bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relativity of the event: examples in JT gravity and linearized GR
Authors: Nitti Francesco , Piazza Federico , Taskov Alexander
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Observables in quantum gravity are famously defined asymptotically, at the boundary of AdS or Minkowski spaces. However, by gauge fixing a coordinate system or suitably dressing the field operators, an approximate, “quasi-local” approach is also possible, that can give account of the measurements performed by a set of observers living inside the spacetime. In particular, one can attach spatial coordinates to the worldlines of these observers and use their proper times as a time coordinate. Here we highlight that any such local formulation has to face the relativity of the event, in that changing frame (= set of observers) implies a reshuffling of the point-events and the way they are identified. As a consequence, coordinate transformations between different frames become probabilistic in quantum gravity. We give a concrete realization of this mechanism in Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity, where a point in the bulk can be defined operationally with geodesics anchored to the boundary. We describe different ways to do so, each corresponding to a different frame, and compute the variances of the transformations relating some of these frames. In particular, we compute the variance of the location of the black hole horizon, which appears smeared in most frames. We then suggest how to calculate this effect in Einstein gravity, assuming knowledge of the wavefunction of the metric. The idea is to expand the latter on a basis of semiclassical states. Each element of this basis enjoys standard/deterministic coordinate transformations and the result is thus obtained by superposition. As a divertissement, we sabotage Lorentz boosts by adding to Minkoswki space a quantum superposition of gravitational waves and compute the probabilistic coordinate transformation to a boosted frame at linear order. Finally, we attempt to translate the relativity of the event into the language of dressed operators.
A perturbative approach to the non-relativistic string spectrum
Authors: de Leeuw Marius , Fontanella Andrea , García Juan Miguel Nieto
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In this letter we use a perturbative approach to find the spectrum of non-relativistic strings in the String Newton-Cartan (SNC) AdS5×S5 spacetime. We perturb the bosonic sector of the action around a BMN-like folded string solution in light-cone gauge. We find strong evidence that the theory is described by a combination of massive and massless free fields in an anti-de Sitter background by showing that interaction terms up to six scalars vanish after field redefinitions.
Parabolic logistic equation with harvesting involving the fractional Laplacian
Authors: Chhetri Maya , Girg Petr , Hollifield Elliott , Kotrla Lukáš
Published: October 2024

This paper deals with a class of parabolic reaction-diffusion equations driven by the fractional Laplacian as the diffusion operator over a bounded domain with zero Dirichlet external condition. Using a comparison principle and monotone iteration method, we establish existence and uniqueness results. We apply the existence result to the logistic growth problems with constant yield harvesting by constructing an ordered pair of positive sub- and supersolution of the corresponding elliptic problem.
Digitale Gesundheits-Apps
Authors: Widmer Alexandra
Published: October 2024

Digitale Gesundheits-Apps, seit 2019 auch auf Rezept erhältlich, bieten vielfältige Funktionen in Gesundheitsmonitoring, Symptomerkennung, Verlaufsbeobachtung und Patientenversorgung. Das Digitale-Versorgungs-Gesetz von 2023 strebt eine umfassende Integration von Apps in die medizinische Versorgung an. Die Nutzung künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) in Gesundheits-Apps verspricht eine frühere Diagnosestellung, sensitive Symptomüberwachung, Optimierung von Therapieabläufen, effektivere Arzt-Patienten-Kommunikation sowie Ressourceneinsparungen. Die Integration von Gesundheits-Apps und KI kann eine stärker personalisierte, hochwertige Versorgung ermöglichen.
Kardiovaskuläre Prävention in Sachsen-Anhalt
Authors: Müller Patrick , Herzog Maximilian , Duderstadt Yves , Kunz Matthias , Lechner Katharina , Meyer Frank , Schmeißer Alexander , Meißler Saskia , Ahrens Dörte , Neumann Katja , Mattern Hendrik , Speck Oliver , Behme Daniel , Dunay Ildiko Rita , Seeland Ute , Schreiber Stefanie , Braun-Dullaeus Rüdiger
Published: October 2024

Kardiovaskuläre Risikofaktoren (Bluthochdruck, Rauchen, Übergewicht, Diabetes mellitus Typ 2, Dyslipidämie, körperliche Inaktivität) steigen mit zunehmendem Alter, insbesondere ab dem mittleren Erwachsenenalter, deutlich an, wobei Frauen wesentlich stärker betroffen sind. In der Bevölkerung Sachsen-Anhalts ist die Prävalenz kardiovaskulärer Risikofaktoren stark erhöht, und die Bevölkerungsstruktur in Sachsen-Anhalt ist besonders geprägt von einem hohen Durchschnittsalter sowie einer hohen Morbiditäts- und Mortalitätsrate aufgrund von kardiovaskulären Erkrankungen. Somit bietet Sachsen-Anhalt einen Modellcharakter für die demografische Entwicklung in Europa. Dieser Übersichtsbeitrag thematisiert Strategien zur Umsetzung zielgruppenspezifischer, kardiovaskulärer Präventionsstrategien im Bundesland Sachsen-Anhalt unter besonderer Berücksichtigung von Alter und Geschlecht. Indem präventivmedizinische Einrichtungen aufgebaut und innovative Versorgungsmöglichkeiten für kardiovaskuläre Risikopatienten geschaffen werden, soll Prävention auch dem ländlichen Bereich zugänglich gemacht werden.
Strong and weak AI narratives: an analytical framework
Authors: Bory Paolo , Natale Simone , Katzenbach Christian
Published: October 2024

