bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muskelschmerzen bei Myositis bei einer jungen Patientin – was steckt dahinter?
Authors: Doblinger N. , Doenz J. , Tews H. C. , Demirci C. , Schmid S. , Michels B. , Müller M. , Kandulski A.
Published: August 2024

Die Myositis ist eine Erkrankung aus dem Formenkreis der Kollagenosen, die am häufigsten bei Frauen zwischen dem 40. und 60. Lebensjahr auftritt. Bei einer deutlichen Assoziation mit malignen Grunderkrankungen wird bei der Erstdiagnose stets ein allgemeines Tumorscreening empfohlen. Das kolorektale Karzinom (KRK) ist eines der häufigsten soliden Malignome des Gastrointestinaltrakts. Typische Risikopopulationen umfassen vor allem Patient*innen jenseits des 55. Lebensjahrs. Die Inzidenz des sogenannten „early-onset“ kolorektalen Karzinoms (EO-KRK) hat in den letzten Jahren signifikant zugenommen. Dabei erkranken zunehmend häufiger Patient*innen im jungen Alter von 20 bis 50 Jahren. Als Grund für diesen Inzidenzanstieg wird eine Zunahme klassischer Risikofaktoren bereits in jüngeren Jahren diskutiert. Wir berichten über eine 34-jährige Patientin, die sich mit dem paraneoplastischen Leitsymptom einer Myositis vorstellte und bei der ursächlich eine sporadische Form eines fortgeschritten metastasierten KRK diagnostiziert wurde. Eine Kontrolle bekannter Risikofaktoren bereits im jungen Erwachsenenalter sowie eine erhöhte Aufmerksamkeit bei Symptompräsentation, beispielsweise in Form von gastrointestinalen Hämorrhagien und paraneoplastischen Symptomen, sind notwendig, um eine rasche Diagnosestellung und ein besseres onkologisches Outcome erreichen zu können.
Vicia ervilia lectin (VEA) has an antibiofilm effect on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Belfiori Beatrice , Riccioni Claudia , Pietrella Donatella , Rubini Andrea , Caceres Maria Eugenia , Pupilli Fulvio , Bellucci Michele , De Marchis Francesca
Published: August 2024

Bacterial growing resistance to antibiotics poses a critical threat to global health. This study investigates, for the first time, the antibiofilm properties of Vicia ervilia agglutinin (VEA) from six different V. ervilia accessions against pathogenic bacteria, and the yeast Candida albicans. In the absence of antimicrobial properties, purified VEA significantly inhibited biofilm formation, both in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, but not in C. albicans. With an inhibitory concentration ranging from 100 to 500 µg/ml, the VEA antibiofilm activity was more relevant against the Gram-positive bacteria Streptococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, whose biofilm was reduced up to 50% by VEA purified from accessions #5 and #36. VEA antibiofilm variability between accessions was observed, likely due to co-purified small molecules rather than differences in VEA protein sequences. In conclusion, VEA seed extracts from the accessions with the highest antibiofilm activity could represent a valid approach for the development of an effective antibiofilm agent.
A laboratory method to determine 3D fibre orientation around knots in sawn timber: case study on a Douglas fir specimen
Authors: Penvern Helene , Demoulin Leyne , Pot Guillaume , Viguier Joffrey , Roux Benjamin , Hu Min , Olsson Anders
Published: August 2024

The mechanical properties of structural timber largely depend on the occurrence of knots and on fibre deviation in their vicinities. In recent strength grading machines, lasers and cameras are used to detect surface characteristics such as the size and position of knots and local fibre orientation. Since laser dot scanning only gives reliable information about the fibre orientation in the plane of board surfaces, simple assumptions are usually made to define the inner fibre orientation to model timber boards. Those models would be improved by better insight into real fibre deviation around knots. In the present work, a laboratory method is developed to evaluate growth layers geometries and fibre orientation, solely based on the fact that the fibers are parallel to the tree rings and without any further assumptions. The method simply relies on color scans and laser dot scans of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) timber specimen sections revealed by successive planing. The proposed method provides data on fibre orientation in 3D with an accuracy that is relevant for the calibration of detailed models.
Quality of life and functional outcomes after laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (LaTME) and transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) for rectal cancer. an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Lauricella Sara , Brucchi Francesco , Carrano Francesco Maria , Cassini Diletta , Cirocchi Roberto , Sylla Patricia
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Concerns exist regarding the potential for transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) to yield poorer functional outcomes compared to laparoscopic TME (LaTME). The aim of this study is to assess the functional outcomes following taTME and LaTME, focusing on bowel, anorectal, and urogenital disorders and their impact on the patient’s QoL.

Methods

A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and A Measurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted in Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. The variables considered are: Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and Jorge-Wexner scales; European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C29 and QLQ-C30 scales.

