bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testacosides A–D, glycoglycerolipids produced by Microbacterium testaceum isolated from Tedania brasiliensis
Authors: Quintana-Bulla Jairo I. , Tonon Luciane A. C. , Michaliski Lamonielli F. , Hajdu Eduardo , Ferreira Antonio G. , Berlinck Roberto G. S.
Published: January 2024

Marine bacteria living in association with marine sponges have proven to be a reliable source of biologically active secondary metabolites. However, no studies have yet reported natural products from Microbacterium testaceum spp. We herein report the isolation of a M. testaceum strain from the sponge Tedania brasiliensis. Molecular networking analysis of bioactive pre-fractionated extracts from culture media of M. testaceum enabled the discovery of testacosides A–D. Analysis of spectroscopic data and chemical derivatizations allowed the identification of testacosides A–D as glycoglycerolipids bearing a 1-[α-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-(α-mannopyranosyl)]-glycerol moiety connected to 12-methyltetradecanoic acid for testacoside A (1), 14-methylpentadecanoic acid for testacoside B (2), and 14-methylhexadecanoic acid for testacosides C (3) and D (4). The absolute configuration of the monosaccharide residues was determined by 1H-NMR analysis of the respective diastereomeric thiazolidine derivatives. This is the first report of natural products isolated from cultures of M. testaceum.

Key points

• The first report of metabolites produced by Microbacterium testaceum.

• 1-[α-Glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-(α-mannopyranosyl)]-glycerol lipids isolated and identified.

• Microbacterium testaceum strain isolated from the sponge Tedania brasiliensis.

Graphical abstract
Cardiac effects of 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE
Authors: Esdar Nicole , Pawlik Evelyn , Eickhoff Simon B. , Raupach Annika , Ritz-Timme Stefanie , Mayer Felix
Published: January 2024

Synthetic cannabinoids become increasingly popular as a supposedly safe and legal alternative to cannabis. In order to circumvent the German New Psychoactive Substances Law, producers of so-called herbal mixtures rapidly design new substances with structural alterations that are not covered by the law. Acting as full agonists not only at the cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2, synthetic cannabinoids might have not only desired mental but also serious physical adverse effects. However, knowledge of adverse effects of specific substances is sparse and incomplete. This also accounts for 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE, a synthetic cannabinoid, which has been detected regularly in Germany in recent years. By using an animal model, the isolated perfused Langendorff heart, the study at hand aimed on finding out more about possible cardiovascular adverse effects of 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE. Hearts of male Wistar rats, which were excised postmortem, were exposed to two different concentrations of 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE: 13 hearts were exposed to 50 ng/ml and 12 hearts were exposed to 100 ng/ml. Thirteen control hearts were merely exposed to an additional amount of buffer solution. Functional parameters heart rate, minimal and maximum left ventricular pressure and coronary flow were documented at pre-defined time points during and after the administration of 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE/additional buffer solution. Electrocardiograms (ECGs) were documented throughout the experiments and evaluated afterwards. Kruskal–Wallis analysis was performed for each functional parameter as well as for the duration of the QRS complexes and the duration of RR intervals as derived from the ECGs. Furthermore, a multivariate analysis, comprising all functional and ECG parameters, was performed. Kruskal–Wallis analysis revealed only single significant p-values for QRS duration and minimum left ventricular pressure that did not pass a Bonferroni test. The results of the multivariate approach were also comparably homogeneous, but still the model correctly recognized hearts exposed to 100 ng/ml of 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE more often than hearts exposed to the low concentration of 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE or additional buffer solution. Evaluation of the ECGs presented single cases of ST depression and QT prolongation. Though certainly not unambiguous, these findings support the assumption that 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE can cause severe, if not lethal, cardiac adverse effects like arrhythmias or myocardial infarctions especially if it is consumed in combination with other drugs like alcohol or if the consumer suffers from pre-existing heart diseases.
Measurement of the retinal venous pressure with a new instrument in patients with primary open angle glaucoma
Authors: Stodtmeister Richard , Menzel Aline , Klimova Anna , Herber Robert , Pillunat Karin. R. , Pillunat Lutz E.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To compare the results of retinal venous pressure (RVP) measurement performed with contact lens dynamometry (CLD) and with the new IOPstim.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we included 36 patients with primary open angle glaucoma with a median age (Q25; Q75) of 74 (64; 77) years (m/f = 18/18), baseline intraocular pressure (IOP): 13.9 (12.2; 15.1) mmHg. Median mean defect: − 5.8 (− 11.9; − 2.6) db. Principle of the IOPstim: an empty balloon with a diameter of 8 mm is positioned on the eye, laterally of the limbus. Under observation of the central retinal vein (CRV), the examiner inflates the balloon. As soon as the CRV starts pulsation, the inflation is stopped and the IOP is measured, equaling the RVP at this moment. In the CLD, the pulsation of the CRV is observed with a contact lens. The RVP is calculated from the attachment force applied when pulsation appears.

Course of examinations

Three single measurements of RVP in quick succession with both methods. The sequence of the two methods was randomized. The means of the three RVP measurements were compared.

