bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some effects of limited wall-sensor availability on flow estimation with 3D-GANs
Authors: Cuéllar Antonio , Ianiro Andrea , Discetti Stefano
Published: September 2024

In this work we assess the impact of the limited availability of wall-embedded sensors on the full 3D estimation of the flow field in a turbulent channel with $$Re_{\tau }=200$$

R

e
τ

=
200

. The estimation technique is based on a 3D generative adversarial network (3D-GAN). We recently demonstrated that 3D-GANs are capable of estimating fields with good accuracy by employing fully-resolved wall quantities (pressure and streamwise/spanwise wall shear stress on a grid with DNS resolution). However, the practical implementation in an experimental setting is challenging due to the large number of sensors required. In this work, we aim to estimate the flow fields with substantially fewer sensors. The impact of the reduction of the number of sensors on the quality of the flow reconstruction is assessed in terms of accuracy degradation and spectral length-scales involved. It is found that the accuracy degradation is mainly due to the spatial undersampling of scales, rather than the reduction of the number of sensors per se. We explore the performance of the estimator in case only one wall quantity is available. When a large number of sensors is available, pressure measurements provide more accurate flow field estimations. Conversely, the elongated patterns of the streamwise wall shear stress make this quantity the most suitable when only few sensors are available. As a further step towards a real application, the effect of sensor noise is also quantified. It is shown that configurations with fewer sensors are less sensitive to measurement noise.
Morphology and arterial supply of the pyramidalis muscle in an Australian female population using computed tomography angiography
Authors: Short Craig L. , Crotti Tania N. , Algate Kent , Gladman Marc A. , Barras Christen D.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The structure and function of the human anterolateral abdominal wall have been thoroughly described. However, there has been limited anatomical study of the pyramidalis muscle and its arterial supply. The aim of this study was to analyse the patterns of arterial supply to the pyramidalis in a female population.

Methods

A retrospective study of 32 computed tomography angiography scans of the abdominal wall of adult women was performed to assess the prevalence (bilateral or unilateral presence, or absence), morphology (medial border height, base width and thickness) of pyramidalis and patterns of arterial supply.

Results

Pyramidalis prevalence was bilateral in 75% of computed tomography angiography studies (24/32), unilateral in 6.3% (2/32) and absent in 18.8% (6/32). Of the five patterns of pyramidalis arterial supply observed and described in detail, the most frequent (68%, 34/50 of cases) originated from an exclusive muscular branch of the inferior epigastric artery. Origin from the pubic branch of the inferior epigastric artery was seen in 4% (2/50). There was a single case (2%, 1/50) of artery origin from a variant obturator artery, a common trunk with the pubic branch from the inferior epigastric artery, and from the muscular branch to rectus abdominis. The artery could not be defined in 22% (11/50).

Conclusion

In this computed tomography angiography study of women, five patterns of Pyramidalis arterial supply were identified. In the majority of cases, the pyramidalis derived its arterial supply from an exclusive, isolated muscular branch of the inferior epigastric artery.
Artificial intelligence-based quantification of pulmonary HRCT (AIqpHRCT) for the evaluation of interstitial lung disease in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases
Authors: Hoffmann Tobias , Teichgräber Ulf , Lassen-Schmidt Bianca , Renz Diane , Brüheim Luis Benedict , Krämer Martin , Oelzner Peter , Böttcher Joachim , Güttler Felix , Wolf Gunter , Pfeil Alexander
Published: September 2024

High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is important for diagnosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) in inflammatory rheumatic disease (IRD) patients. However, visual ILD assessment via HRCT often has high inter-reader variability. Artificial intelligence (AI)-based techniques for quantitative image analysis promise more accurate diagnostic and prognostic information. This study evaluated the reliability of artificial intelligence-based quantification of pulmonary HRCT (AIqpHRCT) in IRD-ILD patients and verified IRD-ILD quantification using AIqpHRCT in the clinical setting. Reproducibility of AIqpHRCT was verified for each typical HRCT pattern (ground-glass opacity [GGO], non-specific interstitial pneumonia [NSIP], usual interstitial pneumonia [UIP], granuloma). Additional, 50 HRCT datasets from 50 IRD-ILD patients using AIqpHRCT were analysed and correlated with clinical data and pulmonary lung function parameters. AIqpHRCT presented 100% agreement (coefficient of variation = 0.00%, intraclass correlation coefficient = 1.000) regarding the detection of the different HRCT pattern. Furthermore, AIqpHRCT data showed an increase of ILD from 10.7 ± 28.3% (median = 1.3%) in GGO to 18.9 ± 12.4% (median = 18.0%) in UIP pattern. The extent of fibrosis negatively correlated with FVC (ρ=-0.501), TLC (ρ=-0.622), and DLCO (ρ=-0.693) (p < 0.001). GGO measured by AIqpHRCT also significant negatively correlated with DLCO (ρ=-0.699), TLC (ρ=-0.580) and FVC (ρ=-0.423). For the first time, the study demonstrates that AIpqHRCT provides a highly reliable method for quantifying lung parenchymal changes in HRCT images of IRD-ILD patients. Further, the AIqpHRCT method revealed significant correlations between the extent of ILD and lung function parameters. This highlights the potential of AIpqHRCT in enhancing the accuracy of ILD diagnosis and prognosis in clinical settings, ultimately improving patient management and outcomes.
DMD-based spatiotemporal superresolution measurement of a supersonic jet using dual planar PIV and acoustic data
Authors: Kaneko Sayumi , del Pozo Alvaro , Nishikori Hiroki , Ozawa Yuta , Nonomura Taku
Published: September 2024

