bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Binary quantification and dataset shift: an experimental investigation
Authors: González Pablo , Moreo Alejandro , Sebastiani Fabrizio
Published: March 2024

Quantification is the supervised learning task that consists of training predictors of the class prevalence values of sets of unlabelled data, and is of special interest when the labelled data on which the predictor has been trained and the unlabelled data are not IID, i.e., suffer from dataset shift. To date, quantification methods have mostly been tested only on a special case of dataset shift, i.e., prior probability shift; the relationship between quantification and other types of dataset shift remains, by and large, unexplored. In this work we carry out an experimental analysis of how current quantification algorithms behave under different types of dataset shift, in order to identify limitations of current approaches and hopefully pave the way for the development of more broadly applicable methods. We do this by proposing a fine-grained taxonomy of types of dataset shift, by establishing protocols for the generation of datasets affected by these types of shift, and by testing existing quantification methods on the datasets thus generated. One finding that results from this investigation is that many existing quantification methods that had been found robust to prior probability shift are not necessarily robust to other types of dataset shift. A second finding is that no existing quantification method seems to be robust enough to dealing with all the types of dataset shift we simulate in our experiments. The code needed to reproduce all our experiments is publicly available at https://github.com/pglez82/quant_datasetshift.
Understanding the user perception of digital nudging in platform interface design
Authors: Hettler Fabia Marie , Schumacher Jan-Philip , Anton Eduard , Eybey Berna , Teuteberg Frank
Published: March 2024

Given the nascent understanding of user perceptions toward digital nudges in e-commerce, our study examines key factors: perceived usefulness, ease of use, trust, and privacy risks. Via an online experiment of 273 participants, we examined the influence of digital nudging interventions – social norms, defaults, and scarcity warnings – against a control group. Employing descriptive and inferential statistics, notable trust variations were found between default and scarcity warning groups versus controls. To assess these findings, we interviewed 11 information systems and psychology experts. This research enriches our understanding of digital nudges in e-commerce and provides design insights. Theoretical implications span from providing propositions in order to enhance user involvement, conducting narrative accompanying research, analyzing diverse time points of nudging. Practical implications focus on emphasizing to users their choice autonomy and the highlighting that defaults and scarcity warnings are designed to mitigate inherent heuristics and biases for combining nudging with boosting elements.
Emerging Frontiers in Human–Robot Interaction
Authors: Safavi Farshad , Olikkal Parthan , Pei Dingyi , Kamal Sadia , Meyerson Helen , Penumalee Varsha , Vinjamuri Ramana
Published: March 2024

Effective interactions between humans and robots are vital to achieving shared tasks in collaborative processes. Robots can utilize diverse communication channels to interact with humans, such as hearing, speech, sight, touch, and learning. Our focus, amidst the various means of interactions between humans and robots, is on three emerging frontiers that significantly impact the future directions of human–robot interaction (HRI): (i) human–robot collaboration inspired by human–human collaboration, (ii) brain-computer interfaces, and (iii) emotional intelligent perception. First, we explore advanced techniques for human–robot collaboration, covering a range of methods from compliance and performance-based approaches to synergistic and learning-based strategies, including learning from demonstration, active learning, and learning from complex tasks. Then, we examine innovative uses of brain-computer interfaces for enhancing HRI, with a focus on applications in rehabilitation, communication, brain state and emotion recognition. Finally, we investigate the emotional intelligence in robotics, focusing on translating human emotions to robots via facial expressions, body gestures, and eye-tracking for fluid, natural interactions. Recent developments in these emerging frontiers and their impact on HRI were detailed and discussed. We highlight contemporary trends and emerging advancements in the field. Ultimately, this paper underscores the necessity of a multimodal approach in developing systems capable of adaptive behavior and effective interaction between humans and robots, thus offering a thorough understanding of the diverse modalities essential for maximizing the potential of HRI.
COVID-19 and short-term housing: economic and social impacts and implications
Authors: Cui Jianqiang , Attard Maria
Published: March 2024

The rapid spread of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) around the world since early 2020 has caused significant economic, social, psychological, and public health costs. The COVID-19 pandemic hit almost all economic sectors including the hospitality and tourism industry. This review paper examined the impacts of COVID-19 on short-term housing and the factors influencing these impacts. The existing literature reported generally negative effects of COVID-19 on the operating performance of the short-term accommodation industry. COVID-19 impacted on travellers’ perceptions, host-guest interactions and psychological well-being when choosing short-term accommodation. This review also provides implications for minimising the impacts of COVID-19 or similar future disruptive events on short-term accommodation operations and surviving the crisis in the short-term accommodation sector.
Individual and Contextual Correlates of Latent Bystander Profiles toward Racist Hate Speech: A Multilevel Person-centered Approach
Authors: Wachs Sebastian , Wettstein Alexander , Bilz Ludwig , Espelage Dorothy L. , Wright Michelle F. , Gámez-Guadix Manuel
Published: March 2024