Results

Eleven studies involving 1020 patients (497-taTME group/ 523-LaTME group) were included. There was no significant difference between the treatments in terms of anorectal function: LARS (MD: 2.81, 95% CI: − 2.45–8.08, p = 0.3; I2 = 97%); Jorge-Wexner scale (MD: -1.3, 95% CI: -3.22–0.62, p = 0.19). EORTC QLQ C30/29 scores were similar between the groups. No significant differences were reported in terms of urogenital function: IPSS (MD: 0.0, 95% CI: − 1.49–1.49, p = 0.99; I2 = 72%).

Conclusions

This review supports previous findings indicating that functional outcomes and QoL are similar for rectal cancer patients who underwent taTME or LaTME. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the long-term impact of the functional sequelae of these surgical approaches.
Consensus clustering and development of a risk signature based on trajectory differential genes of cancer-associated fibroblast subpopulations in colorectal cancer
Authors: Yu Ke , Wang Jiao , Wang Yueqing , He Jiayi , Hu Shangshang , Kuai Shougang
Published: August 2024

Background

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a crucial role in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the impact of CAF subpopulation trajectory differentiation on CRC remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, we first explored the trajectory differences of CAFs subpopulations using bulk and integrated single-cell sequencing data, and then performed consensus clustering of CRC samples based on the trajectory differential genes of CAFs subpopulations. Subsequently, we analyzed the heterogeneity of CRC subtypes using bioinformatics. Finally, we constructed relevant prognostic signature using machine learning and validated them using spatial transcriptomic data.

Results

Based on the differential genes of CAFs subpopulation trajectory differentiation, we identified two CRC subtypes (C1 and C2) in this study. Compared to C1, C2 exhibited worse prognosis, higher immune evasion microenvironment and high CAF characteristics. C1 was primarily associated with metabolism, while C2 was primarily associated with cell metastasis and immune regulation. By combining 101 combinations of 10 machine learning algorithms, we developed a High-CAF risk signatures (HCAFRS) based on the C2 characteristic gene. HCAFRS was an independent prognostic factor for CRC and, when combined with clinical parameters, significantly predicted the overall survival of CRC patients. HCAFRS was closely associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and hypoxia. Furthermore, the risk score of HCAFRS was mainly derived from CAFs and was validated in the spatial transcriptomic data.

Conclusion

In conclusion, HCAFRS has the potential to serve as a promising prognostic indicator for CRC, improving the quality of life for CRC patients.
New spin coated multilayer lactate biosensor for acidosis monitoring in continuous flow assisted with an electrochemical pH probe
Authors: García-Guzmán Juan José , Jiménez Heras José Manuel , López-Iglesias David , González-Álvarez Rafael Jesús , Cubillana-Aguilera Laura , González Macías Carmen , Fernández Alba Juan Jesús , Palacios-Santander José María
Published: August 2024

A LOx-based electrochemical biosensor for high-level lactate determination was developed. For the construction of the biosensor, chitosan and Nafion layers were integrated by using a spin coating procedure, leading to less porous surfaces in comparison with those recorded after a drop casting procedure. The analytical performance of the resulting biosensor for lactate determination was evaluated in batch and flow regime, displaying satisfactory results in both modes ranging from 0.5 to 20 mM concentration range for assessing the lactic acidosis. Finally, the lactate levels in raw serum samples were estimated using the biosensor developed and verified with a blood gas analyzer. Based on these results, the biosensor developed is promising for its use in healthcare environment, after its proper miniaturization. A pH probe based on common polyaniline-based electrochemical sensor was also developed to assist the biosensor for the lactic acidosis monitoring, leading to excellent results in stock solutions ranging from 6.0 to 8.0 mM and raw plasma samples. The results were confirmed by using two different approaches, blood gas analyzer and pH-meter. Consequently, the lactic acidosis monitoring could be achieved in continuous flow regime using both (bio)sensors.
Giant unruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysm revealed by intracranial hypertension: is a systematic decompressive hemicraniotomy mandatory?
Authors: Aboukais Rabih , Devalckeneer Antoine , Boussemart Pierre , Bourgeois Philippe , Menovsky Tomas , Bretzner Martin , Karnoub Mélodie-Anne , Lejeune Jean-Paul
Published: August 2024

Our study aimed to evaluate the postoperative outcome of patients with unruptured giant middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm revealed by intracranial hypertension associated to midline brain shift. From 2012 to 2022, among the 954 patients treated by a microsurgical procedure for an intracranial aneurysm, our study included 9 consecutive patients with giant MCA aneurysm associated to intracranial hypertension with a midline brain shift. Deep hypothermic circulatory flow reduction (DHCFR) with vascular reconstruction was performed in 4 patients and cerebral revascularization with aneurysm trapping was the therapeutic strategy in 5 patients. Early (< 7 days) and long term clinical and radiological monitoring was done. Good functional outcome was considered as mRS score ≤ 2 at 3 months. The mean age at treatment was 44 yo (ranged from 17 to 70 yo). The mean maximal diameter of the aneurysm was 49 mm (ranged from 33 to 70 mm). The mean midline brain shift was 8.6 mm (ranged from 5 to 13 mm). Distal MCA territory hypoperfusion was noted in 6 patients. Diffuse postoperative cerebral edema occurred in the 9 patients with a mean delay of 59 h and conducted to a postoperative neurological deterioration in 7 of them. Postoperative death was noted in 3 patients. Among the 6 survivors, early postoperative decompressive hemicraniotomy was required in 4 patients. Good functional outcome was noted in 4 patients. Complete aneurysm occlusion was noted in each patient at last follow-up. We suggest to discuss a systematic decompressive hemicraniotomy at the end of the surgical procedure and/or a partial temporal lobe resection at its beginning to reduce the consequences of the edema reaction and to improve the postoperative outcome of this specific subgroup of patients. A better intraoperative assessment of the blood flow might also reduce the occurrence of the reperfusion syndrome.
A critical review of the use of R2 in risk equalization research
Authors: van de Ven Wynand P. M. M. , van Kleef Richard C.
Published: August 2024