The present study applies a framework of the spatiotemporal superresolution measurement based on the total-least-squares dynamic mode decomposition, the Kalman filter and the Rauch-Tung-Striebel smoother to an axisymmetric underexpanded supersonic jet of a jet Mach number of 1.35. Dual planar particle image velocimetry was utilized, and paired velocity fields of the flow with a short time interval were obtained at a temporal resolution of 5000 Hz. High-frequency acoustic data of 200,000 Hz were simultaneously obtained. Then, the time-resolved velocity fields of the supersonic jet were reconstructed at a temporal resolution of 200,000 Hz. Also, time coefficients of dynamic modes in high temporal resolution were calculated. The correlation between time coefficients implies that the mixing promotion by screech tone causes the lift-up of the high-velocity fluid from the jet center and accelerates at the downstream side.
Learning curve comparison between switching approach and switching implant in cementless short stem total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Stadler Christian , Bolm Jonas Sebastian , Schopper Clemens , Schauer Bernhard , Holzbauer Matthias , Gotterbarm Tobias , Luger Matthias
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Implementing new approaches or new implants is always related with a certain learning curve in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Currently, many surgeons are switching to minimally invasive approaches combined with short stems for performing THA. Therefore, we aimed to asses and compare the learning curve of switching from an anterolateral Watson Jones approach (ALA) to a direct anterior approach (DAA) with the learning curve of switching from a neck-resecting to a partially neck-sparing short stem in cementless THA.

Materials and methods

The first 150 consecutive THA performed through a DAA (Group A) and the first 150 consecutive THA using a partially neck-sparing short stem (Group B) performed by a single surgeon were evaluated within this retrospective cohort study. All cases were screened for surgery related adverse events (AE). Furthermore, the operative time of each surgery was evaluated and the learning curve assessed performing a cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis.

Results

Overall, significantly more AE occurred in Group A compared to Group B (18.0% vs. 10.0%; p = 0.046). The sub-analysis of the AE revealed higher rates of periprosthetic joint infections (2.7% vs. 0.7%; p = 0.176), periprosthetic fractures (4.0% vs. 2.0%; p = 0.310) and overall revisions (4.7% vs. 1.3% p = 0.091) within Group A without statistical significance. The CUSUM analysis revealed a consistent reduction of operative time after 97 cases in Group A and 79 cases in Group B.

Conclusion

A significantly higher overall rate of AE was detected while switching approach compared to switching implant for performing THA. However, according to the results of this study, surgeons should be aware of the learning curve of the adoption to a new implant with different fixation philosophy as well.
Patient-reported outcome measures in studies on hallux valgus surgery: what should be assessed
Authors: Spindler F. T. , Ettinger S. , Arbab D. ,   D. A. F. Scientific Committee, Stukenborg-Colsman Christina , Ochman Sabine , Rammelt Stefan , Polzer Hans , Gutteck Natalia , Harrasser Norbert , Plaaß Christian , Baumbach S. F.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) to assess the outcome following orthopedic surgery. But, we are lacking a standard set of PROMs to assess the outcome of hallux valgus surgery. The aim of this study was to analyze the chosen patient rated outcome scores used in studies reporting on hallux valgus surgery.

Materials and methods

The study was based on a previously published living systematic review. Included were prospective, comparative studies of different surgical procedures or the same procedure for different degrees of deformity. Four common databases were searched for the last decade. Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were made by two independent reviewers. Data assessed were the individual PROMs used to assess the outcome of hallux valgus surgery.

Results

46 studies (30 RCTs and 16 non-randomized prospective studies) met the inclusion criteria. The most commonly used clinical outcome measures were the AOFAS (55%) and the VAS (30%). No differences were found between frequency of the individual scores per the level of evidence or the type of osteotomy.

Conclusion

Based on a systematic literature review, the AOFAS and VAS are the most frequently used outcome tools in studies assessing the outcome following hallux valgus surgery. Based on the literature available, the MOXFQ is a more valid alternative.

