bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profilometry: a non-intrusive active stereo-vision technique for wave-profile measurements in large hydrodynamic laboratories
Authors: Savio Luca , Ahani Alireza , Greco Marilena , Abrahamsen Bjørn Christian
Published: September 2024

Profilometry is proposed as a novel non-intrusive image-based technique to capture the profile of the air–water interface as a dense point cloud. It can be classified as an active stereo-vision method applied to the study of gravity-driven water waves and specifically developed to be used in large hydrodynamic laboratories. As an active vision technique, it relies on the use of light sources, and as a stereo technique, it requires one or more high-speed camera pairs for imaging the same scene synchronously. To enhance the visibility of the laser lights on the wave profile, the water surface is sprayed with water droplets. Profilometry, compared to standard wave probes, can be considered as an alternative source of information that can augment spatial resolution to the identification of the air–water interface to capture nonlinear wave-evolution mechanisms and violent wave–body interactions. Its feasibility and accuracy are examined preliminarily in a small-scale flume and then in a large-scale towing tank using long-crested wave scenarios, including regular, irregular, and focused gravity-driven waves, without the presence of a structure. The values of the wave steepness examined were various and included also quite steep cases with nearly vertical wave fronts. Role played by parameters of the technique, as well as of its setup in capturing the wave features are also analysed, with the aim to provide a useful guidance for other researchers that intent to use and develop further this approach.
Interobserver agreement on line-field confocal optical coherence tomography image markers in keratinocyte carcinomas and precursor lesions
Authors: Jacobsen Kevin , Ortner Vinzent Kevin , Wenande Emily , Fredman Gabriella , Untracht Gavrielle R. , Wolswijk Tom , Cruts Emmy , Mosterd Klara , Nielsen Kari , Philipsen Peter Alshede , Wiegell Stine Regin , Haedersdal Merete
Published: September 2024

Line-field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC-OCT) is a new technology for skin cancer diagnostics. However, the interobserver agreement (IOA) of known image markers of keratinocyte carcinomas (KC), including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), as well as precursors, SCC in situ (CIS) and actinic keratosis (AK), remains unexplored. This study determined IOA on the presence or absence of 10 key LC-OCT image markers of KC and precursors, among evaluators new to LC-OCT with different levels of dermatologic imaging experience. Secondly, the frequency and association between reported image markers and lesion types, was determined. Six evaluators blinded to histopathologic diagnoses, assessed 75 LC-OCT images of KC (21 SCC; 21 BCC), CIS (12), and AK (21). For each image, evaluators independently reported the presence or absence of 10 predefined key image markers of KCs and precursors described in an LC-OCT literature review. Evaluators were stratified by experience-level as experienced (3) or novices (3) based on previous OCT and reflectance confocal microscopy usage. IOA was tested for all groups, using Conger’s kappa coefficient (κ). The frequency of reported image marker and their association with lesion-types, were calculated as proportions and odds ratios (OR), respectively. Overall IOA was highest for the image markers lobules (κ = 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57;0.78) and clefting (κ = 0.63, CI 0.52;0.74), typically seen in BCC (94%;OR 143.2 and 158.7, respectively, p < 0.001), followed by severe dysplasia (κ = 0.42, CI 0.31;0.53), observed primarily in CIS (79%;OR 7.1, p < 0.001). The remaining seven image-markers had lower IOA (κ = 0.06–0.32) and were more evenly observed across lesion types. The lowest IOA was noted for a well-defined (κ = 0.07, CI 0;0.15) and interrupted dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ) (κ = 0.06, CI -0.002;0.13). IOA was higher for all image markers among experienced evaluators versus novices. This study shows varying IOA for 10 key image markers of KC and precursors in LC-OCT images among evaluators new to the technology. IOA was highest for the assessments of lobules, clefting, and severe dysplasia while lowest for the assessment of the DEJ integrity.
Treatment-related hearing loss in weekly versus triweekly cisplatin chemoradiation for head and neck cancer
Authors: Burger A. V. M. , Duinkerken C. W. , van Sluis K. E. , de Boer J. P. , Navran A. , Lanting C. P. , Jóźwiak K. , Dreschler W. A. , Balm A. J. M. , Zuur C. L.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Cisplatin-induced hearing loss is a common side effect in patients treated with cisplatin-based chemoradiation (CRT) for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The extent of hearing loss after concurrent CRT was compared between triweekly (3 × 100 mg/m2) and weekly (7 × 40 mg/m2) cisplatin CRT.

Method

This retrospective cohort study was conducted in the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital and included 129 patients with cisplatin-based CRT for head and neck cancer (72 treated in the triweekly and 57 in the weekly regimen). Baseline and follow-up pure tone audiometry was conducted to assess hearing loss. Clinically relevant hearing loss was defined as a decline upon treatment of ≥ 10 decibel at a pure tone average 1-2-4 kHz and/or 8-10-12.5 kHz.

