bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solidification of Tungsten Inert Gas–Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel with 0.17 wt% N
Authors: Quitzke Caroline , Hauser Michael , Krüger Lutz , Volkova Olena , Wendler Marco
Published: June 2024

In this study, an austenitic CrMnNi–N steel is examined with regard to its solidification behavior of the weld metal. For this purpose, the cooling rate of the weld metal at different welding speeds is determined for tungsten inert gas welding without filler metal. The relationship between secondary dendrite arm spacing () and cooling rate () can be described using . Moreover, the microstructure is characterized by a scanning electron microscope using energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). Based on the EDS measurement, it is possible to describe the microsegregation of Cr, Ni, Mn, Mo, and N. The detected microsegregation behavior is compared with the results obtained from Thermo‐Calc calculations. The microsegregation varies depending on the present phase during solidification and correlate well with microstructure observations. By using the software Thermo‐Calc, the theoretical description of solidification is based on the classical Scheil model with fast diffusion of N. A primary ferritic solidification is calculated, which correlates with the experimental findings.
Developing Ultra‐High Strength Bainitic Steel by Hot Stamping Process and Anisothermal Holding
Authors: Erişir Ersoy , Barutçuoğlu Burak , Bilir Oğuz Gürkan , Uzunboy Mustafa , Zeren Muzaffer
Published: June 2024

Hot stamping is a well‐established process in the automotive industry for structural parts to decrease the weight of a vehicle without reducing the safety and stiffness of components. In this work, a bainitic approach during the hot stamping process is studied by anisothermal annealing. The effect of different strategies on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the hot‐stamped parts is investigated. The microstructure is analyzed using light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) techniques. Tensile and hardness tests are applied to analyze mechanical properties. A microstructure consisting of a carbide‐free bainite matrix containing martensite, fine‐grained ferrite, and retained austenite is obtained. SEM analysis of fracture surfaces from tensile samples reveals that the bainitic microstructure showed mainly a ductile fracture by dimples and voids along with some quasi‐cleavage fracture.
Understanding Investor Sentiment: Analyzing Its Influence on Stock and Cryptocurrency Markets During the Russia–Ukraine War
Authors: Chowdhury Emon Kalyan , Chowdhury Rupam , Dhar Bablu Kumar
Published: June 2024

This paper examines the shifts in investor sentiment during the Russia–Ukraine war and its consequent impact on market volatility. By employing a comprehensive dataset that includes the S&P 500 index, historical Bitcoin prices, the Investor Sentiment Index, the Industrial Production Index, and the US Consumer Price Index, this study applies several econometric models such as generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) models, regression analyses, vector error correction models (VECM), and the Granger causality model. The analysis spans from January 2021 to March 2023. The findings indicate that investor sentiment significantly influences returns in both stock and cryptocurrency markets, having a positive effect. These results underscore the importance for investors and policymakers to monitor investor sentiment during periods of conflict to understand its potential impact on financial markets. This research offers valuable insights that can guide investment decisions and inform policy interventions.
A Mini Review on the Influence of Different Intermediate Mass Transfer Effects on the Chemical Pretreatment of Lignocellulosic Biomass
Authors: Sai Bharadwaj Aryasomayajula Venkata Satya Lakshmi , Brijesh Prasad , Yewale Manesh Ashok , Bharadwaj Hrishikesh , Raveena Sanjeev Karvekar , Gupta Navneet Kumar , Barmavatu Praveen
Published: June 2024

Chemical pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) in the presence of an alkaline catalyst is one of the major pretreatment processes that recover cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin at effective process conditions and also for the production of bioethanol. Replacement of conventional catalysts with waste‐derived catalysts in the pretreatment process will be helpful for the development of low‐cost biorefinery. The continuous impact of different mass transfer properties during the chemical pretreatment of LCB will affect the final yield of products at a high reaction time and has been reviewed in the current study. Intraparticle diffusion of an alkaline catalyst into LCB is going to determine the diffusion of the selected catalyst within the porous biomass structure, which helps in the enhancement of the final yield of the product recovery at low‐process conditions. The diffusion of the synthesized catalyst within the selected biomass during the chemical pretreatment process is a rate‐limiting step that influences the final recovery yield of desired products. Enhancement of the biomass pretreatment reaction through the assessment of the diffusivity using the modified Nernst–Einstein relation is also discussed. Determination of different unique mass transfer properties rate of diffusion, diffusivity flux, and mass transfer coefficient are also to be analyzed to advance the reaction rate of the pretreatment process.
Do ingredient and nutrient intake reveal individual dietary specialization in an omnivorous carnivore, the brown bear?
Authors: De Cuyper Annelies , Strubbe Diederik , Clauss Marcus , Lens Luc , Zedrosser Andreas , Steyaert Sam M. J. G. , Kopatz Alexander , Janssens Geert P. J.
Published: June 2024

