bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fully distributed secure consensualization for leaderless nonlinear multiagent systems with communication link attacks
Authors: Zhao Miao , Xi Jianxiang , Wang Le , Xia Kehan , Zheng Yuanshi
Published: May 2023

The secure consensualization for leaderless nonlinear multiagent systems with communication link attacks is realized in a fully distributed manner in a certain sense that the gain matrix design do not depend on the communication topology. A new virtual reference state estimator is proposed for each agent to estimate the common tracking state, which can adaptively adjust coupling strengths to counteract the influence of communication link attacks. Then, by the Lipschitz condition and the special structure property of the time‐varying nonsingular transformation matrix, the influence of the Lipschitz nonlinearity on secure consensus is linearized, and a design approach of the secure consensus control gain is given on the foundation of the linear matrix inequality. Finally, a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Partial pulpectomy of a tusk fracture with pulp exposure in a North Sulawesi babirusa (Babyrousa celebensis)
Authors: Dreyer Saskia , Grund Lisa , Klein Christian , Lawrenz Arne , Fischer Dominik
Published: May 2023

A 6‐year‐old, male North Sulawesi babirusa (Babyrousa celebensis) kept at a zoological institution, suffered a tusk fracture of unknown origin, associated with pulp exposure and a relapse of the fracture after 10 months. In other tusked animals, endodontic therapy has been reported to treat acute pulp exposure and to preserve the growing tusk. Therefore, a partial pulpectomy was attempted in the babirusa, combined with systemic antibiotic and anti‐inflammatory therapy. Under general anaesthesia, the partial pulpectomy was performed twice, followed by a direct pulp capping with mineral trioxide aggregate and closure of the coronal pulp opening using glass ionomer cement and composite. Partial pulpectomies have been performed in babirusas before, but using mineral trioxide aggregate as pulp capping is a novel treatment regimen. It was performed without complications, and the tusk continued to grow. Over a follow‐up period of 14 months, the tusk was successfully preserved in absence of any relapse or instability.
Hybrid governance, environmental justice, and hydropower development in the Mekong transboundary commons
Authors: Yong Ming Li
Published: May 2023

The transboundary Mekong River spans China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, and provides critical ecosystem services that support millions of people across the river basin. However, the exploitation of its water resources for state‐led development, especially in the realm of hydropower development, not only threatens the livelihoods and food security of communities across the river basin, but also reveal the challenges of governing the Mekong River as a transboundary commons. In focusing on how environmental injustice is produced through hydropower development and the power dynamics within hybrid governance arrangements in the Mekong River Basin, this paper seeks to examine how a grounded perspective of environmental justice may be understood in this context by linkages between the principles of environmental justice and the Mekong literature in three ways. First, the production of, and challenges against distributive injustice in the Mekong River Basin must engage with a strong tradition of scalar analysis in the field of transboundary water governance, particularly in understanding how a politics of scale underlies contestations around the Mekong River. Second, the principle of justice as recognition can be situated within a body of literature that interrogates the politics of knowledge that runs through Mekong water governance, although the co‐production of knowledge types must be acknowledged. Finally, a recent body of literature questioning the legality of dam‐building and public participation around Mekong hydropower dams are closely tied to issues of procedural justice, and reveal the importance of recognizing plurality in ideas around transparency and accountability.

This article is categorized under:

Human Water > Water Governance

Human Water > Water as Imagined and Represented

Human Water > Value of Water
Einleitung
Authors: Katter Valentin
Published: May 2023

Der Stellenwert der Trigonometrie in den Kernlehrplänen der Sekundarstufe I und II variiert deutlich in den unterschiedlichen Bundesländern. In Nordrhein-Westfalen reicht es beispielsweise, die Ableitung der Sinusfunktion schlichtweg zu nennen, wohingegen sich die Schülerinnen und Schüler in Bayern die Ableitungsfunktion auf graphischem Weg plausibel machen sollen. In Berlin sollen die Schülerinnen und Schüler den Sinus- und Kosinussatz nutzen, um in beliebigen Dreiecken Seitenlängen zu bestimmen, während in Niedersachsen die beiden Sätze nicht auftauchen.
Einleitung
Authors: Ruppel Samantha
Published: May 2023

Dieses Kapitel bietet einen ersten Einblick und Überblick in das hier vorliegende Buch. Es wird argumentiert, dass wenn lokale Akteur*innen von Beginn in Friedenprozesse eingebunden werden, es wichtig ist, die Beziehungen der beteiligten Akteur*innen zueinander im Blick zu haben. Das Kapitel gibt eine kurze Einführung in Zivile Konfliktbearbeitung und lokale Akteur*innen und den für die Forschung verwendeten reflexiven Forschungsansatz.
Konzeptioneller Rahmen
Authors: Ruppel Samantha
Published: May 2023