Results

The incidence of clinically relevant cisplatin CRT induced hearing loss was 42% in the triweekly versus 19% in the weekly group (p < 0.01). The mean threshold shift at a pure tone average (PTA) 1-2-4 kHz was 9.0 decibel in the triweekly compared to 4.3 decibel in the weekly CRT group (p < 0.01). At PTA 8-10-12.5 kHz, the incidence of clinically relevant hearing loss was 75% in the triweekly compared to 74% in the weekly CRT group (p = 0.87). The mean threshold shift at PTA 8-10-12.5 kHz was 20.2 decibel versus 15.6 decibel, respectively (p = 0.07).

Conclusion

Cisplatin-dose reduction to a weekly cisplatin CRT regimen for head and neck cancer may reduce the incidence of clinically relevant hearing loss at frequencies vital for speech perception.
Effects of branched-chain amino acids on changes in body composition during the recovery period following tonsillectomy
Authors: Fritz Réka , Kiricsi Ágnes , Csanády Miklós , Fritz Péter
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In recent decades studies have examined body weight changes following tonsillectomy. In nutrition science, the focus has shifted from body mass index to body composition analysis. However, no studies have explored body composition changes post-tonsillectomy. In oncology and digestive surgeries, the potential benefits of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) have been investigated; however, their effects on pharyngeal surgery remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the body composition changes after tonsillectomy and to explore the potential benefits of branched-chain amino acids.

Methods

This prospective interventional controlled study enrolled 48 patients who were randomly assigned to a control group (CG) and an experimental group (EG). These groups were further divided into active and inactive subgroups on the basis of their activity levels. The EG consumed 2 × 4 mg of BCAA daily. Body composition was measured using bioimpedance (InBody 270) on the day of surgery and again on days 7 and 21 postoperatively.

Results

Both groups experienced similar weight loss; however, significant differences in body composition emerged. The CG showed significant muscle mass loss (from 30,29 to 28,51 kg), whereas active EG members maintained muscle mass (from 35,33 to 35,40 kg); inactive EG members increased muscle mass (from 26,70 to 27,56 kg) and reduced body fat percentage (from 31.94% to 29.87%). The general health status (InBody score) remained stable or improved in the EG (from 75,13 to 75,96); however, it decreased in the CG (from 75,42 to 72,67).

Conclusion

The negative effects of tonsillectomy on body composition are mitigated by BCAA supplementation.
Impact of a multimodal effort re-education programme on functionality, physical performance, and functional capacity in cancer patients with dyspnoea: a randomised experimental study
Authors: Fernandez-Rodriguez Eduado Jose , Sanchez-Gomez Celia , Fonseca-Sanchez Emilio , Cruz-Hernandez Juan Jesus , Rihuete-Galve Maria Isabel
Published: September 2024

Background

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the survival rates of cancer patients. However, this has also led to an increase in side effects, such as dyspnoea, which can negatively impact of patients. We propose a programme for re-educating effort. The main objective is to test the effectiveness of this programme in improving respiratory symptoms and functionality in cancer patients.

Methodology

Experimental, prospective, longitudinal, randomised study with a parallel fixed-assignment scheme (CG-IG). The patients were selected from the Medical Oncology Service of the University Hospital Complex of Salamanca (CAUSA), Spain. Two parallel intervention programmes were designed for the two study groups (Conventional Clinical Practice-Effort Re-education Programme). Primary variables: dyspnoea (MRC), functionality (Barthel); secondary variables: physical performance (SPPB) and functional capacity (ECOG) and the socio-demographic variables (age, sex, anatomopathological diagnosis, and number of treatment lines).

Results

The study sample consisted of 182 patients, with 12 excluded, resulting in a final sample size of n = 170. Sex distribution (CG: 52.9% male and 47.1% female; IG: 49.4% male and 50.6% female). The primary oncological diagnosis was lung cancer, and the most frequent tumour stages were III and IV. Statistically significant differences were found between the IG and CG scores (p < 0.001, d = 0.887, 95% CI) and between the IG and CG scores (p = 0.004, d = 0.358, 95% CI), indicating that the IG performed better.

Conclusion

The results of this study support the beneficial effects of an exercise re-education programme, carried out by an interdisciplinary team in improving the autonomy of oncology patients with dyspnoea.

Trial registration

The clinical trial was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04186754). (03 September 2019).
Percutaneous dilational tracheostomy following anterior cervical spine fixation – a retrospective propensity-matched cohort study
Authors: Meisterfeld Ronny , Queck Anne , Disch Alexander Carl , Distler Marius , Held Hanns-Christoph , von Renesse Janusz , Schaser Klaus-Dieter , Weitz Jürgen , Kamin Konrad
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In patients with traumatic, infectious, degenerative, and neoplastic surgical indications in the cervical spine, commonly the anterior approach is used. Often these patients require a tracheostomy necessary due to prolonged mechanical ventilation. The limited spinal mobility and proximity to the surgical site of anterior cervical spine fixation (ACSF) could pose an increased risk for complications of percutaneous dilational tracheostomy (PDT.) Importantly, PDT might raise wound infection rates of the cervical spine approach. The aim of this study is to prove safety of PDT after ACSF.

Methods

We performed a retrospective, single-center study comparing patients with and without ACSF who underwent Ciaglia-single step PDT. After propensity score matching using logistic regression, we compared intra- and postprocedural complication rates. Furthermore, surgical site infections were evaluated. Putensen’s definitions of complications and Clavien-Dindo’s classification were used.

