bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing the prediction quality of artificial neural network–based optimisation approaches for the sheet moulding compound compression moulding process by means of targeted expansion of training data
Authors: Hopmann Christian , Hadenfeldt Marie , Neuhaus Jonas , Foerges Dominik
Published: October 2024

The resulting fibre orientation when pressing Sheet Moulding Compound (SMC) is essentially dependent on the position and geometry of the resin mat in the mould. It is desirable to adapt the fibre orientation as best as possible to best withstand the applied load. The relationship between the position and geometry of the resin mat and the deflection of the final part under a specific load can be mapped using a numerical simulation; nevertheless, an optimisation is not feasible based on the simulation in an economically reasonable time frame due to the required computing time. For this reason, a metamodel based on an ensemble of artificial neural networks (ANN) was created on the basis of the simulation data, and an optimisation based on these ANN was set up. However, the investigations show that the minimal deflections found on the basis of the metamodel through optimisation have large deviations compared to the simulation. This leads to the hypothesis that the applied optimisation finds weak points of the metamodel instead of actual minima. From this hypothesis, an extension approach of the data set on which the metamodel is based by the weak points found is derived and implemented. This is done in an iterative process. The results show that the goal of increasing the prediction quality of the optimisation approach is achieved by the developed approach. The root mean square error (RMSE) could be reduced from the original deflection of 25 to 7 mm, which corresponds to a reduction of 72%. It is shown that the presented approach is successful in increasing prediction quality; nevertheless, further measures are needed to reach decent prediction quality.
Towards Frugal Industrial AI: a framework for the development of scalable and robust machine learning models in the shop floor
Authors: Martínez-Arellano Giovanna , Ratchev Svetan
Published: October 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) among other digital technologies promise to deliver the next level of process efficiency of manufacturing systems. Although these solutions such as machine learning (ML) based condition monitoring and quality inspection are becoming popular, these work under very limited conditions. Solutions do not scale-up in the real environment, where there is a mix of manufacturing equipment, where the quality and quantity of data available changes from machine to machine, or where the process changes, changing the distribution of data (i.e. concept drift). This is particularly challenging in highly reconfigurable and flexible environments. Having to develop machine learning models from scratch every single time is not cost-effective, time-consuming, requires expert knowledge that is typically not available in the manufacturing environment as well as can be challenging when data is not available in high volumes. Model robustness, reusability, adaptability and life cycle management are the keys to scale-up this technology in the manufacturing industry. In this work, a conceptual framework to enable simple and robust ML model development for the shop floor is introduced. Referred here as Frugal Industrial AI, the approach takes advantage of existing models and their context to build more robust ones in a data-efficient manner. Using a semantic knowledge base of how to construct these models for different manufacturing applications and semi-automating the development or reuse of solutions through semantic similarity, it is demonstrated how models can be developed in a more streamlined way. In addition, it is demonstrated how capturing process context information is important for the effective reuse of existing models through continual learning. This is key to building more robust ML solutions that can deal with real changing manufacturing environments, avoiding retraining from scratch as well as enabling the non-expert to use AI effectively on the shop floor.
Designing the future of coopetition: An IIoT approach for empowering SME networks
Authors: da Silva Agostinho , Marques Cardoso Antonio J.
Published: October 2024

In an era where Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) redefine the boundaries of competition and collaboration, the concept of coopetition — simultaneous competition and cooperation — emerges as a strategic imperative for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This study presents the design and development of an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) artefact designed to enable competition among SMEs. Bringing the Service-Dominant Logic (S-D logic) foundations to IIoT, a Design Science Research (DSR) approach was employed. This approach facilitated the integration of design theory with practical problem-solving, creating the Coopetition IIoT-based System. The primary goal of this solution is to augment the dynamics of coopetition networks, with a particular focus on SMEs. The practical evaluation of the Coopetition IIoT-based System is assessed through a prototype evaluation by experts representing twenty-four manufacturing stone SMEs, a crucial sector in the Portuguese economy. The feedback received was highly positive, indicating a positive evaluation rate of 78.9%. This favourable response highlights the Coopetition IIoT-based System’s proficiency in fostering simultaneous competition and cooperation throughout the lifecycle of business opportunities in SME networks, thereby underscoring its potential as a facilitator of effective competition. Theoretically, this research enriches the application of S-D logic in coopetition networks and advances state-of-the-art IIoT systems. Practically, the Coopetition IIoT-based System demonstrates significant potential in boosting the competitiveness of SMEs in developed economies. Nonetheless, the ultimate efficacy of such IIoT systems will be best determined through real-world application and evaluation. Future research should concentrate on the real-case deployment and assessment of Coopetition IIoT-based Systems within coopetition networks.
Direct Excision of Malar Bags: Back to the Basics
Authors: Botti Giovanni , Botti Chiara , Fabbri Mariachiara , Mariani Marta , Murone Vittoria , Scucchi Benedetta , Serra Pietro Luciano
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The pursuit of periorbital rejuvenation to counteract signs of aging is a focal point in cosmetic surgery, with eyelid surgery being a prominent choice among patients. Addressing inferior blepharoplasty, especially in cases involving chronic malar edema, malar mounds, and festoons, presents unique challenges. The terminology and classification of these conditions vary, hindering effective management. In this study, we use the term “malar bags” to encompass the spectrum of fluid-associated mounds over the malar eminence.