Level of evidence

Level I; systematic review of prospective comparative (level II) and randomized controlled trials (level I).
Plasma NfL, GFAP, amyloid, and p-tau species as Prognostic biomarkers in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Pilotto Andrea , Ashton Nicholas J. , Lupini Alessandro , Battaglio Beatrice , Zatti Cinzia , Trasciatti Chiara , Gipponi Stefano , Cottini Elisabetta , Grossi Ilaria , Salvi Alessandro , de Petro Giuseppina , Pizzi Marina , Canale Antonio , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Padovani Alessandro
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The prognostic role of plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL), phospho-tau, beta-amyloid, and GFAP is still debated in Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

Plasma p-tau181, p-tau231, Aβ1-40, Aβ1-42, GFAP, and NfL were measured by SIMOA in 136 PD with 2.9 + 1.7 years of follow-up and 76 controls. Differences in plasma levels between controls and PD and their correlation with clinical severity and progression rates were evaluated using linear regression analyses.

Results

Patients exhibited similar distribution of plasma biomarkers but higher P-tau181, P-tau231 and lower Aβ1-42 compared with controls. NfL and GFAP correlated with baseline motor and non-motor severity measures. At follow-up, NfL emerged as the best predictor of progression with marginal effect of GFAP and p-tau181 adjusting for age, sex, disease duration, and baseline motor severity.

Conclusion

The present findings confirmed plasma NfL as best predictor of progression in PD, with a marginal role of p-tau181 and GFAP.
Neurofilament light chain as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in Guillain–Barré syndrome
Authors: Hafsteinsdóttir Brynhildur , Farman Helen , Lagerström Nina , Zetterberg Henrik , Andersen Oluf , Novakova Lenka , Nellgård Bengt , Rosén Hans , Malmeström Clas , Rosenstein Igal , Lycke Jan , Axelsson Markus
Published: September 2024

Background

Elevated neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels are associated with worse prognosis in Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). Our objectives were to determine the utility of serum NfL (sNfL), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/serum NfL ratio and NfL index as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers for GBS.

Methods

We measured NfL in serum and/or CSF obtained from 96 GBS patients between 1989 and 2014 in western Sweden. The sNfL Z-scores, NfL ratios and NfL indices were calculated. Outcome was determined with the GBS disability scale (GBSDS) at 3 and 12 months. NfL parameters in GBS were compared with healthy controls (HC), multiple sclerosis (MS), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Results

The sNfL Z-score was higher for GBSDS > 2 at 3 months (median [IQR], 3.5 ng/L [3.2–4.0], vs 2.6 [1.7–3.4], p = 0.008) and at 12 months (3.6 ng/L [3.5–3.8] vs 2.6 [1.8–3.5], p = 0.049). NfL ratio and index were not associated with outcome. The area under the curve (AUC) for sNfL Z-score was 0.76 (95% CI 0.58–0.93, p < 0.0001) for GBSDS > 2 at 3 months. NfL ratio and index were lower in GBS than HC, MS, and ALS. The AUC for the NfL ratio was 0.66 (95% CI 0.55–0.78, p = 0.0018) and for the NfL index 0.86 (95% CI 0.78–0.93, p < 0.0001).

Discussion

Our results confirm sNfL as prognostic biomarker for GBS and the precision was improved using the age-adjusted sNfL Z score. NfL index and Qalb are potential diagnostic biomarkers for GBS.
Female gametophyte development is required for nucellar-tip degeneration during Arabidopsis ovule development
Authors: Park Chulmin , Hyun Youbong , Lee Ji-Young
Published: September 2024

Main conclusion

Genetic ablation of the female gametophyte provides direct evidence for the existence of interregional communication during Arabidopsis ovule development and the importance of the female gametophyte in nucellar-tip degeneration.

The angiosperm ovule consists of three regions: the female gametophyte, the nucellus, and the integuments, all of which develop synchronously and coordinately. Previously, interregional communication enabling cooperative ovule development had been proposed; however, the evidence for these communications mostly relies on the analysis of mutant phenotypes. To provide direct evidence, we specifically ablated the Arabidopsis female gametophyte by expressing the diphtheria toxin fragment A (DTA) under the female gametophyte-specific DD13 promoter and analyzed its effects on the development of the nucellus and the integuments. We found that the female gametophyte is not required for integument development or for the orientation and curvature of the ovule body, but is necessary for nucellar-tip degeneration. The results presented here provide direct evidence for communication from the female gametophyte to the nucellus and demonstrate that Arabidopsis ovules require interregional communication for cooperative development.
New histological risk grading system for prediction of lymph node metastasis in patients with penile cancer
Authors: Dorofte Luiza , Davidsson Sabina , Carlsson Jessica , Larsson Gabriella Lillsunde , Karlsson Mats G.
Published: September 2024