Results

A total of 1175 patients underwent PDT between 2009 and 2021. Fifty-seven patients underwent PDT following ACSF and were matched to fifty-seven patients without ACSF. The mean interval between ACSF and PDT was 11.3 days. The overall complication rate was 19.3% in the ACSF group and 21.1% in the non-ACSF group. The mean follow-up was 388 days (± 791) in the ACSF group and 424 days (± 819) in the non-ACSF group. Life-threatening complications (Clavien-Dindo IV to V) were found in 1.8% of ACSF patients and 3.5% of non-ACSF patients. There were no significant differences in complication rates. No surgical site infection of the anterior spine access was detected.

Conclusion

PDT is a feasible and safe procedure in patients after ACSF. Complication rates are comparable to patients without ACSF. Surgical site infections of ACSF are very rare.
SMART DIABETES HOSPITAL: CLINICAL IMPACT IN COMPLEX SURGICAL UNITS OF A TERTIARY HOSPITAL
Authors: Simó-Servat Olga , Amigó Judit , Ortiz-Zúñiga Ángel , Sánchez Mónica , Cuadra Fátima , Santos Marcos Dos , Rojano Alba , Abadías Maria José , Roman Antonio , Hernández Cristina , Simó Rafael
Published: September 2024

Aim

To evaluate the impact of a proactive action of a specialized diabetes team (SDT) on different health outcomes in patients hospitalized in high complexity surgery units, including solid organ transplant surgical units, of a tertiary hospital.

Methods

Nested case control study matched (1:1) by age and gender. The control group consisted of patients (n = 120) who were under the standard of care diabetes management admitted three months’ prior the cases. The cases were admitted in the same surgical units (n = 120) and were treated in the setting of the so called “Smart Diabetes Hospital” (SDH) consisting in a SDT that prioritized their actions through a digital map showing blood glucose levels obtained during the previous 24 h.

Results

SDH implementation resulted in a significant reduction in both blood glucose levels (mean 162.1 ± SD 44.4 vs. mean 145.5 ± SD 48.0; p = 0.008) and hypoglycaemic episodes (19.7% vs. 8.4%: p = 0.002). Furthermore, a reduction of 3 days in the length of stay (LOS) was observed (15.6 ± 10.3 vs. 12.4 ± 6.0), which represents a significant cost-saving. Moreover, more new cases of diabetes were detected during the SDT period (2.5% vs. 6.7%, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

SDH is effective in diabetes management and reduce LOS in complex surgical units.
Wildlife resilience in an urban landscape: understanding land-use impacts in Cape Town
Authors: Oladimeji Akinwale , Woodgate Zoë , O’Riain M. Justin
Published: September 2024

Urbanisation is rapidly transforming and fragmenting natural habitats, disrupting ecosystems and negatively impacting biodiversity. The City of Cape Town (CoCT) is situated in a global biodiversity hotspot, but sustained anthropogenic activities have resulted in the local extirpation of most medium and large mammals. A recent survey of mammals within urban protected areas of CoCT revealed that a few, mostly medium-sized generalist species, persist. It is uncertain which native mammal species, if any, inhabit the unprotected green belts and parks in suburban and urban areas of the city. A total of 37 camera trap sites were established along four transects for a period of four months between 31 January and 31 May 2022. A total of 12 terrestrial mammal species were detected, nine of which were wild native mammals and three domestic species. Most detections were in natural habitat followed by suburban, with urban areas having the lowest detection rate of wildlife. Single season hierarchical multi-species occupancy models revealed that tree cover had a significant positive effect on both community and individual species occupancy. Contrary to our predictions, neither human population density nor the extent of the impervious surface at sites significantly affected occupancy. Cape grysbok (Raphicerus melanotis) were significantly more likely to occur at sites with a higher proportion of impervious surfaces supporting other recent research, which showed this species together with water mongoose (Atilax paludinosus) and Cape porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis) are one of only a few native mammals that appear to persist and may even thrive in human-modified landscapes. Our findings underscore the complexity of urban biodiversity conservation and the species-specific responses to environmental factors, emphasising the importance of tree cover in urban wildlife management.
Rainfall Sensitivity to Microphysics and Planetary Boundary Layer Parameterizations in Convection-Permitting Simulations over Northwestern South America
Authors: Hernández K. Santiago , Gómez-Ríos Sebastián , Henao Juan J. , Robledo Vanessa , Ramírez-Cardona Álvaro , Rendón Angela M.
Published: September 2024