Objectives

This study aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of direct excision as a surgical choice for treating the aesthetic concerns associated with malar bags.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 53 patients who underwent direct excision of malar bags between 2013 and 2023 at our clinic.

Results

No major complications were encountered, overall high level of satisfaction for both patients and surgeons.

Conclusion

Direct excision of malar bags proved to be a safe and effective technique, yielding satisfactory results in terms of both aesthetic outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Investigation and kinetics of hydrogel scaffold with sustained release ciprofloxacin hydrochloride
Authors: Abou-Okeil A. , Taha Ghada M.
Published: October 2024

Controlled drug delivery is the mechanism that determines the frequency of the drug as well as the side effect that can be occurred. Many approaches studied the encapsulation of the drug in a polymer matrix to achieve a controlled released drug by the effect crosslinking network. In this work, a loaded hydrogel with ciprofloxacin hydrochloride has been prepared as an incremental effect on the antibacterial properties. So, four formulations named, hydrogel 1, hydrogel 2, hydrogel 3, and hydrogel 4 were prepared using different polymers concentrations (chitosan, gelatin, iota carrageenan (IC), and glutaraldehyde as crosslinking agents) ciprofloxacin hydrochloride was used as a drug model. The obtained data revealed that the hydrogels prepared from chitosan/gelatin/IC hydrogels are porous and have interconnected microstructures. The hydrogels structure was evaluated by ATR-IR spectroscopy, EDX, Swelling rate, SEM, porosity, antibacterial properties as well as drug release and kinetics. The hydrogels fractured at stresses of 0.1665 to 0.0358 Kgf / mm2. The swelling rates (SR %) after 24 h. were 412%, 362%, 383%, 375% and 407% for of hydrogel 1, hydrogel 2, hydrogel 3, hydrogel 4 and ciprofloxacin hydrochloride loaded hydrogel 1, respectively. The porosity of the prepared hydrogels was increased as the concentration of IC increased from 72.4 to 78%. Loading of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride was confirmed by the presence of fluorine in the EDX measurement. The ciprofloxacin hydrochloride loaded hydrogel 1 has a sustained release of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride over a time of about 10 h. The first-order kinetic model is the best model for the release of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride from the prepared ciprofloxacin hydrochloride loaded hydrogel 1 with a regression coefficient (R2) of 0.9814. The unloaded samples of hydrogels had almost the same antibacterial properties regardless of the amount of IC. Loading the hydrogel with ciprofloxacin hydrochloride has an incremental effect on the antibacterial properties.
Metal nitrides as electrocatalysts in green ammonia synthesis
Authors: Januszewska-Kubsik A. , Podsiadło S. , Pudełko W. , Siekierski M.
Published: October 2024

Green ammonia is assumed to be an important part of the European hydrogen economy and one of the most important substrates of chemical industry. The future development of its manufacturing processes can be related to the electrocatalytic studies yielding in the development of the catalytic materials that would effectively break the nitrogen-nitrogen bond to successfully drive the N2RR—a process of molecular nitrogen electroreduction to ammonia. Molecular nitrogen is characterized with strong triple bond energies (942 kJ/mol) which leading into large dissociation energy of N2 (9,76 eV) and also large energy barrier of the first step of triple bond dissociation 410 kJ/mol (4,25 eV). Those large energies makes reduction to ammonia an extremely difficult task. Metal nitrides of d and f block became in interest due to their activity in ammonia production from molecular nitrogen and hydrogen. Practically all the transition elements occurs in one of the four types of crystalline structures: regular, regular face cantered, hexagonal and hexagonal close packed. The reactions of these metals with nitrogen (or ammonia) typically yields in nitride compounds of an identical type of crystalline structure as the initial metal. Dealing with single metal systems, their ternary counterparts and metal–metal nitride heterostructures, the presented review shows that nitrides are promising groups of electrocatalytic materials. Being property-prone to their internal structural features such as non-stoichiometry and correlated concentration of nitrogen vacancies, metal nitrides are a good candidate for joined investigations spanned between electrochemistry, inorganic chemistry and material engineering.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia and cleft lip and palate: looking for a common genetic etiology
Authors: Nord Petra , Ebanks Ashley H. , Peterson Petra , Iwarsson Erik , Harting Matthew T. , Burgos Carmen Mesas ,   For the Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Study Group
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) are inborn closure defects. Genetic factors in and outcomes for patients with both anomalies (CDH+CL/P) remain unclear. We aimed to investigate associated genetic aberrations, prevalence of, and outcomes for, CDH+CL/P.

