bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing vacuum‐assisted closure against conventional approach in severe deep neck infection: A retrospective case‐control study
Authors: Wang Mu , Yang Rui‐Zhe , Gu Wei , Wang Jian
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To compare the effectiveness of vacuum‐assisted closure (VAC) against traditional drainage technique, using a retrospective case‐control study design, in terms of managing deep neck infections (DNIs).

Methods

Patients presenting to Peking Union Medical College Hospital diagnosed with DNIs were recruited in this study. We analyzed the clinical characteristics of DNI patients and divided them into (a) VAC placement group (26 cases) and (b) traditional drainage group (57 cases) according to whether VAC was placed. The differences in length of stay (LOS), wound healing time, and debridement frequency were compared between the two groups.

Results

Eighty‐three patients had multiple‐space infections, i.e. infection at two or more sites. The debridement frequency of the VAC group was significantly lower than that of the traditional drainage group (p = 0.001). The wound healing time of the traditional drainage group and VAC group was 38 days (a range of 13–98 days) and 40 days (a range of 11–106 days), respectively; the average LOS was 15 days (a range of 2–68 days) and 16 days (a range of 4–35 days), respectively; and the debridement frequencies were one time (a range of 0–3 times) and zero times (a range of 0–2 times), respectively. The two groups did not differ significantly in wound healing time and hospitalization duration (p = 0.319 and 0.937).

Conclusions

VAC treatment of DNIs has significant advantages in reducing the frequency of debridement and patient suffering, but it does not show significant advantages in wound healing. Randomized trials are still needed to demonstrate its efficacy.
Existence and stability of a weakly damped laminated beam with a nonlinear delay
Authors: Al‐Mahdi Adel M. , Al‐Gharabli Mohammed M. , Feng Baowei
Published: November 2024

A weakly damped laminated beam system with nonlinear time delay is studied. The existence and uniqueness are proved by Faedo–Galerkin approach. We prove that the system is stable under some specific conditions on the weight of the delay and the equal wave speeds of propagation. The general energy decay rate is established by using multiplier method and some properties of convex functions. This decay result is obtained without imposing any restrictive growth assumption on the damping term at the origin. In addition, our result improves and develops some existing results in the literature.
An asymptotic formula for perturbations in an electromagnetic eigenvalue problem due to the presence of small deformable dielectric inclusion
Authors: Khelifi Abdessatar , Saidani Siwar
Published: November 2024

We consider a homogeneous electromagnetic material enclosing a bounded ‐domain with a small dielectric inclusion. We derive a rigorous asymptotic expansion of the eigenvalues of the Maxwell operator as the diameter of the inclusion goes to zero.
Buckling analysis of single‐walled carbon nanotubes using the initial value method and approximate transfer matrix based on nonlocal elasticity theory
Authors: Tepe Ayşegül
Published: November 2024

In this study, a novel method is presented to analyze the buckling behavior of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) using the initial value method (IVM) in conjunction with the approximate transfer matrix, within the framework of nonlocal elasticity theory. The study aims to accurately approximate critical buckling load parameters under various boundary conditions, without encountering high computational requirements. IVM enables the computation of displacements and stress resultants along the entire beam from given initial conditions. The approximate transfer matrix is employed to analyze system states at different points through successive integration of solutions, generating the principal matrix needed for IVM and ensuring systematic and precise results that optimize the accuracy of the analysis. A convergence study confirms the effectiveness and precision of the proposed method, revealing a decrease in the critical buckling load parameters as the nonlocal parameter increases, applicable across all boundary conditions studied (simply supported, clamped–clamped, clamped–simply supported, and clamped‐free). These results underscore the need to incorporate nonlocal effects for more accurate nanostructure mechanics predictions. The integration of IVM and the approximate transfer matrix provides a computationally efficient alternative to traditional numerical and semi‐analytical methods, aiding researchers and engineers working with SWCNTs and other nanomaterials.
Imagining a New Gender Contract for Care
Authors: di Torella Eugenia Caracciolo
Published: November 2024