Inguinal lymph node surgery is a standard treatment for penile cancer patients with intermediate or high risk for lymph node metastasis (LNM) according to European Association of Urology (EAU) risk grading. We are proposing a more objective histological prognostic grading system for inguinal LNM in these patients. We assessed worst pattern of invasion, lymphocytic host response, lymphovascular invasion, and perineural invasion in a population-based cohort of 306 penile cancer patients. Patients were classified into low, intermediate, and high risk for inguinal LNM. There was a significant association both between risk groups and pT stage (p < 0.001) and between risk groups and LNM. Univariate logistic regression showed 25.43 times higher odds of LNM for patients in the intermediate risk group compared with the low risk group (odds ratio (OR) 25.43; 95% confidence interval (CI): 5.94–108.97) and a 177.13 times higher odds in the high risk group compared to the low risk group (OR 177.13; 95% CI: 40.09–782.51). When comparing our histological risk grading with the EAU grading, we found a higher sensitivity, of 51.28% (95% CI: 45.68–56.88) versus 37.09% (95% CI: 31.68–42.50), as well as a higher area under the curve (0.86; 95% CI: 0.81–0.89; versus 0.65; 95% CI: 0.58–0.71) with our grading system. While our grading classified 111 patients as low risk, only 31 were considered low risk for LNM according to the EAU risk classification. The new histological risk grading system shows a higher sensitivity and includes a higher number of patients in the low risk group in whom lymph node surgery could be avoided, reducing morbidity and costs.
Clinicopathological characteristics of neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein-associated membranous glomerulonephritis
Authors: Hyodo Toshiki , Hara Shigeo , Goto Shunsuke , Fujii Hideki , Nishi Shinichi , Yoshimoto Akihiro , Itoh Tomoo
Published: September 2024

Neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein (NELL1) is the second most common target antigen in membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN). However, data regarding the clinicopathological characteristics of NELL1-associated MGN are limited owing to its low prevalence. This study examined the prevalence and clinicopathological characteristics of NELL1-associated MGN in a Japanese cohort. Additionally, we compared the clinicopathological features of NELL1-positive MGN, phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R1)-positive MGN, and MGN negative for all three antigens (NELL1, PLA2R1, and thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing 7A). Among 257 consecutive patients pathologically diagnosed with MGN at two centers in Japan, 24 (9.3%) were immunohistochemically positive for NELL1. Clinically, patients with NELL1-positive MGN were significantly older (p < 0.001) and had a higher frequency of bucillamine use (vs PLA2R1-positive MGN, p < 0.01). Histologically, NELL1-positive MGN exhibited significantly lower detection of spikes and crater formation (p < 0.001), higher prevalence of segmental spike distribution (vs PLA2R1-positive MGN: p < 0.001), and higher prevalence of stage I cases on electron microscopy (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences in the prognoses among the three groups. The characteristic histological feature of segmental distribution in NELL1-positive MGN may be related to bucillamine use and the early phase of the disease. Further investigations with larger numbers of patients may offer further insight into the prognosis of patients with NELL1-positive MGN.
Family meals on prescription as treatment for childhood obesity—a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Torstensson Terese , Bohlin Anna , Almqvist-Tangen Gerd , Roswall Josefine , Kindblom Jenny M. , Sjogren Lovisa
Published: September 2024

The aim with the present study was to evaluate the effects and tolerability of Family Meals on Prescription, a 3-month intensive dietary intervention with a participatory approach on body mass index (BMI) and metabolic health in children living with obesity. In this prospective randomized controlled trial, children aged 5–15 years were included from the Pediatric Obesity outpatient Clinics in Halland, Sweden. Participants were randomly assigned to receive lifestyle treatment with or without Family Meals on Prescription (FMP) consisting of a subsidized prepacked grocery bag including recipes and provisions for five Family Meals per week for 3 months. The primary endpoint was changed in BMIz after 3, 12 and 18–24 months and secondary endpoints included to assess tolerability of FMP and effects on metabolic biomarker and frequency of shared meals. Eighty-nine children (51.7% female) entered the study, 54 patients in the intervention group and 35 in the control group. There were no significant differences between the groups concerning gender, age or level of obesity at baseline. The Family Meal on Prescription intervention combined with lifestyle treatment led to a significantly greater reduction in BMIz than lifestyle treatment alone after the 3-month long intervention (− 0.17 vs + 0.01, p < 0.01); however, this difference was not sustained throughout the study period, and in fact, the control group had a greater reduction in BMIz after 18–24 months.

A subsidized prepacked grocery bag may be a novel, well-tolerated and effective tool in the treatment of childhood obesity. The fact that the BMIz reduction shown at the end of the intervention did not persist over time emphasized the need of long-term treatment. Registered at clinicaltrals.gov 27 Nov 2020, retrospectively registered: clinicaltrials.gov number 19002468. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05225350

What is Known:• Swedish data shows that lifestyle treatment alone is not sufficient for many families undergoing treatment for childhood obesity.• Regular family meals and mealtime routines have been shown to be important for nutritional health and dietary patterns in children and adolescents.