Methods

Data from Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Study Group (CDHSG) registry were collected. CL/P prevalence in CDH patients was determined. Genetic abnormalities and additional malformations in CDH+CL/P were explored. Patient characteristics and outcomes were compared between CDH+CL/P and isolated CDH (CDH−) using Fisher’s Exact Test for categorical, and t-test or Mann–Whitney U-test for continuous, data. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Genetic anomalies in CDH+CL/P included trisomy 13, 8p23.1 deletion, and Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (4p16.3 deletion). CL/P prevalence in CDH was 0.7%. CDH+CL/P had lower survival rates than CDH−, a nearly fourfold risk of death within 7 days, were less supported with extracorporeal life support (ECLS), had higher non-repair rates, and survivors had longer length of hospital stay.

Conclusion

Genetic anomalies, e.g. trisomy 13, 8p23.1 deletion, and Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome, are seen in patients with the combination of CDH and orofacial clefts. CL/P in CDH patients is rare and associated with poorer outcomes compared to CDH−, influenced by goals of care decision-making.
Is it really descemetocele? Morphology of extremely thin membrane that remained after severe corneal melting: a case report
Authors: Mohamed Yasser Helmy , Uematsu Masafumi , Kusano Mao , Kitaoka Takashi , Nishida Teruo
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to report transmission electron microscopic findings of a case with whole corneal descemetocele following infective corneal ulcer for the first time in literature. A 72-year-old male patient presented with infective corneal ulcer. After resolution of the infection, corneoscleral transplantation was performed. The excised very thin corneal membrane was processed for transmission electron microscopic examination. Transmission electron microscopic examination of the specimen revealed many layered structures that consisted of two different types of cells. The first type consisted of lighter staining polygonal cells, while the second consisted of elongated cells with relatively dense staining. All cells were connected with a large number of gap or adherens junctions with intercalation of the cell membranes of adjacent cells. A haphazard distribution of cytoplasmic microfilaments were also observed in all of the cell types. There was no evidence of the presence of endothelial cells throughout the specimen. There was also no evidence of Descemet membrane presence except for a small part adjacent to iris tissue that contained some melanosomes. Although we clinically diagnosed descemetocele, Descemet membrane was not present at the electron microscopic level, and thus, the expression “descemetocele” is inappropriate.
CO2 and CH4 Concentrations in Headwater Wetlands Influenced by Morphology and Changing Hydro-Biogeochemical Conditions
Authors: López Lloreda Carla , Maze James , Wardinski Katherine , Corline Nicholas , McLaughlin Daniel , Jones C. Nathan , Scott Durelle , Palmer Margaret , Hotchkiss Erin R.
Published: October 2024

Headwater wetlands are important sites for carbon storage and emissions. While local- and landscape-scale factors are known to influence wetland carbon biogeochemistry, the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of these factors limits our predictive understanding of wetland carbon dynamics. To address this issue, we examined relationships between carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) concentrations with wetland hydrogeomorphology, water level, and biogeochemical conditions. We sampled water chemistry and dissolved gases (CO2 and CH4) and monitored continuous water level at 20 wetlands and co-located upland wells in the Delmarva Peninsula, Maryland, every 1–3 months for 2 years. We also obtained wetland hydrogeomorphologic metrics at maximum inundation (area, perimeter, and volume). Wetlands in our study were supersaturated with CO2 (mean = 315 μM) and CH4 (mean = 15 μM), highlighting their potential role as carbon sources to the atmosphere. Spatial and temporal variability in CO2 and CH4 concentrations was high, particularly for CH4, and both gases were more spatially variable than temporally. We found that groundwater is a potential source of CO2 in wetlands and CO2 decreases with increased water level. In contrast, CH4 concentrations appear to be related to substrate and nutrient availability and to drying patterns over a longer temporal scale. At the landscape scale, wetlands with higher perimeter:area ratios and wetlands with higher height above the nearest drainage had higher CO2 and CH4 concentrations. Understanding the variability of CO2 and CH4 in wetlands, and how these might change with changing environmental conditions and across different wetland types, is critical to understanding the current and future role of wetlands in the global carbon cycle.
Adverse selection and consumer inertia: empirical evidence from the Dutch health insurance market
Authors: Croes Ramsis R. , Schut Frederik T. , Varkevisser Marco
Published: October 2024

This paper examines to what extent consumer inertia can reduce adverse selection in health insurance markets. To this end, we investigate consumer choice of deductible in the Dutch health insurance market over the period 2013–2018, using panel data based on a large random sample (266 k) of all insured individuals in the Netherlands. The Dutch health insurance market offers a unique setting for studying adverse selection, because during annual open enrollment periods all adults are free to choose an extra deductible up to 500 euro per year. By focusing on deductible choices of those who do not switch health plans, we are able to examine the ‘pure’ adverse selection effect (i.e., not distorted by other health plan attributes). We estimate a dynamic logit model to examine individuals’ deductible choice. We find evidence of adverse selection, as people with higher previous health care cost are substantially less likely to take up or keep a 500-euro deductible. We also find that adverse selection is counteracted by a high level of consumer inertia, as the average partial effect on deductible choice of the previous selected deductible level is much larger than the average partial effect of a change in health care costs.
Stochastic hazard assessment framework of landslide blocking river by depth-integrated continuum method and random field theory
Authors: Jiang Shui-Hua , Li Jian-Ping , Ma Guotao , Rezania Mohammad , Huang Jinsong
Published: October 2024