Care and caring are not only inalienable features of our lives, but they are also essential to the sustainability of our economy, society and individuals’ well-being. The recent pandemic has emphasised how important care is. In other words, care is the glue that keeps us together and ensures that our world is, and will continue to be, sustainable. In this chapter, we discuss the emerging EU measures in this area—in particular, the EU Care Strategy—their potential and their shortcomings. We argue that, although care is now clearly on the EU agenda, the EU cannot be complacent, nor can it afford to lose momentum. The EU must take leadership in this area as a matter of urgency, and the chapter puts forward some suggestions on how to move forward. Until a clear commitment and concrete measures are in place, any intervention will continue to be empty rhetoric.
Exploring atmospheric neutrino oscillations at ESSnuSB
Authors:   The ESSnuSB collaboration, Aguilar J. , Anastasopoulos M. , Baussan E. , Bhattacharyya A. K. , Bignami A. , Blennow M. , Bogomilov M. , Bolling B. , Bouquerel E. , Bramati F. , Branca A. , Brunetti G. , Bustinduy I. , Carlile C. J. , Cederkall J. , Choi T. W. , Choubey S. , Christiansen P. , Collins M. , Cristaldo Morales E. , Cupiał P. , Danared H. , de André J. P. A. M. , Dracos M. , Efthymiopoulos I. , Ekelöf T. , Eshraqi M. , Fanourakis G. , Farricker A. , Fasoula E. , Fukuda T. , Gazis N. , Geralis Th. , Ghosh M. , Giarnetti A. , Gokbulut G. , Hagner C. , Halić L. , Hooft M. , Iversen K. E. , Jachowicz N. , Jenssen M. , Johansson R. , Kasimi E. , Kayis Topaksu A. , Kildetoft B. , Kordas K. , Leisos A. , Lindroos M. , Longhin A. , Maiano C. , Marangoni S. , Marrelli C. , Meloni D. , Mezzetto M. , Milas N. , Muñoz J. L. , Niewczas K. , Oglakci M. , Ohlsson T. , Olvegård M. , Pari M. , Patrzalek D. , Petkov G. , Petridou Ch. , Poussot P. , Psallidas A. , Pupilli F. , Saiang D. , Sampsonidis D. , Schwab C. , Sordo F. , Sosa A. , Stavropoulos G. , Tarkeshian R. , Terranova F. , Tolba T. , Trachanas E. , Tsenov R. , Tsirigotis A. , Tzamarias S. E. , Vankova-Kirilova G. , Vassilopoulos N. , Vihonen S. , Wurtz J. , Zeter V. , Zormpa O.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study provides an analysis of atmospheric neutrino oscillations at the ESSnuSB far detector facility. The prospects of the two cylindrical Water Cherenkov detectors with a total fiducial mass of 540 kt are investigated over 10 years of data taking in the standard three-flavor oscillation scenario. We present the confidence intervals for the determination of mass ordering, θ23 octant as well as for the precisions on sin2θ23 and $$ \left|\Delta {m}_{31}^2\right| $$

Δ

m
31
2

. It is shown that mass ordering can be resolved by 3σ CL (5σ CL) after 4 years (10 years) regardless of the true neutrino mass ordering. Correspondingly, the wrong θ23 octant could be excluded by 3σ CL after 4 years (8 years) in the case where the true neutrino mass ordering is normal ordering (inverted ordering). The results presented in this work are complementary to the accelerator neutrino program in the ESSnuSB project.
Spin-2 operators in two-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = (4, 0) quivers from massive type IIA
Authors: Zhang Shuo
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this work we revisit the problem of studying spin-2 fluctuations around a class of solutions in massive type IIA that is given by a warped AdS3 × S2 × T4 × $$ {\mathcal{I}}_{\rho } $$

I
ρ

and with $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (4, 0) supersymmetry. We were able to identify a class of fluctuations, which is known as the “minimal universal class” that is independent of the background data and saturates the bound on the mass related to the field theory unitarity bound. These operators have conformal dimension ∆ = 2(ℓ + 1), with ℓ being the quantum number of the angular momentum on the S2. We also computed the normalisation of the 2-point function of stress-energy tensors from the effective 3-dimensional graviton action. We comment on the relation of our results to the related AdS3 and AdS2 solutions in massive type IIA and type IIB theories respectively.
PPSZ for General k-SAT and CSP—Making Hertli’s Analysis Simpler and 3-SAT Faster
Authors: Scheder Dominik , Steinberger John
Published: November 2024

The currently fastest known algorithm for k-SAT is PPSZ, named after
its inventors (Paturi et al. in J ACM 52(3):337-364, 2005. http://dx.doi.org/10.1145/1066100.1066101). Analyzing its running time
is much easier for input formulas with a unique satisfying assignment.
In this paper, we achieve three goals. First, we simplify the analysis
of Hertli (in 2011 IEEE 52nd Annual Symposium on Foundations of
Computer Science-FOCS 2011, Los Alamitos, 2011) for input formulas
with multiple satisfying assignments. Second, we show a “lifting
result”: if you improve PPSZ for k-CNF formulas with a unique satisfying
assignment, you will immediately get a (weaker) improvement for
general k-CNF formulas. In combination this with results by Hansen et
al. (in Charikar and Cohen (ed) Proceedings of the 51st Annual ACM
SIGACT Symposium on Theory of Computing, 2019) and Scheder (in
62nd IEEE Annual Symposium on Foundations of Computer Science,
2021), who all prove improved time bounds for Unique-k-SAT, this gives
improved bounds for general k-SAT. We also generalize our results to
the domain of Constraint Satisfaction Problems, i.e., satisfiability with
more than two truth values.
Alcohol consumption—none is better than a little
Authors: Maisch Bernhard
Published: November 2024