Convection-permitting modeling allows us to understand mechanisms that influence rainfall in specific regions. However, microphysics parameterization (MP) and planetary boundary layer (PBL) schemes remain an important source of uncertainty, affecting rainfall intensity, occurrence, duration, and propagation. Here, we study the sensitivity of rainfall to three MP [Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Single-Moment 6-class (WSM6), Thompson, and Morrison] and two PBL [the Yonsei University (YSU) and Mellor–Yamada Nakanishi Niino (MYNN)] schemes with a convection-permitting resolution (4 km) over northwestern South America (NWSA). Simulations were performed by using the WRF model and the results were evaluated against soundings, rain gauges, and satellite data, considering the spatio-temporal variability of rainfall over diverse regions prone to deep convection in NWSA. MP and PBL schemes largely influenced simulated rainfall, with better results for the less computationally expensive WSM6 MP and YSU PBL schemes. Regarding rain gauges and satellite estimates, simulations with Morrison MP overestimated rainfall, especially westward of the Andes, whereas the MYNN PBL underestimated precipitation in the Amazon–Savannas flatlands. We found that the uncertainty in the rainfall representation is highly dependent on the region, with a higher influence of MP in the Colombian Pacific and PBL in the Amazon–Savannas flatlands. When analyzing rainfall-related processes, the selection of both MP and PBL parameterizations exerted a large influence on the simulated lower tropospheric moisture flux and moisture convergence. PBL schemes significantly influenced the downward shortwave radiation, with MYNN simulating a greater amount of low clouds, which decreased the radiation income. Furthermore, latent heat fluxes were greater for YSU, favoring moist convection and rainfall. MP schemes had a marked impact on vertical velocity. Specifically, Morrison MP showed stronger convection and higher precipitation rates, which is associated with a greater latent heat release due to solid-phase hydrometeor formation. This study provides insights into assessing physical parameterizations in numerical models and suggests key processes for rainfall representation in NWSA.
Building and Sustaining Flu Vaccine Acceptance and Trust in the Black Community through Partnerships with Churches, Salons, and Barbershops
Authors: Nuss Henry , Privor-Dumm Lois , Ukachukwu Chinonso , Hall Laura Lee
Published: September 2024

Despite the benefits of flu vaccines, Black adults continue to experience lower vaccination rates in the United States. Contributing factors include lack of access to health care and trusted information about vaccines. The National Minority Quality Forum’s Center for Sustainable Health Care Quality and Equity collaborated with church pastors, barbers, and hair stylists to disseminate a survey to their communities to assess barriers/facilitators to flu vaccine uptake. The population (n = 262) was mostly Black (93%), female (77%), between the age of 50–64 (39%) and vaccinated (73%). The most common reasons cited by respondents for being vaccinated were personal health, a habit of getting the shot, and a desire not to spread it to others. Among the unvaccinated (27%), the most common reasons for not vaccinating were lack of perceived need, concern the shot would make them sick, and that they do not normally get vaccinated. Vaccine knowledge and trust in health care providers’ recommendations was higher amongst vaccinated individuals. Amongst the unvaccinated, trust was lower and there was a stronger belief that the vaccine would not prevent illness. Age was also associated with the likelihood of being vaccinated and greater vaccine knowledge and trust in provider recommendations. Unvaccinated individuals, particularly those under 54 years of age, did not hold strong distrust, attitudes were more neutral, and concern for others was moderate, suggesting an opportunity to target younger age groups. This study highlights the importance of trusted community messengers in conveying targeted messages on the safety and effectiveness of the flu vaccine.
Surface Modification and Corrosion Performance of Laser Cladded Co–Ni on Ti–6Al–4 V in 0.5 M H2SO4 Environment
Authors: Adesina Olanrewaju Seun , Popoola Abimbola Patricia , Farotade Gabriel Ayokunle , Sanyaolu Olufemi Oluseun , Obadele Babatunde Abiodun , Ikubanni Peter Pelumi , Adediran Adeolu Adesoji , Adeleke Adekunle Akanni
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the laser cladding of Co and Ni powders onto Ti–6Al–4 V substrates, varying the admixed percentages while adjusting laser processing parameters. The influence of nickel and cobalt contents on the microstructure, phase composition, and electrochemical behavior of the laser-clad Ti–6Al–4 V coatings were analyzed. Coating morphology and phases were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), and X-ray diffractometry (XRD), respectively. The corrosion resistance of Ti–6Al–4 V, both with and without Ni–Co additions, in 0.5 M H2SO4 was evaluated using potentiodynamic polarization technique. Results indicated that the coatings exhibited excellent metallurgical compatibility with the substrate. Additionally, the high scan speed laser-clad samples showed enhanced corrosion resistance compared to those processed at low speeds. The potentiodynamic polarization analysis revealed passive behavior in all specimens, with higher cobalt content notably enhancing passivity and corrosion resistance by suppressing the anodic reaction.
Disparities in receipt of high-priority clinical preventive services
Authors: Borsky Amanda E. , Zodet Marc , Wolff Tracy A. , Ngo-Metzger Quyen , Mueller Nora , Bierman Arlene S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to examine potential disparities in the receipt of high-priority, clinical preventive services among adults.

Methods

The study is based on a cross-sectional survey from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS), 2018 and includes non-institutionalized adults age ≥ 35 in the United States (n = 14,615). The primary outcome measure is a composite measure that assesses receipt of fifteen high-priority clinical preventive services.