The current debate on artificial intelligence (AI) tends to associate AI imaginaries with the vision of a future technology capable of emulating or surpassing human intelligence. This article advocates for a more nuanced analysis of AI imaginaries, distinguishing “strong AI narratives,” i.e., narratives that envision futurable AI technologies that are virtually indistinguishable from humans, from "weak" AI narratives, i.e., narratives that discuss and make sense of the functioning and implications of existing AI technologies. Drawing on the academic literature on AI narratives and imaginaries and examining examples drawn from the debate on Large Language Models and public policy, we underscore the critical role and interplay of weak and strong AI across public/private and fictional/non-fictional discourses. The resulting analytical framework aims to empower approaches that are more sensitive to the heterogeneity of AI narratives while also advocating normalising AI narratives, i.e., positioning weak AI narratives more firmly at the center stage of public debates about emerging technologies.
Influences of ion bombardment, grain size, and gamma irradiation on surface topography, microstructural, and mechanical characteristics of Cu-2 wt% Sb alloy
Authors: Soliman H. N. , Sobhy M.
Published: October 2024

The Cu-2 wt% Sb alloy was prepared and exposed to various heat treatments at temperatures ranging from 573 to 973 K to get distinct grain diameters. Different samples of various grain diameters were individually sputtered in an argon glow discharge for various times (0.5, 1, 2 h) using a DC magnetron sputtering device. The surface topography and microstructural features of a Cu-2 wt% Sb alloy were examined utilizing an optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The $$Cu_{3} Sb$$

C

u
3

S
b

IMC phase was found to segregate at the grain boundaries. Results showed that the topographical features of sputtered samples (grain boundaries, tiny cones, cratered cones, and etch pits) were mainly affected by grain size and sputtering time. Moreover, the mechanical properties of a Cu-2 wt% Sb alloy were examined. The parameters of the stress–strain curves (Young modulus Y, 0.2% offset stress σy0.2, fracture stress σf, parabolic work-hardening coefficient $${\upchi }_{{\text{p}}}$$

χ
p

, and ductility $${\upvarepsilon }_{{\text{f}}} {\text{\% }}$$

ε
f

\%

) were measured under different testing conditions. Generally, these stress parameters decrease as the grain diameter increases. These parameters, with the exception of $${\upvarepsilon }_{{\text{f}}} {\text{\% }}$$

ε
f

\%

, increase as the strain rate increases, while $${\upvarepsilon }_{{\text{f}}} {\text{ \% }}$$

ε
f

\%

decreases as the strain rate increases. Additionally, selective samples of the present alloy were irradiated using γ-radiation with different doses 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 MGy. The Vickers microhardness of annealed and irradiated samples lowered as the grain size augmented, while it increased as the irradiation dose increased. Based on the obtained activation energy Q value of 20.65 kJ/mol., it is indicated that the predominant deformation mechanism in the Cu-2 wt% Sb alloy is the motion of dislocation through the Cu-matrix.
Intermittent theta burst stimulation in adolescents and young adults with depressive disorders: protocol of a randomized, sham-controlled study with a sequential Bayesian design for adaptive trials
Authors: Burkhardt Gerrit , Blackwell Simon E. , Chen Miaoxi , Feldmann Lisa , Björklund Jonas , Dechantsreiter Esther , Bulubas Lucia , Goerigk Stephan , Keeser Daniel , Falkai Peter , Greimel Ellen , Bechmann Peter , Schulte-Körne Gerd , Hasan Alkomiet , Strube Wolfgang , Padberg Frank
Published: October 2024

Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), a variant of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), is an established treatment for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD). Due to its favorable safety profile, iTBS is also a promising early intervention in the transition phase from adolescence to early adulthood, but this has not been systematically investigated to date. Thus, the EARLY-BURST trial investigates the efficacy and safety of iTBS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (lDLPFC) in treatment-seeking young patients (age 16–26 years) with depressive disorders (i.e. major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, bipolar depression), allowing for relevant co-morbidities. Participants have not received antidepressant or antipsychotic medication during the last 12 months except for short-term (< 2 weeks) on-demand medication. The trial will employ a novel sequential Bayesian, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, sham-controlled design. Up to 90 patients at two clinical sites (Munich, Augsburg) will be randomized 1:1 to the treatment groups, with sequential analyses starting after 26 patients in each group completed the treatment. The primary outcome will be the difference in depression severity at week 6 (post-treatment visit) between active iTBS and sham iTBS, assessed with the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). The trial is planned to be expanded towards a three-arm leapfrog design, contingent on securing additional funding. Thus, in addition to potentially providing evidence of iTBS’s efficacy in adolescents and young adults with depressive disorders, the EARLY-BURST trial aims at setting the stage for subsequent platform trials in this dynamic research field, where novel adaptive study designs are required to meet the need for rapidly testing promising new vs established rTMS protocols.