Nearly all empirical studies that estimate the coefficients of a risk equalization formula present the value of the statistical measure R2. The R2-value is often (implicitly) interpreted as a measure of the extent to which the risk equalization payments remove the regulation-induced predictable profits and losses on the insured, with a higher R2-value indicating a better performance. In many cases, however, we do not know whether a model with R2 = 0.30 reduces the predictable profits and losses more than a model with R2 = 0.20. In this paper we argue that in the context of risk equalization R2 is hard to interpret as a measure of selection incentives, can lead to wrong and misleading conclusions when used as a measure of selection incentives, and is therefore not useful for measuring selection incentives. The same is true for related statistical measures such as the Mean Absolute Prediction Error (MAPE), Cumming’s Prediction Measure (CPM) and the Payment System Fit (PSF). There are some exceptions where the R2 can be useful. Our recommendation is to either present the R2 with a clear, valid, and relevant interpretation or not to present the R2. The same holds for the related statistical measures MAPE, CPM and PSF.
An interdisciplinary account of the terminological choices by EU policymakers ahead of the final agreement on the AI Act: AI system, general purpose AI system, foundation model, and generative AI
Authors: Fernández-Llorca David , Gómez Emilia , Sánchez Ignacio , Mazzini Gabriele
Published: August 2024

The European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) is a groundbreaking regulatory framework that integrates technical concepts and terminology from the rapidly evolving ecosystems of AI research and innovation into the legal domain. Precise definitions accessible to both AI experts and lawyers are crucial for the legislation to be effective. This paper provides an interdisciplinary analysis of the concepts of AI system, general purpose AI system, foundation model and generative AI across the different versions of the legal text (Commission proposal, Parliament position and Council General Approach) before the final political agreement. The goal is to help bridge the understanding of these key terms between the technical and legal communities and contribute to a proper implementation of the AI Act. We provide an analysis of the concept of AI system considering its scientific foundation and the crucial role that it plays in the regulation, which requires a sound definition both from legal and technical standpoints. We connect the outcomes of this discussion with the analysis of the concept of general purpose AI system and its evolution during the negotiations. We also address the distinct conceptual meanings of AI system vs AI model and explore the technical nuances of the term foundation model. We conclude that rooting the definition of foundation model to its general purpose capabilities following standardised evaluation methodologies appears to be most appropriate approach. Lastly, we tackle the concept of generative AI, arguing that definitions of AI system that include “content” as one of the system’s outputs already captures it, and concluding that not all generative AI is based on foundation models.
(In)vulnerable Managers in an Immigration Context
Authors: Kivijärvi Marke , Okkonen Ida , Siltaoja Marjo
Published: August 2024

Our study examines managerial vulnerability in a bureaucratic context, namely in Finnish immigration centres. We bring a care ethics perspective to the study of vulnerability and address how managers navigate relationships with vulnerable clients and their own vulnerability. Based on empirical data collected through interviews with immigration centre managers, we show how managers negotiated their (in)vulnerability through two alternating positionalities: (1) professionalism, through which they seek to control negative emotions in order to manage their own experiences of vulnerability and affective relationships with clients, and (2) temporal disconformity, which provides space to engage and manage with a variety of emotions and manoeuvre bureaucratic professional norms. Our study then contributes to the literature on managerial work by demonstrating how managers cope with their vulnerable selves and how different notions of care emerge in complex, ethically sensitive managerial situations.
Utilization of poplar fibers in needle punched nonwovens
Authors: Usta Canan , Seyhan Aybeniz , Gürarslan Alper
Published: August 2024

The focus of this study is to conduct pioneering research on utilizing poplar seed hair fibers in needle punched nonwovens. These fibers were blended with hollow PET fibers at two different weight ratios to obtain needle punched webs for the first time. The weight, thickness, abrasion resistance, bursting and tensile properties, hydrophobic/oleophilic surface characteristics of the nonwovens are analyzed elaborately. Finally, it has been demonstrated that poplar fiber-containing nonwovens have superior rose oil absorption compared to solely PET nonwoven fabrics. When compared the maximum adsorption capacities, the incorporation of 37.3 wt.% and 21.7 wt.% poplar fiber into PET nonwoven increased the oil absorption by approximately 35 and 24 times, respectively. Although pristine PET nonwoven was able to remove only 16% of MB dye from aqueous dye solution, addition of poplar fiber enhanced the removal process and the solution had been decolorized to nearly colorless. The results indicated that poplar blended nonwoven fabrics treated with NaClO2 show the high-performance removal of MB dye from wastewater, with the increased percentage of 40% and 67% for PET-PO30 and PET-PO60 fabric, respectively. Therefore, developing industrial scale surfaces with non-traditional and sustainable poplar seed fibers, marks a significant advancement for the textile industry.
Xanthan/ carboxymethyl cellulose-based edible coatings enriched with greenly synthesized ZnO-NPs for active packaging applications
Authors: Salama Hend E. , Khattab Maher A. , Sabaa Magdy W. , Aziz Mohamed S. Abdel
Published: August 2024