Results

Results provide the first national estimates of disparities in receipt of all recommended high-priority preventive services. Receipt of all recommended preventive services among adults age ≥ 35 was low (6%). Multivariable regression analysis found sizable disparities associated with all sociodemographic characteristics examined. Black adults were 37% less likely than white adults (OR: 0.63, CI 0.46-0.86); those with a high school education or less were less than half as likely as college graduates (≤ HS OR: 0.44, CI 0.32-0.61, HS grad OR: 0.46, CI 0.36-0.59); poor and low income individuals were much less likely than those with higher incomes (Poor OR: 0.66, CI 0.48-0.90, low income OR: 0.70, CI 0.53-0.92); the uninsured were 89% less likely than those with private insurance (OR: 0.11, CI 0.04-0.27); adults who spoke a language other than English had 35% lower odds than those who spoke English (OR: 0.65, CI 0.45-0.95) to receive all high-priority services.

Conclusions

Improving population health depends upon effective strategies to increase uptake of high-priority preventive services while reducing disparities in receipt of these services.
Bullying at work: Differential pattern in Euro-Area according to gender-based disparities
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez Nuria , Fernández Puente Adolfo C.
Published: September 2024

This study examines the influence of bullying at work on self-rated anxiety (SRA) across 19 European countries through the European Working Conditions Survey (2015 and 2021). Descriptive analysis highlights a significantly higher prevalence of bullying among women compared to men. The econometric analysis uncovers that the detrimental impact of bullying is particularly pronounced in environments characterised by higher gender inequality. Gender differences are more prominent in countries where women face lower economic participation and opportunities. However, the frequency of reported bullying is higher in the group of countries where conditions for women are more equal. The apparent lack of awareness regarding these abusive behaviours would feasibly result in a lack of specific legislation and consequently generate a greater impact on SRA, even though the issue seems less prominent.
Flags of sheaves, quivers and symmetric polynomials
Authors: Bonelli Giulio , Fasola Nadir , Tanzini Alessandro
Published: September 2024

We study a quiver description of the nested Hilbert scheme of points on the affine plane and its higher rank generalization – that is, the moduli space of flags of framed torsion-free sheaves on the projective plane. We show that stable representations of the quiver provide an ADHM-like construction for such moduli spaces. We introduce a natural torus action and use equivariant localization to compute some of their (virtual) topological invariants, including the case of compact toric surfaces. We conjecture that the generating function of holomorphic Euler characteristics for rank one is given in terms of polynomials in the equivariant weights, which, for specific numerical types, coincide with (modified) Macdonald polynomials. From the physics viewpoint, the quivers we study describe a class of surface defects in four-dimensional supersymmetric gauge theories in terms of nested instantons.
Confronting the Deportation State: Black American Responses to Immigrant Expulsion in the Interwar Period
Authors: Pope-Obeda Emily
Published: September 2024

This article explores responses in the Black press to the rapidly expanding U.S. deportation regime during the interwar period. While their perspectives have been largely absent from scholarship on deportation, Black journalists, editorialists, and commentators have historically been highly engaged with the issue. Black periodicals provided extensive coverage of the expulsion of Black immigrants, as well as of non-Black immigrants who violated the racial structures of American society (either through antiracist political advocacy or through interracial relationships). In doing so, the Black press insisted that deportation was a Black issue, and that antiblackness was central to the functioning of the early-twentieth-century immigration control system. By surveying roughly 1,100 articles on deportation in the Black press, I highlight how Black writers construed deportation as a powerful tool of white supremacy and a threat to Black immigrants and African Americans alike.
Intent detection and slot filling for Persian: Cross-lingual training for low-resource languages
Authors: Zadkamali Reza , Momtazi Saeedeh , Zeinali Hossein
Published: September 2024

Intent detection and slot filling are two necessary tasks for natural language understanding. Deep neural models have already shown great ability facing sequence labeling and sentence classification tasks, but they require a large amount of training data to achieve accurate results. However, in many low-resource languages, creating accurate training data is problematic. Consequently, in most of the language processing tasks, low-resource languages have significantly lower accuracy than rich-resource languages. Hence, training models in low-resource languages with data from a richer-resource language can be advantageous. To solve this problem, in this paper, we used pretrained language models, namely multilingual BERT (mBERT) and XLM-RoBERTa, in different cross-lingual and monolingual scenarios. To evaluate our proposed model, we translated a small part of the Airline Travel Information System (ATIS) dataset into Persian. Furthermore, we repeated the experiments on the MASSIVE dataset to increase our results’ reliability. Experimental results on both datasets show that the cross-lingual scenarios significantly outperform monolinguals ones.
Probing a pretrained RoBERTa on Khasi language for POS tagging
Authors: Mitri Aiom Minnette , Lyngdoh Eusebius Lawai , Warjri Sunita , Saha Goutam , Lyngdoh Saralin A. , Maji Arnab Kumar
Published: September 2024