Dieses Kapitel erarbeitet einen konzeptionellen Rahmen, indem es verschiedene theoretische Überlegungen zu Peacebuilding und insbesondere zur Einbeziehung lokaler Akteur*innen diskutiert. Die hier dargestellten theoretischen Konzepte sind im Sinne der Methode als Werkzeugkasten zu verstehen, um anschließend darstellen zu können, wie die theoretische, normative Ebene in der Praxis aussieht. Generell gelten die theoretischen Konzepte als Erwartungshorizont, der den Blick für die eigentliche Forschung schärft.
Biofilm-forming strains of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus isolated from cystic fibrosis patients differently affect inflammatory phenotype of macrophages
Authors: Ciszek-Lenda Marta , Majka Grzegorz , Suski Maciej , Walczewska Maria , Górska Sabina , Golińska Edyta , Fedor Angelika , Gamian Andrzej , Olszanecki Rafał , Strus Magdalena , Marcinkiewicz Janusz
Published: May 2023

Objective

Lung cystic fibrosis (CF) is characterized by chronic infections and hyperinflammatory response of neutrophils and macrophages. P. aeruginosa (PA) and S. aureus (MSSA, MRSA) are major pathogens of advanced CF. The main goal of this study was to compare the inflammatory phenotype of murine C57BL/6 macrophages exposed to PA57 with that exposed to MSSA60, both strains isolated from the same patient with severe CF. In the present study, we used C57BL/6 mice sensitive to lung infection with P. aeruginosa.

Methods

We measured the release of cytokines and the expression of phenotypic markers of murine neutrophils and macrophages exposed to bacterial cells and biofilm components (i.e., EPS) of the selected bacteria. In addition, a quantitative proteomic approach was used for the characterization of proteome-wide changes in macrophages.

Results

Neutrophils stimulated with PA57 and MSSA60 strains produced hyperinflammatory pattern of cytokines. The pro-inflammatory impact of PA57 was significantly higher than that of MSSA60 (IL-6/IL-10 ratio: PA57 = 9.3 vs. MSSA60 = 1.7). Macrophages produced significantly lower amount of cytokines, but showed classical pattern of M1 markers (iNOS-High; arginase-1 and mannose receptor MRC1-Low). Importantly, as evidenced by proteomic analysis, PA57 and PA57-EPS were stronger inducers of M1 macrophage polarization than the MSSA60 counterparts.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that strong biofilm P. aeruginosa strains, CF isolates, are dominant inducers of M1 macrophages, termed biofilm-associated macrophages (BAMs). We suggest that repolarization of detrimental BAMs might be a new therapeutic strategy to ameliorate the airway damage in CF.
On $$\kappa $$-Pseudocompactess and Uniform Homeomorphisms of Function Spaces
Authors: Krupski Mikołaj
Published: May 2023

A Tychonoff spaceXis called$$\kappa $$κ-pseudocompactif for every continuous mappingfofXinto$$\mathbb {R}^\kappa $$Rκthe imagef(X) is compact. This notion generalizes pseudocompactness and gives a stratification of spaces lying between pseudocompact and compact spaces. It is well known that pseudocompactness ofXis determined by the uniform structure of the function space$$C_p(X)$$Cp(X)of continuous real-valued functions onXendowed with the pointwise topology. In respect of that A.V. Arhangel’skii asked if analogous assertion is true for$$\kappa $$κ-pseudocompactness. We provide an affirmative answer to this question.
Classical Orthogonal Polynomials Revisited
Authors: Castillo K. , Petronilho J.
Published: May 2023

This manuscript contains a small portion of the algebraic theory of orthogonal polynomials developed by Maroni and their applicability to the study and characterization of the classical families, namely Hermite, Laguerre, Jacobi, and Bessel polynomials. It is presented a cyclical proof of some of the most relevant characterizations, particularly those due to Al-Salam and Chihara, Bochner, Hahn, Maroni, and McCarthy. Two apparently new characterizations are also added. Moreover, it is proved through an equivalence relation that, up to constant factors and affine changes of variables, the four families of polynomials named above are the only families of classical orthogonal polynomials.
Underflow concentration prediction based on improved dual bidirectional LSTM for hierarchical cone thickener system
Authors: Lei Yongxiang , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: May 2023

In the practical thickener cone systems, the underflow concentration is hard to measure through physical sensors while there exist the high cost and significant measurement delay. This paper presents a novel and deeply efficient long short-time memory (DE-LSTM) method for concentration prediction in the deep cone thickener system. First, the DE-LSTM for thicker systems is developed for feature learning and long temporal preprocessing. Then, the feedforward and reverse LSTM subnetworks are employed to learn the robust information without loss. At last, the experimental verification of an industrial deep cone thicker demonstrates the proposed DE-LSTM’s performance outperforms other state-of-the-art methods.
The effect of RFSSW parameters on load capacity of EN AW-6082-T6 aluminum alloy and AlCu bimetallic joints
Authors: Kubit Andrzej , Faes Koen , Trzepieciński Tomasz , Żaba Krzysztof , Kaščák Ľuboš
Published: May 2023