The limited use of xanthan (Xa) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in the food packaging industry is due to their poor barrier and antimicrobial properties. The objective of this work was to enhance the characteristics of the CMC/Xa composite coating by incorporating ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) that were prepared through a green method through Coriandrum sativum extract. FTIR and XRD confirmed the successful preparation of the coating and verified the interactions between its components. Compared to the neat CMC/Xa system, systems incorporated with ZnO-NPs exhibited excellent water barrier, mechanical, thermal, and antimicrobial characteristics. The CMC/Xa/ZnO-NP systems effectively prolonged the shelf life of tomatoes for a storage period of 20 days without any significant indications of spoilage or mass loss of the coated tomatoes. The obtained results indicated that the developed coating has the potential to replace traditional plastic packaging and effectively preserve food products.
The predictive relationships between children's digital game addiction tendencies and mothers' digital parenting awareness and digital literacy levels
Authors: Türen Şeyma , Bağçeli Kahraman Pınar
Published: August 2024

The increasing prevalence of digital technologies has notably expanded children's accessibility to a diverse range of digital tools day by day. Consequently, this evolution has significantly influenced the gaming landscape, propelling the surge in popularity of digital games among children. This change has also led to the need for changes in the roles of parents. The awareness level of parents regarding digital technologies, coupled with their role as models in regulating preschool children's exposure to digital games, is believed to wield significant influence. Therefore, the present study aims to examine the predictive relationships between preschool children's digital game addiction tendencies and their mothers' digital literacy and digital parenting awareness. For this purpose, mothers of 400 children attending preschool education in Istanbul, Turkey's most populous city, were included in the study. To collect data for the study, mothers were asked to complete scales measuring their children's digital game addiction, determining their own digital parenting awareness, and assessing their digital literacy. The results show significant relationships between mothers' digital parenting awareness and children's digital game addiction tendencies and between mothers' digital literacy and digital parenting awareness. It was observed that gender, the time spent by the child and the mother with digital devices, and mothers' digital parenting awareness were significant predictors of children's digital game addiction tendencies. In addition, the study revealed that maternal age, educational attainment, the number of children, duration of engagement with digital tools, and proficiency in digital literacy serve as notable predictors across various sub-dimensions of mothers' digital parenting awareness.
Using Online Critical Reflection to Enhance Students’ Confidence, Motivation, and Engagement in Higher Education
Authors: Awidi Isaiah T. , Klutsey Jonas Quashie
Published: August 2024

This research examines the effect of critical reflection activities in an educational environment that uses active and blended learning experiences for students to develop confidence, motivation, and engagement with their learning. A mixed-methods research approach was adopted on a sample of 137 Communications and Media students, who were involved in a game-based project. Using a validated survey instrument to measure the students’ perceptions of their experiences, Pearson Correlation coefficient was used to estimate the relationship between the learning activities and students’ perceived confidence, motivation, and engagement. Finally, multiple linear regression was used to determine the effect of the critical reflection activities. This study identifies several variables that significantly contribute to student confidence, motivation, and engagement with learning. Yet, some variables were identified that also diminish students’ confidence, motivation, and engagement. Learning activities that show statistically weak and strong significant relationships were also identified. Some factors that significantly impacted students’ confidence, motivation, and engagement include better understanding of course topics; direct relevance of an online critical reflection; students’ motivation to learn more about the subject; clear, timely, and in-depth feedback; and the use of some pedagogical triggers.
Qualitative longitudinal research in vocational psychology: a methodological approach to enhance the study of contemporary careers
Authors: Masdonati J. , Brazier C. É. , Kekki M. , Parmentier M. , Neale B.
Published: August 2024

Although temporality is pivotal to most career development processes, qualitative longitudinal research (QLR) is still rare in vocational psychology. QLR consists of following individuals over the years and exploring how they develop through time. It implies articulating themes, cases, and processes to reach an understanding of change in the making. Based on two vignettes showing how the entourage influences career change processes, we address the heuristic, praxeological, and transformative potential of using QLR in vocational psychology and, more specifically, to study career transitions. This approach also raises practical and ethical challenges that must be considered.
Testing Parenting Self-Esteem as an Indicator of Mothers and Fathers Who Are at Risk for Aversive Responses to Disruptive Child Behavior
Authors: Hightower-Henson Sierra R. , Wymbs Brian T.
Published: August 2024