Prior research into bystander responses to hate speech has utilized variable-centered analyses — such approaches risk simplifying the complex nature of bystander behaviors. Hence, the present study used a person-centered analysis to investigate latent hate speech bystander profiles. In addition, individual and classroom-level correlates associated with the various profiles were studied. The sample included 3225 students in grades 7–9 (51.7% self-identified as female; 37.2% with immigrant background) from 215 classrooms in Germany and Switzerland. The latent profile analysis revealed that four distinct profiles could be distinguished: Passive Bystanders (34.2%), Defenders (47.3%), Revengers (9.8%), and Contributors (8.6%). Multilevel logistic regression models showed common and distinct correlates. For example, students who believed that certain social groups are superior were more likely to be Revengers and Contributors than Passive Bystanders, students who felt more connected with teachers were more likely to be Defenders, and students who were more open to diversity were less likely to be Contributors than Passive Bystanders. Students were less likely Defenders and more likely Revengers and Contributors than Passive Bystanders in classrooms with high rates of hate speech perpetration. Further, in classrooms with high hate speech intervention, students were more likely to be Defenders and less likely to be Contributors than Passive Bystanders. In classrooms with stronger cohesion, students were more likely to be Defenders and less likely to be Contributors than Passive Bystanders. In conclusion, the findings add to our understanding of bystander profiles concerning racist hate speech and the relevance of individual and classroom-level factors in explaining various profiles of bystander behavior.
Assessing compounding climate-related stresses and development pathways on the power sector in the central U.S.
Authors: Gurgel Angelo Costa , Reilly John , Morris Jennifer , Schlosser C. Adam , Gao Xiang , Yuan Mei , Tapia-Ahumada Karen
Published: March 2024

Future configurations of the power system in the central region of the USA are dependent on relative costs of alternative power generation technologies, energy and environmental policies, and multiple climate-induced stresses. Higher demand in the summer months combined with compounding supply shocks in several power generation technologies can potentially cause a “perfect storm” leading to failure of the power system. Potential future climate stress must be incorporated in investment decisions and energy system planning and operation. We assess how projected future climate impacts on the power system would affect alternative pathways for the electricity sector considering a broad range of generation technologies and changes in demand. We calculate a “potential supply gap” metric for each pathway, system component, and sub-region of the US Heartland due to climate-induced effects on electricity demand and power generation. Potential supply gaps range from 5% in the North Central region under mild changes in climate to 21% in the Lakes-Mid Atlantic region under more severe climate change. We find increases in electricity demand to be more important in determining the size of the potential supply gap than stresses on power generation, while larger shares of renewables in the power system contribute to lower supply gaps. Our results provide a first step toward considering systemic climate impacts that may require changes in managing the grid or on potential additional capacity/reserves that may be needed.
Stabilization of Semi-Markovian Jumping Uncertain Complex-Valued Networks with Time-Varying Delay: A Sliding-Mode Control Approach
Authors: Li Qiang , Wei Hanqing , Hua Dingli , Wang Jinling , Yang Junxian
Published: March 2024

This paper pays close attention to the stabilization issue for delayed uncertain semi-Markovian jumping complex-valued networks via sliding mode control. The concerned corresponding transition rates depend on a positive constant, i.e., sojourn-time, which is not required to obey the general exponential distribution. Combine the generalized Dynkin’s formula with Lyapunov stability theory as well as the characteristics of cumulative distribution functions, a few sufficient criteria are proposed to ascertain the stochastic stability of the obtained sliding mode dynamical system. In addition, design a novel sliding mode controller to ensure all state trajectories of the potential closed-loop system can reach the synthesized sliding mode switching surface in a finite time and maintain there in the subsequent time. In the end of paper, one simple example is presented to verify superiority and feasibility of the provided controller design scheme.
Ocular and systemic vascular endothelial growth factor ligand inhibitor use and nephrotoxicity: an update
Authors: Rangaswamy Dharshan , Nagaraju Shankar Prasad , Bhojaraja Mohan Varadanayakanahalli , Swaminathan Shilna Muttickal , Prabhu Ravindra A. , Rao Indu Ramachandra , Shenoy Srinivas Vinayak
Published: March 2024

Tumor growth is intricately linked to the process of angiogenesis, with a key role played by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its associated signaling pathways. Notably, these pathways also play a pivotal “housekeeping” role in renal physiology. Over the past decade, the utilization of VEGF signaling inhibitors has seen a substantial rise in the treatment of diverse solid organ tumors, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and various ocular diseases. However, this increased use of such agents has led to a higher frequency of encountering renal adverse effects in clinical practice. This review comprehensively addresses the incidence, pathophysiological mechanisms, and current evidence concerning renal adverse events associated with systemic and intravitreal antiangiogenic therapies targeting VEGF-A and its receptors (VEGFR) and their associated signaling pathways. Additionally, we briefly explore strategies for mitigating potential risks linked to the use of these agents and effectively managing various renal adverse events, including but not limited to hypertension, proteinuria, renal dysfunction, and electrolyte imbalances.
A meta-analysis of technology-delivered literacy instruction for elementary students
Authors: Dahl-Leonard Katlynn , Hall Colby , Peacott Delanie
Published: March 2024