Trial registration: DRKS00033313.
Apraxia phenotypes and frontotemporal lobar degeneration
Authors: Langheinrich Tobias C. , Thompson Jennifer C. , Jones Matthew , Richardson Anna M. T. , Mann David M. A. , Snowden Julie S.
Published: October 2024

Background

Apraxia has been identified in all clinical forms of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). The characteristics of apraxia symptoms and their underlying cognitive/motor basis are not fully understood. This study investigated apraxia in pathological subtypes of FTLD.

Methods

The study constituted a retrospective review of 115 pathologically confirmed cases of FTLD from a single cognitive neurology centre. Patients in whom apraxia had been documented as a notable clinical characteristic were identified. Apraxia features, demographic, cognitive, neurological, and imaging findings were recorded.

Results

Eighteen patients were identified: 12 with FTLD-tau pathology (7 corticobasal degeneration (CBD), four Pick type and one progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP)) and six with FTLD-TDP pathology, all type A and four linked to progranulin gene mutations. Apraxia as a dominant presenting feature was typically associated with tau pathologies, whereas it emerged in the context of aphasia in TDP pathology. Apraxia typically predominated in one body part (face or limb) in tau but not TDP pathology. Relatively preserved activities in daily life were associated with TDP. Apraxia of speech was associated with tau pathology. Pick-type pathology was linked to symmetrical atrophy and late development of limb rigidity.

Conclusion

Apraxia in FTLD subtypes has variable characteristics. Apraxia associated with CBD pathology conformed to criteria for probable corticobasal syndrome (CBS), whereas apraxia with Pick-type pathology did not. Apraxia in patients with TDP-A pathology was interpreted as one manifestation of their generalised communication disorder. Apraxia in FTLD may have distinct cognitive and motor substrates that require prospective investigation.
Documentation of anthropometrics in people with cancer: a cross-site collaboration audit in four hospital settings in the UK
Authors: Tabacchi F. , Oberai R. , Parmar K. , Oxley L. , Coe S. , Iatridi V. , Tammam J. , Watson E. , Wanstall H.
Published: October 2024

Background

Malnutrition is a significant risk for patients during cancer treatment. Neglecting to monitor or provide timely dietetic support can result in lower tolerance to treatments and reduced quality of life. This audit aimed to assess the completeness and accuracy of the documentation of anthropometric measurements in medical records and dietetic referral practices across four day-treatment units (DTUs) in England.

Methodology

Data were collected from electronic patient records of 100 patients in each DTU attending for systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT) over a 2-week period. Data collected included patients’ demographics, anthropometric data, referrals to dietitians, and whether the patients referred had a MUST score ≥ 2, which was calculated by the authors.

Results

Findings revealed that weights and heights were documented for 58–85% and 94–98% of patients attending DTUs, respectively. On average, 55% (range of 7–85%) of patients had their body mass index (BMI) documented on the day of SACT. The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) was rarely completed (≤ 3% in each centre). Dietetic referral practices varied across centres.

Conclusions

Findings highlight the need to improve anthropometric documentation practices in cancer centres, in order to allow better monitoring of malnutrition risk and early nutritional support interventions when needed.
Gehirntumoren im Kindesalter – Beitrag der Psychiatrie
Authors: Schönthaler Elena , Jobs Leandra , Roider Sandra , Sator Bianca , Aigner Martin
Published: October 2024

Pädiatrische Gehirntumoren stellen die häufigsten soliden Neoplasmen und eine bedeutende Todesursache im Kindesalter dar, wobei moderne Behandlungsmethoden die Überlebensraten einiger Tumorarten erheblich verbessert haben. Die aktuelle Forschung zeigt, dass Überlebende von Gehirntumoren im Kindesalter ein erhöhtes Risiko für somatische und psychische Erkrankungen sowie neurokognitive Beeinträchtigungen im Erwachsenenalter aufweisen. Da ein substanzieller Teil dieser Personengruppe von maßgeblichen Beeinträchtigungen durch psychische Folgeerscheinungen betroffen ist, werden konkrete Behandlungsvorgaben und Empfehlungen für die psychiatrische Praxis benötigt.

Der vorliegende Fallbericht beschreibt eine 18-jährige Patientin, die nach der Operation eines pilozytischen Astrozytoms im frühen Kindesalter aufgrund mehrerer psychiatrischer Erkrankungen in einer psychiatrischen Klinik behandelt wurde. Die neuropsychologische Evaluation ergab kognitive Defizite, vorrangig in den Bereichen Verarbeitungsgeschwindigkeit und Sprache. Die Behandlung umfasste psychiatrische Medikationseinstellung, psychotherapeutische Interventionen und sozialarbeiterische Unterstützung. Dieser Fallbericht unterstreicht die Notwendigkeit eines interdisziplinären, biopsychosozialen Ansatzes in der Betreuung von Überlebenden pädiatrischer Gehirntumoren, einschließlich regelmäßiger neuropsychologischer Diagnostik und gezielter kognitiver Förderung. Vor allem bei Gehirntumoren im Kindesalter soll bei späteren psychiatrischen Symptomen auf die komplexe Wechselwirkung zwischen biologischen und psychosozialen Faktoren geachtet werden.
A framework for evaluating tool support for co-evolution of modeling languages, tools and models
Authors: Tolvanen Juha-Pekka , Kelly Steven , Di Rocco Juri , Pierantonio Alfonso , Tinella Giordano
Published: October 2024