Generalist populations often harbor individual dietary specialists. Whether using a narrower set of resources than the population (= specialization) affects specialists' nutrient intake remains underexplored. We evaluated variation in ingredient and nutrient specialization in a European brown bear Ursus arctos population via the Proportional Similarity Index (PSi, from 0 = highly specialized to 1 = not specialized) and assessed associations of specialization with year, season and reproductive class. Different methodologies concerning the organization of raw data for PSi calculations were evaluated (i.e. the resolution of diet compositional data (feces vs the average of all feces per individual) and temporal restrictions for the population (year‐round vs within‐season). Overall, a tendency for ingredient specialization (PSi 0.37 ± 0.14) and absence of nutrient specialization (PSi 0.79 ± 0.10) was observed. Ingredient specialization was mainly influenced by the proportion of berries, graminoids, oats and moose in the diet. Annual, seasonal and reproductive class effects were moderate and did not strongly affect PSi for both ingredients and nutrients. Organizing diet compositional data from a ‘feces resolution' to ‘individual resolution' decreased specialization. Changing the comparative population in PSi calculations from ‘all‐year‐round' to ‘within year and season' also resulted in less pronounced specialization. The degree of specialization was not caused by individuals exhibiting consistent ingredient preferences over the years (low repeatability of PSi) except in spring. Our results suggested absence of nutrient specialization and mild ingredient specialization, which appeared to be an outcome of the ecological circumstances rather than specific individual traits. Additionally, we demonstrated that the methods applied can have substantial influence for the calculation of specialization indices.
Recession, Commemoration and Covid-19 (2008–2023)
Authors: McIvor Charlotte , Walsh Ian R
Published: June 2024

This recent period brought recession, bailout of banks, rising unemployment, and austerity to the Republic. In the North, the legacy of the Peace Process played out against a backdrop of gentrification and rebranding. This chapter charts how state inquiries and the Decade of Centenaries commemorations, led companies to create theatre that juxtaposed the past with the present as they explored the impact of austerity and precarity. It examines #WakingTheFeminists movement and actions by the Arts Councils (Republic and North) exposed how gender and other inequalities of race/ethnicity, sexuality, etc. determine who gets to make theatre. Companies were found to push boundaries collaborating across genres as digital media advanced and the Covid-19 pandemic forced theatre to conceive of itself as no longer bound by physical spaces.
Epistemic Cognition Triangulated: What Can We Learn about the Theory of Epistemic Beliefs in History from Reassessment of Its Measurement
Authors: Ripka Vojtech , Sýkorová Pavla , Münich Jiří , Chvojka Edita
Published: June 2024

The authors delve into the potential of the theory of epistemic beliefs in history education. While the theory’s conceptual language and perspective are helpful, the primary corresponding measurement tool fails to distinguish between general and situational epistemic beliefs. Drawing on their evaluation of a large-scale history education intervention in Czechia, the authors discuss the ontological and epistemic issues related to the theory’s understanding and measuring of epistemic beliefs and present and enhancement of the theory of epistemic beliefs building on the existing probes into the phenomenon of epistemic wobbling.
The Meaning of Multi-Ethnic Classroom Contexts in Light of History Teachers’ Differing Epistemic Expressions
Authors: Lundberg Simon
Published: June 2024

By interviewing 15 teachers with experience of teaching history in multi-ethnic classrooms and utilising the concept of “objectivistic” and “critical” epistemic expressions, Lundberg explores teachers’ perceptions of a multi-ethnic context’s meaning for their history teaching. A close analysis of four upper-secondary teachers shows relatively clear epistemic expressions in their description of their context-bound teaching. The analytical framework regards the teachers’ expressions about the relationship between the past and the history of the past. Lundberg argues that despite teachers’ expressed similarities in teaching intentions regardless of epistemic position, these similarities should not be overstated since various teaching intentions, such as developed tolerance and analytical skills, are filtered through differing epistemic lenses. One conclusion is that the process of “epistemic filtering” causes conceptually similar teaching intentions—by some teachers underlined as of particular importance in a multi-ethnic context—to hold differing meanings with differing functional potentials.
Modular flow in JT gravity and entanglement wedge reconstruction
Authors: Gao Ping
Published: June 2024