Results

Pressures in mmHg. RVP: IOPstim: 19.4 ± 5.4 (mean ± SD), CLD: 20.3 ± 5.9. Range of three single measurements: IOPstim: 2.9 ± 1.5, CLD: 2.2 ± 1.1. The differences were RVPIOPstim − RVPCLD =  − 0.94 ± 1.15, and approximately normally distributed. Bland–Altman analysis: only one data point was 0.5 mmHg higher than the upper line of agreement. The confidence interval of this line was 0.65 mmHg. Concordance correlation coefficient according to Lin (CCC): 0.96. Intraclass correlation coefficient: both methods, 0.94.

Conclusion

In both methods, the range of the single measurements may be taken as a sign of good reliability, the CCC of 0.96 as a sign of a very good agreement. At the mean, the IOPstim RVP values were 1 mmHg lower than those obtained with the CLD. This difference may be due to the different directions of the prevailing force vectors induced by the instruments. The IOPstim seems applicable in glaucoma diagnostics.
Enhanced PAPR reduction in DCO-OFDM using multi-point constellations and DPSO optimization
Authors: Aydin Volkan , Hacioglu Gokce
Published: January 2024

DC-biased optical OFDM (DCO-OFDM) is a commonly used method of OFDM in visible light communication (VLC). Unfortunately, VLC systems that use OFDM often experience a high peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR). To address this issue, this study proposes a novel method called the multi-point constellation method (MPC) to reduce PAPR in DCO-OFDM. The MPC method involves adding extra alternative constellation points around the existing points and using the discrete particle swarm optimization (DPSO) algorithm to select the constellation points with the lowest PAPR. The proposed MPC method is also combined with selective mapping (SLM), a well-known PAPR reduction technique in the literature. Simulation results show that the proposed MPC method outperforms the SLM method in reducing PAPR in 4-QAM and 16-QAM modulations when used in combination with SLM. Furthermore, increasing the number of iterations and particles in the DPSO algorithm improves the PAPR reduction performance of the proposed method even further.
Content analysis of patient support groups related to myositis on Facebook
Authors: Afsar Aiman Perween , Ghosh Shounak , Titus Renil Sinu , Cheng Karen , Kanawala Arundati A. , Kerkhof Peter , Day Jessica , Gupta Latika
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are heterogeneous and complex, and routine consultation can be overwhelming for patients, or sometimes so rushed that patients feel unable to discuss their needs and wishes adequately. As a result, online patient support groups (PSGs) on social media platforms like Facebook may help provide them with information they are seeking, and the support of the patient community who are living with this condition. Our goal is to explore the current landscape of PSGs in IIM to discuss the future of such groups and their role in supporting patient-driven self-management of complex connective tissue diseases.

Methods

We investigated factors that influence engagement in publicly accessible support groups on Facebook for patients with myositis. We analysed posts from myositis-related Facebook groups and pages between July 10, 2022, and October 2022. Data were extracted from each post, including presentation format (text, picture, video or mixed media) and content type (news, personal feelings or information). To gauge the post’s impact, we measured engagement metrics, such as likes, comments, shares and reactions.

Results

Nearly three-quarters of the groups were private. Among the open ones, most posts seem to comprise pictures with text. Notably, engagement levels were higher for multimedia posts, with the exception of comments in groups, where engagement was comparatively lower.

In terms of content, the majority of posts fell under the ‘personal’ category, followed by ‘information’ and ‘news’ posts, with information posts in groups receiving the most interactions. Moreover, groups exhibited higher total engagement compared to pages when considering all posts cumulatively.

Conclusions

Our observations indicate that patients with myositis seek information on the condition online, and the multimedia nature of content presentation significantly influences engagement. These digital forums serve as valuable platforms for fostering connections among diverse individuals, providing a perceived safe space for sharing their personal experiences and varied perspectives, and potentially mitigating social isolation.

Key Points• Patient support groups on myositis are a key source of support and information for patients.• Public posts with multimedia content garner the most engagement.• The majority of posts are personal in nature, with a smaller proportion of content providing news or information.
STEAM-SASHA: a novel approach for blood- and fat-suppressed native T1 measurement in the right ventricular myocardium
Authors: Roehl Malte , Conway Miriam , Ghonim Sarah , Ferreira Pedro F. , Nielles-Vallespin Sonia , Babu-Narayan Sonya V. , Pennell Dudley J. , Gatehouse Peter D. , Scott Andrew D.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The excellent blood and fat suppression of stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) can be combined with saturation recovery single-shot acquisition (SASHA) in a novel STEAM-SASHA sequence for right ventricular (RV) native T1 mapping.

Materials and methods

STEAM-SASHA splits magnetization preparation over two cardiac cycles, nulling blood signal and allowing fat signal to decay. Breath-hold T1 mapping was performed in a T1 phantom and twice in 10 volunteers using STEAM-SASHA and a modified Look-Locker sequence at peak systole at 3T. T1 was measured in 3 RV regions, the septum and left ventricle (LV).

Results

In phantoms, MOLLI under-estimated while STEAM-SASHA over-estimated T1, on average by 3.0% and 7.0% respectively, although at typical 3T myocardial T1 (T1 > 1200 ms) STEAM-SASHA was more accurate. In volunteers, T1 was higher using STEAM-SASHA than MOLLI in the LV and septum (p = 0.03, p = 0.006, respectively), but lower in RV regions (p > 0.05). Inter-study, inter-observer and intra-observer coefficients of variation in all regions were < 15%. Blood suppression was excellent with STEAM-SASHA and noise floor effects were minimal.