What is New:• This intervention with a participatory approach involving prepacked family meals was well tolerated and led to a significant reduction in BMIz during the intervention.• That fact that these results were not sustained over time indicates a need to evaluate longer interventions, and that childhood obesity is a chronic and complex disease which requires long-time treatments.
Learning Outcomes and Training Satisfaction: A Case Study of Blended Customization in Professional Training
Authors: Torre Sara , Ulloa Severino Antonio , Ligorio Maria Beatrice
Published: September 2024

In the case of training programs for workplace settings, design customization can help trainers to better address trainees’ needs and, at the same time, it can help them build a sense of competence and autonomy. This is particularly difficult when trainees are skeptical because of former failing training experiences. The case study presented here, is about a training program featuring customization design from the pre-training phase throughout the training process, aimed precisely at trainees with previous negative experiences. Eighteen participants (M: 10; F: 8; age average: 55,7) were involved in training senior professionals in the information communication technology (ICT) field, all of them with a history of failed training attempts and a long period of workplace inactivity. In preparation for the training, the trainers gathered information about trainees’ attitude towards training, training preferences, and baseline skills, which determined the training design. During training, feedback and intermediate learning results were considered for fine tuning. Results attested the change of attitude towards training, perceived enhancement of self-awareness, feelings of being part of a community, and successful learning outcomes.
When to Laugh, When to Cry: Display Rules of Nonverbal Vocalisations Across Four Cultures
Authors: Kamiloğlu Roza G. , Manokara Kunalan , Tybur Joshua M. , Sauter Disa A.
Published: September 2024

Nonverbal vocalisations like laughter, sighs, and groans are a fundamental part of everyday communication. Yet surprisingly little is known about the social norms concerning which vocalisations are considered appropriate to express in which context (i.e., display rules). Here, in two pre-registered studies, we investigate how people evaluate the appropriateness of different nonverbal vocalisations across locations and relationships with listeners. Study 1, with a U.S. sample (n = 250), showed that certain vocalisations (e.g., laughter, sighs, cries) are consistently viewed as more socially acceptable than others (e.g., roars, groans, moans). Additionally, location (private vs. public) and interpersonal closeness (close vs. not close) significantly influenced these perceptions, with private locations and close relationships fostering greater expressive freedom. Study 2 extended this investigation across four societies with divergent cultural norms (n = 1120 in total): the U.S. (for direct replication), Türkiye, China, and the Netherlands. Findings largely replicated those from Study 1 and supported the existence of cross-culturally consistent patterns in display rules for nonverbal vocalisations, though with some variation across cultures. This research expands our understanding of how social norms affect auditory communication, extending beyond the visual modality of facial expressions to encompass the rich world of nonverbal vocalisations.
Daily and Half-yearly Associations between Boundary Diffusion and Parent-adolescent Relationship Quality after Divorce
Authors: van Dijk Rianne , Mastrotheodoros Stefanos , van der Valk Inge E. , Branje Susan , Deković Maja
Published: September 2024

Boundary diffusion is a particular risk after divorce and has been associated with adolescents’ adjustment problems. Yet, its potential impact on parent-adolescent relationship quality is less straightforward, as previous findings support both an alienation and conflict perspective. Therefore these associations (daily and half-yearly) were examined in recently divorced families, addressing both within-dyad changes and between-dyad differences. Data were collected among a sample of N = 133 (pre)adolescents (M

age
 = 11.76; 51.5% boys) from 76 divorced families, using a measurement burst design: Every six months, 14 consecutive days of daily diaries were collected, for 5 waves. Between dyads, adolescents who experienced more boundary diffusion than others, also reported more conflict with both their parents. Within dyads, when adolescents experienced more boundary diffusion than usual by one of their parents (actor), warmth decreased and conflict increased between this parent and the adolescent, that same and the following day. Adolescents also engaged in more conflict with the other parent that day. These findings mostly supported the conflict perspective: Post-divorce boundary diffusion appears to be a general risk factor for parent-adolescent conflict with both parents, and from day-to-day boundary diffusion was linked to a deteriorated parent-adolescent relationship quality, especially with the parent that triangulated or parentified them. There were no significant long-term associations, nor did any moderator (age, gender, living arrangement) explain heterogeneity in effects.
Vibrational and stability analysis of planar double pendulum dynamics near resonance
Authors: Amer T. S. , Moatimid Galal M. , Zakria S. K. , Galal A. A.
Published: September 2024

The focus of this paper is to examine the motion of a novel double pendulum (DP) system with two degrees of freedom (DOF). This system operates under specific constraints to follow a Lissajous curve, with its pivot point moving along this path in a plane. The nonlinear differential equations governing this system are derived using Lagrange's equations. Their analytical solutions (AS) are subsequently calculated using the multiple-scales method (MSM), which provides higher-order approximations. These solutions are considered new, as the traditional MSM has been applied to this novel system for the first time. Additionally, the accuracy of these solutions is validated through numerical results obtained using the fourth-order Runge–Kutta method. The solvability conditions and characteristic exponents are determined based on resonance cases. The Routh–Hurwitz criteria (RHC) are employed to assess the stability of the fixed points corresponding to the steady-state solutions. They are also used to demonstrate the frequency response curves. The nonlinear stability analysis is performed by examining the stability and instability ranges. Resonance curves and time history plots are presented to analyze the behavior of the system for specific parameter values. The investigation delves into a comprehensive analysis of bifurcation diagrams (BDs) and Lyapunov exponent spectra (LEs), aiming to uncover the various types of motion present within the system. Systematic examination of these charts reveals critical insights into transitions between stable, quasi-stable, and chaotic dynamical behaviors. This work has practical applications in various fields, such as robotics, pump compressors, rotor dynamics, and transportation devices. It can be used to study the vibrational motion of these systems.
Capturing Changing Concepts: The Case of Humanism
Authors: Jaszczolt Kasia M.
Published: September 2024