Landslide-induced barrier dams pose a threat to the safety of humans, livestock and nearby infrastructures. The efficient assessment of landslide blocking river is crucial for disaster prevention and mitigation solutions. This study proposes a novel stochastic assessment framework to evaluate the landslide blocking river through the prediction of their deposition depths and considering the heterogeneity of shear strength parameters on the potential sliding surface. The depth-integrated continuum method (DICM) is used to simulate the landslide runout process. Using an enhanced Karhunen-Loève expansion (KLE) method, the spatial variations in soil's shear strength parameters are modeled by random fields to incorporate the effects of soil's spatial heterogeneity on the landslide deposition pattern. Subsequently, the multi-response surrogate model is constructed to relate the random field variables to the deposition depths based on extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). To improve the performance of the surrogate model, principal component analysis (PCA) and sliced inverse regression (SIR) methods are employed for the dimension reduction of output and input variables, respectively. Furthermore, the algorithm for river blockage identification is developed to search for the deposition ridges. To demonstrate the capability of the stochastic assessment framework, an example of the first Baige landslide in Tibet, China is simulated, and the affected region and deposition depths of the landslide are predicted to calculate the probability of river damming. The presented methodology provides a practical means for improving the landslide blocking river prediction and new insights for early warning and risk mitigation.
“It’s [gambling] obviously not regulated that well”: insights into Aboriginal peoples’ views on gambling regulation in the Northern Territory of Australia
Authors: Gupta Himanshu , Tari-Keresztes Noemi , Aanundsen David , Smith James A.
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study is the first in-depth qualitative study that has provided insights into Aboriginal (All participants in this study identified as Aboriginal and thus we have not included any reference to the Torres Strait Islander peoples in this paper.) people’s views on current gambling policy and legislation in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia.

Subject and methods

In-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a targeted selection of participants. The sample comprised 29 participants, aged 18+ years, weekly and nonregular gamblers, and those negatively affected by others’ gambling. An open coding technique (a combination of inductive and deductive analyses) was used for data analysis. Appropriate ethics approval was also obtained.

Results

Participants described gambling as a revenue-generating product for the government and the gambling industry. Hence, their role in influencing the regulation of gambling for public benefit was debated. Participants provided practical suggestions that the government and the gambling industry could adopt to inform gambling regulation to minimise harm from gambling among Aboriginal people and the wider community in the NT. The suggestions included establishing stricter regulations relating to the licensing and opening hours of venues, limiting bet size and restricting the availability of gaming machines at venues. Participants also encouraged the reinstatement of mandatory formal dress codes at venues and the creation of health promotion resources such as advertisements and awareness campaigns tailored to the needs of the local Aboriginal people.

Conclusion

Both community-wide and targeted approaches are required to regulate and reduce gambling harm among Aboriginal people in the NT. Although both are important, having more explicit preventive approaches in place may eliminate the need for downstream interventions and strategies.
Remote Online-exam Dishonesty in Medical School during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Real-world Case with a Multi-method Approach
Authors: Pongchaikul Pisut , Vivithanaporn Pornpun , Somboon Nanthicha , Tantasiri Jitpisuth , Suwanlikit Thanyarat , Sukkul Amornrat , Banyen Taddaw , Prommahom Athinan , Pakakasama Samart , Ungkanont Artit
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted medical education, causing a shift towards online learning. However, this transition posed challenges in administering online assessments, particularly in proctoring and detecting academic misconduct. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of academic misconduct among medical students during remote online examinations using hierarchical clustering and comparing self-reported confessions and recorded video reviews. The results of the study confirmed the existence of academic misconduct in remote online examinations, as evidenced by both self-report and video footage review. Hierarchical clustering was able to predict academic misconduct with an accuracy rate of approximately 55%. These findings highlight the need for medical educators to develop and implement ethics and morality-focused courses to address the issues of dishonesty among medical students in online assessments. In conclusion, this study shed light on the challenges of remote online assessments in medical education, particularly in detecting academic misconduct. Using a data-driven approach to analyse the prevalence of academic misconduct, this work provided insights into the need for ethical and moral education in medical curricula, which can help address the dishonesty among medical students during online assessments.
In situ observation and numerical analysis of temperature gradient effects on growth velocity during directional solidification of silicon
Authors: Hao Peiyao , Chuang Lu-Chung , Maeda Kensaku , Nozawa Jun , Morito Haruhiko , Fujiwara Kozo , Zheng Lili
Published: October 2024