This paper presents research into the creation of refill friction stir spot welding (RFSSW) single-lap joints of 6082-T6 aluminum alloy and roll-bonded AlCu bimetallic sheet. The latter sheet comprises aluminum EN AW-1050A and electrolytic copper M1E in Z6 temper condition (after rolling) and with a 1:1 ratio of the Cu:Al layers. The welding parameters involved a variable plunge depth and welding time. The mechanical properties of the joints were determined in tensile/shear tests. The highest average value of the load capacity of the joint was observed in joints made with a tool plunge depth dt = 2.6 mm and total welding time tw = 4 s. The load capacity for this variant was an average of 5986.75 N with standard deviation SD = 166.15 N. A plug-type fracture on the aluminum layer of the bimetallic sheet was observed in RFSSW joints produced with a plunge depth of 2.6 mm. Increasing the tool rotational speed and thus generating heat resulted in a plug-type fracture on the upper sheet (aluminum alloy). In the case of joints produced with a plunge depth of 2 mm equal to the thickness of the upper sheet, the type of fracture mode with both welding times was found to be nugget debonding.
A retrospective study using machine learning to develop predictive model to identify urinary infection stones in vivo
Authors: Wu Yukun , Mo Qishan , Xie Yun , Zhang Junlong , Jiang Shuangjian , Guan Jianfeng , Qu Canhui , Wu Rongpei , Mo Chengqiang
Published: May 2023

Preoperative diagnosis of urinary infection stones is difficult, and accurate detection of stone composition can only be performed ex vivo. To provide guidance for better perioperative management and postoperative prevention of infection stones, we developed a machine learning model for preoperative identification of infection stones in vivo. The clinical data of patients with urolithiasis who underwent surgery in our hospital from January 2011 to December 2015 and January 2017 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 2565 patients were included in the study, and 1168 eligible patients with urinary calculi were randomly divided into training set (70%) and test set (30%). Five machine learning algorithms (Support Vector Machine (SVM), Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest Classifier (RFC), and Adaptive Boost (AdaBoost)) and 14 preoperative variables were used to construct the prediction model. The performance measure was the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of the validation set. The importance of 14 features in each prediction model for predicting infection stones was analyzed. A total of 89 patients (5.34%) with infection stones were included in the validation set. All the five prediction models showed strong discrimination in the validation set (AUC: 0.689–0.772). AdaBoost model was selected as the final model (AUC: 0.772(95% confidence interval, 0.657–0.887); Sensitivity: 0.522; Specificity: 0.902), UC positivity, and urine pH value were two important predictors of infection stones. We developed a predictive model through machine learning that can quickly identify infection stones in vivo with good predictive performance. It can be used for risk assessment and decision support of infection stones, optimize the disease management of urinary calculi and improve the prognosis of patients.
Time Rescaling of a Primal-Dual Dynamical System with Asymptotically Vanishing Damping
Authors: Hulett David Alexander , Nguyen Dang-Khoa
Published: May 2023

In this work, we approach the minimization of a continuously differentiable convex function under linear equality constraints by a second-order dynamical system with an asymptotically vanishing damping term. The system under consideration is a time rescaled version of another system previously found in the literature. We show fast convergence of the primal-dual gap, the feasibility measure, and the objective function value along the generated trajectories. These convergence rates now depend on the rescaling parameter, and thus can be improved by choosing said parameter appropriately. When the objective function has a Lipschitz continuous gradient, we show that the primal-dual trajectory asymptotically converges weakly to a primal-dual optimal solution to the underlying minimization problem. We also exhibit improved rates of convergence of the gradient along the primal trajectories and of the adjoint of the corresponding linear operator along the dual trajectories. We illustrate the theoretical outcomes and also carry out a comparison with other classes of dynamical systems through numerical experiments.
Effectiveness of ultrasonic measurement for the hyomental distance and distance from skin to epiglottis in predicting difficult laryngoscopy in children
Authors: Zheng Zhenwei , Wang Xia , Du Ruiming , Wu Qingda , Chen Lu , Ma Wuhua
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Studies have shown that some ultrasonic indicators can predict difficult airways in adults to an extent. However, whether ultrasonic parameters can be used to predict difficult airways in children is unclear. This study investigated the predictive value of several ultrasonic indices for difficult laryngoscopy (DL) in children.

Methods

Pediatric patients aged 5 to 12 years who underwent endotracheal intubation under general anesthesia were enrolled. The hyomental distance in the extended position (HMDE), tongue thickness, midsagittal tongue cross-sectional area, tongue width, and distance from skin to epiglottis (DSE) were measured by ultrasound before anesthesia. The study end point was DL. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of each parameter.

Results

Three hundred and ten children were included in the final analysis, and fifteen (4.8%) children had DL. The shortened HMDE assessed by ultrasound could help identify children aged 5 to 12 years with DL (5–8 years: area under the curve (AUC) 0.74, sensitivity 0.88, specificity 0.60; 9–12 years: AUC 0.72, sensitivity 0.71, specificity 0.83). An increased DSE could help identify children aged 5 to 8 years with DL (AUC 0.76, sensitivity 0.88, specificity 0.69).

Conclusions

Ultrasonic measurement of the HMDE can be used to predict DL in children aged 5 to 12 years. The DSE measured by ultrasound can be used to predict DL in children aged 5 to 8 years.

