bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Time-Saving Alternative to “Peak-Picking” Algorithms: A Gaussian Mixture Model Feature Extraction Technique for the Neurodiagnostic Auditory Brainstem Response
Authors: Kamerer Aryn M.
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

The accurate and efficient analysis of neurodiagnostic auditory brainstem responses (ABR) plays a critical role in assessing auditory pathway function in human and animal research and in clinical diagnosis. Traditional analysis of the neurodiagnostic ABR analysis involves visual inspection of the waveform and manually marking peaks and troughs. Visual inspection is a tedious and time-consuming task, especially in research where there may be hundreds or thousands of waveforms to analyze. “Peak-picking” algorithms have made this task faster; however, they are prone to the same errors as visual inspection. A Gaussian mixture model-based feature extraction technique (GMM-FET) is a descriptive model of ABR morphology and an alternative to peak-picking algorithms. The GMM-FET is capable of modeling multiple waves and accounting for wave interactions, compared with other template-matching approaches that fit single waves.

Design:

The present study is a secondary analysis applying the GMM-FET to 321 ABRs from adult humans from 2 datasets using different stimuli and recording parameters. Goodness-of-fit of the GMM-FET to waves I and V and surrounding waves, that is, the summating potential and waves IV and VI, was assessed, and latency and amplitude estimations by the GMM-FET were compared with estimations from visual inspection.

Results:

The GMM-FET had a similar success rate to visual inspection in extracting peak latency and amplitude, and there was low RMS error and high intraclass correlation between the model and response waveform. Mean peak latency differences between the GMM-FET and visual inspection were small, suggesting the two methods chose the same peak in the majority of waveforms. The GMM-FET estimated wave I amplitudes within 0.12 µV of visual inspection, but estimated larger wave V amplitudes than visual inspection.

Conclusions:

The results suggest the GMM-FET is an appropriate method for extracting peak latencies and amplitudes for neurodiagnostic analysis of ABR waves I and V.
The Beneficial Effects of Antenatal Magnesium (BEAM) Sulfate Trial
Authors: Rouse Dwight J.
Published: February 2024

The BEAM Trial.
Phylogenomic delineation of two new species of ascomycetous yeasts, Wickerhamiella koratensis sp. nov. and Wickerhamiella limtongiae sp. nov., and proposal of two synonyms, Wickerhamiella infanticola and Wickerhamiella tropicalis
Authors: Sakpuntoon Varunya , Srathongporn Nathida , Pontes Ana , Khunnamwong Pannida , Aires Andreia , Limtong Savitree , Gonçalves Carla , Gonçalves Paula , Sampaio José Paulo , Srisuk Nantana
Published: February 2024

Two novel ascomycetous yeast species of the genus Wickerhamiella are proposed based on isolates obtained in Thailand from food waste and the fruiting body of a polypore fungus, and on a combination of conventional DNA-barcode sequence analyses and whole-genome phylogenies. We focus on a particular subclade of the genus Wickerhamiella that contains species found in anthropic environments and describe Wickerhamiella limtongiae sp. nov. (DMKU-FW31-5T=PYCC 9022T=TBRC 15055T), found on food waste samples. In an adjacent clade, we describe Wickerhamiella koratensis sp. nov. (DMKU-KO16T=PYCC 8908T=TBRC 14869T), which represents the closest relative of Wickerhamiella slavikovae and was isolated from the fruiting body of Bjerkandera sp. In the subclade of W. limtongiae sp. nov., we propose that Wickerhamiella infanticola should be regarded as a synonym of Wickerhamiella sorbophila and that Wickerhamiella tropicalis should be regarded as a synonym of Wickerhamiella verensis.
Taste of success: a strategic framework for product innovation in the food and beverage industry
Authors: Malekpour Mehrgan , Caboni Federica , Nikzadask Mohsen , Basile Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the combination of innovation determinants driving the creation of innovative products amongst market leaders and market followers in food and beverage (F&B) firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is based on the case study methodology by using two types of data sources: (1) semi-structured interviews with industry experts and (2) in-depth interviews with managers. In addition, a questionnaire adapted from prior research was used to consider market and firm types.