Abstract

It has been shown in recent works that JT gravity with matter with two boundaries has a type II∞ algebra on each side. As the bulk spacetime between the two boundaries fluctuates in quantum nature, we can only define the entanglement wedge for each side in a pure algebraic sense. As we take the semiclassical limit, we will have a fixed long wormhole spacetime for a generic partially entangled thermal state (PETS), which is prepared by inserting heavy operators on the Euclidean path integral. Under this limit, with appropriate assumptions of the matter theory, geometric notions of the causal wedge and entanglement wedge emerge in this background. In particular, the causal wedge is manifestly nested in the entanglement wedge. Different PETS are orthogonal to each other, and thus the Hilbert space has a direct sum structure over sub-Hilbert spaces labeled by different Euclidean geometries. The full algebra for both sides is decomposed accordingly. From the algebra viewpoint, the causal wedge is dual to an emergent type III1 subalgebra, which is generated by boundary light operators. To reconstruct the entanglement wedge, we consider the modular flow in a generic PETS for each boundary. We show that the modular flow acts locally and is the boost transformation around the global RT surface in the semiclassical limit. It follows that we can extend the causal wedge algebra to a larger type III1 algebra corresponding to the entanglement wedge. Within each sub-Hilbert space, the original type II∞ reduces to type III1.
The resurgence of the plateau in supersymmetric $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity
Authors: Griguolo Luca , Papalini Jacopo , Russo Lorenzo , Seminara Domenico
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Significant progresses have been made recently in understanding the spectral form factor of Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity, particularly at late times where non-perturbative effects are expected to play a dominant role. By focusing on a peculiar regime of large time and fixed temperature, called τ-scaling limit, it was found that it is possible to analytically investigate the late-time plateau directly through the gravitational genus expansion. We extend this analysis to the supersymmetric $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 generalization of the bosonic theory, revealing an interesting structure. First, we notice that in the τ-scaling limit the perturbative sum over genera truncates after a single term, which solely accounts for the ramp behaviour. Instead a non-perturbative completion, responsible for the plateau, is encoded into an exact formula coming from the properties of the chiral gaussian ensemble, governing the spectral properties of the supersymmetric theory. We are able to recover the non-perturbative contributions by slightly deforming the genus of the involved surfaces and using resurgence theory. We derive a closed-form analytical expression for the late-time plateau and a trans-series expansion that captures the ramp-plateau transition.
Co-existence of ANCA–associated vasculitides with immune-mediated diseases: a single-center observational study
Authors: Masiak Anna , Jassem Ewa , Dębska-Ślizień Alicja , Bułło-Piontecka Barbara , Kowalska Bożena , Chmielewski Michał
Published: June 2024

Background

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides (AAV) is a group of systemic necrotizing small vessel autoimmune diseases, with microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) being the two most common. The co-existence of AAV with different immune-mediated diseases (autoimmune disesases - AID) might affect the clinical presentation of the primary disease. The purpose of the study was to assess the co-existence of AAV with AID and to investigate whether it affects the characteristics and the course of AAV.

Methods

A retrospective single-center study was performed to identify patients with a diagnosis of MPA or GPA and concomitant AID, and to investigate their clinical features and characteristics. The group consisted of consecutive unselected AAV patients treated at a large university-based hospital, since 1988 with follow-up until 2022.

Results

Among 284 patients diagnosed either with GPA (232) or MPA (52), 40 (14,1%) had co-existing AIDs. The most frequent were: Hashimoto thyroiditis (16 cases), rheumatoid arthritis (8 cases), followed by psoriasis (6 cases), pernicious anemia (3 cases), and alopecia (3 cases). Patients with autoimmune comorbidities had a significantly longer time between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis (26 vs. 11 months, p < 0.001). Laryngeal involvement (20.0% vs. 9.0%, p = 0,05), peripheral nervous system disorders (35.0% vs. 13.9%, p < 0.001), and neoplasms (20.0% vs. 8.6%, p = 0,044) were more common in patients with AID comorbidities, compared to subjects without AID. In contrast, renal involvement (45.0% vs. 70.9%, p = 0.001) and nodular lung lesions (27.5% vs. 47.5%, p = 0.044) were significantly less frequent in patients with co-morbidities. Following EUVAS criteria, patients with autoimmune co-morbidities had a generalized form of the disease without organ involvement (52.5% vs. 27.2%, p = 0.007), while the others had a higher percentage of generalized form with organ involvement (38.3% vs. 20.0%, p = 0.007).

Conclusions

The coexistence of AAV with different autoimmune diseases is not common, but it might affect the clinical course of the disease. Polyautoimmunity prolonged the time to diagnosis, but the AAV course seemed to be milder. Particular attention should be paid to the increased risk of cancer in these patients. It also seems reasonable that AAV patients should receive a serological screening to exclude the development of overlapping diseases.
Tuning of power factor in bismuth selenide through Sn/Te co doping for low temperature thermoelectric applications
Authors: Hegde Ganesh Shridhar , Prabhu Ashwatha Narayana , Nayak Ramakrishna , Yang C. F. , Kuo Y. K.
Published: June 2024

The physical parameters of solid-state produced tin and tellurium co-doped bismuth selenide polycrystalline crystals were described. Powder X-ray diffraction revealed the hexagonal structure in the samples’ phase domination. A field emission scanning electron microscope was used to analyze the surface microstructure. Thermoelectric properties such as Seebeck coefficient, electrical resistivity, and thermal conductivity were analyzed in the temperature range 10–350 K. The electrical resistivity of (Bi0.96Sn0.04)2Se2.7Te0.3was found to be four times lower than that of pure Bi2Se3. Due to donor-like effects and antisite defects, the Seebeck coefficient demonstrates ap-ton-type semiconducting transition. When compared to pure Bi2Se3, power factor and thermoelectric figure of merit of (Bi0.96Sn0.04)2Se2.7Te0.3is found to increase by 15 and 9 times respectively. Tellurium excess boosts tin vacancies, promoting thepton-type transition in (Bi0.96Sn0.04)2Se2.7Te0.3, making it a good option for low temperature thermoelectric and sensor applications.
Surgical options of chiasmatic hypothalamic glioma—a relevant part of therapy in an interdisciplinary approach for tumor control
Authors: Karbe Anna-Gila , Gorodezki David , Schulz Matthias , Tietze Anna , Gruen Arne , Driever Pablo Hernáiz , Schuhmann Martin U. , Thomale Ulrich-Wilhelm
Published: June 2024

Objective

The extent of resection of pediatric low-grade glioma mostly improves progression-free survival. In chiasmatic hypothalamic glioma (CHG), complete resections are limited due to the relevantly high risk of associated neurological and endocrinological deficits. Still, surgery might have its role in the framework of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach. We report our retrospective experience from two centers on surgical options and their impact on long-term outcomes.