Discussion

STEAM-SASHA provides accurate and reproducible T1 in the RV with excellent blood and fat suppression. STEAM-SASHA has potential to provide new insights into pathological changes in the RV in future studies.
Terrestrial laser scanning vs. manual methods for assessing complex forest stand structure: a comparative analysis on plenter forests
Authors: Wardius Yannik , Hein Sebastian
Published: January 2024

In continuous cover forestry, plenter silviculture is regarded as an elaborated system for optimizing the sustainable production of high-quality timber maintaining a constant but heterogeneous canopy. Its complexity necessitates high silvicultural expertise and a detailed assessment of forest stand structural variables. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) can offer reliable techniques for long-term tree mapping, volume calculation, and stand variables assessment in complex forest structures. We conducted surveys using both automated TLS and conventional manual methods (CMM) on two plots with contrasting silvicultural regimes within the Black Forest, Germany. Variations in automated tree detection and stand variables were greater between different TLS surveys than with CMM. TLS detected an average of 523 tree stems per hectare, while CMM counted 516. Approximately 9.6% of trees identified with TLS were commission errors, with 6.5% of CMM trees being omitted using TLS. Basal area per hectare was slightly higher in TLS (38.9 m3) than in CMM (38.2 m3). However, CMM recorded a greater standing volume (492.7 m3) than TLS (440.5 m3). The discrepancy in stand volume between methods was primarily due to TLS underestimating tree height, especially for taller trees. DBH bias was minor at 1 cm between methods. Repeated TLS inventories successfully matched an average of 424 tree positions per hectare. While TLS adequately characterizes complex plenter forest structures, we propose enhancing this methodology with personal laser scanning to optimize crown coverage and efficiency and direct volume measurements for increased accuracy of wood volume estimations. Additionally, utilizing 3D point cloud data-derived metrics, such as structural complexity indices, can further enhance plenter forest management.
Covid-19 vaccination intentions and uptake pre- and post-vaccine availability: a cross-sectional comparison of theory of planned behavior, anticipated regret, and optimistic bias
Authors: Wolff Katharina
Published: January 2024

Aim

Vaccination hesitancy threatens herd immunity and reduces the chances of overcoming pandemics such as the recent Covid-19 pandemic. The present investigation looked at psychological predictors of Covid-19 vaccination intention and vaccination uptake.

Subject and methods

Two representative Norwegian samples (collected in 2020, N = 1003, and 2022, N = 1000) filled in online questionnaires assessing variables of the theory of planned behavior (attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control) as well as optimistic bias and anticipated regret.

Results

Results showed that these variables could explain 69% of the variance in vaccination intentions and 41% of the variance in vaccination uptake. Significant predictors in both samples include attitudes, social norms within the family, perceived behavioral capability, and higher anticipated regret for not getting vaccinated. Intentions were also predicted by lower anticipated regret for getting vaccinated, and vaccination uptake was additionally predicted by older age and lower perceived behavioral autonomy. Optimistic bias did not predict intentions to get vaccinated or vaccination uptake.

Conclusion

Interventions designed to increase vaccination uptake should focus on attitudes, norms, perceived behavioral control, anticipated regret, and possibly altruistic motivations.
Cryogenic Fiber-coupled Electro-optic Characterization Platform for High-speed Photodiodes
Authors: Priyadarshi Shekhar , Tian Hao , Fernandez Scarioni Alexander , Wolter Silke , Kieler Oliver , Kohlmann Johannes , Nissilä Jaani , Bieler Mark
Published: January 2024

We have developed a cryogenic characterization platform for ultrafast photodiodes, whose time domain responses are extracted by electro-optic sampling using femtosecond laser pulses in a pump-probe configuration. The excitation of the photodiodes with the pump beam and the electro-optic sampling crystals with the probe beam are realized in a fully fiber-coupled manner. This allows us to use the characterization platform at different temperatures, ranging from cryogenic to room temperature. As an application example, we characterize the time-domain response of commercial p-i-n photodiodes with a nominal bandwidth of 20 GHz and 60 GHz at temperatures of 4 K and 300 K and in a large parameter range of photocurrent and reverse bias. For these photodiodes, we detect frequency components up to approximately 250 GHz, while the theoretical bandwidth of our sampling method exceeds 1 THz. Our measurements demonstrate a significant excitation power and temperature dependence of the photodiodes’ ultrafast time responses, reflecting, most likely, changes in carrier mobilities and electric field screening. Since our system is an ideal tool to characterize and optimize the response of fast photodiodes at cryogenic temperatures, it has a direct impact on applications in superconducting quantum technology such as the enhancement of optical links to superconducting qubits and quantum-accurate waveform generators.
Comparing the teaching quality of alternatively certified teachers and traditionally certified teachers: findings from a large-scale study
Authors: Lucksnat Christin , Richter Eric , Henschel Sofie , Hoffmann Lars , Schipolowski Stefan , Richter Dirk
Published: January 2024