Technology to support student learning has become increasingly prevalent in schools and homes during the last few decades. Several recent reviews have examined aspects of technology-based literacy instruction, but they have not focused on the full array of literacy skills that can be addressed during technology-delivered instruction for elementary students, nor have they utilized meta-analytic methods to rigorously examine effects of such instruction. Therefore, the purpose of this meta-analysis was to describe and evaluate recent research on technology-delivered literacy instruction for students in Grades K-5. A total of 53 experimental or quasi-experimental studies were analyzed. Results demonstrated a statistically significant main effect of instruction on norm- or criterion-referenced literacy outcomes (g = 0.24, p < .001), indicating that elementary students are likely to benefit from technology-delivered literacy instruction. Although the effects of several moderator variables representing study, participant, instruction, and outcome characteristics were explored, analyses revealed no statistically significant moderators of effects of instruction. Overall, findings indicate that further research on technology-based literacy instruction is needed to determine what works for whom and under what conditions.
Optical system for extremely large spectroscopic survey telescope
Authors: Su Ding-qiang , Bai Hua , Yuan Xiangyan , Cui Xiangqun
Published: March 2024

This article presents research work on a spectroscopic survey telescope. Our idea is as follows: for such a telescope, a pure reflecting optical system is designed, which should have an aperture and a field of view (FOV) both as large as possible and excellent image quality, and then a strip lensm (lens-prism) atmospheric dispersion corrector (S-ADC) is added, only for correcting the atmospheric dispersion. Given the fund limitation and the simplicity of scaling up, some 12-m telescopes are designed as examples. Su, Korsch, and Meinel put forward the four-mirror Nasmyth systems I and II, which are used in this paper. FOVs of 1.5°, 2°, and 2.5° are selected. For all systems, the image qualities are excellent. Because the S-ADC relaxes the optical glass size restriction, this 12-m telescope with a FOV of 2.5° can be magnified in proportion to a 16-m telescope. Its etendue (from French étendue) and focal surface will now be the largest in the world. In such a telescope, a pure reflecting optical system can also be obtained. A subsequent coudé system is designed with excellent image quality.
Development and Validation of Machine Learning Algorithms to Predict 1-Year Ischemic Stroke and Bleeding Events in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Cancer
Authors: Truong Bang , Zheng Jingyi , Hornsby Lori , Fox Brent , Chou Chiahung , Qian Jingjing
Published: March 2024

In this study, we leveraged machine learning (ML) approach to develop and validate new assessment tools for predicting stroke and bleeding among patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) and cancer. We conducted a retrospective cohort study including patients who were newly diagnosed with AFib with a record of cancer from the 2012–2018 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Medicare database. The ML algorithms were developed and validated separately for each outcome by fitting elastic net, random forest (RF), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), support vector machine (SVM), and neural network models with tenfold cross-validation (train:test = 7:3). We obtained area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and F2 score as performance metrics. Model calibration was assessed using Brier score. In sensitivity analysis, we resampled data using Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE). Among 18,388 patients with AFib and cancer, 523 (2.84%) had ischemic stroke and 221 (1.20%) had major bleeding within one year after AFib diagnosis. In prediction of ischemic stroke, RF significantly outperformed other ML models [AUC (0.916, 95% CI 0.887–0.945), sensitivity 0.868, specificity 0.801, F2 score 0.375, Brier score = 0.035]. However, the performance of ML algorithms in prediction of major bleeding was low with highest AUC achieved by RF (0.623, 95% CI 0.554–0.692). RF models performed better than CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores. SMOTE did not improve the performance of the ML algorithms. Our study demonstrated a promising application of ML in stroke prediction among patients with AFib and cancer. This tool may be leveraged in assisting clinicians to identify patients at high risk of stroke and optimize treatment decisions.
Epidemiology of growth hormone deficiency in children and adolescents: a systematic review
Authors: Mameli Chiara , Guadagni Liliana , Orso Massimiliano , Calcaterra Valeria , Wasniewska Malgorzata Gabriela , Aversa Tommaso , Granato Simona , Bruschini Pietro , d’Angela Daniela , Spandonaro Federico , Polistena Barbara , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo
Published: March 2024

Objective

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is the most common pituitary hormone deficiency and is one of the main causes of short stature in children and adolescents. The aim of this study is to evaluate the epidemiology of pediatric GHD worldwide, since no other systematic review has been published so far.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science up to July 2023 to find epidemiological studies involving children with GHD. Two review authors independently screened articles, extracted data and performed the quality assessment.

Results

We selected 9 epidemiological studies published from 1974 to 2022. The range of prevalence was 1/1107–1/8,646. A study based on a registry of GH users in the Piedmont region (Italy) reported the highest mean prevalence. In the included studies, the mean incidence ranged from 1/28,800 to 1/46,700 cases per year. One study reported a 20-year cumulative incidence of 127/100,000 for boys and 93/100,000 for girls. Studies were heterogeneous in terms of population (age and GHD etiology) and diagnostic criteria. As for the methodological quality of included studies, all but one study satisfied the majority of the checklist items.