We present a framework for evaluating language workbenches’ capabilities for co-evolution of graphical modeling languages, modeling tools and models. As with programming, maintenance tasks such as language refinement and enhancement typically account for more work than the initial development phase. Modeling languages have the added challenge of keeping tools and existing models in step with the evolving language. As domain-specific modeling languages and tools have started to be used widely, thanks to reports of significant productivity improvements, some language workbench users have indeed reported problems with co-evolution of tools and models. Our tool-agnostic evaluation framework aims to cover changes across the whole language definition: the abstract syntax, concrete syntax, and constraints. Change impact is assessed for knock-on effects within the language definition, the modeling tools, semantics via generators, and existing models. We demonstrate the viability of the framework by evaluating MetaEdit+, EMF/Sirius and Jjodel, providing a detailed evaluation process for others to repeat with their tools. The results of the evaluation show differences among the tools: from editors not opening correctly or at all, through highlighting of items requiring manual intervention, to fully automatic updates of languages, models and editors. We call for industry to evaluate their tool choices with the framework, tool developers to extend their tool support for co-evolution, and researchers to refine the evaluation framework and evaluations presented.
Blind prediction and post-experimental analysis of RC core wall’s cyclic flexural response using MVLEM-FD
Authors: Janevski Antonio , Isakovic Tatjana
Published: October 2024

Blind prediction and post-experimental studies of the flexural cyclic response of a U-shaped core wall, tested at UCLouvain, Belgium, are presented. The tested specimen (referred to as UW1) was modelled using a relatively simple 3D force–displacement-based version of the beam–column multiple-vertical-line-element (MVLEM-FD), developed at the University of Ljubljana (UL), using standard element parameters. The blind prediction accurately identified critical failure points within the specimen. However, the predicted type of failure, attributed to the rupture of longitudinal bars in the boundary region of flanges was somewhat different from that observed in the experiment. These bars were indeed ruptured, but their rupture was preceded by their buckling and the spalling of the surrounding concrete core. Moreover, the predicted force–displacement hysteretic loop exhibited a slight shift compared to experimental observations. Post-experimental studies revealed that this discrepancy was primarily due to the modelling of the loading at the top of the wall rather than the modelling of the wall itself. Specifically, an additional bending moment induced by the eccentricity of the vertical load applied using three actuators, which was overlooked in the blind prediction. Upon correcting the loading, the agreement between the numerical studies and experiment was considerably improved in terms of both the global and local response quantities. Additionally, minor improvements in modelling the boundary regions of the wall’s flanges, considering the relatively large unconfined concrete cover, were introduced, leading to enhanced estimations of near-collapse response.
Identifying Important Pairwise Logratios in Compositional Data with Sparse Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Nesrstová Viktorie , Wilms Ines , Hron Karel , Filzmoser Peter
Published: October 2024

Compositional data are characterized by the fact that their elemental information is contained in simple pairwise logratios of the parts that constitute the composition. While pairwise logratios are typically easy to interpret, the number of possible pairs to consider quickly becomes too large even for medium-sized compositions, which may hinder interpretability in further multivariate analysis. Sparse methods can therefore be useful for identifying a few important pairwise logratios (and parts contained in them) from the total candidate set. To this end, we propose a procedure based on the construction of all possible pairwise logratios and employ sparse principal component analysis to identify important pairwise logratios. The performance of the procedure is demonstrated with both simulated and real-world data. In our empirical analysis, we propose three visual tools showing (i) the balance between sparsity and explained variability, (ii) the stability of the pairwise logratios, and (iii) the importance of the original compositional parts to aid practitioners in their model interpretation.
Advanced imaging reveals enhanced malignancy in glioblastomas involving the subventricular zone: evidence of increased infiltrative growth and perfusion
Authors: Griessmair Michael , Schramm Severin , Ziegenfeuter Julian , Canisius Julian , Jung Kirsten , Delbridge Claire , Schmidt-Graf Friederike , Mitsdoerffer Meike , Zimmer Claus , Meyer Bernhard , Metz Marie-Christin , Wiestler Benedikt
Published: October 2024

Background

Glioblastoma’s infiltrative growth and heterogeneity are influenced by neural, molecular, genetic, and immunological factors, with the precise origin of these tumors remaining elusive. Neurogenic zones might serve as the tumor stem cells’ nest, with tumors in contact with these zones exhibiting worse outcomes and more aggressive growth patterns. This study aimed to determine if these characteristics are reflected in advanced imaging, specifically diffusion and perfusion data.

Methods

In this monocentric retrospective study, 137 glioblastoma therapy-naive patients (IDH-wildtype, grade 4) with advanced preoperative MRI, including perfusion and diffusion imaging, were analyzed. Tumors and neurogenic zones were automatically segmented. Advanced imaging metrics, including cerebral blood volume (CBV) from perfusion imaging, tissue volume mask (TVM), and free water corrected fractional anisotropy (FA-FWE) from diffusion imaging, were extracted.