Alcohol is socially accepted and widely consumed as a recreational beverage. Furthermore, it is used as a disinfectant for medicinal purposes and as a cultural asset it is also part of religious rituals. However, it is also an intoxicant and an addictive substance. The deleterious side of alcohol is reflected in the fact that around 3 million people worldwide die every year as a direct or indirect result of alcohol consumption. For several decades, epidemiological studies suggested that drinking alcohol in moderate quantities was beneficial. This was referred to as the “French paradox,” which described differences in mortality between France and Finland mainly, but also other countries, that were found in epidemiological studies. The difference in the levels of alcohol consumption was found to explain the differences in mortality in view of the otherwise similar risk factors. When alcoholic drinks per day were plotted against all-cause mortality this led to a J-shaped curve. This finding represented a window of benefit for moderate alcohol consumption. However, the recent publication by Zhao et al. in 2023 revisited the relationship between the quantity of alcohol consumed and mortality risk and led to a paradigm change, which has influenced not only the recommendations of Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health but also the recommendations and guidelines of major health organizations: “No alcohol is better than a little.” The J‑shaped curve as an explanation of the French paradox became a linear relationship between the amount of alcohol consumption and the increasing mortality from tumors and cardiovascular diseases. The renewed review of several control groups in previous epidemiological studies revealed a recruitment error due to the inclusion of abstinent ex-drinkers. Taking this bias into account, the alcohol-friendly view of small amounts of alcohol being cardioprotective had to be revised. The combined misuse of alcohol and other risk factors for carcinogenesis and heart diseases still needs further attention. The misuse of both alcohol and cocaine led to the conclusion that when the two risky substances are consumed together, it is even more detrimental than the mere sum of the two.
Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome–IL-1β pathway in type 2 diabetes and obesity
Authors: Meier Daniel T. , de Paula Souza Joyce , Donath Marc Y.
Published: November 2024

Increased activity of the NACHT, LRR and PYD domains-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome–IL-1β pathway is observed in obesity and contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes and its complications. In this review, we describe the pathological activation of IL-1β by metabolic stress, ageing and the microbiome and present data on the role of IL-1β in metabolism. We explore the physiological role of the IL-1β pathway in insulin secretion and the relationship between circulating levels of IL-1β and the development of diabetes and associated diseases. We highlight the paradoxical nature of IL-1β as both a friend and a foe in glucose regulation and provide details on clinical translation, including the glucose-lowering effects of IL-1 antagonism and its impact on disease modification. We also discuss the potential role of IL-1β in obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, fatigue, gonadal dysfunction and related disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Finally, we address the safety of NLRP3 inhibition and IL-1 antagonists and the prospect of using this therapeutic approach for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and its comorbidities.

Graphical Abstract
On quaternionic bisectional curvature
Authors: Macia Oscar , Semmelmann Uwe , Weingart Gregor
Published: November 2024

In this article we study the concept of quaternionic bisectional curvature introduced by Chow and Yang in (J Differ Geom 29(2):361–372, 1989) for quaternion-Kähler manifolds. We show that non-negative quaternionic bisectional curvature is only realized for the quaternionic projective space

$$\mathbb {H}\textrm{P}^n$$

H

P
n

. We also show that all symmetric quaternion-Kähler manifolds different from

$$\mathbb {H}\textrm{P}^n$$

H

P
n

admit quaternionic lines of negative quaternionic bisectional curvature. In particular this implies that non-negative sectional curvature does not imply non-negative quaternionic bisectional curvature. Moreover we give a new and rather short proof of a classification result by A. Gray on compact Kähler manifolds of non-negative sectional curvature.
Predation rates on flatback turtle Natator depressus eggs and hatchlings at an island rookery
Authors: Avenant Casper , Fossette Sabrina , Whiting Scott , Hyndes Glenn A.
Published: November 2024

Predation can significantly threaten the vulnerable egg and hatchling stages of sea turtles, yet for most populations this remains poorly quantified for use in conservation. We provided the first quantified predation rates of flatback turtle eggs and hatchlings at Thevenard Island, a medium-sized rookery on the northwest coast of Australia, with a focus on ghost crabs as potential predators. Burrow densities were used as proxy for ghost crab densities, while start- and end-of-season nest inventories and infrared videography were used to quantify egg and hatchling predation, respectively. Inventories of 27 nests suggested a mean hatching success of 74.2 ± 4.6% with zero predation of eggs, while videography at 17 nests indicated that 30.1 ± 8.1% of emerged hatchlings were predated, mainly by ghost crabs. Females selecting nest locations not easily accessible to ghost crabs, or the composition of flatback’s eggshells may explain the lack of egg predation. A 44.0% egg-to-surf survival rate was estimated, almost double the rate estimated for C. caretta on the Ningaloo coast (24.4%) using similar techniques. Further work is needed to understand if those predation rates are sustainable for recovering threatened species and if mitigation efforts tailored to each species and each life stage are needed.
Complications of Deep Venous Stenting and Their Management
Authors: Morris Rachael I. , Khan Taha , Black Stephen A.
Published: November 2024

Complications after iliofemoral and inferior vena cava stenting are rare, and most can be managed effectively without significant long-term consequences for the patient. Nevertheless, the procedure is not without risk, and clinicians considering starting a venous practice must be aware of the range of complications that can occur, which range from minor access site bleeds to fatal arrhythmia from stent migration to the heart. Most complications can be avoided with appropriate patient selection, stent sizing, and careful access and deployment techniques.
Metabolic differentiation of brushtail possum populations resistant and susceptible to plant toxins revealed via differential gene expression
Authors: Carmelet-Rescan David , Morgan-Richards Mary , Trewick Steven A.
Published: November 2024