Conclusions

The included studies are mostly European, so the provided estimates cannot be considered global. International multicentre studies are needed to compare epidemiological estimates of GHD among different ethnical groups. Considering the considerable cost of human recombinant GH, the only available therapy to treat GHD, understanding accurate epidemiological estimates of GHD in each country is fundamental for resource allocation.
Evaluation of Food Homogenates on Cell Survival In Vitro
Authors: Semaan Dima , O’Connor Liam , Scobie Linda
Published: March 2024

A critical review on the approaches to assess the infectivity of the Hepatitis E virus (HEV) in food recommended that a cell culture-based method should be developed. Due to the observations that viral loads in food may be low, it is important to maximise the potential for detection of HEV in a food source in order to fully assess infectivity. To do so, would require minimal processing of any target material. In order to proceed with the development of an infectivity culture method that is simple, robust and reproducible, there are a number of points to address; one being to assess if food homogenates are cytotoxic to HEV susceptible target cells. Food matrices previously shown to have detectable HEV nucleic acid were selected for analysis and assessed for their effect on the percentage survival of three cell lines commonly used for infectivity assays. Target cells used were A549, PLC/PRF/5 and HepG2 cells. The results showed that, as expected, various food homogenates have differing effects on cells in vitro. In this study, the most robust cell line over a time period was the A549 cell line in comparison to HepG2, with PLC/PRF/5 cells being the most sensitive. Overall, this data would suggest that FH can be left in contact with A549 cells for a period of up to 72 h to maximise the potential for testing infection. Using food homogenates directly would negate any concerns over losing virus as a result of any additional processing steps.
On the Interplay Between Business Process Management and Internet-of-Things
Authors: De Luzi Francesca , Leotta Francesco , Marrella Andrea , Mecella Massimo
Published: March 2024

In the last years, the increasing scientific and industrial interest in Business Process Management (BPM) approaches and methods on the one side, and Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies and tools on the other. Are these fields complementary? What are their respective interplays and the research challenges to their realizations? The article presents a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to gain in-depth insights into the maturity of existing approaches to IoT-aware BPM. The analysis of the retrieved studies, framed along the research questions addressed in the SLR, enables us to systematically evaluate the literature on IoT-aware BPM concerning the phases of the process life cycle covered by the different approaches, the specific topics addressed, the application domains involved, and the possibility to tackle the research challenges. Future research directions are also highlighted.
Emerging Clinical Applications for Cone Beam Breast CT: Changing the Breast Imaging Paradigm
Authors: Siddall Kristina , Zhang Xiaohua , O’Connell Avice
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

Since its approval by the Unites States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015, cone-beam breast computed tomography (CBBCT) has gained acceptance among radiologists for breast cancer imaging. This review aims to highlight the advancements and benefits of CBBCT in the diagnostic workup of breast disease. It showcases how CBBCT, including both non-contrast (NC-CBBCT) and contrast-enhanced (CE-CBBCT) protocols, complements and often surpasses the performance of more traditional breast imaging modalities such as mammography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Recent Findings

Studies in clinical settings have shown CBBCT’s efficacy in detecting and characterizing breast lesions of differing morphologies, including non-mass enhancement and calcifications—tasks that previously required the use of multiple modalities. In addition, CBBCT significantly enhances patient comfort and efficiency, offering quick acquisition times without the discomfort of breast compression. The technology can be utilized for guiding biopsies, planning surgical interventions, and assessing breast density and tumor characteristics, evidence supporting its integration into clinical practice.

CBBCT holds the potential to shift the imaging paradigm in breast cancer care, indicating a promising future for the modality in terms of enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving patient experience, and influencing treatment outcomes.
Sustainable aquatic resource management and inland fisheries in tropical Asia: Interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches
Authors: Schiemer Fritz , Amarasinghe Upali S. , Simon David , Vijverberg Jacobus
Published: March 2024

The intensive utilization of tropical inland water bodies for multiple and sometimes competing activities underlines the necessity for their integrated and holistic co-management. This paper presents our synthesis on lake and reservoir fisheries in South and Southeast Asia as social–ecological systems, based on a synopsis of our research findings from a previous EU-funded research programme in Sri Lanka, Thailand and the Philippines (FISHSTRAT project). The paper attempts to merge our results with recent developments in research, policy and practice. We explore the effects of the main external and internal control mechanisms of the trophic state and pinpoint to the high production potential of traditionally unexploited small indigenous fish species. The limitations of conventional centralized management systems highlight the importance of introducing transdisciplinary approaches which integrate limnology, fish ecology and fisheries with the interests of other resource using stakeholders and decision makers in order to develop locally appropriate co-management strategies for sustainable aquatic resource use.
Tätigkeitsprofile von Förderlehrpersonen – eine explorative Studie zur Erhebung des Einsatzes von Ressourcen für sonderpädagogische Angebote
Authors: Wicki Monika T. , Rauber Julia
Published: March 2024

Für die Gestaltung inklusiver Lernsettings stehen den Schulen Ressourcen, mehrheitlich in Form von Personal, zur Verfügung. Über deren Einsatz können die Schulen im Rahmen der gesetzlichen Vorgaben selbst entscheiden. Daher sind auch die sonderpädagogischen Angebote in den Schulen unterschiedlich organisiert. Doch auf Grund fehlender Daten gibt es für die Schulen keine evidenzbasierten Grundlagen, wie sie die Ressourcen effektiv und effizient einsetzen können.