The < 110 > directional solidification of silicon under varying overall temperature gradients was investigated using an in situ observation system. The growth velocity of an atomically rough interface was found to decrease with increasing temperature gradient. A theoretical model of the thermal field taking undercooling into account was developed to describe this phenomenon and was demonstrated to be valid. The results of this work indicate that the reported linear relationship between growth velocity (V) and undercooling (ΔT), given by V (mm s−1) = 120ΔT (K), is most accurate in the case of a rough interface. In the case that the overall temperature gradient is small, the melting point isotherm moves rapidly such that it becomes more difficult for the interface to keep pace with the isotherm compared with a large temperature gradient. This effect leads to increased undercooling at the interface and consequently a rapid growth velocity. Thermal field calculations confirm that a rapid increase in the ratio of the temperature gradient in the crystal to that in the melt should increase the latent heat release, again providing a more rapid growth velocity.
Quantitative in-vitro assessment of a novel robot-assisted system for cochlear implant electrode insertion
Authors: Aebischer Philipp , Anschuetz Lukas , Caversaccio Marco , Mantokoudis Georgios , Weder Stefan
Published: October 2024

Purpose

As an increasing number of cochlear implant candidates exhibit residual inner ear function, hearing preservation strategies during implant insertion are gaining importance. Manual implantation is known to induce traumatic force and pressure peaks. In this study, we use a validated in-vitro model to comprehensively evaluate a novel surgical tool that addresses these challenges through motorized movement of a forceps.

Methods

Using lateral wall electrodes, we examined two subgroups of insertions: 30 insertions were performed manually by experienced surgeons, and another 30 insertions were conducted with a robot-assisted system under the same surgeons’ supervision. We utilized a realistic, validated model of the temporal bone. This model accurately reproduces intracochlear frictional conditions and allows for the synchronous recording of forces on intracochlear structures, intracochlear pressure, and the position and deformation of the electrode array within the scala tympani.

Results

We identified a significant reduction in force variation during robot-assisted insertions compared to the conventional procedure, with average values of 12 mN/s and 32 mN/s, respectively. Robotic assistance was also associated with a significant reduction of strong pressure peaks and a 17 dB reduction in intracochlear pressure levels. Furthermore, our study highlights that the release of the insertion tool represents a critical phase requiring surgical training.

Conclusion

Robotic assistance demonstrated more consistent insertion speeds compared to manual techniques. Its use can significantly reduce factors associated with intracochlear trauma, highlighting its potential for improved hearing preservation. Finally, the system does not mitigate the impact of subsequent surgical steps like electrode cable routing and cochlear access sealing, pointing to areas in need of further research.
Temporal Trends in Racial and Gender Disparities of Early Onset Colorectal Cancer in the United States: An Analysis of the CDC WONDER Database
Authors: Nawras Yusuf , Merza Nooraldin , Beier Katie , Dakroub Aya , Al-Obaidi Hasan , Al-Obaidi Ahmed Dheyaa , Amatul-Raheem Hajera , Bahbah Eshak , Varughese Tony , Hosny Jerome , Hassan Mona , Kobeissy Abdallah
Published: October 2024

Background

The mortality rates of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) have surged globally over the past two decades. While the underlying reasons remain largely unknown, understanding its epidemiology is crucial to address this escalating trend. This study aimed to identify disparities potentially influencing these rates, enhancing risk assessment tools, and highlighting areas necessitating further research.

Methods

Using the CDC Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER) database, this study assessed EOCRC mortality data from 2012 to 2020. Individuals under 50 years who succumbed to EOCRC were identified through the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes. Data interpretation and representation were performed using R 4.2.2 software.

Results

Between 2012 and 2020, EOCRC mortality rates fluctuated marginally between 1.7 and 1.8 per 100,000. Male mortality rates increased from 1.9 to 2.0 per 100,000, while female rates varied between 1.5 and 1.6 per 100,000. Significant variations were observed across age groups, with the 40–49 years category experiencing an increase from 6.34 (2012) to 6.94 (2020) per 100,000. Racial category-based data revealed the highest mortality rates among African Americans. Geographically, Mississippi and Alabama exhibited elevated mortality rates. Age-adjusted mortality rate (AAMR) assessments indicated a marked decline for both genders from 2012 to 2020, with consistently higher rates for men.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the evolving landscape of EOCRC mortality, revealing significant gender, age, and racial disparities. These results underscore the urgent need for tailored health strategies and intensified research efforts targeting these disparities.
Chronically Low NMNAT2 Expression Causes Sub-lethal SARM1 Activation and Altered Response to Nicotinamide Riboside in Axons
Authors: Antoniou Christina , Loreto Andrea , Gilley Jonathan , Merlini Elisa , Orsomando Giuseppe , Coleman Michael P.
Published: October 2024

Nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase 2 (NMNAT2) is an endogenous axon survival factor that maintains axon health by blocking activation of the downstream pro-degenerative protein SARM1 (sterile alpha and TIR motif containing protein 1). While complete absence of NMNAT2 in mice results in extensive axon truncation and perinatal lethality, the removal of SARM1 completely rescues these phenotypes. Reduced levels of NMNAT2 can be compatible with life; however, they compromise axon development and survival. Mice born expressing sub-heterozygous levels of NMNAT2 remain overtly normal into old age but develop axonal defects in vivo and in vitro as well as behavioural phenotypes. Therefore, it is important to examine the effects of constitutively low NMNAT2 expression on SARM1 activation and disease susceptibility. Here we demonstrate that chronically low NMNAT2 levels reduce prenatal viability in mice in a SARM1-dependent manner and lead to sub-lethal SARM1 activation in morphologically intact axons of superior cervical ganglion (SCG) primary cultures. This is characterised by a depletion in NAD(P) and compromised neurite outgrowth. We also show that chronically low NMNAT2 expression reverses the NAD-enhancing effect of nicotinamide riboside (NR) in axons in a SARM1-dependent manner. These data indicate that low NMNAT2 levels can trigger sub-lethal SARM1 activation which is detectable at the molecular level and could predispose to human axonal disorders.
SONAR: An Adaptive Control Architecture for Social Norm Aware Robots
Authors: Dell’Anna Davide , Jamshidnejad Anahita
Published: October 2024

Recent advances in robotics and artificial intelligence have made it necessary or desired for humans to get involved in interactions with social robots. A key factor for the human acceptance of these robots is their awareness of environmental and social norms. In this paper, we introduce SONAR (for SOcial Norm Aware Robots), a novel robot-agnostic control architecture aimed at enabling social agents to autonomously recognize, act upon, and learn over time social norms during interactions with humans. SONAR integrates several state-of-the-art theories and technologies, including the belief-desire-intention (BDI) model of reasoning and decision making for rational agents, fuzzy logic theory, and large language models, to support adaptive and norm-aware autonomous decision making. We demonstrate the feasibility and applicability of SONAR via real-life experiments involving human-robot interactions (HRI) using a Nao robot for scenarios of casual conversations between the robot and each participant. The results of our experiments show that our SONAR implementation can effectively and efficiently be used in HRI to provide the robot with environmental and social and norm awareness. Compared to a robot with no explicit social and norm awareness, introducing social and norm awareness via SONAR results in interactions that are perceived as more positive and enjoyable by humans, as well as in higher perceived trust in the social robot. Moreover, we investigate, via computer-based simulations, the extent to which SONAR can be used to learn and adapt to the social norms of different societies. The results of these simulations illustrate that SONAR can successfully learn adequate behaviors in a society from a relatively small amount of data. We publicly release the source code of SONAR, along with data and experiments logs.
New Possibilities for Fair Algorithms
Authors: Nielsen Michael , Stewart Rush
Published: October 2024

We introduce a fairness criterion that we call Spanning. Spanning i) is implied by Calibration, ii) retains interesting properties of Calibration that some other ways of relaxing that criterion do not, and iii) unlike Calibration and other prominent ways of weakening it, is consistent with Equalized Odds outside of trivial cases.
Minimal change glomerular disease associated with solid neoplasms: a systematic review
Authors: Cozzo Domenico , Orlando Francesca , Bruno Mariolina , Ogna Adam , Forni Ogna Valentina
Published: October 2024

Background

Paraneoplastic minimal change disease (MCD) has been associated with hematological malignancies, whereas solid malignancies are commonly associated with membranous glomerulonephritis. In this systematic review of the literature, we describe the clinical features, treatment and outcome of MCD associated with solid neoplasms.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of the MEDLINE, COCHRANE, EMBASE and SCOPUS databases, including case reports of adult patients with biopsy-proven MCD and solid malignancy, without language or time restrictions.

Results

Sixty-seven papers were included, presenting 86 cases with a mean age of 57.8 ± 14.7 years; 41.0% were women. Nephrotic syndrome was the initial presentation in 96.2% of patients; 67.2% had kidney function impairment, and 21.2% required kidney replacement therapy. The most frequent malignancies were malignant thymoma (34.9%), kidney (14.0%), lung (12.8%), and gastrointestinal tumors (12.8%). In 40.7% of cases, the neoplasm diagnosis preceded MCD by 33.8 ± 46.1 months, while in 31.4%, it followed diagnosis of MCD by 12.4 ± 22.6 months. In 27.9%, the neoplasm and kidney disease were diagnosed simultaneously. Immunosuppressive therapy was started in 79.1% of cases and tumor-specific treatment in 83.7%. Remission of MCD was achieved in 80.2% of patients: 38.2% responded to immunosuppressive treatment alone and 29.6% to oncological treatment alone.

Conclusions

The association between MCD and solid neoplasms is well-documented. Immunosuppressive therapy alone induced nephrotic syndrome remission in over one-third of cases; most others responded to tumor-specific treatment. Solid tumor screening should be considered in MCD independently of the steroid response, though more data on solid tumor-associated MCD prevalence are needed for a definitive statement.