Methods

Medical records of surgically treated pediatric CHG patients between 2004 and 2022 were analyzed. Patient characteristics, surgical interventions, histology, and non-surgical therapy were retrieved together with outcome measures such as visual acuity, endocrine function, and survival.

Results

A total of 63 patients (33 female, NF-1, n = 8) were included. Age at first diagnosis was 4.6 years (range 0.2–16.9) and cohort follow-up was 108 ± 72 months. Twenty patients were surgically treated with a biopsy and 43 patients with debulking at a median age of 6.5 years (range 0.16–16.9). Patients received a median of 2 tumor surgeries (range 1–5). Cyst drainage was accomplished in 15 patients, and 27 patients had ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation. Non-surgical therapy was given in 69.8%. At the end of follow-up, 74.6% of patients had stable disease. The cohort had a median Karnofsky score of 90 (range 0–100). Four patients died. Hormone substitution was necessary in 30.2%, and visual acuity was impaired in 66% of patients.

Conclusion

Pediatric CHG is a chronic disease due to overall high survival with multiple progressions. Surgical therapy remains a key treatment option offering biopsy, limited tumor-debulking, cyst fenestration, and hydrocephalus management in the framework of MDT decision-making. Team experience contributes to reducing possible deficits in this challenging cohort.
The influence of race duration on oxygen demand, uptake and deficit in competitive cross-country skiers
Authors: Gløersen Øyvind , Viken Ånung , Lund-Hansen Magne , Losnegard Thomas
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To measure oxygen demand, uptake, and deficits in competitive cross-country skiers during outdoor roller skiing at different competition durations, ranging from the endurance domain to the sprint domain.

Methods

Ten competitive cross-country skiers (6 males; $$\dot{\text{V}}$$

V
˙

O2max 78 ± 3 and 4 females; $$\dot{\text{V}}$$

V
˙

O2max 62 ± 3 mL∙kg−1∙min−1) raced time trials consisting of 1, 2, and 4 laps in a 1.6 km racecourse in a randomized order with 35 min recovery in-between. Oxygen uptake was measured using a wearable metabolic system while oxygen demand was estimated from kinematic data (GPS and IMU) and an athlete-specific model of skiing economy. Skiing economy and $$\dot{\text{V}}$$

V
˙

O2max was established on a separate test day using six submaximal constant-load trials at different speeds and inclines, and one maximal-effort trial on a roller-skiing treadmill.

Results

Average oxygen demand was 112 ± 8%, 103 ± 7% and 98 ± 7% of $$\dot{\text{V}}$$

V
˙

O2max during the 1 (3:37 ± 0:20 m:ss), 2 (7:36 ± 0:38 m:ss) and 4 (15:43 ± 1:26 m:ss) lap time trials, respectively, and appeared to follow an inverse relationship with time-trial duration. Average oxygen uptake was unaffected by race length (86 ± 5%, 86 ± 5%, and 86 ± 7% of $$\dot{\text{V}}$$

V
˙

O2max, respectively). Accumulated oxygen deficit at the end of each time trial was 85 ± 13, 106 ± 32 and 158 ± 62 mL∙kg−1, while oxygen deficits per work bout was 23 ± 3, 18 ± 3 and 16 ± 3 mL∙kg−1 for the 1, 2, and 4-lap time trials, respectively.

Conclusion

Elite cross-country skiers adjust their pacing strategies from attaining relatively small oxygen deficits per work bout in the endurance domain, to larger deficits in the sprint domain. This indicates a shift in strategy from prioritizing stable work-economy and rate-of-recovery in the endurance domain, to maximizing power output in the sprint domain.
White matter organisation of sensorimotor tracts is associated with motor imagery in childhood
Authors: Mukherjee Mugdha , Hyde Christian , Barhoun Pamela , Bianco Kaila M , Singh Mervyn , Waugh Jessica , Silk Timothy J , Lum Jarrad AG , Caeyenberghs Karen , Williams Jacqueline , Enticott Peter G , Fuelscher Ian
Published: June 2024