Changing concepts, understood as social constructs and facets of linguistic expressions, and likewise the mechanisms of change and the dynamicity of their contents, cannot be adequately analysed without a holistic perspective of a language system on the one hand, and a multi-layered perspective of conversational interaction on the other. I take on board a case study of the concept humanism, in particular in its relation to speciesism, to argue for such a broad perspective when discussing concept revision, including its deliberate and automatic aspects. Section 1 sets out the scene and the objectives, emphasising the importance of metapragmatic concerns. In Sect. 2, I briefly introduce some relevant terms and debates surrounding concepts, lexemes, and their dynamicity. Section 3 moves to the question of the foundations of meaning and points out the importance of addressing it in the context of these debates. Section 4 contains the case study of the concept humanism and the insights it offers for carving out the boundaries of inquiry into the life of a concept, focusing on the importance of broadly understood propositional content and the non-propositional overlay as they are dynamically constructed in discourse—and, as such, on the importance of metapragmatic concerns. Section 5 concludes and reiterates my plea against carving out fields of inquiry based on narrowly understood pursuits.
Epistemic Injustices Online
Authors: Tobi Abraham
Published: September 2024

In typical instances of epistemic injustice, the victims and perpetrators are distinct across social groups – as marginally or dominantly situated. When epistemic injustice happens, the dominantly situated typically rely on prejudicial stereotypes to prevent the marginally situated from participating in epistemic activities. This is a manifestation/ exercise of their social power. However, with anonymity on the internet, a marginally situated person can effectively pose as a dominantly situated person and vice versa. When this happens, we cannot always tell who is behind a post. Consequently, relying on differential power relations, as in typical cases of epistemic injustice, might be ineffective online. In this paper, I argue for three ways that anonymity might complicate instances of epistemic injustice online.
A Comparative Study of Machine Learning Models for Daily and Weekly Rainfall Forecasting
Authors: Kumar Vijendra , Kedam Naresh , Kisi Ozgur , Alsulamy Saleh , Khedher Khaled Mohamed , Salem Mohamed Abdelaziz
Published: September 2024

Accurate rainfall forecasting is crucial for various sectors across diverse geographical regions, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the Union Territory of Delhi. This study addresses the need for precise rainfall predictions by bridging the gap between localized meteorological data and broader regional influences. It explores how rainfall patterns in neighboring states affect Delhi's precipitation, aiming to improve forecasting accuracy. Historical rainfall data from neighboring states over four decades (1980–2021) were collected and analyzed. The study employs a dual-model approach: a daily model for immediate rainfall triggers and a weekly model for longer-term trends. Several machine learning algorithms, including CatBoost, XGBoost, ElasticNet, Lasso, LGBM, Random Forest, Multilayer Perceptron, Ridge, Stochastic Gradient Descent, and Linear Regression, were used in the modeling process. These models were rigorously assessed based on performance metrics from training, validation, and testing datasets. For daily rainfall forecasting, CatBoost, XGBoost, and Random Forest emerged as top performers, showcasing exceptional accuracy and pattern-capturing capabilities. In weekly rainfall forecasting, XGBoost consistently achieved near-perfect accuracy with an R2 value of 0.99, with Random Forest and CatBoost also demonstrating strong performance. The study provides valuable insights into how climate patterns in neighboring states influence Delhi's weather, leading to more reliable and timely rainfall predictions.
The relationship between organisational agility and informal learning
Authors: Boerma Sebo , de Laat Maarten , Vermeulen Marjan
Published: September 2024

In dealing with rapid and profound technological, occupational and societal changes organisations benefit from paying attention to their organisational agility. Learning as part of organisational agility however is an under researched area of attention. In this integrated literature review we answer the question if organisational agility and learning are related, focussing on informal learning as an important way to learn in the workplace. We analyse ways in which papers on organisational agility integrate concepts as learning in their definition/approach. We conclude that the business literature includes to some extend perspectives on learning within the approach to agility. But the way learning is conceptualised is mostly moderately and instrumental. This means that learning is mostly seen as a way to become agile as an organisation. The integrative review identifies three areas in which understanding of organisational agility and specifically the framework of Wendler can be enriched and deepened with results from research on informal learning. The integration of both concepts results in three overlapping areas: leadership, social networks and knowledge development. These three areas contain mechanisms that influence both informal learning and organisational agility and therefore describe the relationship between these two concepts. Examples of these mechanisms include working closely together, valuing contributions from different professionals in knowledge development, and stimulating entrepreneurship and risk-taking by employees. More research into the nature of these three areas contributes to a more precise integration of learning theory into the development of the concept of organisational agility. It also provides organisations with approaches for dealing with the changes in their environment in effective and developmental ways.
Physical activity and hippocampal volume in young adults
Authors: Cherednichenko Anastasia , Miró-Padilla Anna , Adrián-Ventura Jesús , Monzonís-Carda Irene , Beltran-Valls Maria Reyes , Moliner-Urdiales Diego , Ávila César
Published: September 2024