The Australian brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) is adapted to a wide range of food plants across its range and is exposed to numerous physiological challenges. Populations that are resistant to the plant toxin sodium fluoroacetate are of particular interest as this compound has been used since the 1940s for vertebrate pest management around the world. Candidate gene identification is an important first step in understanding how spatial populations have responded to local selection resulting in local physiological divergence. We employ differential gene expression of liver samples from wild-caught brushtail possums from toxin-resistant and toxin-susceptible populations to identify candidate genes that might be involved in metabolic pathways associated with toxin-resistance. This allowed us to identify genetic pathways involved in resistance to the plant toxin sodium fluoroacetate in Western Australian possums but not those originally from south eastern Australia. We identified differentially expressed genes in the liver that are associated with cell signalling, encapsulating structure, cell mobility, and tricarboxylic acid cycle. The gene expression differences detected indicate which metabolic pathways are most likely to be associated with sodium fluoroacetate resistance in these marsupials and we provide a comprehensive list of candidate genes and pathways to focus on for future studies.
Germline copy number variants and endometrial cancer risk
Authors: Stylianou Cassie E. , Wiggins George A. R. , Lau Vanessa L. , Dennis Joe , Shelling Andrew N. , Wilson Michelle , Sykes Peter , Amant Frederic , Annibali Daniela , De Wispelaere Wout , Easton Douglas F. , Fasching Peter A. , Glubb Dylan M. , Goode Ellen L. , Lambrechts Diether , Pharoah Paul D. P. , Scott Rodney J. , Tham Emma , Tomlinson Ian , Bolla Manjeet K. , Couch Fergus J. , Czene Kamila , Dörk Thilo , Dunning Alison M. , Fletcher Olivia , García-Closas Montserrat , Hoppe Reiner ,   ABCTB Investigators, Clarke Christine , Marsh Deborah , Scott Rodney , Baxter Robert , Yip Desmond , Carpenter Jane , Davis Alison , Pathmanathan Nirmala , Simpson Peter , Dinny Graham J , Sachchithananthan Mythily , Jernström Helena , Kaaks Rudolf , Michailidou Kyriaki , Obi Nadia , Southey Melissa C. , Stone Jennifer , Wang Qin , Spurdle Amanda B. , O’Mara Tracy A. , Pearson John , Walker Logan C.
Published: November 2024

Known risk loci for endometrial cancer explain approximately one third of familial endometrial cancer. However, the association of germline copy number variants (CNVs) with endometrial cancer risk remains relatively unknown. We conducted a genome-wide analysis of rare CNVs overlapping gene regions in 4115 endometrial cancer cases and 17,818 controls to identify functionally relevant variants associated with disease. We identified a 1.22-fold greater number of CNVs in DNA samples from cases compared to DNA samples from controls (p = 4.4 × 10–63). Under three models of putative CNV impact (deletion, duplication, and loss of function), genome-wide association studies identified 141 candidate gene loci associated (p < 0.01) with endometrial cancer risk. Pathway analysis of the candidate loci revealed an enrichment of genes involved in the 16p11.2 proximal deletion syndrome, driven by a large recurrent deletion (chr16:29,595,483-30,159,693) identified in 0.15% of endometrial cancer cases and 0.02% of control participants. Together, these data provide evidence that rare copy number variants have a role in endometrial cancer susceptibility and that the proximal 16p11.2 BP4-BP5 region contains 25 candidate risk gene(s) that warrant further analysis to better understand their role in human disease.
Increasing accuracy in predicting mode I fracture toughness of rock structures: a comparative analysis of the rock engineering system method
Authors: Fattahi Hadi , Ghaedi Hossein , Armaghani Danial Jahed
Published: November 2024

The investigation of crack initiation and expansion is vital for the stability of structures. The Mode I fracture toughness (KIc) of rocks is a key property used to predict crack propagation in tension and hydraulic fracturing. Various methods have been introduced to determine KIc, but results differ due to factors like sample dimensions, crack geometry, groove type, and loading conditions. The cracked chevron notched Brazilian disc (CCNBD) sample is commonly used in laboratory tests for its easy preparation. This study employs the rock engineering system (RES) technique to overcome the challenges of time-consuming and costly laboratory tests and the uncertainty in traditional methods (analytical, numerical, experimental, laboratory, regression). Using 88 CCNBD rock samples proposed by ISRM, input parameters include thickness of the disc specimen (B), uniaxial tensile strength (σt), initial crack length (α0), radius of the disc specimen (R), crack length (αB), and the length of the final crack (α1). The RES-based model used 70 data points (80% of the dataset) for development, and 18 data points (20%) for evaluation. Regression analysis compared the performance of the RES method, using statistical indicators such as squared correlation coefficient (R2), mean square error (MSE), and root mean square error (RMSE) to measure accuracy. The RES-based method outperformed other regression techniques, demonstrating significantly enhanced accuracy. This highlights the effectiveness and superior performance of the RES method in estimating fracture toughness, particularly for CCNBD samples, showcasing its potential as a robust analytical tool.
Subaxial cervical foraminal chondromas: case-based discussion on surgical management
Authors: Vandenbulcke Alberto , Sanjurjo Andrea , Rougemont Anne-Laure , Boudabbous Sana , Maduri Rodolfo
Published: November 2024

