes may interact with other features of molossid ebolavirus ecology to influence infection dynamics. As a common feature of wildlife species, and a key driver of infection dynamics, detailed information on seasonal birthing will be fundamental for future research on these species and will be informative for bat-borne zoonoses generally.
Optimization of Hot Gas Welding of Hybrid Thermoplastic-Thermoset Composites Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Steiner Grete , Kuttner Dominik , Lochner Hans , Thor Michael
Published: February 2024

In this study, the influence of four different process parameters on hot gas welding of CF/epoxy fiber composites functionalized with a PA6 thermoplastic film is investigated. Additional experiments are carried out on specimens adorned with triangular beads of coupling material that are printed onto the plates, ensuring extra material within the joining zone. This approach offers a great advantage for compensating geometric tolerances. The parameters considered are common process parameters for regular two-step processes: Heating element temperature (THE), heating time (HT), welding force (F) and welding time (HTF). The design of experiments (DoE) is planned according to the Taguchi method. An orthogonal array is used to set up the experimental plan. Three factor levels of each welding parameter are considered. The test series are carried out with two sample variants. In the second sample variant, additional thermoplastic material is placed in the joining zone. The strength of the welded joints is investigated by tensile shear tests according to DIN EN 1465. The results show that the welding force has the greatest influence on the welding strength. Heating times of 20 s were found to be optimal. Within the first sample variant, a saturation behavior of the welding force can be observed at 500 N. Higher heating element temperatures (500 °C) and welding forces (1165 N) are advantageous using additional material. High welding temperatures result in a negative effect on the interdiffusivity of the polymer chains.