Clinical relevance statement

The hyomental distance and the distance from skin to epiglottis measured by ultrasound can be used to predict difficult laryngoscopy in children, which can help reduce serious complications caused by unanticipated difficult airways in children during anesthesia.

Key Points

• Ultrasonic measurement of the hyomental distance in the extended position may be an effective predictor of difficult laryngoscopy in children aged 5 to 12 years.

• The distance from skin to epiglottis measured by ultrasound can be used to predict difficult laryngoscopy in children aged 5 to 8 years.

• Preoperative airway assessment using ultrasound can be effectively applied in children and has a great application prospect.
The effects of long-term almond consumption on whole-body insulin sensitivity, postprandial glucose responses, and 48 h continuous glucose concentrations in males and females with prediabetes: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gravesteijn Elske , Mensink Ronald P. , Plat Jogchum
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Findings concerning the effects of almond consumption on glucose metabolism are inconsistent which might relate to body weight gain. The effects of long-term almond consumption on glucose metabolism are investigated in a free-living setting without detailed dietary instructions in males and females with overweight/obesity and prediabetes.

Methods

Forty-three participants volunteered in this randomized, cross-over trial with a 5-months control and intervention period and a 2-months wash-out. In the intervention period participants daily consumed 50 g whole almonds. At the end of both periods insulin sensitivity was assessed by a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp, and postprandial glucose responses, and 48 h continuous glucose concentrations were measured.

Results

Almond consumption significantly decreased insulin sensitivity (P = 0.002), and increased postprandial glucose concentrations (P = 0.019), as well as fasting insulin concentrations (P = 0.003) as compared to the control period. The AUCs for 24 h glucose concentrations were not significantly different between control and intervention (P = 0.066). Almond consumption also significantly increased BMI (P = 0.002), and waist circumference (P = 0.013), supported by the concurrent increased energy intake (P = 0.031). The effects on glucose metabolism could only partly be explained by the observed weight gain as the almond effect remained after correcting for BMI changes.

Conclusions

In participants with prediabetes, long-term almond consumption showed adverse effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. As almonds seemed not to have fully replaced other food items, it might be necessary to provide more supporting guidelines on how to incorporate energy-dense nuts into healthy diets to prevent type 2 diabetes development.

Clinical Trial Registration

This clinical trial was registered in February 2018 as NCT03419702.
Regional muscle features and their association with knee extensors force production at a single joint angle
Authors: Monte Andrea , Franchi Martino V.
Published: May 2023

This study aimed (i) to investigate the role of regional characteristics of the knee extensors muscles (vastus lateralis: VL, vastus intermedius: VI and rectus femoris: RF) in determining maximum-voluntary force (MVF); and (ii) to understand which regional parameter of muscle structure would best predict MVF. Muscle architecture (e.g., pennation angle and fascicle length), muscle volume (Vol), anatomical (ACSA) and physiological cross-sectional-area (PCSA) were measured in the proximal (0–33% of the muscle length), middle (33–66% of the muscle length) and distal (66–100% of the muscle length) portions of each muscle in fifteen healthy males using ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Knee extensors force was calculated in isometric condition at a single knee joint angle of 90 degrees. Regional ACSA, Vol and PCSA were correlated with MVF production. Regional muscle geometry showed no significant correlations with MVF. Among regions, the middle portion of each muscle was largely correlated with MVF compared to all the other regions (distal and proximal). To understand which regional structural parameter best predicted MVF, a stepwise multiple linear regression was performed. This model showed a significant explanatory power (P < 0.001, R2 = 0.76, adjusted R2  = 0.71), including muscle Vol collected in the mid portions of VL and RF. Even if no significant differences were reported between Vol, PCSA and ACSA in determining MVF, our results showed that the RF and VL volume collected in the middle portion of the muscle length are strong determinants of MVF produced by the knee extensors at 90 degrees joint angle.
How aggressive interactions with biomimetic agents optimize reproductive performances in mass-reared males of the Mediterranean fruit fly
Authors: Romano Donato , Benelli Giovanni , Stefanini Cesare
Published: May 2023

Mass-rearing procedures of insect species, often used in biological control and Sterile Insect Technique, can reduce the insects competitiveness in foraging, dispersal, and mating. The evocation of certain behaviours responsible to induce specific neuroendocrine products may restore or improve the competitiveness of mass-reared individuals. Herein, we used a mass-reared strain of Ceratitis capitata as model organism. C. capitata is a polyphagous pest exhibiting territorial displays that are closely related to its reproductive performance. We tested if the behaviour of C. capitata males could be altered by hybrid aggressive interactions with a conspecific-mimicking robotic fly, leading to more competitive individuals in subsequent mating events. Aggressive interactions with the robotic fly had a notable effect on subsequent courtship and mating sequences of males that performed longer courtship displays compared to naïve individuals. Furthermore, previous interactions with the robotic fly produced a higher mating success of males. Reproductive performances of C. capitata males may be improved by specific octopaminergic neurones activated during previous aggressive interactions with the robotic fly. This study adds fundamental knowledge on the potential role of specific neuro-behavioural processes in the ecology of tephritid species and paves the way to innovative biotechnological control methods based on robotics and bionics.
Brain structural and functional correlates of the heterogenous progression of mixed transcortical aphasia
Authors: López-Barroso Diana , Paredes-Pacheco José , Torres-Prioris María José , Dávila Guadalupe , Berthier Marcelo L.
Published: May 2023