Despite the important role of motor imagery (MI) in motor development, our understanding of the contribution of white matter fibre properties to MI performance in childhood remains limited. To provide novel insight into the white matter correlates of MI performance, this study examined the association between white matter fibre properties and motor imagery performance in a sample of typically developing children. High angular diffusion weighted imaging data were collected from 22 typically developing children aged 6–14 years (12 female, MAge= 10.56). Implicit motor imagery performance was assessed using a mental hand rotation paradigm. The cerebellar peduncles and the superior longitudinal fasciculus were reconstructed using TractSeg, a semi-automated method. For each tract, white matter microstructure (fibre density, FD) and morphology (fibre bundle cross-section, FC) were estimated using Fixel-Based Analysis. Permutation-based inference testing and partial correlation analyses demonstrated that higher FC in the middle cerebellar peduncles was associated with better MI performance. Tract-based region of interest analyses showed that higher FC in the middle and superior cerebellar peduncles were associated with better MI performance. Results suggest that white matter connectivity along the cerebellar peduncles may facilitate MI performance in childhood. These findings advance our understanding of the neurobiological systems that underlie MI performance in childhood and provide early evidence for the relevance of white matter sensorimotor pathways to internal action representations.
Biochemically induced diagenesis of Jurassic micrite: evidence from phase analysis, carbon, oxygen, and strontium isotopes (Franconian Alb, Germany)
Authors: Blendinger Wolfgang
Published: June 2024

The marine Upper Jurassic rocks of the Franconian Alb consist largely of micritic carbonate of partly dolomitized reef mounds and bedded basinal limestone. All carbonates were lithified in the shallow (centimeters, meters) subsurface and have a wide range of ∂13C (≤ + 3‰ to − 10‰VPDB) but always negative ∂18O (− 1 to − 6‰VPDB). Dolomite and reef limestone show the highest ∂18O and ∂13C values. The most negative ∂13C (≥ − 10‰) occurs mainly as cement in dolomite of a basinal, partly dolomitic, biostrome interval. Basinal limestone shows intermediate ∂13C values. Because freshwater diagenesis and elevated temperatures cannot explain the observed isotope values, pH is here considered a major factor influencing the isotope signal of micritic limestone. The bulk sediment isotope signal was reset to lower values, from an original lime mud with ∂13C ≥ 3‰ and a ∂18O of ≥  + 1‰, as a result of biochemically induced diagenesis. Carbonate, probably mostly aragonite but occasionally including dolomite, was dissolved in a zone where low pH developed as a result of organic matter degradation. Dissolved carbonate was translocated by diffusion and re-precipitated as cement (ca. 50vol%) in a zone with elevated pH where all in situ lime mud ∂18O was reset. Imported cement carbonate precipitated in equilibrium with the pore fluid with negative isotope values, whereas ∂13C of the in situ lime mud remained unmodified. The negative shift of the bulk ∂13C and ∂18O is variable and depends on pH and the contribution of 12C from anaerobic sulfate reduction in the zone of cement precipitation. This produced an ubiquitous covariance of ∂18O and ∂13C. Incorporation of seawater-derived Mg2+ during recrystallization of carbonate can account for the local dolomitization. Elevated 87Sr/86Sr ratios are explained as a result of interaction of clay minerals with the stationary pore fluids. This study shows that the isotopic signal produced by biochemically induced shallow submarine subsurface carbonate diagenesis can be indistinguishable from freshwater diagenesis, that ∂18O and ∂13C of the bulk rock are always reset, and that carbonates can show, in the presence of clay minerals, elevated 87Sr/86Sr ratios even when the pore fluids were never exchanged.

Graphical Abstract
Managing Seismic Risk Associated to Development Blasting Using Random Forests Predictive Models Based on Geologic and Structural Rockmass Properties
Authors: Goulet A. , Grenon M.
Published: June 2024

As mining activities are expected to develop at greater depths, seismic responses to the blasting of development drift segments are expected to increase and present a greater hazard. A database of 379 development blasts was created for a mining site, recording seismic responses related to these blasts and rock mass structural and geologic properties associated with the drift segment. A random forest, multivariate statistical predictive model was developed with 75% of the drift segments. The model's performance was validated by analyzing 100 drift segments that were not used to create the model. The improved understanding of the variation in the intensity of seismic responses to development blasting through the sum of the seismic moment of the events is a clear benefit of random forest model development for the case study. In addition, the development of the predictive random forest model provides a tool for decision-makers to select performance criteria thresholds that they deem acceptable. The threshold selected would depend on the risk appetite of the decision-makers. The proposed approach provides quantitative data on the distribution of seismic hazards associated with development blasting which managers can rely on. Combining the proposed approach with current seismic protocols used at different mine sites could improve our management of seismic risk associated with development blasting. Using the predictive model for the sector and period studied has shown a potential to increase the accuracy, sensitivity, and precision for anticipating a high-intensity seismic response to a development blast.
Differential diagnosis of Huntington’s disease− neurological aspects of NKX2-1-related disorders
Authors: Skwara Julia , Nowicki Maciej , Sharif Lucia , Milanowski Łukasz , Dulski Jarosław , Elert-Dobkowska Ewelina , Skrzypek Katarzyna , Hoffman-Zacharska Dorota , Koziorowski Dariusz , Sławek Jarosław
Published: June 2024