Im Rahmen eines Pilotprojektes wurden Daten in fünf Deutschschweizer Kantonen (Bern, Graubünden, St. Gallen, Schwyz und Zürich) zum Einsatz der Förderlehrpersonen in Volksschulen anhand eines Onlinefragebogens erhoben. Der Fragebogen wurde von N = 113 Lehrpersonen ausgefüllt. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird der Frage nachgegangen, inwieweit sich anhand der Arbeitszeitverteilung der Förderlehrpersonen unterschiedliche Tätigkeitsprofile identifizieren lassen.

Mit Hilfe einer Clusteranalyse konnten drei Typen von Tätigkeitsprofilen von Förderlehrpersonen identifiziert werden. Die Gruppen betätigen sich alle hauptsächlich im operativen Kern. Davon ist eine Gruppe eher in der Klasse tätig, eine andere in separativen Kleingruppen, und die dritte Gruppe ist, neben dem Unterricht, auch oft in Beratung und Diagnostik tätig.

Die Ergebnisse der Studie geben Hinweise darauf, dass je nach Ressourcenverteilung der Schulen unterschiedliche Tätigkeitsprofile von Förderlehrpersonen resultieren. Darauf aufbauend sollte die Frage untersucht werden, inwiefern die unterschiedlichen Tätigkeitsprofile die Wahrnehmung der Schul- und Unterrichtsqualität beeinflussen.
The Use of Cognitive Paired Associative Stimulation (C-PAS) in Investigating and Remediating the Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Working Memory in Humans: The Importance of State-Dependency
Authors: Luber Bruce , Ekpo Ekaete C. , Lisanby Sarah H.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

Sleep deprivation is a global health issue, and the resultant cognitive deficits can be debilitating. A series of studies reported success with individually neuronavigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), coupled with online task performance, in substantially reducing performance deficits in working memory in healthy adults caused by 2 days of total sleep depression. This paradigm of coupling TMS with online task performance has been referred to as Cognitive Paired Associative Stimulation (C-PAS). This review describes those studies and the research since using various TMS paradigms to remediate working memory deficits in sleep deprivation.

Recent Findings

Three such studies were found, but none replicated the earlier findings. However, in each case, there were differences in study design that might explain the negative findings and inform future methodological choices and to underline the need to combine TMS with brain imaging guidance.

Online task performance during TMS, as done in the C-PAS paradigm, appears to be essential to demonstrating lasting remediation of working memory deficits induced by sleep deprivation. This observation highlights the importance of state-dependency in determining the effects of TMS. Further work needs to be done to clarify the potential role of C-PAS in alleviating the effects of sleep deprivation and studying cognitive processes affected by sleep.
Preissetzungsregeln für Kraftstoffe: Mehr Wettbewerb durch weniger Volatilität
Authors: Helmedag Fritz
Published: March 2024

Die 2013 eingerichtete Markttransparenzstelle für Kraftstoffe instruiert die Verbraucher über die aktuellen Preise an den Zapfsäulen, die sich lokal aber weitaus weniger unterscheiden als Verfechter des Informationsportals seinerzeit erwarteten. Anscheinend fördert ein erleichterter Konditionenvergleich das Parallelverhalten der Anbieter und vermindert die Rivalitätsbeziehung unter den Verkäufern. In einem recht allgemein formulierten Modell werden die beiden grundsätzlichen preispolitischen Alternativen gegenübergestellt, um eine Regulierungsvorschrift abzuleiten, die eine schärfere Konkurrenz zwischen den Tankstellenbetreibern erwarten lässt. Die damit verbundene temporäre Preisbindung verspricht, die Effektivität der Markttransparenzstelle zu fördern.
Module-based regularization improves Gaussian graphical models when observing noisy data
Authors: Neuman Magnus , Calatayud Joaquín , Tasselius Viktor , Rosvall Martin
Published: March 2024

Inferring relations from correlational data allows researchers across the sciences to uncover complex connections between variables for insights into the underlying mechanisms. The researchers often represent inferred relations using Gaussian graphical models, requiring regularization to sparsify the models. Acknowledging that the modular structure of these inferred networks is often studied, we suggest module-based regularization to balance under- and overfitting. Compared with the graphical lasso, a standard approach using the Gaussian log-likelihood for estimating the regularization strength, this approach better recovers and infers modular structure in noisy synthetic and real data. The module-based regularization technique improves the usefulness of Gaussian graphical models in the many applications where they are employed.
Stream sediment pollution: a compositional baseline assessment
Authors: Albuquerque Teresa , Fonseca Rita , Araújo Joana , Silva Natália , Araújo António
Published: March 2024