Cervical foraminal chondromas are benign lesions that may require surgical resection when symptomatic due to radicular and/or spinal cord compression. The aim of surgery is to achieve gross tumor removal while preserving neurological function and spine stability. The authors describe a case of subaxial foraminal chondroma with a systematic review of the literature on patients with cervical chondromas. In the reported case, the authors used a retrojugular approach to remove a C6-C7 right chondroma without the need for spinal stabilization. Literature review identified a total of 11 patients who underwent surgery for subaxial foraminal chondroma. The mean age at diagnosis is 33.6 years (range: 10–73). Most patients report neurological symptoms at the time of diagnosis. The most frequently involved vertebral level is C4-C5 (54.6%, 6/11). Preoperative foraminal enlargement is present in 63.6% (7/11) of patients. Surgical resection is performed via an anterior approach in 18.2% (2/11) of patients, with vertebral body resection and concomitant cervical instrumentation. The anterolateral approach is selected in 27.2% (3/11) of patients, and the posterior approach in 54.6% (6/11) of patients, with only one patient requiring both anterior and posterior instrumentation. The choice of surgical access for subaxial foraminal chondroma can be challenging due to the anatomical location of the tumor in relation to the cervical nerve roots and spinal cord. Accurate approach selection is key to achieving complete tumor removal while preserving cervical spine stability.
Volumetric Integrated Classification Index: An Integrated Voxel-Based Morphometry and Machine Learning Interpretable Biomarker for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Jia Yulong , Yang Beining , Xin Haotian , Qi Qunya , Wang Yu , Lin Liyuan , Xie Yingying , Huang Chaoyang , Lu Jie , Qin Wen , Chen Nan
Published: November 2024

PTSD is a complex mental health condition triggered by individuals’ traumatic experiences, with long-term and broad impacts on sufferers’ psychological health and quality of life. Despite decades of research providing partial understanding of the pathobiological aspects of PTSD, precise neurobiological markers and imaging indicators remain challenging to pinpoint. This study employed VBM analysis and machine learning algorithms to investigate structural brain changes in PTSD patients. Data were sourced ADNI-DoD database for PTSD cases and from the ADNI database for healthy controls. Various machine learning models, including SVM, RF, and LR, were utilized for classification. Additionally, the VICI was proposed to enhance model interpretability, incorporating SHAP analysis. The association between PTSD risk genes and VICI values was also explored through gene expression data analysis. Among the tested machine learning algorithms, RF emerged as the top performer, achieving high accuracy in classifying PTSD patients. Structural brain abnormalities in PTSD patients were predominantly observed in prefrontal areas compared to healthy controls. The proposed VICI demonstrated classification efficacy comparable to the optimized RF model, indicating its potential as a simplified diagnostic tool. Analysis of gene expression data revealed significant associations between PTSD risk genes and VICI values, implicating synaptic integrity and neural development regulation. This study reveals neuroimaging and genetic characteristics of PTSD, highlighting the potential of VBM analysis and machine learning models in diagnosis and prognosis. The VICI offers a promising approach to enhance model interpretability and guide clinical decision-making. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of PTSD and provide new avenues for future diagnosis and treatment.
Predicting nodal response to neoadjuvant treatment in breast cancer with core biopsy biomarkers of tumor microenvironment using data mining
Authors: Pislar Nina , Gasljevic Gorana , Matos Erika , Pilko Gasper , Zgajnar Janez , Perhavec Andraz
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To generate a model for predicting nodal response to neoadjuvant systemic treatment (NAST) in biopsy-proven node-positive breast cancer patients (cN+) that incorporates tumor microenvironment (TME) characteristics and could be used for planning the axillary surgical staging procedure.

Methods

Clinical and pathologic features were retrospectively collected for 437 patients. Core biopsy (CB) samples were reviewed for stromal content and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). Orange Datamining Toolbox was used for model generation and assessment.

Results

151/437 (34.6%) patients achieved nodal pCR (ypN0). The following 5 variables were included in the prediction model: ER, Her-2, grade, stroma content and TILs. After stratified tenfold cross-validation, the logistic regression algorithm achieved and area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.86 and F1 score of 0.72. Nomogram was used for visualization.

Conclusions

We developed a clinical tool to predict nodal pCR for cN+ patients after NAST that includes biomarkers of TME and achieves an AUC of 0.86 after tenfold cross-validation.
On Some Dynamics in Conceptual Spaces
Authors: Lisowski Piotr , Urban Roman
Published: November 2024

In this text, we consider Gärdenfors’ conceptual spaces that are separable Hilbert spaces. In particular, the results we obtained apply to finite-dimensional Euclidean spaces. Our main contribution can be formulated as a combination of the theory of opinion dynamics with the theory of conceptual spaces. This combination, in turn, leads us to propose a new model for the time evolution of conceptual spaces. To achieve this goal, we propose some extension of the multidimensional opinion dynamics model of Parsegov, Proskurnikov, Tempo and Friedkin to opinions with values in Hilbert spaces.
Accuracy and robustness of a plant-level cabbage yield prediction system generated by assimilating UAV-based remote sensing data into a crop simulation model
Authors: Yokoyama Yui , de Wit Allard , Matsui Tsutomu , Tanaka Takashi S. T.
Published: November 2024

In-season crop growth and yield prediction at high spatial resolution are essential for informing decision-making for precise crop management, logistics and market planning in horticultural crop production. This research aimed to establish a plant-level cabbage yield prediction system by assimilating the leaf area index (LAI) estimated from UAV imagery and a segmentation model into a crop simulation model, the WOrld FOod STudies (WOFOST). The data assimilation approach was applied for one cultivar in five fields and for another cultivar in three fields to assess the yield prediction accuracy and robustness. The results showed that the root mean square error (RMSE) in the prediction of cabbage yield ranged from 1,314 to 2,532 kg ha–1 (15.8–30.9% of the relative RMSE). Parameter optimisation via data assimilation revealed that the reduction factor in the gross assimilation rate was consistently attributed to a primary yield-limiting factor. This research further explored the effect of reducing the number of LAI observations on the data assimilation performance. The RMSE of yield was only 107 kg ha–1 higher in the four LAI observations obtained from the early to mid-growing season than for the nine LAI observations over the entire growing season for cultivar ‘TCA 422’. These results highlighted the great possibility of assimilating UAV-derived LAI data into crop simulation models for plant-level cabbage yield prediction even with LAI observations only in the early and mid-growing seasons.
Why do some retracted articles continue to get cited?
Authors: Schmidt Marion
Published: November 2024