Mixed transcortical aphasia (MTCA) is characterized by non-fluent speech and comprehension deficits coexisting with preserved repetition. MTCA may evolve to less severe variants of aphasias or even to full language recovery. Mechanistically, MCTA has traditionally been attributed to a disconnection between the spared left perisylvian language network (PSLN) responsible for preserved verbal repetition, and damaged left extrasylvian networks, which are responsible for language production and comprehension impairments. However, despite significant advances in in vivo neuroimaging, the structural and functional status of the PSLN network in MTCA and its evolution has not been investigated. Thus, the aim of the present study is to examine the status of the PSLN, both in terms of its functional activity and structural integrity, in four cases who developed acute post-stroke MTCA and progressed to different types of aphasia. For it, we conducted a neuroimaging-behavioral study performed in the chronic stage of four patients. The behavioral profile of MTCA persisted in one patient, whereas the other three patients progressed to less severe types of aphasias. Neuroimaging findings suggest that preserved verbal repetition in MTCA does not always depend on the optimal status of the PSLN and its dorsal connections. Instead, the right hemisphere or the left ventral pathway may also play a role in supporting verbal repetition. The variability in the clinical evolution of MTCA may be explained by the varying degree of PSLN alteration and individual premorbid neuroanatomical language substrates. This study offers a fresh perspective of MTCA through the lens of modern neuroscience and unveils novel insights into the neural underpinnings of repetition.
Why malnutrition in orthopaedic elective patient is still an issue? A recent review of the literature
Authors: Pes Marco , Pulino Alessio , Pisanu Francesco , Manunta Andrea Fabio
Published: May 2023

Background

Malnutrition is a known risk factor for complications and adverse outcomes after elective total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The progressive increase in the ageing of world population and in the numbers of TJA, widens the demand for a faster post-operative recovery and function. The aim of this study was to review the literature regarding: post-operative transfusion, infections, wound complications, length of hospital stay (LOS), rate of admission in intensive care unit (ICU), and total patient charges, in malnourished patient undergoing TJA.

Methods

The search reviewed all fields of the available peer-reviewed literature, published in the English language during the last seven years 2015–2022. We started from a total of 745 studies and finally we included in the review 16 articles.

Results

In 10 studies, an increased surgical site infection was shown, being by far the most common complication, in 8 studies, malnutrition was associate with the increase of the average length of stay (LOS), and in 5 studies, the major founding was the increase in costs. An increase of the morbidity was found in 3 studies, instead a larger number of transfusions was highlighted in 2 studies. Lastly, one study showed a major unplanned ICU admission rate.

Conclusions

Although the literature trend indicates that the nutritional status of TJA candidate patients is a parameter that influences the surgical outcome, in particular surgical site infections, length of stay, and costs, there are, to the authors’ knowledge, no studies aimed at identifying validated and recognized protocols for the correction of malnutrition.
Die historische Entwicklung der Psychotherapiewissenschaft im Kontext der Gesetzwerdung im deutschsprachigen Raum
Authors: Raile Paolo
Published: May 2023

Nach den Diskussionen um die Unabhängigkeit der Psychoanalyse von der Medizin in der zweiten Hälfte der 1920er-Jahre und der die folgenden Jahrzehnte dominierende Frage, ob und welche Wissenschaft sie sei, sowie den Provokationen durch Eysenck, welche die Psychotherapieforschung nachhaltig prägten, war die Psychotherapieszene im deutschsprachigen Raum in den 1970er- und 1980er-Jahren ein weiteres Mal im Umbruch. Anhand der Schulenexplosion in jenen beiden Jahrzehnten, der Entstehung schulenunabhängiger Interessensvertretungen in den 1980ern und der Regulationsinitiativen Ende der 1980er- und in den 1990er-Jahren wird der Weg zur Schweizer Charta, zum österreichischen sowie zum deutschen Psychotherapie‑/Psychotherapeutengesetz skizziert. Schwerpunkte der historischen Aufarbeitung sind zudem die Auswirkungen bzw. Wechselwirkungen der Regulationen mit der psychotherapeutischen Forschungs- und Ausbildungslandschaft in den letzten 30 Jahren, insbesondere hinsichtlich des dominierenden Streits zwischen dem naturwissenschaftlich-wirksamkeitsorientierten Verständnis einer wissenschaftlichen Psychotherapie unter der Flagge der Psychologie und dem ideografischen-hermeneutischen Verständnis einer eigenständigen wissenschaftlichen Psychotherapie. Den Abschluss des Artikels bildet eine knappe Darstellung des Status Quo als Ergebnis dieses Ausverhandlungsprozesses, der zu sehr unterschiedlichen Ergebnissen in Österreich im Vergleich zu Deutschland führte.
Differential impact of liana colonization on the leaf functional traits of co-occurring deciduous and evergreen trees in a tropical dry scrub forest
Authors: Pandi Vivek , Babu Kanda Naveen , Dar Ashaq Ahmad
Published: May 2023