Results

SVZ infiltration positively correlated with CBV, indicating higher perfusion in tumors. Significant CBV differences were noted between high and low SVZ infiltration cases at specific percentiles. Negative correlation was observed with TVM and positive correlation with FA-FWE, suggesting more infiltrative tumor growth. Significant differences in TVM and FA-FWE values were found between high and low SVZ infiltration cases.

Discussion

Glioblastomas with SVZ infiltration exhibit distinct imaging characteristics, including higher perfusion and lower cell density per voxel, indicating a more infiltrative growth and higher vascularization. Stem cell-like characteristics in SVZ-infiltrating cells could explain the increased infiltration and aggressive behavior. Understanding these imaging and biological correlations could enhance the understanding of glioblastoma evolution.
Joining attention to see differently
Authors: Ianniello Antonio
Published: October 2024

Starting from an embodied approach to the study of the mind, and drawing on Alva Noe’s proposition that the work of art allows us to move from seeing to seeing differently, I propose that some art performances emphasize the fact that the community bears this passage, and particularly highlight the importance of joint attention in this process. To develop my argument, I will consider what art historian Claire Bishop has termed the “gray zone,” which has emerged in the last 15 years or so as a result of the entry of the performing arts, normally housed in theatrical spaces, into museums, usually used for the display of immobile objects. This shift involves the breaking of certain spectatorial constraints, such as sitting isolated in the darkness of a room typical of traditional theater, and puts the subject in a position to engage in processes of joint attention. I will focus in particular on the analysis of the performance Faust, emblematic of the gray zone that I propose paradoxically emphasizes the potentially transformative power of “we”.
Automatische Insulindosierung (AID)
Authors: Ware Julia
Published: October 2024

Mit der Kommerzialisierung und klinischen Verfügbarkeit der automatischen Insulindosierung (AID) brach ein neues Zeitalter in der Behandlung des Typ-1-Diabetes an. Robuste Forschungsergebnisse randomisierter Langzeitstudien ergaben: Die AID-Therapie verbessert die Stoffwechsellage in allen pädiatrischen Altersgruppen, ohne dass höhere akute Komplikationen oder Hypoglykämieraten auftreten. Daten des realen Lebens aus prospektiven Beobachtungsstudien und retrospektive Clouddaten der Hersteller bestätigen diese Behandlungserfolge. Auch bei Manifestation sind AID-Systeme sicher einsetzbar und bringen gegenüber Standardtherapien langfristig Vorteile für Kinder und Jugendliche mit neu diagnostiziertem Typ-1-Diabetes. Langzeitstudien mit Daten des realen Lebens gibt es noch nicht. In Zukunft sollten Registerdaten diesbezüglich ausgewertet werden, um systemübergreifend die Beständigkeit der glykämischen Outcomes zu erschließen. Ein vollautomatisches AID-System, bei dem die Notwendigkeit der manuellen Abgabe von Insulinboli zu den Mahlzeiten entfällt, bleibt das ultimative Ziel der AID-Forschung, ist aber bislang nicht erhältlich und bei Kindern und Jugendlichen wenig erforscht.
Automatische Insulindosierung (AID) bei Kindern und Jugendlichen mit Typ-1-Diabetes
Authors: Tauschmann Martin
Published: October 2024

In den letzten 2 Jahrzehnten hat sich das Management von Typ-1-Diabetes (T1D) durch technologische Fortschritte erheblich verändert. Insulinpumpen und kontinuierliche Glukosemesssysteme (CGM) haben die traditionelle Basis-Bolus-Therapie und kapillare Blutzuckermessung ersetzt und sich als effektive Therapien etabliert, insbesondere im pädiatrischen Bereich.

Automatisierte Insulinabgabesysteme (AID) kombinieren kontinuierliche Glukosemessung (CGM) mit Insulinpumpen im Sinne einer automatischen glukoseresponsiven Anpassung der Insulindosis. Die Nutzung von AID-Systemen nimmt rasch zu und wird von internationalen Gesellschaften in der Therapie von Kindern und Jugendlichen mit T1D empfohlen, idealerweise auch möglichst rasch nach der Diagnosestellung. In vielen Ländern entwickelten sich AID-Systeme auf diese Weise bereits zum Goldstandard in der Behandlung dieser Altersgruppen.

Seit der Einführung des ersten kommerziellen AID-Systems wurden weitere Systeme entwickelt und zugelassen. Die AID-Technologie erwies sich als effektiv in der Verbesserung der glykämischen Kontrolle und zeigte auch vielversprechende Ergebnisse bei Kleinkindern, obwohl die Verfügbarkeit der Systeme in dieser Altersgruppe noch begrenzt ist.
Adverse Childhood Experiences, Quality of Life and the Mediating Roles of Self-Efficacy and Self-Directedness in Youth Residential Care Leavers
Authors: Leiting Milou , Beck Katharina , Bürgin David , Fegert Jörg M. , Jenkel Nils , Boonmann Cyril , Schmeck Klaus , Grob Alexander , Schmid Marc
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Young people in youth residential care report high rates of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), e.g., abuse and neglect in their families. Various studies show ACEs to impair social participation and mental health, whereas less is known about how ACEs are associated with quality of life (QoL). The aim of the current study is to (1) evaluate the association between ACEs and psychological, physical, social, and environmental QoL in young adult care leavers, and (2) to examine how self-efficacy and self-directedness mediate this association.