Findings

Suggesting an integrated theoretical framework based on firm-based factors and market-based factors, this study identified a combination of determinants significantly impacting innovative products in the market. Specifically, these determinants are competition intensity and innovation capability (a combination of research and development (R&D) investment and marketing capabilities). The study also examined how these determinants vary depending on whether the firms are market leaders or market followers.

Practical implications

This research provides practical insights for managers working in the F&B industry by using case studies and exploring the determinants of developing innovative products. In doing so, suitable strategies can be selected according to the market and firm situations.

Originality/value

The originality of the study is shown by focussing on how different combinations of market and firm factors could be applied in creating successful innovative products in the food sector.
Cash flow management, performance and risk: evidence from Greece
Authors: Rompotis Gerasimos
Published: February 2024

Purpose

I seek to identify whether cash flow management can affect the performance and risk of the Greek listed companies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the relationship of cash flow management with performance and risk, using a sample of 80 non-financial companies listed in the Athens Exchange. The study covers the period 2018–2022, and panel data analysis is applied. Both financial performance and stock return are taken into consideration, while risk concerns the volatility of the companies’ share prices. The various explanatory variables used include the net cash flow, free cash flow, cash conversion cycle days, cash flow from operating activities, cash flow from investing activities, cash flow from financing activities, inventory days, customer days and supplier days.

Findings

The empirical results provide evidence of a positive relationship between financial performance and net cash flow and free cash flow. In addition, operating cash flow is positively related to financial performance. The opposite is the case for investing and financing cash flow. Finally, some evidence of a negative relationship between financial performance and inventory and customer days is provided too. On the other hand, stock return and risk are not related to the cash flow management variables at all.

Originality/value

To the best of my knowledge, this is one of the few studies to examine the relationship of cash flow management with performance and risk, using data from the Greek stock market. The results can form an effective selection tool for investors seeking Greek companies with the highest financial performance potential, which may reward them with higher dividends.
Investigating engagement and burnout of gig-workers in the age of algorithms: an empirical study in digital labor platforms
Authors: Hajiheydari Nastaran , Delgosha Mohammad Soltani
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Digital labor platforms (DLPs) are transforming the nature of the work for an increasing number of workers, especially through extensively employing automated algorithms for performing managerial functions. In this novel working setting – characterized by algorithmic governance, and automatic matching, rewarding and punishing mechanisms – gig-workers play an essential role in providing on-demand services for final customers. Since gig-workers’ continued participation is crucial for sustainable service delivery in platform contexts, this study aims to identify and examine the antecedents of their working outcomes, including burnout and engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

We suggested a theoretical framework, grounded in the job demands-resources heuristic model to investigate how the interplay of job demands and resources, resulting from working in DLPs, explains gig-workers’ engagement and burnout. We further empirically tested the proposed model to understand how DLPs' working conditions, in particular their algorithmic management, impact gig-working outcomes.

Findings

Our findings indicate that job resources – algorithmic compensation, work autonomy and information sharing– have significant positive effects on gig-workers’ engagement. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that job insecurity, unsupportive algorithmic interaction (UAI) and algorithmic injustice significantly contribute to gig-workers’ burnout. Notably, we found that job resources substantially, but differently, moderate the relationship between job demands and gig-workers’ burnout.