The present study investigates whether alternatively and traditionally certified teachers differ in their teaching quality. We conducted doubly latent multilevel analysis using a large-scale dataset with student ratings on the quality of instruction provided by 1550 traditionally and 135 alternatively certified secondary school mathematics teachers in Germany. Findings show no evidence of differences in teaching quality between alternatively and traditionally certified teachers. Independent of the type of certification, novice teachers scored lower on classroom management than experienced teachers. Findings suggest that beginning teachers—whether alternatively or traditionally certified—need to be better prepared for classroom management before starting to teach.
Miscevic and the Stages Defence
Authors: Häggqvist Sören
Published: January 2024

This contribution examines Miscevic’s defence against restrictionist X-phi, based on his view that thought experiments exhibit a large number of typical stages. On Miscevic’s view, the epistemic threats identified by proponents of the negative program in X-phi may be countered or ameliorated in various ways at various stages. I argue that the defence he offers is insufficient to counter the arguments by in particular Machery.
Growth speed of large brain metastases between diagnostic and radiosurgical planning MRI and predictors of rapid tumor growth
Authors: Takata Shoko , Kosen Kazuhisa , Matsumoto Akira , Tanabe Motoko , Itaya Takayoshi , Asayama Yoshiki
Published: January 2024

Purpose

We aimed to assess volumetric changes of large brain metastases (≥ 2 cm) between their diagnosis and planning for treatment with fractionated stereotactic radiation surgery (fSRS). Predictors of rapid tumor growth were also analyzed.

Materials and methods

One hundred nine patients harboring 126 large brain metastases were retrospectively evaluated. Tumor characteristics were evaluated on diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) and MRI performed when planning fSRS (pMRI). Average tumor growth rate and percentage growth rate were calculated. Predictors of rapid growth (percentage growth rate > 5%) were determined using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Both tumor diameter and volume were significantly larger on pMRI than on dMRI (P < 0.001). Median tumor percentage growth rate was 2.6% (range, − 10.8–43.3%). Eighty-eight tumors (70%) were slow-growing (percentage growth rate < 5%) and 38 (30%) grew rapidly (percentage growth rate ≥ 5%). Major peritumoral edema and no steroids were predictors of rapid tumor growth.

Conclusion

Large brain metastases can grow considerably between the time of diagnosis and the time of fSRS treatment planning. We recommend the time between dMRI and fSRS treatment initiation be as short as possible.
Ethical dilemmas and professional judgment as a pathway to inclusion and equity in mathematics teaching
Authors: Roos Helena , Bagger Anette
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on ethical dilemmas that arise in moments of inclusion and equity in mathematics teaching and how they might be tackled through teachers’ professional judgment. Skovsmose’s inclusive landscapes of investigation approach was used to design the study and to collect teachers’ joint reflections on moments of inclusion and equity in their teaching. Ethical dilemmas and professional judgment were the analytical foci for a qualitative thematic content analysis. Three explorative workshops were held with two teams of teachers from two schools in Sweden. The analysis identified three themes of ethical dilemma, and ways in which these were responded to by teachers’ professional judgment: (1) dilemmas of diversity and acting justly; (2) dilemmas of resources and allocating them fairly; (3) dilemmas of values and recognising diversity. We conclude that mathematics teachers’ professional judgments involve showing bravery, going outside of the norm, negotiating values and duties, listening to the students, and throughout this, engaging in collegial learning in the best interests of the learner.
Chronisch nicht bakterielle Osteomyelitis im Kindesalter
Authors: Skrabl-Baumgartner Andrea
Published: January 2024

Die „Chronisch nicht bakterielle Osteomyelitis“ (CNO) ist eine wichtige Differentialdiagnose bei Kindern mit chronischen Knochenschmerzen. Kennzeichen sind spontan auftretende entzündliche Knochenläsionen, ohne Nachweis eines infektiösen Agens. Die Erkrankung wird den Autoinflammationserkrankungen zugerechnet. Die Knochenläsionen können unifokal oder multifokal auftreten. Bevorzugt betroffen sind lange Röhrenknochen, Wirbelsäule, Schulter- und Beckengürtel. Begleitende Gelenksentzündungen und weitere Organmanifestationen, insbesondere der Haut, kommen vor.

Die Diagnosestellung kann herausfordernd sein und erfordert den sorgfältigen Ausschluss wichtiger Differentialdiagnosen, einschließlich Malignome. Die Indikation zur Knochenbiopsie sollte in unklaren Fällen großzügig gestellt werden. Laborchemische Biomarker stehen derzeit routinemäßig nicht zur Verfügung. Radiologischer Goldstandard ist die Magnetresonanztomografie (MRT). Zur Ganzkörperdarstellung ist das Ganzkörper-MRT der Skelett-Szintigrafie überlegen. Therapeutisch stehen nicht steroidalen Antirheumatika, kurzfristig eingesetzte Steroide, TNF-Blocker und Bisphosphonate zur Verfügung. Bei frühzeitiger Diagnose und adäquater Therapie ist die Prognose in den meisten Fällen günstig. Andernfalls drohen schwere Einschränkungen der Lebensqualität und bleibende Behinderung.
Angiologische Diagnostik und Behandlungsmöglichkeiten für entzündliche Gefäßerkrankungen
Authors: Jud P.
Published: January 2024