Extensive literature demonstrates that parents of children with disruptive behaviors consistently report lower parenting self-esteem (i.e., satisfaction and efficacy) compared to parents of children without disruptive behaviors. However, little is known about whether having low parenting self-esteem results in negative parenting behavior while managing disruptive child behavior, and whether associations vary in strength depending on the clinical significance of the child’s disruptive behavior. The current study examines 90 parent couples who were randomly assigned to interact with a 9- to 12-year-old confederate exhibiting either typical or disruptive behaviors. Parenting self-esteem moderated the association between disruptive child behavior and positive parenting behavior, such that mothers with low efficacy had a stronger positive association between disruptive child behavior and positive parenting behaviors. However, fathers with low efficacy had a stronger negative association between disruptive behaviors and positive parenting behavior. Exploratory analyses yielded mixed results. Specifically, mothers with low self-esteem and a child with ADHD had a stronger negative association between disruptive child behaviors and positive parenting compared to mothers who interacted with a confederate or did not have a child with ADHD. Results from the current study extend findings regarding the influence of parenting self-esteem on the association of disruptive child behavior and parenting behaviors, as moderating effects of parenting self-esteem was demonstrated for both mothers and fathers within the study.
Conserving apollo butterflies: habitat characteristics and conservation implications in Southwest Finland
Authors: Kukkonen Jonna M. , von Numers Mikael , Brommer Jon E.
Published: August 2024

The conservation of insects, particularly endangered species such as the Apollo butterfly, is a pressing global concern. Understanding the habitat requirements and factors influencing species occupancy is crucial for designing effective conservation strategies. We focused on investigating the habitat characteristics expected to affect the occupancy of the nationally endangered Apollo butterfly in Southwest Finland. We conducted field surveys and GIS analysis to assess the impact of larval host plant and adult nectar resources, habitat encroachment, elevation, connectivity, and spatial variation on Apollo larval occupancy in rocky outcrop habitats. We found that rocky outcrops with abundant host plants and those less isolated from nectar patches play a significant role in supporting Apollo reproduction, whereas encroachment, specifically increased tree volume, negatively affected occupancy. We additionally observed spatial variation in occupancy across different blocks within the study area. Our findings emphasise the importance of resource availability for Apollo butterflies and highlight the dynamic nature of their habitat requirements. Maintaining a network of intact rocky outcrops with suitable resources is essential for the long-term persistence of the Apollo butterfly population in the region.

Implications for insect conservation: Our research underscores the critical need to protect and restore habitats for the Apollo butterfly, particularly by addressing threats such as habitat encroachment and construction projects that pose risks to their breeding sites.
Predictive Power of Positive Mental Health: A Scoping Review
Authors: Margraf Jürgen , Teismann Tobias , Brailovskaia Julia
Published: August 2024

Positive mental health (PMH) has been shown to be of great importance to adaptive functioning. The aim of this article is to review the literature on PMH as assessed with the PMH-Scale. A literature search identified 85 articles that were published between 2007 and 2023 on PMH as assessed with the PMH-Scale. The identified articles focus on seven thematic areas: (1) psychometric studies; (2) sociodemographic factors; (3) mental disorders; (4) suicidality; (5) coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); (6) influencing factors; (7) treatment. The findings support the predictive power of PMH regarding the cross-cultural course of psychopathology/mental disorders as well as health-related behavior and healthy development. Results on PMH are comparable across cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. The significance of these findings is limited by the fact that only few studies involving experimental manipulation of PMH have been carried out. The present findings emphasize the importance of PMH at the individual and collective level, as well as the urgent need to make PMH part of the routine assessment of mental health in addition to variables of psychopathology.
The Impact of Answer Scale Orientation on the Measurement of Life Satisfaction
Authors: Wöhner Fabienne , Franzen Axel
Published: August 2024

In national and international surveys, life satisfaction is often measured by a single item. However, there is a lot of debate in survey research about whether rating scales should be ordered in an ascending order (from negative to positive) or a descending order (from positive to negative). We investigate the effect of scale orientation by randomly assigning both versions in an online survey (N = 3,138). The average reported life satisfaction is 0.7 points lower when the descending version of an 11-point scale is used, as compared to the ascending scale (p < 0.001). We further test the construct validity by correlating each version of the response scales with other measures related to life satisfaction (e.g. happiness, depressive mood, and physical health). Generally speaking, the correlations of the ascending scale are significantly stronger as compared to the descending scale, indicating higher validity. Moreover, we investigate the impact of horizontal versus vertical presentations of the 11-point life satisfaction answer scale. Our results indicate that there are no statistically significant differences between horizontally and vertically presented response scales. We conclude that the order of response scales should be chosen carefully, as it affects the measurement of life satisfaction. Overall, our results suggest using an ascending life satisfaction scale.
Development, Acceptability, and Initial Implementation of an Interactive Text-Messaging Program for Fathers with Low Income
Authors: Lee Joyce Y. , Lee Shawna J. , Xu Amy , Steinke Hannah , Weiland Christina
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study describes the development, acceptability, and implementation of an interactive text messaging program to engage fathers enrolled in home visitation programs.