A high concentration of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) can affect ecosystem health in many ways. It is therefore essential that spatial trends in pollutants are assessed and monitored. Two questions must be addressed when quantifying pollution: how to define a non-polluted sample and how to reduce the problem’s dimensionality. A geochemical dataset is a composition of variables (chemical elements), where the components represent the relative importance of each part of the whole. Therefore, to comply with the compositional constraints, a compositional approach was used. A novel compositional pollution indicator (CPI) based on compositional data (CoDa) principles such as the properties of sparsity and simplicity was computed. A dataset of 12 chemical elements in 33 stream-sediment samples were collected from depths of 0–10 cm in a grid of 1 km × 1 km and analyzed. Maximum concentrations of 3.8% Pb, 750 µg g−1 As, and 340 µg g–1 Hg were obtained near the mine tailings. The methodological approach involved geological background selection in terms of a trimmed subsample that could be assumed to contain only non-pollutants (Al and Fe) and the selection of a list of pollutants (As, Zn, Pb, and Hg) based on expert knowledge criteria and previous studies. Finally, a stochastic sequential Gaussian simulation of the new CPI was performed. The results of the hundred simulations performed were summarized through the mean image map and maps of the probability of exceeding a given statistical threshold, allowing the characterization of the spatial distribution and the associated variability of the CPI. A high risk of contamination along the Grândola River was observed. As the main economic activities in this area are agricultural and involve animal stocks, it is crucial to establish two lines of intervention: the installation of a surveillance network for continuous control in all areas and the definition of mitigation actions for the northern area with high levels of contamination.

Graphical Abstract
Evaluation of cell-free supernatants from the symbiotic bacteria of entomopathogenic nematodes for controlling the colorado potato beetle [Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)]
Authors: Erdem Esengül , Yüksel Ebubekir , Canhilal Ramazan
Published: March 2024

The Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata, poses a significant threat to potato crops globally and has developed resistance to numerous insecticides. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), from the genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis, are promising biocontrol agents. This study aimed to identify the bacterial symbionts of ten native EPN isolates, evaluate the efficiency of cell free supernatants (CFSs) from their symbiotic bacteria against different developmental stages of CPB, and determine the effect of these CFSs on CPB developmental stages and lifespan. The recA gene region was utilized to determine the symbiotic bacteria of ten local EPNs. CFSs from these bacteria were applied orally and through contact to CPB’s various developmental stages (L1/L2, L3/L4 larval stages, and adults). Mortalities, developmental transition times, and lifespans of adults were observed. The CFSs showed significant toxicity to CPB, with higher efficiency against young larvae. The CFSs exhibited cumulatively lethal effects over time, particularly on L1/L2 larval stages. CFSs from X. bovienii exhibited the highest efficacy. In all cases, where larvae received CFSs orally or by contact, they failed to develop into pupae and adults. In contrast, the transition periods of old larvae to pupal and adult stages were comparable to those of the control group. Lifespans of adults differed based on bacterial isolates and application methods. This study shows the potential efficacy of CFSs from Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus as biocontrol agents against CPB, particularly in its young larval stages. Further research is needed to unravel the mechanisms behind these effects and examine the impact on CPB mating and oviposition behaviors.
A pandemic of delirium: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of occurrence of delirium in older adults with COVID-19
Authors: Zazzara Maria Beatrice , Ornago Alice Margherita , Cocchi Camilla , Serafini Elisabetta , Bellelli Giuseppe , Onder Graziano
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Delirium has been recognized as an atypical presenting feature of COVID-19 in older adults and is independently associated with mortality. We aimed to perform an updated systematic review of the literature and proportional meta-analysis to assess prevalence and incidence of delirium in older adults with COVID-19, addressing differences according to sex, frailty status, and settings.

Methods

We searched databases for English-language articles on prevalence and incidence of delirium in older adults with COVID-19, published between March 2020 and January 2023.

Results

Of the 1171 articles identified, 66 met selection criteria and were included in the meta-analysis (n = 35,035 participants, age-range 66–90 years old, 46.6% females). We observed similar pooled prevalence (20.6% [95% Confidence Interval (CI) 17.8–23.8%]) and incidence (21.3% [95% CI 14.7–30%]) of delirium. Pooled occurrence (both prevalence and incidence) of delirium was similar according to sex (females 21.3% [95% CI 16–27.5%] vs. males 23.8%% [95% CI 18.2–30.4%], p-value = 0.55) and study setting (nursing homes 22.5% [95% CI 14.2–33.6%] vs. hospital 20.3% [95% CI 17–24%], p = 0.68), but it was significantly higher in frail versus non-frail patients (37% [95% CI 26.6–48.8%] vs. 12.5% [95% CI 7.8–19.6%], p-value < 0.01). Delirium definitions and assessment tools largely varied across studies.