PROSPERO trial registration number

CRD42024521854.

Graphical abstract
Hamiltonian Birkhoff Normal Form for Gravity-Capillary Water Waves with Constant Vorticity: Almost Global Existence
Authors: Berti Massimiliano , Maspero Alberto , Murgante Federico
Published: October 2024

We prove an almost global existence result for space periodic solutions of the 1D gravity-capillary water waves equations with constant vorticity. The result holds for any value of gravity, vorticity and depth, a full measure set of surface tensions, and any small and smooth enough initial datum. The proof demands a novel approach—that we call paradifferential Hamiltonian Birkhoff normal form for quasi-linear PDEs—in presence of resonant wave interactions: the normal form is not integrable but it preserves the Sobolev norms thanks to its Hamiltonian nature. A major difficulty is that paradifferential calculus used to prove local well posedness (as the celebrated Alinhac good unknown) breaks the Hamiltonian structure. A major achievement of this paper is to correct (possibly) unbounded paradifferential transformations to symplectic maps, up to an arbitrary degree of homogeneity. Thanks to a deep cancellation, our symplectic correctors are smoothing perturbations of the identity. Thus we are able to preserve both the paradifferential structure and the Hamiltonian nature of the equations. Such Darboux procedure is written in an abstract functional setting applicable also in other contexts.
Magneto-Stokes flow in a shallow free-surface annulus
Authors: David Cy S. , Hester Eric W. , Xu Yufan , Aurnou Jonathan M.
Published: October 2024

In this study, we analyse ‘magneto-Stokes’ flow, a fundamental magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow that shares the cylindrical-annular geometry of the Taylor–Couette cell but uses applied electromagnetic forces to circulate a free-surface layer of electrolyte at low Reynolds numbers. The first complete, analytical solution for time-dependent magneto-Stokes flow is presented and validated with coupled laboratory and numerical experiments. Three regimes are distinguished (shallow-layer, transitional and deep-layer flow regimes), and their influence on the efficiency of microscale mixing is clarified. The solution in the shallow-layer limit belongs to a newly identified class of MHD potential flows, and thus induces mixing without the aid of axial vorticity. We show that these shallow-layer magneto-Stokes flows can still augment mixing in distinct Taylor dispersion and advection-dominated mixing regimes. The existence of enhanced mixing across all three distinguished flow regimes is predicted by asymptotic scaling laws and supported by three-dimensional numerical simulations. Mixing enhancement is initiated with the least electromagnetic forcing in channels with order-unity depth-to-gap-width ratios. If the strength of the electromagnetic forcing is not a constraint, then shallow-layer flows can still yield the shortest mixing times in the advection-dominated limit. Our robust description of momentum evolution and mixing of passive tracers makes the annular magneto-Stokes system fit for use as an MHD reference flow.
Inconsistent Belief Aggregation in Diverse and Polarised Groups
Authors: Kopecky Felix , Betz Gregor
Published: October 2024

How do opinion diversity and belief polarisation affect epistemic group decision-making, particularly if decisions must be made without delay and on the basis of permissive evidence? In an agent-based model, we track the consistency of group opinions aggregated through sentence-wise majority voting. Simulations on the model reveal that high opinion diversity, but not polarisation, incurs a significant inconsistency risk. These results indicate that epistemic group decisions based on permissive evidence can be particularly difficult for diverse groups. The results also improve our understanding of what can reasonably be expected of expert groups, and where expert advice might have limits.
Short-term changes in human metabolism following a 5-hour delay of the light-dark and behavioural cycle
Authors: Flanagan A. , Ruddick-Collins L.C. , Fielding B. , Middleton B. , von Gerichten J. , Short M. , Revell V. , Mendis J. , Mayer C.D. , Morgan P.J. , Johnstone A.M. , Johnston J.D.
Published: October 2024

The circadian timing system regulates many aspects of metabolic physiology, including the postprandial response to meals(1). Experimental inversion of circadian and behavioural rhythms by 12 hours adversely effects markers of metabolic health(2). We investigated effects of a more modest 5hour delay in behavioural cycles.

Fourteen participants completed an 8-day in-patient laboratory protocol, with controlled sleepwake opportunities, light-dark cycles, and diet. The 5-hour delay in behavioural cycles was induced by delaying sleep opportunity. We measured: melatonin to confirm central circadian phase; fasting markers and postprandial metabolism; energy expenditure; subjective sleepiness; and appetite, throughout the waking period.

After the phase delay, there was slower gastric emptying at breakfast, lower fasting plasma glucose, higher postprandial plasma glucose and triglycerides, and lower thermic effect of feeding. Any changes were abolished or attenuated within 48-72 hours. Further, we show no difference in 16 h waking energy expenditure.