Vaskulitiden stellen seltene entzündliche Gefäßerkrankungen meist autoimmuner Genese dar. In den letzten Jahren wurden zu einigen Vaskulitiden neue Klassifikationskriterien und Therapieleitlinien publiziert, weil in der Diagnostik neue Modalitäten und in der Behandlung neue Medikamente zur Anwendung kommen. Ebenso gibt es zunehmende Erkenntnisse über kardiovaskuläre Folgekomplikationen bei Patienten/-innen mit Vaskulitiden. Bei Großgefäßvaskulitiden, wie der Riesenzellarteriitis und der Takayasu-Arteriitis, werden zunehmend radiologische Untersuchungen zur Diagnostik eingesetzt, während in der Abklärung von Kleingefäßvaskulitiden weiterhin Laborparameter und Biopsien einen wichtigen Stellenwert besitzen. Die Therapie von Vaskulitiden umfasst gegenwärtig vor allem den Einsatz diverser immunsuppressiver Medikamente, jedoch können auch Revaskularisationsmaßnahmen großer und mittelgroßer Gefäße notwendig sein. Auch sollten begleitende kardiovaskuläre Risikofaktoren der Patienten/-innen adäquat behandelt werden.
Charakterisierung kreativer Bearbeitungen offener Aufgaben von jungen Schulkindern
Authors: Bruhn Svenja
Published: January 2024

Eine zeitgemäße Aufgabe des Mathematikunterrichts ist, dass alle Schülerinnen und Schüler bei der Bearbeitung offener Aufgaben ihre Kreativität entfalten können. Konkret bedeutet dies, dass sie ihre Denkflüssigkeit, Flexibilität und Originalität entwickeln sollen. Dabei zeigen erste Studien, dass auch Vor- und Grundschulkinder aufgrund ihrer Offenheit im Denken und geringen Beeinflussung von erlernten (algorithmischen) Bearbeitungsweisen beim Bearbeiten mathematischer Aufgaben kreativ werden können. Doch inwiefern lassen sich Aufgabenbearbeitungen junger Schulkinder hinsichtlich ihrer individuellen mathematischen Kreativität charakterisieren? In diesem Beitrag wird die Kreativität von 18 Erstklässlerinnen und Erstklässlern, die sie bei der Bearbeitung zweier offener Aufgaben mit arithmetischem Inhalt zeigen, in den Fokus gerückt. Die Analyse der kreativen Aufgabenbearbeitungen mit sowohl kategorienbildenden als auch häufigkeitsstatistischen Methoden zeigte, dass alle Mathematiklernenden kreativ wurden. Konkret ließ sich die Denkflüssigkeit, Flexibilität und Originalität der Lernenden differenziert über die Erstellung von Kontinuen charakterisieren, welche die qualitative Spannweite der einzelnen kreativen Fähigkeiten der Erstklässlerinnen und Erstklässler abbilden. Diese Erkenntnisse können Forschenden (und perspektivisch auch Mathematiklehrkräften) als Ausgangspunkt für die Beobachtung und Entfaltung der individuellen mathematischen Kreativität von Schülerinnen und Schülern bei der Bearbeitung offener Aufgaben dienen.
Modeling of geophysical derived parameters for groundwater potential zonation using GIS-based multi-criteria conceptual model
Authors: Bayode Sunday , Mogaji Kehinde Anthony , Egbeyemi Olakunle
Published: January 2024

This study modeled geophysical derived parameters and multi-critically synthesized their themes based on geospatial and analytical hierarchy processes (AHP) approaches for groundwater potentiality prediction mapping. These methodologies were investigated in a typical hard rock geologic terrain, southwestern, Nigeria. Considering the spatially acquired 96 vertical electrical sounding (VES) data in the area, geoelectric sections revealing five subsurface layers including the topsoil, laterite, weathered layer, fractured basement and fresh basement rock were produced mindful of the 2-D resistivity structure subsurface imaging data interpreted results. The correlative results of the 2-D resistivity structure images and VES data interpretation results delineated major low resistivity vertical discontinuity typical of fractured zones characterized with width range of 25–40 m, while the depth vary from about 40 to > 60 m. Themes of groundwater potential conditioning factors (GPCFs), namely: regolith, bedrock relief, hydraulic head, coefficient of anisotropy, aquifer resistivity and aquifer thickness were prepared from the re-analyzed hydrogeological and geophysical data. The produced themes were appropriately weighted in the context of AHP data mining technique. The groundwater potential prediction index (GPPI) mathematical modeling equation for the area was established via applying the weight linear average algorithm involving the AHP weightage results. The synthesized results of the applied GPPI model equation on the GPCFs’ hydrogeologic themes give GPPI values in the range 1.59–3.65 for the study area. The geospatial modeling of the GPPI estimated values result produced groundwater potential prediction index map for the area. The produced GPPI model map zoned the area into low (1.59–2.30), medium (2.30–2.61), medium–high (2.61–3.02) and high (3.02–3.65) groundwater potential classes. The area analysis of the GPPI map indicates that more than 70% of the study area has ‘low to medium groundwater potential. The GPPI map result verification using reacting operating characteristics technique results gave 86% and 81% success and prediction rates, respectively. The findings of this study are useful to water managers and decision-makers for locating appropriate positions of new productive wells in the study area and other areas with similar geologic settings.
Criminal Justice and Artificial Intelligence: How Should we Assess the Performance of Sentencing Algorithms?
Authors: Ryberg Jesper
Published: January 2024