Retracted publications can still receive a substantial number of citations after the retraction. Little is known about the causes for this phenomenon and the nature of epistemic risk or harm in these retraction cases. Using this phenomenon also as an example for the broader question of how scholarly communities deal with uncertainty in the reception of publications, this case study aims to assess the epistemic contributions of retracted publications with continuous and decreasing citation impact and to relate these to the epistemic environments of the retracted papers and to reception patterns. Several parsing and natural language processing approaches are used, complemented, and validated by qualitative close reading. Specifically, (i) dissent and support are identified in citing and in co-cited publications; (ii) the concept terms of retracted publications are expanded by word embeddings and MeSH terms and traced in citation contexts; and finally (iii) rhetorical functions in citation contexts are identified based on keyword extraction. Empirical support and unresolved disputes are found almost exclusively in cases with continuous citations. Authors emphasize specific informational values in some cases with citations continuing after the retraction, while methodological and more general levels of claims prevail in others. Citations can be meaningfully examined by considering the weighing process between epistemic risks and informational value; persistent citation impact thus doesn’t necessarily indicate the perpetuation of epistemic harm.
The Finite Frame Property of Some Extensions of the Pure Logic of Necessitation
Authors: Kurahashi Taishi , Sato Yuta
Published: November 2024

We study the finite frame property of some extensions of Fitting, Marek, and Truszczyński’s pure logic of necessitation $$\textbf{N}$$
N
. For any natural numbers m, n, we introduce the logic $$\textbf{N}^+\textbf{A}_{m,n}$$

N
+

A

m
,
n

by adding the single axiom scheme $$\Box ^n \varphi \rightarrow \Box ^m \varphi $$

□
n

φ
→

□
m

φ

and the rule $$\dfrac{\lnot \Box \varphi }{\lnot \Box \Box \varphi }$$

¬
□
φ

¬
□
□
φ

($${\text {Ros}}^\Box $$

Ros

□

) into $$\textbf{N}$$
N
. We prove the finite frame property of $$\textbf{N}^+\textbf{A}_{m, n}$$

N
+

A

m
,
n

with respect to Fitting, Marek, and Truszczyński’s relational semantics. We also prove that for $$n \ge 2$$

n
≥
2

, the logic obtained by removing the rule $${\text {Ros}}^\Box $$

Ros

□

from $$\textbf{N}^+\textbf{A}_{0, n}$$

N
+

A

0
,
n

is incomplete with respect to that semantics.
Individual Giving in Ghana: A Self-Determination Theory Approach to Giving
Authors: Owusu-Ansah Matilda , Moyo Bhekinkosi
Published: November 2024

This study investigated individual charitable giving in Ghana. Given that comprehensive data on individual giving in Africa is limited, this study’s theory-based approach used quantitative and qualitative methods to identify demographic and psychographic factors influencing the donation of money, time, and other resources towards assisting individuals, organisations, and charitable causes. With a sample size of 741 participants, the study identified gender, household size, age, financial constraints, social norms, egoism, religion, and trust as influential factors shaping giving behaviour among Ghanaians. The study’s outcomes have theoretical significance and suggest that individuals previously unwilling or lacking the capacity to give can become generous in the appropriate social and environmental context. The findings hold significance for nurturing a culture of philanthropy and developing culturally relevant and impactful giving campaigns and policies in Africa.
Novel biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in Long COVID patients
Authors: Szögi Titanilla , Borsos Barbara N. , Masic Dejana , Radics Bence , Bella Zsolt , Bánfi Andrea , Ördög Nóra , Zsiros Csenge , Kiricsi Ágnes , Pankotai-Bodó Gabriella , Kovács Ágnes , Paróczai Dóra , Botkáné Andrea Lugosi , Kajtár Béla , Sükösd Farkas , Lehoczki Andrea , Polgár Tamás , Letoha Annamária , Pankotai Tibor , Tiszlavicz László
Published: November 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can lead to severe acute respiratory syndrome, and while most individuals recover within weeks, approximately 30–40% experience persistent symptoms collectively known as Long COVID, post-COVID-19 syndrome, or post-acute sequelae of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (PASC). These enduring symptoms, including fatigue, respiratory difficulties, body pain, short-term memory loss, concentration issues, and sleep disturbances, can persist for months. According to recent studies, SARS-CoV-2 infection causes prolonged disruptions in mitochondrial function, significantly altering cellular energy metabolism. Our research employed transmission electron microscopy to reveal distinct mitochondrial structural abnormalities in Long COVID patients, notably including significant swelling, disrupted cristae, and an overall irregular morphology, which collectively indicates severe mitochondrial distress. We noted increased levels of superoxide dismutase 1 which signals oxidative stress and elevated autophagy-related 4B cysteine peptidase levels, indicating disruptions in mitophagy. Importantly, our analysis also identified reduced levels of circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA (ccf-mtDNA) in these patients, serving as a novel biomarker for the condition. These findings underscore the crucial role of persistent mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of Long COVID. Further exploration of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying post-viral mitochondrial dysfunction is critical, particularly to understand the roles of autoimmune reactions and the reactivation of latent viruses in perpetuating these conditions. This comprehensive understanding could pave the way for targeted therapeutic interventions designed to alleviate the chronic impacts of Long COVID. By utilizing circulating ccf-mtDNA and other novel mitochondrial biomarkers, we can enhance our diagnostic capabilities and improve the management of this complex syndrome.
Active vibration control for rotating machines with current-controlled electrodynamic actuators and velocity feedback of the machine feet based on a generalized mathematical formulation
Authors: Werner Ulrich
Published: November 2024