These data extend our previous findings, which showed no time-of-day effect on energy expenditure in healthy adults.
Food image validation for assessing diurnal patterns of appetite and food reward in individuals ranging in BMI with and without type 2 diabetes
Authors: Beaulieu K. , Pedersen H. , Søndergaard C. S. , van Elst C. , Færch K. , Finlayson G. , Quist J. S.
Published: October 2024

Increasing scientific interest in diurnal patterns of appetite and food reward means it is important to employ valid methodologies that are time-of-day appropriate. Moreover, it is unknown whether people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) experience similar diurnal patterns to healthy individuals. The Steno Biometric Food Preference Task (SBFPT)(1) utilises an array of food images to assess food reward and biometric responses to food cues varying in fat content and sweet taste. We aimed to adapt and validate the SBFPT to assess diurnal appetite and food reward in Danish adults with a range of BMI with/without T2D.

An anonymous online survey was used to validate 28 food images (7 high-fat sweet (HFSW), 7 lowfat sweet (LFSW), 7 high-fat savoury (HFSA) and 7 low-fat savoury (LFSA)) in Danish residents in order to select 16 images for the diurnal-SBFPT (4 from each category). For each food image, participants had to name the food, report the frequency of consumption, and rate its tastiness, sweetness, fat content, appropriateness to consume in the morning (between 8:00-12:00), afternoon (between 12:00-16:00), and evening (between 16:00-20:00) on a 100-mm visual analogue scale(2).

We obtained 207 complete responses (with >80% completion). Participants included 61 men, 144 women and 2 not specified. Of these, 124 did not have T2D and 83 had T2D with a median [Q1, Q3] diagnosis duration of 12 [8, 18] years. Median [Q1, Q3] age was 61 [50, 67] years and BMI was 26.4 [23.4, 31.8] kg/m2. After data were cleaned, the mean of the individual ratings for each food was calculated and adequacy was judged according to pre-specified criteria(2). As there were overall differences in ratings of appropriate consumption time between those with/without T2D regardless of time of day (linear mixed model β = -5.3mm; p=.01), a difference score between morning (AM) and afternoon/evening (PM) ratings was computed (AM-PM difference). Adequacy for this criterion was based on foods with the smallest absolute mean across those with/without T2D and smallest absolute difference between groups.

Overall, the majority of the final 4 images from each food category met the criteria for recognition, frequency of consumption, liking, taste and perceived fat content. LFSW foods had the smallest absolute AM-PM differences (i.e., more similar appropriateness scores in AM vs PM; range 110mm), followed by LFSA (5-21mm), HFSA (8-21mm) and HFSW (8-38mm).

This image validation study will allow us to examine appetite and food reward across the day using a validated tool among Danish adults ranging in BMI with/without T2D. Future studies should consider the perceived appropriateness of the foods selected for appetite-related assessments in T2D, especially high-fat sweet foods.
The India League and the Condition of India: Agnotological Imperialism, Colonial State Violence and the Making of Anticolonial Knowledge 1930–4
Authors: Arni Abhimanyu
Published: October 2024

This article explores the 1932 visit to India of a delegation of Labour party figures associated with the India League, a prominent anticolonial organisation based in London, charged with investigating the colonial state violence unleashed by ‘Ordinance Rule’. It also examines efforts taken by the Government of India, India Office and Indian Political Intelligence to suppress their findings, through which it explores a dialectic between anticolonial knowledge-making and agnotological imperialism, which often took the form of the latter ‘exceptioning’ examples produced by the former of excessive colonial state violence. It offers the conclusion that the contradictions between liberal imperialism and the rule of colonial difference and repression in the age of mass nationalism in India and mass democracy in Britain meant that liberal imperialism in India increasingly flowed, paradoxically, from illiberalism in Britain.
Predicting autism from young Infants’ empathic responding: A prospective study
Authors: Paz Yael , Roth-Hanania Ronit , Gabis Lidia V. , Orlitsky Tal , Zilka-Cohen Noa , Zahn-Waxler Carolyn , Davidov Maayan
Published: October 2024

Difficulties in empathy are frequent among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and often considered a core feature of autism. Reduced empathy during the second year of life has been shown to predict subsequent ASD diagnosis. However, links between empathy in the first year and ASD have not yet been investigated. Moreover, prior work focused on empathy for others’ distress but not for others’ joy. To address these gaps, this prospective longitudinal study followed 60 infants (33% girls), 39 at high genetic risk of ASD (siblings of children with ASD) and a matching control group. Infants’ empathic responses to others’ distress and happiness were assessed at ages 6, 9, and 12 months, using simulations by the mother/experimenter and videos of crying and laughing infants. Diagnosis was determined between 18 and 36 months. Infants later diagnosed with ASD showed a reduced empathic response toward a person simulating distress, but not toward a video of a crying peer, and not in response to others’ joy (either in simulation or video). Overall, reduced empathic concern during the first year of life appears to be an early prodromal marker of subsequent ASD. Implications for theory, research, and practice are discussed.