Benign hereditary chorea (BHC) is an inherited neurological disorder consisting of childhood-onset, nonprogressive chorea, generally without any other manifestations. In most reported cases, the inheritance of BHC is autosomal dominant but both incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity are observed and can be caused by NKX2-1 mutations. The spectrum contains choreoathetosis, congenital hypothyroidism, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. The neurological symptoms can be misdiagnosed as Huntington’s disease (HD). The two Polish families were diagnosed with NKX2-1 gene mutations and a literature review concerning the NKX2-1-related disorders was conducted. All family members were examined by experienced movement disorders specialists. PubMed database was searched to obtain previously described NKX2-1 cases. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed in one proband (Family A) and direct NKX2-1 sequencing in the second (Family B). Two Polish families were diagnosed with NKX2-1 gene mutations (p.Trp208Leu and p.Cys117Alafs*8). In one family, the co-occurrence of HD was reported. Forty-nine publications were included in the literature review and symptoms of 195 patients with confirmed NKX2-1 mutation were analyzed. The most common symptoms were chorea and choreiform movements, and delayed motor milestones. The NKX2-1 mutation should always be considered as a potential diagnosis in families with chorea, even with a family history of HD. Lack of chorea does not exclude the NKX2-1-related disorders.
Hilft Humor? Eine Studie zum Einsatz von Humor bei Ärzten und in Rettungsberufen
Authors: Rapp Alexander M. , Wuttig Katharina
Published: June 2024

Hintergrund

Humor im notfallmedizinischen Kontext ist nicht unproblematisch, hat aber in früheren Studien protektive Effekte in Bezug auf sekundäre Traumatisierung durch Einsätze gezeigt. Ziel dieser qualitativen Studie ist es darzustellen, wie häufig und in welchem Kontext Humor von Rettungsdienstmitarbeitenden und Ärzten eingesetzt wird und welche subjektive Bedeutung ihm beigemessen wird.

Methodik

Anonyme Befragung von n = 160 Ärzten sowie n = 100 Mitarbeitern aus Rettungsberufen. Erfassung der subjektiven emotionalen Belastung sowie der sekundären Traumatisierung (mittels PTSS-10). Fragenkatalog zur Verwendung und subjektiven Bedeutung von Humor. Korrelative Darstellung mit verschiedenen Humordimensionen und der Coping Humor Scale.

Ergebnisse

Die überwiegende Mehrheit der Befragten akzeptiert Humor als hilfreich und misst ihm eine „hohe“ oder „sehr hohe“ Bedeutung bei. Rote Linien für Humor werden bei Witzen über Kinder und Verstorbene gezogen. Auch schwarzer Humor weist jedoch hohe Akzeptanzwerte in der Stichprobe auf. Rund 80 % der Stichprobe bejahen, dass es einen „speziellen Humor gibt, den nur medizinisches Fachpersonal teilt“. „Coping humor“ und schwarzer Humor werden gegenüber Erzählen von Witzen deutlich vorgezogen. Bei mehr als 25 % der Stichprobe zeigt sich eine sekundäre Traumatisierung, die mit Stress und der Akzeptanz von schwarzem Humor korreliert.

Diskussion

Notfallberufe bewerten Humor durchgehend als die Resilienz steigernd, einschließlich schwarzen Humors. Dies hat Implikationen für Supervisions- und Trainingskontexte, für die bislang nur wenige Leitlinien zum Umgang mit Humor definiert wurden. Mögliche Effekte sind die Reduktion von Ängsten und die Stärkung des Gruppengefühls. Im medizinethischen Kontext wurde das Thema Humor bislang kaum behandelt.

Graphic abstract
Emergent task allocation and incentives: an agent-based model
Authors: Leitner Stephan
Published: June 2024

In recent times, organizations have increasingly adopted structures in which decision making is distributed rather than centralized. This approach often leads to task allocation emerging from the bottom up, moving away from strict top-down control. This shift raises a key question: How can we guide this emergent task allocation to form an effective organizational structure? To address this question, this paper introduces a model of an organization where task assignment is influenced by agents acting based on either long-term or short-term motivations, facilitating a bottom-up approach. The model incorporates an incentive mechanism designed to steer the emergent task allocation process, offering rewards that range from group-based to individual-focused. The analysis reveals that when task allocation is driven by short-term objectives and aligned with specific incentive systems, it leads to improved organizational performance compared to traditional, top-down organizational designs. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the presence of group-based rewards reduces the necessity of mirroring, i.e., for a precise matching of the organizational structure to task characteristics.
Cystic vestibular schwannoma – a subgroup analysis from a comparative study between radiosurgery and microsurgery
Authors: Wang Sophie Shih-Yüng , Rizk Ahmed , Ebner Florian H. , van Eck Albertus , Naros Georgios , Horstmann Gerhard , Tatagiba Marcos
Published: June 2024