A theoretical analysis regarding active vibration control of rotating machines with current-controlled electrodynamic actuators between machine feet and steel frame foundation and with velocity feedback of the machine feet vibrations is presented. First, a generalized mathematical formulation is derived based on a state-space description which can be used for different kinds of models (1D, 2D, and 3D models). It is shown that under special boundary conditions, the control parameters can be directly implemented into the stiffness and damping matrices of the system. Based on the generalized mathematical formulation, an example of a rotating machine—described by a 2D model—with journal bearings, flexible rotor, current-controlled electrodynamic actuators, steel frame foundation, and velocity feedback of the machine feet vibrations is presented where the effectiveness of the described active vibration control system is demonstrated.
Electroanalytical Probing of Triphasic Hydrogen Storage and Transport in Films of Nanoparticulate Polymer of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIM-1)
Authors: Morris Adam , Carta Mariolino , McKeown Neil B. , Fletcher Philip J. , Marken Frank
Published: November 2024

Preliminary experiments are reported to show quantitatively that hydrogen gas can be stored under triphasic conditions in wet nanoparticulate polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) applied as a film to a platinum disk electrode surface. Based on chronoamperometric data, it is shown that the resulting triphasic interface is able to store hydrogen gas at apparent concentrations higher (3 orders of magnitude increase for an approx. 15 μm thick film with typically capp,hydrogen = 80 mM; Dapp,hydrogen = 1.2 × 10–11 m2s−1) than the known solubility of hydrogen gas in aqueous electrolyte (chydrogen = 0.08 mM; Dhydrogen = 5.0 × 10–9 m2s−1) at room temperature. Due to film roughness/heterogeneity, the apparent hydrogen concentration can only be estimated, but it increases with film thickness. At the same time the apparent diffusion coefficient is lowered considerably due to the molecularly rigid/glassy polymer host. The resulting modified electrode is investigated/proposed for energy storage applications with different amounts of PIM-1 nanoparticle deposits attached to the platinum surface.

Graphical Abstract
A Multicriteria Decision Analytic Approach to Systems Resilience
Authors: Keisler Jeffrey M. , Wells Emily M. , Linkov Igor
Published: November 2024

This article develops a novel decision-oriented framework that strategically deconstructs systems resilience in a way that focuses on systems’ design, capabilities, and management. The framework helps evaluate and compare how system design choices impact system resilience. First, we propose a resilience score based on a piecewise linear approximation to a resilience curve. Using multicriteria decision analysis principles, we score system design alternatives in terms of system-specific capabilities. We estimate the relevance of these capabilities to resilience curve parameters associated with resilience phases. Finally, we interpret the derivatives of resilience with respect to the curve parameter values as the leverage of these parameters. Using multiple levels of weighted sums of the scores, we calculate the first order impact of system design choices first on a proxy for the generic resilience parameters and then on resilience, which allows situational characteristics to be incorporated in their natural terminology while mapping their impact on resilience with a traceable logic. We illustrate the approach by using existing materials to develop an example comparing engineered designs for minimizing post-wildfire flood impacts.
Glass ionomer fissure sealants versus fluoride varnish application on children’s behaviour: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Chiu H. H. C. , Lam P. P. Y. , Yiu C. K. Y.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Glass ionomer fissure sealant (GIS) and fluoride varnish (NaFV) are two preventive interventions applicable to pre-school children. However, their application effects on young children’s behaviour are understudied. The study compared the effects of GIS and NaFV applications on dental anxiety (DA), cooperativeness and pain level in pre-school children when applied to primary second molars in outreach settings.

Methods

Four hundred and thirteen children were recruited for the study, out of which 228 were allocated to NaFV group whilstand 185 allocated to the GIS group. One calibrated examiner screened and randomly allocated the children into either group. Another calibrated examiner recorded the children’s DA level and cooperativeness with Frankl Behaviour Rating Scale (FBRS) and Venham Behaviour Rating Scale (VBRS) throughout the treatment period. Subjects self-reported their pain levels using Wong–Baker Faces Scale (WBFS).

Results

Significant difference in postoperative anxiety was found using VBRS, with children in NaFV group having more positive scores post-treatment (p = 0.016). Only the type of preventive interventions significantly affected postoperative DA and patient cooperation (p = 0.032), whereas no other clinical findings and socio-demographic factors significantly influenced the children’s behaviour postoperatively.