Part of speech (POS) tagging, though considered to be preliminary to any Natural Language Processing (NLP) task, is crucial to account for, especially in low resource language like Khasi that lacks any form of formal corpus. POS tagging is context sensitive. Therefore, the task is challenging. In this paper, we attempt to investigate a deep learning approach to the POS tagging problem in Khasi. A deep learning model called Robustly Optimized BERT Pretraining Approach (RoBERTa) is pretrained for language modelling task. We then create RoBERTa for POS (RoPOS) tagging, a model that performs POS tagging by fine-tuning the pretrained RoBERTa and leveraging its embeddings for downstream POS tagging. The existing tagset that has been designed, customarily, for the Khasi language is employed for this work, and the corresponding tagged dataset is taken as our base corpus. Further, we propose additional tags to this existing tagset to meet the requirements of the language and have increased the size of the existing Khasi POS corpus. Other machine learning and deep learning models have also been tried and tested for the same task, and a comparative analysis is made on the various models employed. Two different setups have been used for the RoPOS model, and the best testing accuracy achieved is 92 per cent. Comparative analysis of RoPOS with the other models indicates that RoPOS outperforms the others when used for inferencing on texts that are outside the domain of the POS tagged training dataset.
International law in the minds: On the ideational basis of the making, the changing, and the unmaking of international law
Authors: Schultz Thomas
Published: September 2024

Usual accounts of international law-making and international legal change focus on formal secondary rules. Others include societal and institutional facts. But international law consists of ideas too. Arguably it exists only in minds. To be sure then, the conditions of ideational change codetermine when and how international law is made, unmade, and otherwise changes. This is what this article is after. It first draws a general sketch of international legal change (including its making and unmaking) to then zoom in on its ideational elements, with a narrower focus on market opportunities for ideas. These market opportunities, it is argued, are determined by: paradigm shifts, struggles between competing schools of thought, the formation of distinct epistemic subfields, the core individuals’ different capitals, and changes in beliefs.
A comparative study on public interest considerations in data scraping dispute
Authors: Fei Lanfang
Published: September 2024

New technologies and the new business practices that they bring often raise difficult questions about the application of the law. This often stems from the difficulty of clarifying the impact of new technologies on the interests of different groups in society and, in particular, the difficulty of measuring the public interest brought about by new technologies. In practice, in disputes arising from new technologies, the users of the new technologies often justify their actions in terms of the public interest. In this paper, we compare data collection cases in the US, EU and China and extract the types of public interests discussed in typical cases in different countries, including (1) data-related property rights protection and commercial principles to prevent free-riding; (2) privacy, personal data protection and data security; (3) competition and innovation interests related to the free flow of data; and (4) freedom of expression. The comparison shows that an appropriate focus on the public interest in data flow has led Chinese and US courts to rule in favour of scrapers in a few recent cases, in contrast to the judicial attitude of EU courts, whicht value privacy. The author applauds the attitude of the courts in the US and China and argues that free competition and innovative interests based on data flows are public interests that should be prioritized in data scraping cases.
A Randomized Controlled Study on the Effectiveness of Plain Language Summaries of Psychological Meta-Analyses
Authors: Kerwer Martin , Jonas Mark , Stoll Marlene , Benz Gesa , Chasiotis Anita
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Plain language summaries (PLSs) are easily comprehensible summaries of scientific articles. They translate research findings for nonexperts to foster laypersons’ understanding of scientific evidence. We examined whether PLSs of psychological meta-analyses improve laypersons’ understanding of scientific evidence in a general population sample. Moreover, to develop guidance on writing PLSs, we varied four PLS characteristics: The number of effects reported, information on conflicts of interest (COI), information on publication bias, practical relevance statements. In an online study, 2,451 participants read two PLSs. Preregistered hypotheses were partly supported: Laypersons preferred PLSs over scientific abstracts, and PLSs facilitated knowledge acquisition; detrimental effects existed for PLSs reporting a higher number of effects on user experience, but not on knowledge acquisition; COI statements affected epistemic trustworthiness. Contrary to our predictions, we did not find significant effects of publication bias and practical relevance statements on subjective outcomes. However, PLSs educated laypersons on the concept “publication bias.”
How to Communicate Science to the Public?
Authors: König Laura M. , Altenmüller Marlene S. , Fick Julian , Crusius Jan , Genschow Oliver , Sauerland Melanie
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Communicating research findings to the public in a clear but engaging manner is challenging, yet central for maximizing their societal impact. This systematic review aimed to derive evidence-based strategies for science communication from experimental studies. Three databases were searched in December 2022. Experimental studies published in English or German were included if they tested the effect of providing written information about science to adults aged 16+ years by assessing the impact on at least one of four domains of science communication aims (understanding and knowledge, attitudes and trust, intention and behavior, engagement). A total of 171 publications were included. Derived strategies include avoiding jargon, carefully structuring texts, including citations and expert sources, being mindful about how and when to indicate conflict or uncertainty in science, using neutral language, and highlighting Open Science principles and replicability. They can be used to communicate science effectively to lay audiences, benefitting the society.
Internal‐Wave Dissipation Mechanisms and Vertical Structure in a High‐Resolution Regional Ocean Model
Authors: Skitka Joseph , Arbic Brian K. , Ma Yuchen , Momeni Kayhan , Pan Yulin , Peltier William R. , Menemenlis Dimitris , Thakur Ritabrata
Published: September 2024