Conclusion

This review delineates delirium as a common feature of COVID-19, particularly in frail older adults, and supports its formal inclusion among COVID-19 symptoms. The considerable heterogeneity in delirium assessment highlights the need for an operational strategy to standardize definitions and tools utilization in the management of frail older adults.
Society with Indian Characteristics: Caste, Class, and Species in Contemporary Retellings of the Rāmāyaṇa
Authors: Oliveira João Pedro
Published: March 2024

This paper analyzes the construction of Indian society in retellings of the Rāmāyaṇa published in India between 2010 and 2020. I focus on the concepts of caste, class, and mythological species. Through discourse analysis of a corpus of retellings, nonfiction works by the same authors, and comparisons with secondary literature, I show how specific castes, classes, and species are assimilated to one another and contrasted with competing identities. I also show how such representations define positive traits of Indianness and contrast them with the opposite negative traits of Otherness. I conclude that, despite differences in style, the retellers imagine an ancient pre-colonial India imbued with the modern neoliberal values of freedom of choice and social mobility.
Land grabbing, CSR, and the (de)mobilization of resistance
Authors: Sändig Jan
Published: March 2024

As large-scale agricultural investment has been rising, scholars have much investigated the factors that shape contestations against land grabbing. This literature, however, has hardly focused on the role of investing agricultural companies and their corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices so far. Vice versa, there is extensive research on the CSR-contention nexus for mining and other sectors, albeit with contested findings. To contribute to these debates, I apply the opportunities and threats framework from social movement studies to examine how CSR affects local and transnational contention. This is studied in the comparison of two major European agricultural companies that operate in Cameroon (and beyond). The analysis shows a demobilizing effect of timely and substantial CSR practices.
A sensitive one-pot ROA assay for rapid miRNA detection
Authors: Hou Zhihao , Deng Wenpeng , Li Alun , Zhang Ya , Chang Jianye , Guan Xinyue , Chang Yuxiao , Wang Kaile , Wang Xinjie , Ruan Jue
Published: March 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and short RNA fragments (18–25 nt) are crucial biomarkers in biological research and disease diagnostics. However, their accurate and rapid detection remains a challenge, largely due to their low abundance, short length, and sequence similarities. In this study, we report on a highly sensitive, one-step RNA O-circle amplification (ROA) assay for rapid and accurate miRNA detection. The ROA assay commences with the hybridization of a circular probe with the test RNA, followed by a linear rolling circle amplification (RCA) using dUTP. This amplification process is facilitated by U-nick reactions, which lead to an exponential amplification for readout. Under optimized conditions, assays can be completed within an hour, producing an amplification yield up to the microgram level, with a detection limit as low as 0.15 fmol (6 pM). Notably, the ROA assay requires only one step, and the results can be easily read visually, making it user-friendly. This ROA assay has proven effective in detecting various miRNAs and phage ssRNA. Overall, the ROA assay offers a user-friendly, rapid, and accurate solution for miRNA detection.
The RUBY reporter for visual selection in soybean genome editing
Authors: Chen Li , Cai Yupeng , Liu Xiaoqian , Yao Weiwei , Wu Shuiqing , Hou Wensheng
Published: March 2024

Current systems to screen for transgenic soybeans (Glycine max) involve laborious molecular assays or the expression of fluorescent markers that are difficult to see in soybean plants. Therefore, a visual system for early screening of transgenic plants would increase the efficiency of crop improvement by genome editing. The RUBY reporter system, which consists of three genes encoding betalain biosynthetic enzymes, leading to the accumulation of purple pigment in transgenic tissue, has been employed in some plants and dikaryon fungi. Here, we assessed the RUBY reporter for visual verification during soybean transformation. We show that RUBY can be expressed in soybean, allowing for visual confirmation of transgenic events without the need for specialized equipment. Plants with visible accumulation of purple pigment in any tissue were successfully transformed, confirming the accuracy of the RUBY system as a visual indicator. We also assessed the genetic stability of the transgene across generations, which can be performed very early, using the cotyledons of the progeny. Transgene-free seedlings have a distinct green color, facilitating the selection of genome-edited but transgene-free soybean seedlings for harvest. Using the RUBY system, we quickly identified a transgene-free Gmwaxy mutant in the T1 generation. This system thus provides an efficient and convenient tool for soybean genome editing.
Ethical and preventive legal technology
Authors: Stathis Georgios , van den Herik Jaap
Published: March 2024