Methods

We used an iterative development approach that integrated rapid testing of intervention content with acceptability feedback from program participants to examine the processes of implementation. In Study 1, we describe the rapid testing framework and present data from 171 men who provided feedback on Text4Dad content via three online surveys. In Study 2, a case study, we use administrative data from 108 fathers with whom we pilot-tested Text4Dad in three community-based home visiting programs, with the program implemented by fatherhood program community health workers (F-CHWs). Content analysis of exchanges between F-CHWs and fathers describes the specific use of Text4Dad.

Results

Across all three online surveys, fathers reported positive reviews of the Text4Dad content. The F-CHWs used Text4Dad mainly to push out information, especially that related to home visit scheduling and local events, instead of engaging in bidirectional interactions with fathers.

Conclusions for Practice

We conclude with a set of recommendations for social service and maternal and child health providers regarding the feasibility of implementing text messaging to support home visiting in community-based settings.
Improved Stability Analysis of Neural Networks with Time Delay Based on Variable Augmented Free Weight Matrix
Authors: Li FuDong , Xie Wei , Zhu WeiYi , Shi ZongHao
Published: August 2024

This article investigates the stability of time-delay neural network system by the free-weighting matrices based on variable-augmentation.In the process of accurately evaluating the stability of delayed neural network systems, the conservative simplification of stability criteria has received widespread attention. In this paper, a variable-augmented-based free-weighting matrix method is applied to time-varying delayed neural network systems, and unnecessary free weighting matrices are removed. Some results with fewer free-weighting matrices are obtained, while maintaining their stability and conservatism. Finally, a specific neural network numerical example was used to demonstrate the effectiveness of this method.
The unprincipled principal: how Romania’s inconsistent research reform impacted scientific output
Authors: Cernat Vasile
Published: August 2024

This study employs the synthetic control method to assess the effects of Romania’s 2016 research reforms on the nation’s research output. Prior reforms were unstable and led to persistent deviations from international publication practices, where a disproportionate share of national research was published in national journals and subsequently in conference proceedings. The 2016 reforms, which introduced rigorous publication quotas and criteria, including reduced emphasis on conference proceedings, were notably stable. However, these reforms coincided with a consistent reduction in research funding. To understand the impact of the tension between increased publication demands and reduced research funding, the study analysed changes in research output distribution before and after the reform, focusing on total scientific output, conference proceedings, and articles published in MDPI and non-MDPI journals. The results revealed a significant decline in overall scientific production following the intervention. This decrease can be attributed to two key factors. First, the shift away from conference proceedings was not fully compensated for by the increase in articles published in MDPI journals. Second, there was also a decline in the articles published in non-MDPI journals.
A Bayesian approach to modeling finite element discretization error
Authors: Poot Anne , Kerfriden Pierre , Rocha Iuri , van der Meer Frans
Published: August 2024

In this work, the uncertainty associated with the finite element discretization error is modeled following the Bayesian paradigm. First, a continuous formulation is derived, where a Gaussian process prior over the solution space is updated based on observations from a finite element discretization. To avoid the computation of intractable integrals, a second, finer, discretization is introduced that is assumed sufficiently dense to represent the true solution field. A prior distribution is assumed over the fine discretization, which is then updated based on observations from the coarse discretization. This yields a posterior distribution with a mean that serves as an estimate of the solution, and a covariance that models the uncertainty associated with this estimate. Two particular choices of prior are investigated: a prior defined implicitly by assigning a white noise distribution to the right-hand side term, and a prior whose covariance function is equal to the Green’s function of the partial differential equation. The former yields a posterior distribution with a mean close to the reference solution, but a covariance that contains little information regarding the finite element discretization error. The latter, on the other hand, yields posterior distribution with a mean equal to the coarse finite element solution, and a covariance with a close connection to the discretization error. For both choices of prior a contradiction arises, since the discretization error depends on the right-hand side term, but the posterior covariance does not. We demonstrate how, by rescaling the eigenvalues of the posterior covariance, this independence can be avoided.
Morphology, DNA barcoding and seasonal occurrence of Ergasilus lizae Krøyer, 1863 (Copepoda: Ergasilidae) parasitizing mullets from northwestern Mexico
Authors: Morales-Serna Francisco Neptalí , Camacho-Zepeda Selena
Published: August 2024

Ergasilus lizae Krøyer, 1863 is a parasitic copepod known to infect mullets (Mugilidae) in different parts of the world. It was originally reported from the east coast of North America, but the original description lacks enough detail, making identification with this information difficult. In this study, we provide a redescription of E. lizae found on Mugil curema Valenciennes and M. cephalus Linnaeus, caught in two coastal lagoons of northwestern Mexico during two climatic seasons: warm/rainy and cold/dry. The prevalence of this parasite was higher in the warm season than in the cold season. To facilitate the species identification, new sequences of the barcoding gene (COI mtDNA) of E. lizae were generated and compared against unpublished sequences of E. lizae available in the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD). Our results suggest that the sequences of BOLD possibly belong to a species misidentified as E. lizae.
Speech Acts and Reasonableness in Pragma-Dialectics
Authors: Biro John , Siegel Harvey
Published: August 2024