The present study was carried out to analyze the leaf functional traits of co-occurring evergreen and deciduous tree species in a tropical dry scrub forest. This study also intended to check whether the species with contrasting leaf habits differ in their leaf trait plasticity, responding to the canopy infestation by lianas. A total of 11 leaf functional traits were studied for eight tree species with contrasting leaf habits (evergreen and deciduous) and liana-colonization status (with or without liana). In the liana-free environment (L–), evergreen trees had significantly higher leaf tissue density (LTD) and total chlorophyll (CHLt) than the deciduous species. Whereas the deciduous trees had higher specific leaf area (SLA) and mass-based leaf nitrogen concentration (Nmass). The leaf trait-pair relationship in the present study agreed with the well-established global trait-pair relationships (leaf thickness (LT) vs. SLA, Nmass vs. LT, SLA vs. Nmass, and LDMC vs. SLA). There was a significant difference between L+ and L– individuals in leaf area (LA), petiole length (PL), SLA, LDMC, and CHLt in the deciduous species. On the other hand, evergreen species showed marked differences across LT, SLA, LTD, Nmass, and chlorophyll components between L+ and L– individuals of the same species. The results revealed the differential impact of liana colonization on the host trees with contrasting leaf habits. The deciduous species with the acquisitive strategy can have a competitive advantage over evergreen species in the exposed environments (L–), whereas evergreen species with shade-tolerant properties were better acclimated to the shaded environments (L+). Therefore, liana colonization can significantly impact the C-fixation strategies of the host trees by altering their light environment and further, the magnitude of such impact may vary among species of different leaf habits. The result also indicated the patterns of convergence and divergence in some of the leaf functional traits between evergreen and deciduous species explaining the patterns of species co-existence.
Preliminary analysis of the mechanisms, characteristics, and causes of a recent catastrophic structurally controlled rock planar slide in Esposende (northern Portugal)
Authors: Tomás Roberto , Pinheiro Marisa , Pinto Pedro , Pereira Eduardo , Miranda Tiago
Published: May 2023

A catastrophic rock planar slide occurred in the parish of Palmeira de Faro, Esposende (N Portugal), on November 23, 2022, in the middle of the night, killing two people while they were asleep in the first floor of a building close to the affected cut slope. The collapsed slope presented a maximum height of about 23 m, and was excavated in a granitic rock mass strongly weathered, in some areas by mechanical means and, locally, with the support of blasting. The displaced material, with an estimated volume of 2000 m3, described an oblique trajectory with respect to the dip direction of the slope with a maximum length of about 44.6 m. The direction of the trajectory could be explained by the strong structural control of the instability trough three discontinuity sets which delimit the slid rock mass causing multiple damage on the above-mentioned building. Although further detailed studies are necessary to elucidate the causes of the landslide, the unfavorable geological conditions, the anomalous accumulated rainfall during the previous two months (more than double than in the historic records), and some excavations apparently performed on the cut slope could be related to this instability. Therefore, this recent landslide highlights the important influence of the rock mass structure on the development of rock planar slides.
Characterization and differentiation of sublittoral sandbanks in the southeastern North Sea
Authors: Beermann Jan , Gutow Lars , Wührdemann Steffen , Konijnenberg Rebecca , Heinicke Kathrin , Bildstein Tim , Jaklin Sandra , Gusky Manuela , Zettler Michael L. , Dannheim Jennifer , Pesch Roland
Published: May 2023

Marine sublittoral sandbanks are essential offshore feeding grounds for larger crustaceans, fish and seabirds. In the southern North Sea, sandbanks are characterized by considerable natural sediment dynamics and are subject to chronic bottom trawling. However, except for the Dogger Bank, sandbanks in the southeastern North Sea have been only poorly investigated until now. We used an extensive, multi-annual dataset covering ongoing national monitoring programmes, environmental impact assessments, and basic research studies to analyse benthic communities on sublittoral sandbanks, evaluating their ecological value against the backdrop of similar seafloor habitats in this region. The analysis revealed complex spatial structuring of sandy seafloor habitats of the southeastern North Sea. Different infauna clusters were identified and could be specified by their composition of characteristic species. The sandbanks shared common structural features in their infauna community composition although they were not necessarily characterized by particularly high biodiversity compared to other sandy habitats. A close association of one of the main bioturbators in the southern North Sea, the sea urchin Echinocardium cordatum, with sandbanks was detected, which may promote the sediment-bound biogeochemical activity in this particular seafloor habitat. This would corroborate the status of sandbanks as sites of high ecological value calling for consideration in marine conservation.
Coping with daily boredom: Exploring the relationships of job boredom, counterproductive work behavior, organizational citizenship behavior, and cognitive reappraisal
Authors: Spanouli Andromachi , Hofmans Joeri , Dalal Reeshad S.
Published: May 2023