Preventive Legal Technology (PLT) is a new field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) investigating theintelligent prevention of disputes. The concept integrates the theories ofpreventive lawandlegal technology. Our goal is to give ethics a place in the new technology. Byexplainingthe decisions of PLT, we aim to achieve a higher degree oftrustworthinessbecause explicit explanations are expected to improve the level oftransparencyandaccountability. Trustworthiness is an urgent topic in the discussion on doing AI research ethically and accounting for the regulations. For this purpose, we examine the limitations of rule-based explainability for PLT. Hence, our Problem Statement reads:to what extent is it possible to develop an explainable and trustworthy Preventive Legal Technology?After an insightful literature review, we focus on case studies with applications. The results describe (1) the effectivity of PLT and (2) its responsibility. The discussion is challenging and multivariate, investigating deeply the relevance of PLT for LegalTech applications in light of the development of the AI Act (currently still in its final phase of process) and the work of the High-Level Expert Group (HLEG) on AI. On the ethical side, explaining AI decisions for small PLT domains is clearly possible, with direct effects on trustworthiness due to increased transparency and accountability.
AI empowered Auslan learning for parents of deaf children and children of deaf adults
Authors: Sheng Hongwei , Shen Xin , Du Heming , Zhang Hu , Huang Zi , Yu Xin
Published: March 2024

Communication poses a challenge for the deaf and hearing loss community. This difficulty is even more pronounced in the families of Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs) and Parents of Deaf Children (PODCs). To help these families overcome this challenge, we design an AI-empowered interactive bi-directional Australian Sign Language (i.e., Auslan) dictionary application to facilitate communication within a household. Technically, our APP can not only look up sign gestures for the given English words but also translate isolated Auslan gestures into English. Through an inviting user interface and experience design, we can further improve engagement within the CODA and PODC families while enabling Auslan education at home. The positive user experience underscores the success of our APP not only in leveraging AI to revolutionise Auslan education but also in promoting cross-generational language acquisition and communication.
Navigating the impact: a study of editors’ and proofreaders’ perceptions of AI tools in editing and proofreading
Authors: Al Sawi Islam , Alaa Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Human editors and proofreaders now face a new, and possibly serious, challenge: the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) tools that some consider to be as efficient and precise as experts in editing/proofreading. This research aims to investigate editors’ and proofreaders’ perceptions of current AI tools. It examines whether editors/proofreaders view AI as an opportunity or a threat and considers their insights into the future of AI tools for them. The study collected qualitative data through email questionnaires from 17 professional editors and proofreaders purposively appointed from a society of professional editors and proofreaders in Egypt. The results revealed that the responses regarding AI for editors and proofreaders are generally mixed, with a range of both positive and negative perspectives. Some responses highlight the opportunities and benefits that AI tools can bring, such as increased efficiency, time-saving, and improved productivity. Others express concerns about potential threats, such as the possibility of AI replacing humans, ethical considerations, and the need for continued human involvement in the editing/proofreading process. Overall, the attitudes toward AI tools for editing and proofreading reflect a paradoxical view of the technology’s impact on the field. The active engagement and participation of editors and proofreaders are essential for the successful implementation of AI technologies in editorial contexts.
Prevalence of Functional Disabilities and Associations Among Disabilities, Violence, and HIV Among Adolescents and Young Adults in Lesotho
Authors: Massetti Greta M. , Stamatakis Caroline , Charania Sana , Annor Francis B. , Rice Catherine E. , Hegle Jennifer , Ramphalla Puleng , Sechache Masechache , Motheo Mookho
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Lesotho has the second-highest prevalence of HIV. Despite progress in achieving HIV epidemic control targets, inequities persist among certain groups, particularly associations between disability, HIV, and violence. We assessed the prevalence of disability and examined associations between disability and HIV and violence using data from the 2018 Lesotho Violence Against Children and Youth Survey (VACS).

Methods

Lesotho VACS was a nationally representative survey of females and males ages 13–24. We assessed the associations between disability status and HIV, sexual risk behaviours, and violence using logistic regression, incorporating survey weights.

Results

Weighted functional disability prevalence was 14.1% for females (95% confidence interval [CI] 12.7–15.4) and 7.3% for males (5.3–9.2). Compared with females with no disabilities, females with disabilities had higher odds of being HIV positive (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.92, 1.34–2.76), having transactional sex (aOR 1.79, 1.09–2.95), and experiencing any lifetime violence (aOR 2.20, 1.82–2.65), sexual violence (aOR 1.77, 1.36–2.31), emotional violence (2.02. 1.61–2.53), physical violence (aOR 1.85, 1.54–2.24), witnessing interparental violence (aOR 1.71, 1.46–2.01), and witnessing community violence (aOR 1.52, 1.26–1.84). Males with disabilities had higher odds of having transactional sex (aOR 4.30, 1.35–13.73), having recent multiple sex partners (aOR 2.31, 1.13–4.75), experiencing emotional violence (aOR 2.85, 1.39–5.82), and witnessing interparental violence (aOR 1.78, 1.12–2.84). HIV models for males did not converge due to low numbers.

Conclusion

Findings emphasize the importance of inclusion and accessibility for adolescents and young adults with disabilities in prevention and services for violence and HIV. Ending HIV in Lesotho depends on addressing the vulnerabilities that lead to potential infection including violence and ensuring equitable services for all.