We begin by explaining why formulating the pragma-dialectical (henceforth PD) account of argumentation in terms of some central notions of speech act theory, as Frans van Eemeren and Ton van Haaften (Argumentation 37:341–376, 2023) propose, fails. We go on to suggest that this failure reveals a deeper problem with the theory, one that makes it impossible for it to meet what van Eemeren and van Haaften recognize as the most important requirement for it. They say “The crucial problem in the study of argumentation therefore is how maintaining reasonableness in argumentative discourse can lead to effective convincingness.” (Argumentation 37:341–376, 2023, p. 3) But on a proper understanding of what it is for an argument to be reasonable, this circle cannot be squared, since reasonableness and convincingness vary independently. A reasonable argument does not always convince, nor is one that does always reasonable. If this is, indeed, the crucial problem for pragma-dialectics, we will argue that it cannot be solved in the way that PD proposes.
The first evidence of Asian-like CPV-2b in Slovakia in a vaccinated dog with an acute fatal course of parvovirus infection: a case report
Authors: Pelegrinová Andrea , Petroušková Patrícia , Korytár Ľuboš , Ondrejková Anna , Drážovská Monika , Vojtek Boris , Mojžišová Jana , Prokeš Marián , Kostičák Maroš , Zákutná Ľubica , Dolník Michal , Mandelík René
Published: August 2024

This study provides a comprehensive description of the clinical course of a fatal parvovirus infection in a vaccinated dachshund puppy, along with the first identification of a new CPV-2 variant in Slovakia, elucidated through molecular amino acid analysis of the VP2 gene. The dog exhibited clinical signs such as apathy, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. After confirming CPV-2 infection with a commercial snap test, intensive therapy was initiated. The dog succumbed within 48 h of admission. A rectal swab sample was collected, CPV-2 was examined using the PCR method, and sequenced. The virus detected in the patient was related to strains of CPV-2c of Asian origin and unrelated to European CPV-2b strains. The sequence had genetic signatures typical of Asian strains (VP2: 5Gly, 267Tyr, 324Ile, 370Arg, and 440Thr). Phylogenetic analysis classified this strain as similar to Asian strains of CPV-2c. It is believed to be derived from an Asian strain similar to CPV-2c that acquired the 426Asp mutation. With this finding, we present the first evidence of an Asian-like CPV-2b strain in the territory of Slovakia.
SplitNet: Learnable Clean-Noisy Label Splitting for Learning with Noisy Labels
Authors: Kim Daehwan , Ryoo Kwangrok , Cho Hansang , Kim Seungryong
Published: August 2024

Annotating the dataset with high-quality labels is crucial for deep networks’ performance, but in real-world scenarios, the labels are often contaminated by noise. To address this, some methods were recently proposed to automatically split clean and noisy labels among training data, and learn a semi-supervised learner in a Learning with Noisy Labels (LNL) framework. However, they leverage a handcrafted module for clean-noisy label splitting, which induces a confirmation bias in the semi-supervised learning phase and limits the performance. In this paper, for the first time, we present a learnable module for clean-noisy label splitting, dubbed SplitNet, and a novel LNL framework which complementarily trains the SplitNet and main network for the LNL task. We also propose to use a dynamic threshold based on split confidence by SplitNet to optimize the semi-supervised learner better. To enhance SplitNet training, we further present a risk hedging method. Our proposed method performs at a state-of-the-art level, especially in high noise ratio settings on various LNL benchmarks.
Discriminative ability of instrumented cognitive-motor assessments to distinguish fallers from non-fallers
Authors: Seinsche Julia , Kyprianou Elena , de Bruin Eling D. , Saibene Enrico , Rizzo Francesco , Carpinella Ilaria , Lutz Lisa , Ferrarin Maurizio , Villa Riccardo , Chrysostomou Savvina , Moza Sotiria , Giannouli Eleftheria
Published: August 2024

In older populations, sensitive fall risk assessment tools are important to timely intervene and prevent falls. Instrumented assessments have shown to be superior to standardized fall risk assessments such as the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and should capture both motor and cognitive functions. Therefore, the aim was to test novel instrumented assessments with and without a cognitive component. One hundred thirty-seven older adults aged 73.1 ± 7.3 years, 38 categorized as fallers and 99 as non-fallers, conducted five instrumented assessments on the Dividat Senso, a pressure sensitive stepping platform, and three standardized geriatric assessments (TUG, TUG-dual task, 30-s Sit-to-Stand Test (STS)). T-tests were applied to compare the test performance of fallers versus non-fallers. Furthermore, logistic regression analyses and area under the curve (AUC) analyses were performed. Statistically significant differences between fallers and non-fallers were found in the Go/No-Go test (p = .001, d = .72), the TUG (p = .014, d = .48), and the STS (p = .008, d = .51). Only the Go/No-Go test contributed significantly to all regression models. Significant AUC values were found for the Reaction Time Test (RTT) (AUC = .628, p = .023), Go/No-Go (AUC = .673, p = .002), TUG (AUC = .642, p = .012), and STS (AUC = .690, p = .001). The Go/No-Go test measuring inhibition showed the best discriminative ability suggesting added value of instrumented assessments with a cognitive component for clinical fall risk assessment in relatively healthy older adults. The study should be extended with a frailer population, in which TUG and the other instrumented assessments are possibly good predictors as well.
Compatibilism and the Concept of a Law-Breaking Event
Authors: Kuźniar Adrian
Published: August 2024