Artificial intelligence is increasingly permeating many types of high-stake societal decision-making such as the work at the criminal courts. Various types of algorithmic tools have already been introduced into sentencing. This article concerns the use of algorithms designed to deliver sentence recommendations. More precisely, it is considered how one should determine whether one type of sentencing algorithm (e.g., a model based on machine learning) would be ethically preferable to another type of sentencing algorithm (e.g., a model based on old-fashioned programming). Whether the implementation of sentencing algorithms is ethically desirable obviously depends upon various questions. For instance, some of the traditional issues that have received considerable attention are algorithmic biases and lack of transparency. However, the purpose of this article is to direct attention to a further challenge that has not yet been considered in the discussion of sentencing algorithms. That is, even if is assumed that the traditional challenges concerning biases, transparency, and cost-efficiency have all been solved or proven insubstantial, there will be a further serious challenge associated with the comparison of sentencing algorithms; namely, that we do not yet possess an ethically plausible and applicable criterion for assessing how well sentencing algorithms are performing.
Diagnostic gap due to missing patch test allergens—status quo and possible scenarios for mitigation
Authors: Mahler Vera
Published: January 2024

According to European Directive 2001/83/EC, test and therapeutic allergens are medicinal products in all Member States of the European Union. This applies equally to prick test and to patch test (PT) allergens (haptens). All test allergens commercially marketed in Germany are finished medicinal products requiring marketing authorization (MA). Currently, 211 PT substances are authorized in Germany, and an additional 59 are in an ongoing MA process and are marketable under a transitional provision until a decision on MA is made. The regulatory guidance (CMDh/399/2019) of the Co-ordination Group for Mutual Recognition and Decentralized Procedures—Human (CMDh), published in July 2020, specifies the regulatory requirements for different allergen products. Due to differences in origin and exposure, use, mode of action, and safety risks, the guideline clearly differentiates between products with active ingredients of biological origin (allergen extracts from natural source materials) and products with active ingredients of non-biological origin (hapten-based PT substances). Currently, guideline-compliant patch testing is hampered by the lack of numerous commercial PT allergens from the standard and special test series. Background and possible scenarios for mitigation are presented here.
Disentangled variational auto-encoder enhanced by counterfactual data for debiasing recommendation
Authors: Guo Yupu , Cai Fei , Zheng Jianming , Zhang Xin , Chen Honghui
Published: January 2024

Recommender system always suffers from various recommendation biases, seriously hindering its development. In this light, a series of debias methods have been proposed in the recommender system, especially for two most common biases, i.e., popularity bias and amplified subjective bias. However, existing debias methods usually concentrate on correcting a single bias. Such single-functionality debiases neglect the bias-coupling issue in which the recommended items are collectively attributed to multiple biases. Besides, previous work cannot tackle the lacking supervised signals brought by sparse data, yet which has become a commonplace in the recommender system. In this work, we introduce a disentangled debias variational auto-encoder framework (DB-VAE) to address the single-functionality issue as well as a counterfactual data enhancement method to mitigate the adverse effect due to the data sparsity. In specific, DB-VAE first extracts two types of extreme items only affected by a single bias based on the collier theory, which are, respectively, employed to learn the latent representation of corresponding biases, thereby realizing the bias decoupling. In this way, the exact unbiased user representation can be learned by these decoupled bias representations. Furthermore, the data generation module employs Pearl’s framework to produce massive counterfactual data to help fully train the model, making up the lacking supervised signals due to the sparse data. Extensive experiments on three real-world data sets demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed model. Specifically, our model outperforms the best baseline by 19.5% in terms of Recall@20 and 9.5% in terms of NDCG@100 in the best scenario. Besides, the counterfactual data can further improve DB-VAE, especially on the data set with low sparsity.
Tailoring MXene Thickness and Functionalization for Enhanced Room-Temperature Trace NO2 Sensing
Authors: Hilal Muhammad , Yang Woochul , Hwang Yongha , Xie Wanfeng
Published: January 2024

In this study, precise control over the thickness and termination of Ti3C2TX MXene flakes is achieved to enhance their electrical properties, environmental stability, and gas-sensing performance. Utilizing a hybrid method involving high-pressure processing, stirring, and immiscible solutions, sub-100 nm MXene flake thickness is achieved within the MXene film on the Si-wafer. Functionalization control is achieved by defunctionalizing MXene at 650 °C under vacuum and H2 gas in a CVD furnace, followed by refunctionalization with iodine and bromine vaporization from a bubbler attached to the CVD. Notably, the introduction of iodine, which has a larger atomic size, lower electronegativity, reduce shielding effect, and lower hydrophilicity (contact angle: 99°), profoundly affecting MXene. It improves the surface area (36.2 cm2 g−1), oxidation stability in aqueous/ambient environments (21 days/80 days), and film conductivity (749 S m−1). Additionally, it significantly enhances the gas-sensing performance, including the sensitivity (0.1119 Ω ppm−1), response (0.2% and 23% to 50 ppb and 200 ppm NO2), and response/recovery times (90/100 s). The reduced shielding effect of the –I-terminals and the metallic characteristics of MXene enhance the selectivity of I-MXene toward NO2. This approach paves the way for the development of stable and high-performance gas-sensing two-dimensional materials with promising prospects for future studies.
Explicit zero-free regions for the Riemann zeta-function
Authors: Mossinghoff Michael J. , Trudgian Timothy S. , Yang Andrew
Published: January 2024