Methods

179 formerly out-of-home placed young adults (Mage = 26.5, 33.4% women, response rate = 30.3%) were queried at baseline with the Junior Temperament and Character Inventory Revised (JTCI 12-18-R) and at a 10-year follow-up with the Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology of Exposure (MACE) scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE) and the World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF).

Results

Prevalence rates for ACEs were high, with 87.2% of participants experiencing at least one type of ACE. Cumulative ACEs were associated with lower QoL in all four domains. Self-efficacy (β = -0.111, [-0.187, -0.044]) and self-directedness (β = -0.052, [-0.123, -0.004]) partially mediated the association between severity of ACEs and overall QoL.

Conclusions

ACEs increase the risk for a lower QoL of young adult care leavers. Results underline the importance of prevention and early intervention efforts for troubled young people and their families, as well as the importance of pedagogical work during residential care. Additional to research on functional outcomes, studies investigating well-being and quality of life in this at-risk populations are needed.
Trends in brain MRI and CP association using deep learning
Authors: Hassan Muhammad , Lin Jieqiong , Fateh Ahmad Ameen , Zhuang Yijiang , Lin Guisen , Khan Dawar , Mohammed Adam A. Q. , Zeng Hongwu
Published: October 2024

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that dissipates body posture and impairs motor functions. It may lead to an intellectual disability and affect the quality of life. Early intervention is critical and challenging due to the uncooperative body movements of children, potential infant recovery, a lack of a single vision modality, and no specific contrast or slice-range selection and association. Early and timely CP identification and vulnerable brain MRI scan associations facilitate medications, supportive care, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and surgical interventions to alleviate symptoms and improve motor functions. The literature studies are limited in selecting appropriate contrast and utilizing contrastive coupling in CP investigation. After numerous experiments, we introduce deep learning models, namely SSeq-DL and SMS-DL, correspondingly trained on single-sequence and multiple brain MRIs. The introduced models are tailored with specialized attention mechanisms to learn susceptible brain trends associated with CP along the MRI slices, specialized parallel computing, and fusions at distinct network layer positions to significantly identify CP. The study successfully experimented with the appropriateness of single and coupled MRI scans, highlighting sensitive slices along the depth, model robustness, fusion of contrastive details at distinct levels, and capturing vulnerabilities. The findings of the SSeq-DL and SMSeq-DL models report lesion-vulnerable regions and covered slices trending in age range to assist radiologists in early rehabilitation.
Partnership Histories Shape the Grandparenting Happiness Bonus
Authors: Rotkirch Anna , Hägglund Anna , Tanskanen Antti O. , Danielsbacka Mirkka
Published: October 2024

Evolutionary theory predicts that returns on investments in family relations will vary by sex and life stage and that there can be a trade-off between mating and (grand)parenting. Family sociology has shown that whereas couple relations are central to happiness in older age, the effects of grandparenting are more mixed and context dependent. Here, we merge these two perspectives and study how partnership histories over the life course relate to happiness among Europeans aged 50+ and whether grandparental investment moderates these associations. Of particular interest is whether there are signs of trade-offs, cumulative benefits, or compensatory benefits between the type of couple relations and grandparenting in postreproductive age.

We employed the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe with data from 26 European countries and Israel for the years 2004–2020. The analyses distinguish between respondents who are in their first, second, or third union through marriage or cohabitation; are divorced; are widowed; are living apart from a partner; or are single. We investigated how quality of life and life satisfaction are associated with these seven types of partnership histories and whether the associations are moderated by grandparental status and provision of grandchild care.

Europeans with a partner, and especially those in their first union, were happier than those in other partnership groups, and grandparents were happier than individuals without grandchildren. Grandparental investment was associated with being happier in most partnership groups. The “grandparenting bonus” was greatest among unpartnered respondents, suggesting a compensatory effect. We found no signs of a cumulative effect, nor of costs to happiness from grandchild care.

Our results illustrate how reproductive strategies over the life course shape happiness returns to grandparenting. Being a grandparent and, especially, providing care for grandchildren may compensate for the lower happiness associated with the loss or lack of a partner.
Computational Analysis of Cold Spraying Polymer-Coated Metallic Particles on Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Substrates
Authors: Mennie Nicholas B. , Singh Nand K. , Nault Isaac , Haas Francis M. , Koohbor Behrad
Published: October 2024