This paper provides and justifies a broader definition of a ‘law-breaking event’ than that adopted by D. Lewis who identifies this concept with the notion of an event that falsifies the laws of nature in his sense of ‘falsification’. It is pointed out that the broader definition is the key to answering C. Ginet’s objection against local miracle compatibilism. It also allows a neutral reconstruction of one of the disagreements underlying the compatibilism debate about the ability to do otherwise, i.e., the disagreement over nomological possibility of alternative action in a deterministic world. Under this reconstruction, neither the incompatibilist nor the compatibilist can take advantage of the concept of a law-breaking event to show that their opponent’s view is false.
Accuracy and time efficiency of a novel deep learning algorithm for Intracranial Hemorrhage detection in CT Scans
Authors: D’Angelo Tommaso , Bucolo Giuseppe M. , Kamareddine Tarek , Yel Ibrahim , Koch Vitali , Gruenewald Leon D. , Martin Simon , Alizadeh Leona S. , Mazziotti Silvio , Blandino Alfredo , Vogl Thomas J. , Booz Christian
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To evaluate a deep learning-based pipeline using a Dense-UNet architecture for the assessment of acute intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) on non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) head scans after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Materials and methods

This retrospective study was conducted using a prototype algorithm that evaluated 502 NCCT head scans with ICH in context of TBI.

Four board-certified radiologists evaluated in consensus the CT scans to establish the standard of reference for hemorrhage presence and type of ICH. Consequently, all CT scans were independently analyzed by the algorithm and a board-certified radiologist to assess the presence and type of ICH. Additionally, the time to diagnosis was measured for both methods.

Results

A total of 405/502 patients presented ICH classified in the following types: intraparenchymal (n = 172); intraventricular (n = 26); subarachnoid (n = 163); subdural (n = 178); and epidural (n = 15). The algorithm showed high diagnostic accuracy (91.24%) for the assessment of ICH with a sensitivity of 90.37% and specificity of 94.85%. To distinguish the different ICH types, the algorithm had a sensitivity of 93.47% and a specificity of 99.79%, with an accuracy of 98.54%. To detect midline shift, the algorithm had a sensitivity of 100%. In terms of processing time, the algorithm was significantly faster compared to the radiologist’s time to first diagnosis (15.37 ± 1.85 vs 277 ± 14 s, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A novel deep learning algorithm can provide high diagnostic accuracy for the identification and classification of ICH from unenhanced CT scans, combined with short processing times. This has the potential to assist and improve radiologists’ ICH assessment in NCCT scans, especially in emergency scenarios, when time efficiency is needed.
Familialismus reloaded? Zum Wandel von Wohlfahrtsstaat und Familie in Österreich
Authors: Deindl Raphael
Published: August 2024

Der vorliegende Beitrag befasst sich mit Veränderungen in der österreichischen Familien- und Kinderbetreuungspolitik, die vor dem Hintergrund des unter neoliberalen Vorzeichen vorangetriebenen wohlfahrtsstaatlichen Umbaus sowie der damit verbundenen Neuverteilung reproduktiver Zuständigkeiten analysiert werden. Im Mittelpunkt steht die Frage, ob und inwiefern dieser Wandel zu einer Aktualisierung, Modifizierung oder Verwerfung des familialistischen Profils Österreichs beiträgt. Der Wandel von Wohlfahrtsstaat und Familie wie auch die damit verbundene Neuordnung sozialer Reproduktionsverhältnisse werden im Rahmen einer historisch-materialistischen Analyse familienpolitischer Reform- und Entwicklungsprozesse untersucht. Im Rekurs auf feministische Kapitalismusanalysen sowie die kritische Wohlfahrtsstaatsforschung wird darauf eingegangen, wie die mit Sorgearbeit verbundenen Aufgaben und Zuständigkeiten als Teil der sozialen Reproduktion im Kapitalismus wohlfahrtsstaatlich ausgestaltet und gesellschaftlich (re‑)​organisiert werden. Mit Blick auf historische Entwicklungsdynamiken vom Fordismus zum Postfordismus werden hierbei familialisierende sowie defamilialisierende Tendenzen in der österreichischen Familien- und Kinderbetreuungspolitik beleuchtet. Der Beitrag gibt Aufschluss darüber, zu welchen Verschiebungen dieser Wandel in den sozialen Reproduktionsverhältnissen führt, welche Ungleichheiten damit einhergehen und inwiefern diese Entwicklungen im Einklang mit den funktionalen Erfordernissen des Gegenwartskapitalismus stehen.