We prove that the Riemann zeta-function$$\zeta (\sigma + it)$$ζ(σ+it)has no zeros in the region$$\sigma \ge 1 - 1/(55.241(\log |t|)^{2/3} (\log \log |t|)^{1/3})$$σ≥1-1/(55.241(log|t|)2/3(loglog|t|)1/3)for$$|t|\ge 3$$|t|≥3. In addition, we improve the constant in the classical zero-free region, showing that the zeta-function has no zeros in the region$$\sigma \ge 1 - 1/(5.558691\log |t|)$$σ≥1-1/(5.558691log|t|)for$$|t|\ge 2$$|t|≥2. We also provide new bounds that are useful for intermediate values of$$|t|$$|t|. Combined, our results improve the largest known zero-free region within the critical strip for$$3\cdot 10^{12} \le |t|\le \exp (64.1)$$3·1012≤|t|≤exp(64.1)and$$|t| \ge \exp (1000)$$|t|≥exp(1000).
The Challenge of Accounting for the Moderator Effect of Risk Exposure on the Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Treatments for Youth
Authors: Arjona Raquel Nogueira , Ungar Michael
Published: January 2024

Although many positive psychology interventions like mindfulness-based treatments (MBTs) for youth have been used with a wide array of risk exposed populations (children living in poverty, victims of violence, displaced persons, children with disabilities, etc.), the efficacy of MBTs with regard to the level and domain of risk exposure has been largely overlooked. This oversight contributes to a perception of positive psychology as being decontextualized. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to better understand how a young person’s level and domain of risk exposure influences the efficacy of MBTs. Published studies were included if participants were children or adolescents, were RCTs or cluster RCTs, and focused on the effect of an MBT or an MBT component. Specifically, 58 studies were qualitatively analyzed and 42 were quantitatively analyzed. The qualitative analysis evidenced a lack of objectivity in the assessment of risk exposure, with many papers providing very little or no detail on participants’ level or domain of risk exposure (whether threats to psychological wellbeing originate with the individual’s biology or cognitions, or the social, built or natural environment). Our quantitative analysis showed that MBTs significantly improved main outcomes relative to the control conditions, with a small-to-moderate effect size. Where it was possible to identify the level of risk exposure, we found that MBTs positively moderated treatment response, with better response among those participants with a higher level of risk. We conclude that future Positive Psychology research will need to better account for risk exposure if the discipline is to improve our understanding of which populations benefit most from interventions that promote mindfulness.
The use of color-changeable chewing gum in evaluating food masticability
Authors: Yashiro Toshihiro , Wada Shinichi , Kawate Nobuyuki
Published: January 2024

Purpose

We assess masticatory performance using color-changeable chewing gum, which shifts from yellow-green to red upon chewing. Previous studies used a colorimeter to reveal the cut-off a* values of the gum’s color (a* represents the degree of color between red and green) to determine which foods are masticable (masticable meat, masticable soft side dish, and inadequate masticatory performance). Since a more convenient method is required, we examined the validity and reliability of visual measurement using a color scale to indicate masticable foods by observing the chewing gum’s color.

Methods

Fifty patients (male, 48%), aged ≥ 65 (mean, 82.6) years were enrolled. Using color-changeable chewing gum, three groups were formed according to the cut-off a* values: masticable meat, masticable soft side dish, and inadequate masticatory performance. For the color scale classification, one physiatrist and one dietitian simultaneously, individually, and visually determined the chewing gum color and classified it into one of the three groups. Criterion-related validity was evaluated using the kappa coefficient of agreement between the results from the two methods. Inter-rater reliability was examined using the kappa coefficient of agreement between the three groups judged by the two raters on a color scale.

Results

The kappa coefficients of the agreement for the classifications were 0.908 and 0.909 for the physiatrist and dietitian, respectively. The inter-rater agreement between two raters on the color scale was 0.938 for the kappa coefficient.

Conclusion

The color scale indicated masticable foods without a colorimeter. This method can be useful in older adult facilities and homes.
Impact of remittances on domestic investment in West African countries: the mediating role of financial development
Authors: Keho Yaya
Published: January 2024

Several studies have analyzed the effect of remittances and financial development on growth or investment with little attention on their interactive effect. This study examines the relationship between remittances, financial development and domestic investment under different levels of financial development in a panel of 10 Sub-Saharan African countries. The research uses data covering the period 1975–2019 and employs panel Pooled Mean Group estimator. The results reveal that both remittances and financial development have positive effects on domestic investment. The positive interactive effect lends credence to that remittances and financial development act as complements in enhancing domestic investment. This suggests that financial sector is a strong transmission channel through which remittances positively affect investment in West African countries. The results further reveal that there exists a threshold effect of financial development in the remittances and investment nexus. More precisely, beyond a threshold of domestic credit to the private sector of about 21% of GDP, there is a positive and significant relationship between remittances and investment rate, while this relationship is negative under the threshold. It is, therefore, recommended that West African countries should adopt appropriate policies to increase their financial sector and lower transaction costs so that gains from remittances can effectively be channeled into investment and growth. In sum, issue of the mediating role of financial development needs to be taken into consideration in the examination of the nexus between remittances and investment.
A role for adverse childhood experiences and depression in preeclampsia
Authors: Myers Monica , Gumusoglu Serena , Brandt Debra , Stroud Amy , Hunter Stephen K. , Vignato Julie , Nuckols Virginia , Pierce Gary L. , Santillan Mark K. , Santillan Donna A.
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a measure of childhood adversity and are associated with life-long morbidity. The impacts of ACEs on peripartum health including preeclampsia, a common and dangerous hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, remain unclear, however. Therefore, we aimed to determine ACE association with peripartum psychiatric health and prevalence of preeclampsia using a case–control design.