Motivated by the importance of mixing arising from dissipating internal waves (IWs), vertical profiles of internal‐wave dissipation from a high‐resolution regional ocean model are compared with finestructure estimates made from observations. A horizontal viscosity scheme restricted to only act on horizontally rotational modes (such as eddies) is introduced and tested. At lower resolutions with horizontal grid spacings of 2 km, the modeled IW dissipation from numerical model agrees reasonably well with observations in some cases when the restricted form of horizontal viscosity is used. This suggests the possibility that if restricted forms of horizontal viscosity are adopted by global models with similar resolutions, they could be used to diagnose and map IW dissipation distributions. At higher resolutions with horizontal grid spacings of ∼250 m, the dissipation from vertical shear and horizontal viscosity act much more strongly resulting in dissipation overestimates; however, the vertical‐shear dissipation itself is found to agree well with observations.
Off‐Shelf Transport and Biogeochemical Cycling of Terrestrial Organic Carbon Along the East Siberian Continental Margin
Authors: Martens Jannik , Tesi Tommaso , Rusakov Valeriy , Semiletov Igor , Dudarev Oleg , Gustafsson Örjan
Published: September 2024

Continental margins receive, process and sequester most of the terrestrial organic carbon (terrOC) released into the ocean. In the Arctic, increasing fluvial discharge and collapsing permafrost are expected to enhance terrOC release and degradation, leading to ocean acidification and translocated CO2 release to the atmosphere. However, the processes controlling terrOC transport beyond the continental shelf, and the amount of terrOC that reaches the slope and the rise are poorly described. Here we study terrOC transport to the Laptev Sea continental slope and rise by probing surface sediments with dual‐isotope (δ13C/Δ14C) source apportionment, degradation‐diagnostic terrestrial biomarkers (n‐alkanes, n‐alkanoic acids, lignin phenols) and 210Pbxs‐based mass accumulation rates (MAR). The MAR‐terrOC (g m−2 yr−1) decrease from 14.7 ± 12.2 on the shelf, to 7.0 ± 5.8 over the slope, to 2.3 ± 0.3 for the rise. Scaling this to the respective regimes yields that 80% of the terrOC accumulates on the shelf, while 11% and 9% of the accumulation occurs in slope and rise sediments, respectively. TerrOC remineralization is evidenced by biomarker degradation proxies (CPI of n‐alkanes and 3,5Bd/V) indicating 40% and 60% more terrOC degradation from slope to rise, consistent with a decline in terrOC concentrations by 57%. TerrOC degradation only partially explains this decline. An updated Laptev Sea terrOC budget suggests that sediment transport dynamics such as turbidity currents may drive terrOC shelf‐basin export, contributing to the observed accumulation pattern. This study quantitatively demonstrates that Arctic shelf seas are key receptor systems for remobilized terrOC, emphasizing their importance in the carbon cycle of the rapidly changing Arctic.
Dust Accelerates the Life Cycle of High Clouds Unveiled Through Strongly‐Constrained Meteorology
Authors: Ge Jinming , Li Wenxue , Huang Jianping , Mu Qingyu , Li Qinghao , Zhao Qingyun , Su Jing , Xie Yongkun , Alam Khan , Zhu Zeen , Hu Xiaoyu
Published: September 2024

Dust and high cloud interactions are critical for climate change, primarily due to the dominant roles of high cloud in the greenhouse effect and the continental precipitation. Nonetheless, disentangling the specific impacts of dust from the overlying meteorology influence on high clouds presents great challenges. In this study, we construct a meteorological pattern that successfully reveal the intricate connection between high cloud distribution and atmospheric conditions. Through this strong bounded relationship, we find that dust exhibits notable controls over the facilitation or inhibition of ice particle growth contingent upon the prevailing meteorological fields. More dust can increase precipitation rate and shorten high cloud lifetime particularly under favorable meteorology. These findings underscore the crucial role of dust concentration in mitigating global warming for future climate change.
Machine Learning‐Assisted Microearthquake Location Workflow for Monitoring the Newberry Enhanced Geothermal System
Authors: Leong Zi Xian , Zhu Tieyuan
Published: September 2024

Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) offer a sustainable energy source but face challenges in accurately locating microearthquakes induced during reservoir stimulation. Locating these microearthquakes provides reliable feedback on the stimulation progress. Current deep learning methods for locating earthquakes require extensive data sets for training, which is problematic as detected microearthquakes are often limited. To address the scarcity of training data, we propose a practical workflow using probabilistic multilayer perceptron (PMLP) which predicts microearthquake locations from cross‐correlation time lags in waveforms. Utilizing a 3D velocity model of Newberry site derived from ambient noise interferometry, we generate numerous synthetic microearthquakes and 3D acoustic waveforms for PMLP training. Accurate synthetic tests prompt us to apply the trained network to the 2012 and 2014 stimulation field waveforms. To enhance the accuracy of source localization, we carefully handpick the P‐arrival times. Predictions on the 2012 stimulation data set show major microseismic activity at depths of 0.5–1.2 km, correlating with a known casing leakage scenario. In the 2014 data set, the majority of predictions concentrate at 2.0–2.9 km depths, consistent with results obtained from conventional physics‐based inversion, and align with the presence of natural fractures from 2.0 to 2.7 km. We validate our findings by comparing the synthetic and field picks, demonstrating a satisfactory match for the first arrivals. By combining the benefits of quick inference speeds and accurate location predictions, we demonstrate the feasibility of using realistic synthetic data set to locate microseismicity for EGS monitoring.
A new paradigm for generating high-quality cardiac pacemaker cells from mouse pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Lin Zheyi , Lin Bowen , Hang Chengwen , Lu Renhong , Xiong Hui , Liu Junyang , Wang Siyu , Gong Zheng , Zhang Mingshuai , Li Desheng , Fang Guojian , Ding Jie , Su Xuling , Guo Huixin , Shi Dan , Xie Duanyang , Liu Yi , Liang Dandan , Yang Jian , Chen Yi-Han
Published: September 2024