Given that job boredom is experienced by more than half of the workforce on a daily basis, more scientific research on its potential outcomes and moderators is warranted. This study examined whether daily fluctuations in job boredom are associated with daily increases or decreases in counterproductive work behavior and organizational citizenship behavior, and whether individual differences in cognitive reappraisal moderated these relationships. Our hypotheses were tested in a daily diary study (396 daily observations); results indicated that the predicted positive relationships of job boredom with both active and passive counterproductive work behavior were supported, whereas the direction of the relationship between job boredom and organizational citizenship behavior was person-specific. Contrary to our expectations, cognitive reappraisal did not moderate any of the above relationships. Our results clearly show that scores on these constructs vary more within than between individuals and suggest that combining the within- and between-person levels, both in theorizing and analyses, is necessary to understand these phenomena better.
Patient-preferred outcomes in patients with vestibular schwannoma: a qualitative content analysis of symptoms, side effects and their impact on health-related quality of life
Authors: Pruijn Ineke M. J. , van Heemskerken Phylisha , Kunst Henricus P. M. , Tummers Marcia , Kievit Wietske
Published: May 2023

Purpose

During counseling and management of patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS), the emphasis is shifting from tumour control and nerve preservation towards maintaining or improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Understanding the patients’ perspective and impact of VS is, therefore, of utmost importance. The current study aimed to identify treatment outcomes preferred by patients and to explore the patient-reported VS symptoms and management-related side effects and their impact on HRQoL.

Methods

Patients with VS were contacted through the Dutch VS association Stichting Hoormij and questioned using a semi-structured, cross-sectional online survey. Patients were asked to report and rank symptoms and side effects, with their impact on HRQoL and frequency of occurrence. Results were structured through qualitative content analysis. Coded symptoms, side effects, impacts, frequencies, and patient-preferred outcomes were analysed and summarized with descriptive statistics.

Results

Of the 231 respondents, 71% were actively treated. Hearing (symptoms vs. side effects: 78.8% vs. 63.6%), balance (62.3%; 48.8%), and energy issues (33.8%; 32.6%) were the most frequently mentioned symptoms and management-related side effects. Fatigue, deafness, headaches, and hearing loss had the highest impact on HRQoL. The majority of patients identified hearing preservation (61%), balance preservation (38.5%), and reduced tinnitus (34.6%) to be the patient-preferred outcomes.

Conclusion

This qualitative study demonstrates that in this population many patients with VS encounter participation difficulties in their daily physical and social activities and value hearing and balance preservation, reduced tinnitus, and restored energy as preferred outcomes as they are hampered by symptoms and side effects related to hearing, balance, and energy. Healthcare professionals should consider these key points and use these and the patient-preferred outcomes in consultation, shared decision making, treatment, and follow-up to optimize patient-centred care.
A microservice-based framework for multi-level testing of cyber-physical systems
Authors: Aldalur Iñigo , Arrieta Aitor , Agirre Aitor , Sagardui Goiuria , Arratibel Maite
Published: May 2023

In the last years, the use of microservice architectures is spreading in Cyber-Physical Systems (CPSs) and Internet of Things (IoT) domains. CPSs are systems that integrate digital cyber computations with physical processes. The development of software for CPSs demands a constant maintenance to support new requirements, bug fixes, and deal with hardware obsolescence. The key in this process is code testing and more if the code is fragmented during the development of CPSs. It is important to remark that this process is challenging and time-consuming. In this paper, we report on the experience of instantiating of the microservice-based architecture for DevOps of CPSs to test elevator dispatching algorithms across different test levels (i.e., SiL, HiL and Operation). Such an architecture allows for a continuous deployment, monitoring and validation of CPSs. By integrating the approach with a real industrial case study, we demonstrate that our approach reduces significantly the time needed in the testing process and consequently, reduces the economic cost of the entire process.
Compression and Fatigue Testing of High-Strength Thin Metal Sheets by Using an Anti-Buckling Device
Authors: Kopec M.
Published: May 2023

Background

The modelling of the sheet metal forming operations requires accurate and precise data of the material plastic behaviour along non-proportional strain paths. However, the buckling phenomenon severely limits the compressive strain range that could be used to deform thin metal sheets.

Objective

The main aim of this paper was to propose an effective device, that enables to determine of accurate stress-strain characteristics of thin metal sheet specimens subjected to axial deformation without buckling and with a special emphasis on friction correction.

Methods

In this paper, an anti-buckling fixture was proposed to assess the deformation characteristics of X10CrMoVNb9-1 (P91) power engineering steel, and DP500 and DP980 dual-phase steels, under compression loading. The fixture enables monitoring of the friction between the specimen and supporting blocks during the test, and thus the precise stress response of the material could be determined.

Results

The effectiveness of the fixture was evaluated under tension–compression cyclic loading and during the compression tests in which high-strength thin metal sheets were successfully deformed up to 10% without specimen buckling. Furthermore, the successful determination of a friction force variation between supporting blocks and the specimen during tests enabled to determine an actual force acting on the specimen.