Some vestibular schwannoma (VS) show cystic morphology. It is known that these cystic VS bear different risk profiles compared to solid VS in surgical treatment. Still, there has not been a direct comparative study comparing both SRS and SURGERY effectiveness in cystic VS. This retrospective bi-center cohort study aims to analyze the management of cystic VS compared to solid VS in a dual center study with both microsurgery (SURGERY) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Cystic morphology was defined as presence of any T2-hyperintense and Gadolinium-contrast-negative cyst of any size in the pre-interventional MRI. A matched subgroup analysis was carried out by determining a subgroup of matched SURGERY-treated solid VS and SRS-treated solid VS. Functional status, and post-interventional tumor volume size was then compared. From 2005 to 2011, N = 901 patients with primary and solitary VS were treated in both study sites. Of these, 6% showed cystic morphology. The incidence of cystic VS increased with tumor size: 1.75% in Koos I, 4.07% in Koos II, 4.84% in Koos III, and the highest incidence with 15.43% in Koos IV. Shunt-Dependency was significantly more often in cystic VS compared to solid VS (p = 0.024) and patients with cystic VS presented with significantly worse Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) compared to solid VS (p < 0.001). The rate of GTR was 87% in cystic VS and therefore significantly lower, compared to 96% in solid VS (p = 0.037). The incidence of dynamic volume change (decrease and increase) after SRS was significantly more common in cystic VS compared to the matched solid VS (p = 0.042). The incidence of tumor progression with SRS in cystic VS was 25%. When comparing EOR in the SURGERY-treated cystic to solid VS, the rate for tumor recurrence was significantly lower in GTR with 4% compared to STR with 50% (p = 0.042). Tumor control in cystic VS is superior in SURGERY, when treated with a high extent of resection grade, compared to SRS. Therapeutic response of SRS was worse in cystic compared to solid VS. However, when cystic VS was treated surgically, the rate of GTR is lower compared to the overall, and solid VS cohort. The significantly higher number of patients with relevant post-operative facial palsy in cystic VS is accredited to the increased tumor size not its sole cystic morphology. Cystic VS should be surgically treated in specialized centers.
The Evolution of the Bell Notion of Beable: From Bohr to Primitive Ontology
Authors: Laudisa Federico
Published: June 2024

John S. Bell introduced the notion of beable, as opposed to the standard notion of observable, in order to emphasize the need for an unambiguous formulation of quantum mechanics. In the paper I show that Bell formulated in fact two different theories of beables. The first is somehow reminiscent of the Bohr views on quantum mechanics but, at the same time, is curiously adopted by Bell as a critical tool against the Copenhagen interpretation, whereas the second, more mature formulation was among the sources of inspiration of the so-called Primitive Ontology (PO) approach to quantum mechanics, an approach inspired to scientific realism. In the first part of the paper it is argued that, contrary to the Bell wishes, the first formulation of the theory fails to be an effective recipe for addressing the ambiguity underlying the standard formulation of quantum mechanics, whereas it is only the second formulation that successfully paves the way to the PO approach. In the second part, I consider how the distinction between the two formulations of the Bell theory of beables fares vis-a-vis the complex relationship between the theory of beables and the details of the PO approach.
P-wave Pairing Near a Spin-Split Josephson Junction
Authors: Seoane Souto Rubén , Kuzmanovski Dushko , Sardinero Ignacio , Burset Pablo , Balatsky Alexander V.
Published: June 2024

Superconductivity and magnetism are competing effects that can coexist in certain regimes. Their co-existence leads to unexpected new behaviors that include the onset of exotic electron pair mechanisms and topological phases. In this work, we study the properties of a Josephson junction between two spin-split superconductors. The spin-splitting in the superconductors can arise from either the coupling to a ferromagnetic material or an external magnetic field. The properties of the junction are dominated by the Andreev bound states that are also split. One of these states can cross the superconductor’s Fermi level, leading to a ground-state transition characterized by a suppressed supercurrent. We interpret the supercurrent blockade as coming from a dominance of p-wave pairing close to the junction, where the electrons are at both sides. To support this interpretation, we analyze the different pairing channels and show that p-wave pairing is favored in the case where the magnetization of the two superconductors is parallel and suppressed in the anti-parallel case. We also analyze the noise spectrum that shows signatures of the ground-state transition in the form of an elevated zero-frequency noise.
Let’s walk! The fallacy of urban first- and last-mile public transport
Authors: Rich Jeppe
Published: June 2024

In recent years, there has been an upsurge in intelligent mobility solutions that provide door-to-door services. Although these services offer convenience to certain individuals, it is frequently overlooked that they can lead to welfare losses when accounting for the reduced health benefits that result from reduced physical activity. In this paper, we derive a welfare function of introducing first- and last-mile public transport services. By comparing possible health gains from walking with corresponding accessibility losses, we identify the distance boundaries under which the service fails to be socially beneficial. The results are based on a simulation study and draw on further insights from a recent agent-based model from Copenhagen focusing on first- and last-mile public transport. Although the model is intentionally stylized and may not apply universally to all scenarios featuring diverse population densities, demographic profiles, or transport network layouts, the fundamental conclusion presented in the paper is that first-mile services have minimal welfare impact for average trip distances below 1 km, appears robust even under conservative assumptions. In this case, the probability of failure is almost 100% for any realistic parametrization. This finding implies that planners and researchers should focus on the design of main transit networks and the access and egress of active modes to and from the stations. In particular, door-to-door services covering shorter distances should not be the priority of public funding unless in particular situations or contexts.
Distributed Petri nets for model-driven verifiable robotic applications in ROS
Authors: Ebert Sebastian , Mey Johannes , Schöne René , Götz Sebastian , Aßmann Uwe
Published: June 2024