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites are prominent structural components in various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and wind energy. These materials are considered due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and relative ease of fabrication. However, fiber composites possess low electrical and thermal conductivities and are prone to impact-induced damage. Metallization of fiber-reinforced polymer composites has become an area of interest as a means to prevent abrasive and corrosive damage while also improving other physical properties including thermal and electrical conductivity. The possibility of using cold spray as a novel composite metallization approach has been investigated in this work. The significance of cold spray for metallization is due to relatively low process temperatures which effectively protect the underlaid substrate from potential temperature degradation. As a practical approach to further reduce the possibility of cold spray-induced damage, the present study explores the impact and failure mechanics of metal particles coated with a thin polymeric shell, hence the term polymer-coated metal particle. The thorough model-based analyses presented herein indicate that the so-called polymer-coated metal particles can be cold spray deposited without imposing significant damage to the composite substrate mainly due to the ‘cushioning’ effect of the thin polymer shell. The results discussed here also provide guidelines for the surface metallization of high-performance fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites in practice.
Long-Term Weight Loss and Attendance Outcomes Following Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: An Evaluation of The Cleveland Clinic Behavioral Rating System
Authors: Jacobs Anne , Vermeer Karlijn , Slok Anna N. , Janssen Ignace M. C. , Tollenaar Rob A. E. M. , Monpellier Valerie M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Interdisciplinary guidelines recommend preoperative psychological evaluation before metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). The Cleveland Clinic Behavioral Rating System (CCBRS) has been developed to evaluate the psychological state of individuals undergoing MBS. However, its predictive value concerning long-term weight loss and follow-up attendance has not been extensively studied. This study aims to assess the predictive value of the CCBRS regarding weight loss and follow-up attendance up to 5 years after MBS.

Methods

In this cohort study (n = 1236), psychologists administered the CCBRS to each patient prior to MBS in addition to the standard psychosocial-behavioral screening. The CCBRS consists of nine psychological domains and is scored on a five-point Likert scale, from “poor” to “excellent.” Linear mixed models and ordinal regression analysis were used to analyze the percentage total weight loss over time and follow-up attendance up to 5 years after surgery.

Results

A total of 1086 patients underwent subsequent MBS. Significant differences in weight loss and follow-up attendance were observed between some CCBRS groups compared to the reference group “excellent.” However, these differences were not consistent across all groups within any given domain.

Conclusion

In this cohort, the predictive value of the CCBRS for weight loss and follow-up attendance up to 5 years after MBS was limited. It is important to consider certain limitations, such as considerable loss to follow-up. Nevertheless, the CCBRS remains valuable for structured psychological assessments by helping to identify patients’ strengths and areas needing improvement.

Graphical Abstract
DNA barcoding, pollen and seed characteristics for documentation of four monocot Mediterranean endemic plant species in Egypt
Authors: El-Khalafy Mohamed M. , El-Kholy Aziza S. , Ahmed Dalia A. , Al-Sodany Yassin M. , Haroun Soliman A. , Shaltout Kamal H. , Salim Mohamed A.
Published: October 2024

Endemic taxa are critical constituents in the flora of most parts of the world. Recently, most of these taxa have become exposed to extinction. This study aims to increase understanding of four monocot Mediterranean threatened endemic taxa in Egypt (Allium mareoticum Bornm. & Gauba, Bromus aegyptiacus Tausch, Muscari salah-eidii (Täckh. & Boulos) Hosni, Pancratium arabicum Sickenb.) by description of their pollen and seed and authentication of DNA barcoding using rbcL and matK genes. Twenty field visits were conducted from March 2017 till April 2023 including different localities through Mediterranean area for covering the presence of these species. Characterization of pollen grains and seeds were examined using a light (LM) and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). DNA barcoding was carried out for documentation of the four species. Maturase K (matK) and ribulose-bisphosphate carboxylase (rbcL) were used as primers for PCR amplification and gene sequencing. The two genes were successful in identifying Allium mareoticum, Bromus aegyptiacus, and Muscari salah-eidii at the genus level and Pancratium arabicum at both species and genus levels for rbcL marker, and the genus level for matK marker. This study is considered a leading study for new barcodes of (A) mareoticum, (B) aegyptiacus, and M. salah-eidii which were initially made available to the NCBI.
Ethical Decision-Making for Self-Driving Vehicles: A Proposed Model & List of Value-Laden Terms that Warrant (Technical) Specification
Authors: Poszler Franziska , Geisslinger Maximilian , Lütge Christoph
Published: October 2024

Self-driving vehicles (SDVs) will need to make decisions that carry ethical dimensions and are of normative significance. For example, by choosing a specific trajectory, they determine how risks are distributed among traffic participants. Accordingly, policymakers, standardization organizations and scholars have conceptualized what (shall) constitute(s) ethical decision-making for SDVs. Eventually, these conceptualizations must be converted into specific system requirements to ensure proper technical implementation. Therefore, this article aims to translate critical requirements recently formulated in scholarly work, existing standards, regulatory drafts and guidelines into an explicit five-step ethical decision model for SDVs during hazardous situations. This model states a precise sequence of steps, indicates the guiding ethical principles that inform each step and points out a list of terms that demand further investigation and technical specification. By integrating ethical, legal and engineering considerations, we aim to contribute to the scholarly debate on computational ethics (particularly in autonomous driving) while offering practitioners in the automotive sector a decision-making process for SDVs that is technically viable, legally permissible, ethically grounded and adaptable to societal values. In the future, assessing the actual impact, effectiveness and admissibility of implementing the here sketched theories, terms and the overall decision process requires an empirical evaluation and testing of the overall decision-making model.
Stitcher: A Surface Reconstruction Tool for Highly Gyrified Brains
Authors: Mynssen Heitor , Avelino-de-Souza Kamilla , Chaim Khallil , Ribeiro Vanessa Lanes , Patzke Nina , Mota Bruno
Published: October 2024