Evidence from previous studies suggests that physical activity (PA) may contribute to functional and structural changes in the hippocampus throughout the lifespan. However, there is limited evidence available regarding the young adult population. Additionally, the personality traits that may influence this association remain unclear. With a sample of 84 young adults (43 women; age 22.7 ± 2.8y; range 18–29), the main aim of the current study was to analyze the association between objective and self-reported measures of daily PA and hippocampus subfield gray matter volumes, and to examine the role of the personality trait of punishment sensitivity in this association. Our results showed that only moderate to vigorous levels of objectively measured PA were positively associated with the hippocampal CA2/CA3 volume. Moreover, punishment sensitivity correlated negatively with the objective measure of sedentarism and with self-reported measures of PA. However, regression analyses did not find any interaction between punishment sensitivity and PA in explaining individual differences in hippocampal volumes. Thus, our data suggest that intense PA may contribute to enhancing the hippocampal CA2/CA3 volume in young adults.
The role of 18FDG–PET imaging in VEXAS syndrome: a multicentric case series and a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Bixio Riccardo , Bindoli Sara , Morciano Andrea , Padoan Roberto , Aldegheri Federico , Mastropaolo Francesca , Bertoldo Eugenia , Rotta Denise , Appoloni Matteo , Orsolini Giovanni , Gatti Davide , Adami Giovanni , Viapiana Ombretta , Rossini Maurizio , Sfriso Paolo , Fassio Angelo
Published: September 2024

VEXAS (vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, autoinflammatory, and somatic) syndrome is characterized by heterogeneous clinical manifestations. Due to the inflammatory nature of this condition, 18-FDG–PET (18-fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography) might be used to diagnose and monitor the disease. However, no data are available about the most common findings of PET imaging in this disease. For this reason, we summarised all the available reports of patients with VEXAS who underwent at least one PET scan and described 8 additional patients’ PET from our centres. Overall, we described 35 patients’ PET findings. All patients were male, with a median age of 70 years. The most frequent hypermetabolic sites on PET scans were the bone marrow (77.1%), lymph nodes (35.3%), lungs (28.6%), spleen and large vessels (22.9%), and cartilage (20%). Six patients underwent a PET scan 2.7 ± 1.5 years before VEXAS diagnosis, showing nonspecific uptake in the bone marrow. Four patients had a follow-up PET scan, showing a decrease or a disappearance of the previously identified hypermetabolic areas. In conclusion, although no specific uptake site has been found for VEXAS syndrome, PET imaging could help detect inflammatory foci that are not clinically evident. In addition, high metabolic activity in bone marrow might precede the clinical onset of the disease, shedding light on the pathogenesis of VEXAS.
Rethinking Openness in Data Platforms: The Impact of Data Artifact Characteristics on Platform Openness
Authors: Ofe Hosea , de Reuver Mark
Published: September 2024

Data platforms enable actors to exchange personal and business data. While data is relevant for any digital platform, data platforms exclusively revolve around data artifacts. This paper argues that the specific characteristics of data artifacts challenge the authors’ understanding of platform openness. Specifically, it is argued that data artifacts are editable, interactive and distributable, which means that the consequences of opening up a data platform extend far beyond the focal platform and its context. From this, the study infers that the scope of platform openness extends beyond the data platform on which data artifacts originate. At the same time, the very nature of data artifacts afford new mechanisms to realize and reduce the risks of openness. New avenues are suggested to study platform openness in the realm of data platforms. These avenues include (1) exploring and incorporating novel consequences of platform openness in a data platform setting, (2) examining new arenas for defining openness beyond a focal platform’s confines, and (3) theorizing the implications of new mechanisms for realizing openness while maintaining apparent control over data artifacts.
Hypoflexid function in the “trenchant heel” of carnassial teeth, with comments on talonid evolution
Authors: Lang Andreas Johann , Martin Thomas
Published: September 2024

The carnassial teeth of Carnivora and Dasyuromorphia are characterized by the enlargement of the carnassial blades and reduction of crushing structures. In some species, the highly carnassialized teeth exhibit a unicuspid talonid with only the hypoconid present (“trenchant heel”). This condition is similar to that seen in the molars of pretribosphenic cladotherians such as Dryolestida, with a single talonid cusp and hypoflexid groove. Tooth wear and reconstruction of the power stroke show that the hypoflexid of the trenchant heel occludes with the paracone of the distal upper antagonist, providing a cutting and guiding function during the power stroke, and maintaining a uniform inclination of the tooth movement up to the point of centric occlusion. In case of the Dasyuromorphia, this occlusal relationship is most pronounced between the distal molars (M4/m4), whereas in the Carnivora it occurs between the upper and lower mesial molars (M1/m1). The occurrence of distal hypoflexid-like grooves is a recurring trend in mammal evolution, before and after the evolution of tribosphenic molars with multicuspid talonid.
Evaluation of a host-protein signature score for differentiating between bacterial and viral infections: real-life evidence from a German tertiary hospital
Authors: Wagner Laura , Schneider Heike , Luppa Peter B. , Schröder Kathrin , Wantia Nina , Querbach Christiane , Jeske Samuel D. , Lahmer Tobias , Rothe Kathrin , Dibos Miriam , Voit Florian , Erber Johanna , Spinner Christoph D. , Schneider Jochen , Triebelhorn Julian
Published: September 2024