Verifying industrial robotic systems is a complex task because those systems are distributed and solely defined by their implementation instead of models of the system to be verified. Some technologies mitigate parts of this problem, e.g., robotic middleware such as the Robotic Operating System (ROS) or concrete solutions such as automata-based specification of robot behavior. However, they all lack the required modeling depth to describe the structure, behavior, and communication of the system. We introduce an improved version of our previous model-driven approach based on Petri nets, integrating these three aspects of ROS-based systems. Using a formal modeling language enables verification of the described system and the generation of complete system parts in the form of ROS nodes. This reduces testing effort because the specification of component workflows and interfaces remains formally proven, while only changed implementations have to be revalidated. We extended our previous approach with novel model transformations, which considerably improved our approach’s performance and memory requirements. We evaluate our approach in a case study involving multiple industrial robotic arms and show that the structure of and communication between ROS nodes can be described and verified.
Background removal for debiasing computer-aided cytological diagnosis
Authors: Takeda Keita , Sakai Tomoya , Mitate Eiji
Published: June 2024

To address the background-bias problem in computer-aided cytology caused by microscopic slide deterioration, this article proposes a deep learning approach for cell segmentation and background removal without requiring cell annotation. A U-Net-based model was trained to separate cells from the background in an unsupervised manner by leveraging the redundancy of the background and the sparsity of cells in liquid-based cytology (LBC) images. The experimental results demonstrate that the U-Net-based model trained on a small set of cytology images can exclude background features and accurately segment cells. This capability is beneficial for debiasing in the detection and classification of the cells of interest in oral LBC. Slide deterioration can significantly affect deep learning-based cell classification. Our proposed method effectively removes background features at no cost of cell annotation, thereby enabling accurate cytological diagnosis through the deep learning of microscopic slide images.
Challenges and Opportunities in Big Data Science to Address Health Inequities and Focus the HIV Response
Authors: Rucinski Katherine , Knight Jesse , Willis Kalai , Wang Linwei , Rao Amrita , Roach Mary Anne , Phaswana-Mafuya Refilwe , Bao Le , Thiam Safiatou , Arimi Peter , Mishra Sharmistha , Baral Stefan
Published: June 2024

Purpose of Review

Big Data Science can be used to pragmatically guide the allocation of resources within the context of national HIV programs and inform priorities for intervention. In this review, we discuss the importance of grounding Big Data Science in the principles of equity and social justice to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of the global HIV response.

Recent Findings

Social, ethical, and legal considerations of Big Data Science have been identified in the context of HIV research. However, efforts to mitigate these challenges have been limited. Consequences include disciplinary silos within the field of HIV, a lack of meaningful engagement and ownership with and by communities, and potential misinterpretation or misappropriation of analyses that could further exacerbate health inequities.

Big Data Science can support the HIV response by helping to identify gaps in previously undiscovered or understudied pathways to HIV acquisition and onward transmission, including the consequences for health outcomes and associated comorbidities. However, in the absence of a guiding framework for equity, alongside meaningful collaboration with communities through balanced partnerships, a reliance on big data could continue to reinforce inequities within and across marginalized populations.
Acute Skeletal Muscle Wasting is Associated with Prolonged Hospital Stay in Critical Illness with Brain Injury
Authors: Kangalgil Melda , Ulusoy Hülya , Ayaz Sekine
Published: June 2024

Background

Acute muscle wasting is common in critically ill patients, and this can lead to unfavorable clinical outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with muscle wasting and to investigate the association between skeletal muscle wasting and prolonged hospital stay in critically ill patients with acute brain injury.

Methods

This single-center prospective observational study was conducted in critically ill patients with acute brain injury who stayed in the intensive care unit for at least 1 week. The rectus femoris cross-sectional area was measured via ultrasound at baseline and a week after the first assessment. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors that predicted prolonged hospital stay.

Results

A total of 86 patients were included in the study. Their mean age was 49.4 ± 16.9 years, 57% were male, and 46.5% had an admission diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage. The percentage change in the rectus femoris cross-sectional area was 15.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] − 19.8% to − 12.0%; p < 0.001), and 57% of all patients had acute muscle wasting. According to the univariate analysis, there was a significant association between prolonged hospital stay and acute muscle wasting (odds ratio [OR] 3.677; 95% CI 1.487–9.043; p = 0.005), mechanical ventilation status (OR 3.600; 95% CI 1.455–8.904; p = 0.006), and Glasgow Coma Scale score (OR 0.888; 95% CI 0.808–0.976; p = 0.014) at intensive care unit admission. The multivariate analysis demonstrated that acute muscle wasting (OR 3.449; 95% CI 1.344–8.853; p = 0.010) was an independent risk factor for prolonged hospital stay.

Conclusions

There was considerable muscle wasting in critically ill patients with brain injuries over a 1-week period. Acute muscle wasting was associated with prolonged hospital stay in critically ill patients with acute brain injury.