Brain reconstruction, specially of the cerebral cortex, is a challenging task and even more so when it comes to highly gyrified brained animals. Here, we present Stitcher, a novel tool capable of generating such surfaces utilizing MRI data and manual segmentation. Stitcher makes a triangulation between consecutive brain slice segmentations by recursively adding edges that minimize the total length and simultaneously avoid self-intersection. We applied this new method to build the cortical surfaces of two dolphins: Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis), Franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei); and one pinniped: Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus). Specifically in the case of P. blainvillei, two reconstructions at two different resolutions were made. Additionally, we also performed reconstructions for sub and non-cortical structures of Guiana dolphin. All our cortical mesh results show remarkable resemblance with the real anatomy of the brains, except P. blainvillei with low-resolution data. Sub and non-cortical meshes were also properly reconstructed and the spatial positioning of structures was preserved with respect to S. guianensis cerebral cortex. In a comparative perspective between methods, Stitcher presents compatible results for volumetric measurements when contrasted with other anatomical standard tools. In this way, Stitcher seems to be a viable pipeline for new neuroanatomical analysis, enhancing visualization and descriptions of non-primates species, and broadening the scope of compared neuroanatomy.
Empowering High-Throughput High-Content Analysis of Microphysiological Models: Open-Source Software for Automated Image Analysis of Microvessel Formation and Cell Invasion
Authors: Wiggin Noah , Cook Carson , Black Mitchell , Cadena Ines , Rahal-Arabi Salam , Asnes Chandler L. , Ivanova Yoanna , Hettiaratchi Marian H , Hind Laurel E , Fogg Kaitlin C
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The primary aim of this study was to develop an open-source Python-based software for the automated analysis of dynamic cell behaviors in microphysiological models using non-confocal microscopy. This research seeks to address the existing gap in accessible tools for high-throughput analysis of endothelial tube formation and cell invasion in vitro, facilitating the rapid assessment of drug sensitivity.

Methods

Our approach involved annotating over 1000 2 mm Z-stacks of cancer and endothelial cell co-culture model and training machine learning models to automatically calculate cell coverage, cancer invasion depth, and microvessel dynamics. Specifically, cell coverage area was computed using focus stacking and Gaussian mixture models to generate thresholded Z-projections. Cancer invasion depth was determined using a ResNet-50 binary classification model, identifying which Z-planes contained invaded cells and measuring the total invasion depth. Lastly, microvessel dynamics were assessed through a U-Net Xception-style segmentation model for vessel prediction, the DisPerSE algorithm to extract an embedded graph, then graph analysis to quantify microvessel length and connectivity. To further validate our software, we reanalyzed an image set from a high-throughput drug screen involving a chemotherapy agent on a 3D cervical and endothelial co-culture model. Lastly, we applied this software to two naive image datasets from coculture lumen and microvascular fragment models.

Results

The software accurately measured cell coverage, cancer invasion, and microvessel length, yielding drug sensitivity IC50 values with a 95% confidence level compared to manual calculations. This approach significantly reduced the image processing time from weeks down to h. Furthermore, the software was able to calculate cell coverage, microvessel length, and invasion depth from two additional microphysiological models that were imaged with confocal microscopy, highlighting the versatility of the software.

Conclusions

Our free and open source software offers an automated solution for quantifying 3D cell behavior in microphysiological models assessed using non-confocal microscopy, providing the broader Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering community with an alternative to standard confocal microscopy paired with proprietary software.This software can be found in our GitHub repository: https://github.com/fogg-lab/tissue-model-analysis-tools.
Aerangis (Orchidaceae) in Madagascar, the Mascarenes, and the Comoro Islands
Authors: Hermans Johan , Schuiteman André , Rajaovelona Landy , Hervouet Jean-Michel , Cribb Phillip
Published: October 2024

The genus Aerangis Schltr. (Orchidaceae, subfamily Epidendroideae, tribe Vandeae, subtribe Angraecinae) in Madagascar and adjacent archipelagos is revised. Twenty-seven species have been recorded from the region, all of them endemic. Twenty of these are endemic to Madagascar, three to the Comoros only, three to the Comoros and Madagascar and one to Madagascar and Réunion. A third of all Aerangis in the area were assessed to be immediately endangered with 15% Critically Endangered (CR) and 18.5% Endangered (EN). 37% are considered Vulnerable (VU), 15% Near Threatened (NT) and 11% are of Least Concern (LC). Section Microterangis (Schltr.) Hermans is newly established. All the species are described and their typification, history, identification, pollination, distribution and habitat are discussed. The nomenclature and identity of Aerangis citrata (Thouars) Schltr., A. cryptodon (Rchb.f.) Schltr., A. ellisii (B.S.Williams) Schltr., A. hildebrandtii (Rchb.f.) P.J.Cribb & Carlsward, A. ikopana Schltr., A. modesta (Hook.f.) Schltr., A. monantha Schltr., A. polyura (Sander ex Mast.) Hermans and A. rostellaris (Rchb.f.) H.Perrier, are reassessed. Conservation assessments, illustrations and distribution maps are included for all the species. A checklist of the sections, species and a key to their identification are provided. Aerangis bursiculata Hermans is described from the Comoros for the first time.