Conclusion

NaFV application is associated with less DA and more cooperative behaviour in pre-school children compared to GIS application although similar pain levels were recorded.
Köthe Amalgams: The Ideal Type of Infinite Direct Sums
Authors: Bhat M. Ashraf , Kolwicz Paweł , Kosuru G. Sankara Raju
Published: November 2024

We study a special type of infinite direct sums $$E({\mathcal {X}})$$

E
(
X
)

which can be seen as the amalgam spaces characterized by a local component given by a countable family $${\mathcal {X}}=\left( X_{\alpha }\right) _{\alpha \in I}$$

X
=

X
α

α
∈
I

of quasi-normed function spaces and by a global component E, which is a quasi-normed sequence space. We characterize some fundamental properties of $$E({\mathcal {X}})$$

E
(
X
)

such as completeness, Köthe-duality, order continuity and the Fatou property. We also provide its Banach function space characterization. Then, we apply our general results to the appropriate amalgamations of Lorentz (Orlicz) function spaces and Lebesgue sequence spaces. Moreover, for the Lorentz-type amalgams, we derive interpolation results and prove the boundedness of a class of sublinear integral operators whose kernels satisfy a size condition.
Social Media Linked to Early Adolescent Suicidal Thoughts via Cyberbullying and Internalizing Symptoms
Authors: Marengo Davide , Settanni Michele , Mastrokoukou Sofia , Fabris Matteo Angelo , Longobardi Claudio
Published: November 2024

Early adolescents are increasingly engaged in visually rich social media platforms, which may lead to the involvement in visual cybervictimization, i.e., the unsolicited sharing of personal visuals, resulting in negative mental-health outcomes. The present study examined the association between social media use and suicidal ideation among early adolescents, with a focus on the mediating roles of visual cybervictimization and internalizing symptoms. The sample consisted of 1140 middle-school students from Northwestern Italy with a mean age of 12.35 years (SD = 0.97), 53.3% female, 45.1% male, and1.6% non-binary. We explored a serial mediation model, hypothesizing that increased social media engagement might lead to heightened suicidal ideation through elevated experiences of visual cybervictimization and subsequent rise in internalizing symptoms. Results indicated significant associations exist between increased social media use and both direct involvement in and bystander experiences of visual cybervictimization. Participating in visual cyberbullying events, both as victim and bystander, was significantly associated with higher levels of internalizing symptoms, in turn linked to greater suicidal ideation. These findings emphasize the critical need for digital literacy and interventions targeting visual aspects of cyberbullying to mitigate its detrimental effects on youth mental health.
Is the information provided by large language models valid in educating patients about adolescent idiopathic scoliosis? An evaluation of content, clarity, and empathy
Authors: Lang Siegmund , Vitale Jacopo , Galbusera Fabio , Fekete Tamás , Boissiere Louis , Charles Yann Philippe , Yucekul Altug , Yilgor Caglar , Núñez-Pereira Susana , Haddad Sleiman , Gomez-Rice Alejandro , Mehta Jwalant , Pizones Javier , Pellisé Ferran , Obeid Ibrahim , Alanay Ahmet , Kleinstück Frank , Loibl Markus ,   ESSG European Spine Study Group
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Large language models (LLM) have the potential to bridge knowledge gaps in patient education and enrich patient-surgeon interactions. This study evaluated three chatbots for delivering empathetic and precise adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) related information and management advice. Specifically, we assessed the accuracy, clarity, and relevance of the information provided, aiming to determine the effectiveness of LLMs in addressing common patient queries and enhancing their understanding of AIS.

Methods

We sourced 20 webpages for the top frequently asked questions (FAQs) about AIS and formulated 10 critical questions based on them. Three advanced LLMs—ChatGPT 3.5, ChatGPT 4.0, and Google Bard—were selected to answer these questions, with responses limited to 200 words. The LLMs’ responses were evaluated by a blinded group of experienced deformity surgeons (members of the European Spine Study Group) from seven European spine centers. A pre-established 4-level rating system from excellent to unsatisfactory was used with a further rating for clarity, comprehensiveness, and empathy on the 5-point Likert scale. If not rated 'excellent', the raters were asked to report the reasons for their decision for each question. Lastly, raters were asked for their opinion towards AI in healthcare in general in six questions.

Results

The responses among all LLMs were ‘excellent’ in 26% of responses, with ChatGPT-4.0 leading (39%), followed by Bard (17%). ChatGPT-4.0 was rated superior to Bard and ChatGPT 3.5 (p = 0.003). Discrepancies among raters were significant (p < 0.0001), questioning inter-rater reliability. No substantial differences were noted in answer distribution by question (p = 0.43). The answers on diagnosis (Q2) and causes (Q4) of AIS were top-rated. The most dissatisfaction was seen in the answers regarding definitions (Q1) and long-term results (Q7). Exhaustiveness, clarity, empathy, and length of the answers were positively rated (> 3.0 on 5.0) and did not demonstrate any differences among LLMs. However, GPT-3.5 struggled with language suitability and empathy, while Bard’s responses were overly detailed and less empathetic. Overall, raters found that 9% of answers were off-topic and 22% contained clear mistakes.

Conclusion

Our study offers crucial insights into the strengths and weaknesses of current LLMs in AIS patient and parent education, highlighting the promise of advancements like ChatGPT-4.o and Gemini alongside the need for continuous improvement in empathy, contextual understanding, and language appropriateness.