Conclusions

The proposed testing fixture was successfully assessed during the compression and cyclic tension–compression of high-strength thin metal sheets as no buckling was observed. Its advantage lies in adapting to change its length with specimen elongation or shrinkage during a test. The friction force generated from a movement of both parts of the device could be effectively monitored by the special strain gauge system during testing and thus its impact on the stress-strain characteristics could be successfully eliminated.
Online Peer-Led Support Program for Affected Family Members of People Living with Addiction: a Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Peart Annette , Horn Freya , Grigg Jasmin , Manning Victoria , Campbell Robert , Lubman Dan I.
Published: May 2023

This study reports outcomes from a preliminary study of an online, peer-led support group intervention for family members of people experiencing addiction. A mixed-methods design, comprising within-subjects analysis of intervention data and semi-structured interviews, was used. Seventy-eight participants received the intervention. Participants completed baseline and exit surveys: (i) General Self-Efficacy Scale, (ii) Personal Well-being Index, and (iii) Social Connectedness Scale; and at exit: (i) Client Satisfaction Questionnaire, (ii) Group Sessions Rating Scale, and (iii) Perceived Personal Benefits Scale. Eleven participants were interviewed. There was a significant improvement in mean general self-efficacy for the 23 participants who completed baseline and exit surveys. Most were satisfied with the intervention and reported it to be beneficial. Three themes were identified through a conventional content analysis of interviews: connection with others who share experiences, expertise of facilitators, and accessing support when in crisis. Online peer-led support groups may provide an opportunity for affected family members to share and learn coping strategies.
Invariants for neural automata
Authors: Uria-Albizuri Jone , Carmantini Giovanni Sirio , beim Graben Peter , Rodrigues Serafim
Published: May 2023

Computational modeling of neurodynamical systems often deploys neural networks and symbolic dynamics. One particular way for combining these approaches within a framework called vector symbolic architectures leads to neural automata. Specifically, neural automata result from the assignment of symbols and symbol strings to numbers, known as Gödel encoding. Under this assignment, symbolic computation becomes represented by trajectories of state vectors in a real phase space, that allows for statistical correlation analyses with real-world measurements and experimental data. However, these assignments are usually completely arbitrary. Hence, it makes sense to address the problem which aspects of the dynamics observed under a Gödel representation is intrinsic to the dynamics and which are not. In this study, we develop a formally rigorous mathematical framework for the investigation of symmetries and invariants of neural automata under different encodings. As a central concept we define patterns of equality for such systems. We consider different macroscopic observables, such as the mean activation level of the neural network, and ask for their invariance properties. Our main result shows that only step functions that are defined over those patterns of equality are invariant under symbolic recodings, while the mean activation, e.g., is not. Our work could be of substantial importance for related regression studies of real-world measurements with neurosymbolic processors for avoiding confounding results that are dependant on a particular encoding and not intrinsic to the dynamics.
Optimization of Water Distribution Systems Using Genetic Algorithms: A Review
Authors: Parvaze Sabah , Kumar Rohitashw , Khan Junaid Nazir , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Parvaze Saqib , Vishwakarma Dinesh Kumar , Elbeltagi Ahmed , Kuriqi Alban
Published: May 2023

Water distribution networks are crucial for supplying consumers with quality and adequate water. A water distribution system comprises connected hydraulic components which ensure water supply and distribution to meet demand. Optimization of water distribution networks is carried out to minimize resource utilization and expenditure or maximize the system’s efficiency and higher benefits. Genetic algorithms signify an effective search technique for non-linear optimization problems and have gained acceptance among water resources planners and managers. This paper reviews various developments in the optimization of water distribution systems using the technique of genetic algorithms. These developments are pertinent to creating novel systems for distributing water and the expansion, reinforcement, and rehabilitation process for prevailing water supply mechanisms.

Graphical Abstract
Inflammation Modifies miR-21 Expression Within Neuronal Extracellular Vesicles to Regulate Remyelination Following Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Han Tianyu , Song Peiwen , Wu Zuomeng , Liu Yunlei , Ying Wang , Shen Cailiang
Published: May 2023

Cell‒cell communication following spinal cord injury (SCI) plays a key role in remyelination and neurological recovery. Although communication between neuron-neural stem cells (NSCs) affects remyelination, its precise mechanism remains unclear. The present study investigated the biological effects of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from neurons on the differentiation of NSCs and the remyelination of axons in a rat model for SCI. We found that that EVs derived from neurons promoted the differentiation of NSCs into oligodendrocytes and the remyelination of axons in SCI rats. However, neuron-derived EVs lost their biological effects after inflammatory stimulation of these neurons from which they originate. Further analysis demonstrated that the inflammatory stimulation on neurons upregulated miR-21 within EVs, which targeted SMAD 7 and upregulated the TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling pathway, resulting in an excess of astrocytic scar boundaries and in remyelination failure. Moreover, these effects could be abolished by miR-21 inhibitors/antagomirs. Considered together, these results indicate that inflammatory stimulation of neurons prevents remyelination following SCI via the upregulation of miR-21 expression within neuron-derived EVs, and this takes place through SMAD 7-mediated activation of the TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling pathway.