Cardiac biological pacing (BP) is one of the future directions for bradyarrhythmias intervention. Currently, cardiac pacemaker cells (PCs) used for cardiac BP are mainly derived from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). However, the production of high-quality cardiac PCs from PSCs remains a challenge. Here, we developed a cardiac PC differentiation strategy by adopting dual PC markers and simulating the developmental route of PCs. First, two PC markers, Shox2 and Hcn4, were selected to establish Shox2:EGFP; Hcn4:mCherry mouse PSC reporter line. Then, by stepwise guiding naïve PSCs to cardiac PCs following naïve to formative pluripotency transition and manipulating signaling pathways during cardiac PCs differentiation, we designed the FSK method that increased the yield of SHOX2+; HCN4+ cells with typical PC characteristics, which was 12 and 42 folds higher than that of the embryoid body (EB) and the monolayer M10 methods respectively. In addition, the in vitro cardiac PCs differentiation trajectory was mapped by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), which resembled in vivo PCs development, and ZFP503 was verified as a key regulator of cardiac PCs differentiation. These PSC-derived cardiac PCs have the potential to drive advances in cardiac BP technology, help with the understanding of PCs (patho)physiology, and benefit drug discovery for PC-related diseases as well.
Identification of STAM-binding protein as a target for the treatment of gemcitabine resistance pancreatic cancer in a nutrient-poor microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Wenming , Xu Zheng , Du Yunyan , Liu Tiande , Xiong Zhijuan , Hu Junwen , Chen Leifeng , Peng Xiaogang , Zhou Fan
Published: September 2024

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly malignant solid tumor whose resistance to gemcitabine (GEM) chemotherapy is a major cause of poor patient prognosis. Although PC is known to thrive on malnutrition, the mechanism underlying its chemotherapy resistance remains unclear. The current study analyzed clinical tissue sample databases using bioinformatics tools and observed significantly upregulated expression of the deubiquitinase STAMBP in PC tissues. Functional experiments revealed that STAMBP knockdown remarkably increases GEM sensitivity in PC cells. Multiple omics analyses suggested that STAMBP enhances aerobic glycolysis and suppresses mitochondrial respiration to increase GEM resistance in PC both in vitro and in vivo. STAMBP knockdown decreased PDK1 levels, an essential regulator of the aerobic glycolytic process, in several cancers. Mechanistically, STAMBP promoted the PDK1-mediated Warburg effect and chemotherapy resistance by modulating E2F1 via direct binding to E2F1 and suppressing its degradation and ubiquitination. High-throughput compound library screening using three-dimensional protein structure analysis and drug screening identified the FDA drug entrectinib as a potent GEM sensitizer and STAMBP inhibitor, augmenting the antitumor effect of GEM in a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model. Overall, we established a novel mechanism, via the STAMBP–E2F1–PDK1 axis, by which PC cells become chemoresistant in a nutrient-poor tumor microenvironment.
Multifaceted mitochondrial as a novel therapeutic target in dry eye: insights and interventions
Authors: Ouyang Weijie , Yan Dan , Hu Jiaoyue , Liu Zuguo
Published: September 2024

Dry eye, recognized as the most prevalent ocular surface disorder, has risen to prominence as a significant public health issue, adversely impacting the quality of life for individuals across the globe. Despite decades of extensive research into the chronic inflammation that characterizes dry eye, the intricate mechanisms fueling this persistent inflammatory state remain incompletely understood. Among the various cellular components under investigation, mitochondria—essential for cellular energy production and homeostasis—have attracted increasing attention for their role in dry eye pathogenesis. This involvement points to mechanisms such as oxidative stress, apoptosis, and sustained inflammation, which are central to the progression of the disease. This review aims to provide a thorough exploration of mitochondrial dysfunction in dry eye, shedding light on the critical roles played by mitochondrial oxidative stress, apoptosis, and mitochondrial DNA damage. It delves into the mechanisms through which diverse pathogenic factors may trigger mitochondrial dysfunction, thereby contributing to the onset and exacerbation of dry eye. Furthermore, it lays the groundwork for an overview of current therapeutic strategies that specifically target mitochondrial dysfunction, underscoring their potential in managing this complex condition. By spotlighting this burgeoning area of research, our review seeks to catalyze the development of innovative drug discovery and therapeutic approaches. The ultimate goal is to unlock promising avenues for the future management of dry eye, potentially revolutionizing treatment paradigms and improving patient outcomes. Through this comprehensive examination, we endeavor to enrich the scientific community’s understanding of dry eye and inspire novel interventions that address the underlying mitochondrial dysfunctions contributing to this widespread disorder.