Methods:

Clinical data were aggregated and validated using a large, intergenerational knowledgebase developed at our institution. Depression symptoms were measured by standard clinical screeners: the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). ACEs were assessed via survey. Scores were compared between participants with (N= 32) and without (N= 46) prior preeclampsia.

Results:

Participants with ACE scores ≥4 had significantly greater odds of preeclampsia than those with scores ≤ 3 (adjusted odds ratio = 6.71, 95% confidence interval:1.13–40.00;p= 0.037). Subsequent speculative analyses revealed that increased odds of preeclampsia may be driven by increased childhood abuse and neglect dimensions of the ACE score. PHQ-9 scores (3.73 vs. 1.86,p= 0.03), EPDS scores (6.38 vs. 3.71,p= 0.01), and the incidence of depression (37.5% vs. 23.9%,p= 0.05) were significantly higher in participants with a history of preeclampsia versus controls.

Conclusions:

Childhood sets the stage for life-long health. Our findings suggest that ACEs may be a risk factor for preeclampsia and depression, uniting the developmental origins of psychiatric and obstetric risk.
Theoretical and experimental study on cutting temperature in the presence of drilling fluid during ice-core drilling
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Cao Pinlu , Wang Han , Yang He , Yin Qilei
Published: January 2024

Warm ice at temperatures close to the pressure melting point is often encountered in deep ice-core drilling. The heat generated by rotary cutting can melt ice chips, which seriously threatens the safety of drilling if the chips refreeze on the drill bit or barrel. Lowering the cutting heat is an effective method to reduce the melting of ice chips. In this study, a general theoretical model was established based on heat transfer theory and the cutting mechanism to calculate and analyze the cutter temperature during the circulation of the drilling fluid. The model was validated by a series of experiments, which demonstrated reasonable agreement between the calculated data and experimental results, with a maximum error of <16%. The factors that contribute to the rise in the cutter temperature during warm ice drilling were investigated. Results suggest that the drilling fluid has excellent cooling performance, and its type and flow rate have minimal impact on the cutter temperature. To mitigate the cutter temperature rise, maximizing the rake angle and thermal conductivity of the cutter, while minimizing the rotation speed of the drill bit, cutting depth, cutter width and friction coefficient between the ice and cutter is recommended.
Estimating the Hausdorff measure using recurrence
Authors: Pawelec Łukasz
Published: January 2024

We show a new method of estimating the Hausdorff measure of a set from below. The method requires computing the subsequent closest return times of a point to itself.
Genetic aspects of Wood's lactation curve parameters in Jersey crossbred cattle using Bayesian approach
Authors: Rahman Mokidur , Baneh Hasan , Gayari Indrajit , Karunakaran Muthupalani , Raja Thiruvothur Venkatesan , Deb Sitangsu Mohan , Mandal Ajoy
Published: January 2024

The study was undertaken to estimate the genetic parameters of lactation curve parameters of Wood's function in Jersey crossbred cattle using the Bayesian approach. Data on 33,906 fortnightly test day milk yields of 1,718 lactation records of Jersey crossbred cows, maintained at the ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute in West Bengal, were collected over a period of 40 years. The lactation curve parameters including ‘a’ (initial milk yield after calving), ‘b’ (ascending slope up to peak yield) and ‘c’ (descending slope after peak yield) and lactation curve traits, peak yield (ymax), time of peak yield (tmax) and persistency of milk yield (P) of individual cow for each lactation were estimated using the incomplete gamma function (Wood's model) by fitting the Gauss–Newton algorithm as an iteration method using PROC NLIN procedure of SAS 9.3. Variance components and genetic parameters of lactation curve parameters/traits were estimated by a repeatability animal model using the Bayesian approach. Estimates of heritabilities were found to be 0.18 ± 0.05, 0.09 ± 0.03 and 0.11 ± 0.04 for parameters ‘a’, ‘b’ and ‘c’, respectively and 0.24 ± 0.05, 0.12 ± 0.04, and 0.15 ± 0.05 for ymax, tmax and P, respectively. Repeatability estimates were 0.31 ± 0.03, 0.21 ± 0.04 and 0.30 ± 0.04 for parameters ‘a’, ‘b’ and ‘c’ respectively and 0.39 ± 0.03, 0.24 ± 0.03 and 0.37 ± 0.03 for ymax, tmax and p, respectively. Genetic correlations among lactation curve parameters/traits ranged from −0.75 to 0.95. Existence of genetic correlations among lactation curve parameters/traits indicated substantial genetic and physiological relationships among lactation curve parameters/traits of Jersey crossbred cattle.