Purpose

A host-protein signature score, consisting of serum-concentrations of C-reactive protein, tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand, and interferon gamma-induced protein 10, was validated for distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections as an antimicrobial stewardship measure for routine clinical practice among adult patients in a German tertiary hospital.

Methods

This single-centre, explorative study prospectively assessed the host-protein signature score, comparing it with serum procalcitonin (PCT) in patients with blood stream infections (BSI) and evaluating its efficacy in patients with viral infections against the standard of care (SOC) to assess the need for antibiotics due to suspected bacterial super/coinfection. Manufacturer-specified threshold scores were used to differentiate viral (< 35) and bacterial (> 65) infections.

Results

Ninety-seven patients (BSI [n = 56]; viral infections [n = 41]) were included. The score (cut-off score > 65) tended to detect BSI with higher sensitivity than did PCT (cut-off > 0.5 ng/mL) (87.5% vs. 76.6%). Three patients (5.4%) with BSI had a score < 35. One patient with BSI did not receive antibiotic treatment following SOC prior to positive blood culture results. Among patients with viral infections, 29 (70.7%) had scores > 65, indicating bacterial superinfections. Additionally, 11 patients (26.8%) had scores < 35, indicating no bacterial superinfections. In total, the antibiotic treatment discrepancy in the viral group between the SOC and a host-protein signature score guided approach was 2/41 patients (4.9%).

Conclusion

The score tended towards a higher sensitivity in detecting BSI than that with PCT. However, its impact on reducing antibiotic use in viral infections was minor compared with that of SOC.
Against all odds—Factors explaining unexpected educational advancement of students from educationally disadvantaged families
Authors: Floiger Madeleine , Entrich Steve R. , Lauterbach Wolfgang
Published: September 2024

In the course of educational expansion the absolute educational opportunities of children from educationally disadvantaged families have gradually equalized. Nevertheless, the probability of significantly surpassing their parents’ educational level and thus bridging a large social-structural distance remains low for children from disadvantaged social classes. This work examines this “unexpected” educational advancement, i.e. intergenerational educational upward mobility over at least two educational degrees, of students whose parents possess no or at most the lowest secondary school degree focusing on school allocation in Germany.

Combining a resource theoretical approach grounded in rational choice theory with insights from life course research, we ask which factors support children in achieving significantly higher school degrees than their parents (i.e. a school-leaving qualification that spans at least two educational levels). Hence, in view of a scarcity of resources of less advantaged students the current study asks which institutional (school), social (networks) and individual factors (personality traits) beyond the family generate academic resilience and thus enable these students to achieve unexpected upward mobility against all odds.

For our analysis we use data from the German “LifE” study (1979–2024), a longitudinal life course and multigenerational study comprising data for individuals from age 12 to 57 and their parents and children. Results based on classic cross-tabulated mobility descriptives and stepwise logistic regressions show that a significant proportion of students from disadvantaged educational backgrounds (26.8%) achieve academic advancement that contradicts expectations. Attending high school creates an expected path dependency, which significantly predetermines the path to the Abitur, the highest German school leaving certificate providing admission to university. However, the students personal traits (intelligence, self-perceived aptitude) prove robust factors in the explanation of their unexpected educational success, helping them overcome a parental home situation that lacks education and other resources. For students without affiliation to a Gymnasium, however, grades and gender are more important than for students at a Gymnasium.
Freedom in Business: Elizabeth Anderson, Adam Smith, and the Effects of Dominance in Business
Authors: Robson Gregory , Otteson James R.
Published: September 2024

Elizabeth Anderson claims that the prevailing culture of business is one of domination. “Most workplace governments in the United States are dictatorships, in which bosses. . don’t merely govern workers; they dominate them” (2017, p. xxii; italics in the original). If this diagnosis is correct, then the culture of business poses a significant threat to human liberty, as each year millions of people in the employ of businesses spend hundreds or thousands of hours on the job. This essay provides a further argument supporting Anderson’s analysis, by extending her treatment of Adam Smith and drawing on his claim about the potentially mind-numbing effects on workers of extreme division of labor. Smith’s analysis, though consistent with Anderson’s, implies that the problem is more worrisome than she allows, and accordingly that Anderson’s own remedy might be insufficient. Our Anderson/Smith argument suggests that worker unfreedom might warrant more aggressive institutional remedy.