Originality/value

This study contributes a theoretically accurate and empirically grounded understanding of two clusters of conditions – job demands and resources– as a result of algorithmic management practice in DLPs. We developed nuanced insights into how such conditions are evaluated by gig-workers and shape their engagement or burnout in DLP emerging work settings. We further uncovered that in gig-working context, resources do not similarly buffer against the negative effects of job demands.
Using ambulance surveillance data to characterise blood‐borne viral infection histories among patients presenting with acute alcohol and other drug‐related harms
Authors: Beard Naomi , McGrath Michael , Scott Debbie , Nehme Ziad , Lubman Dan I. , Ogeil Rowan P.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Preventable transmission of blood‐borne viruses (BBV), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV), continue in at‐risk populations, including people who use alcohol and drugs (AODs). To our knowledge, no studies have explored the use of ambulance data for surveillance of AOD harms in patients with BBV infections.

Methods

We used electronic patient care records from the National Ambulance Surveillance System for people who were attended by an ambulance in Victoria, Australia between July 2015 and July 2016 for AOD‐related harms, and with identified history of a BBV infection. Descriptive and geospatial analyses explored the epidemiological and psychosocial characteristics of patients for these attendances.

Results

The present study included 1832 patients with a history of a BBV infection who required an ambulance for AOD‐related harms. Amphetamines were reported in 24.7% of attendances where the patient identified HIV history, and heroin was reported more often for patients with viral hepatitis history (HCV: 19.2%; HBV: 12.7%). Higher proportions of attendances with a viral hepatitis history were observed in patients from the most socially disadvantaged areas. Geospatial analyses revealed higher concentrations of AOD attendances with a BBV history occurring in metropolitan Melbourne.

Conclusions

Our study describes the utility of ambulance data to identify a sub‐population of patients with a BBV history and complex medical and social characteristics. Repeat attendances of BBV history patients to paramedics could present an opportunity for ongoing surveillance using ambulance data and possible paramedic intervention, with potential linkage to appropriate BBV services.
Making the UNFCCC fit for purpose: A research agenda on vested interests and green spiralling
Authors: Nasiritousi Naghmeh , Buylova Alexandra , Fridahl Mathias , Reischl Gunilla
Published: February 2024

How can the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) be made more effective? This paper argues that in order to make the UNFCCC fit for purpose, there is a need to identify the specific institutional reforms that can create ripple effects to accelerate climate action across governance levels and relevant organisations. Longstanding calls to reform the UNFCCC have targeted inefficient procedures with the intent to promote effective outcomes and – after entry into force of the Paris Agreement – to transform the UNFCCC towards holding more implementation‐focused deliberations. Despite such calls, UNFCCC reform has been modest, at best. Central to the failure of reform proposals are vested interests with conflicts of interest that seek to obstruct climate action. Without addressing these elephants in the room, reform proposals will make modest contributions to overcoming key challenges. It is due time to start retargeting institutional reform from addressing procedural inefficiencies at the UNFCCC towards addressing vested interests. We propose a new research agenda to understand ways to undermine incumbent actors seeking to preserve business as usual and support new entrants that facilitate climate action through green spiralling. A reform process addressing vested interests could improve both procedural efficiency and implementation.
Successful explantation of children from the Berlin Heart EXCOR® ventricular assist device: A systematic review
Authors: Mikulski Matthew F. , Iyer Swati , Well Andrew , Mery Carlos M. , Owens W. Richard , Glass Lauren D. , Castleberry Chesney D. , Fraser Charles D.
Published: February 2024

Background

The Berlin Heart EXCOR® (BHE) can bridge children with severe heart failure to transplantation, but some are successfully weaned and spared transplantation. This study seeks to identify characteristics of children amenable to successful explantation with BHE support.

Methods

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses 2020 guidelines were used. Five databases were screened for original, English articles measuring BHE support in patients <18 years old based on title and abstract. Exclusion criteria were applied: full‐text availability, <10 total pediatric BHE patients, zero successful explantations from BHE, nonprimary literature, adult and pediatric results that could not be separated, and studies with overlapping patient information. Studies were analyzed with descriptive statistics.

Results

From 41 857 potential studies, 14 were analyzed with data from 58 hospitals on four continents from 1990 to 2020. There were 984 BHE patients. The most common diagnosis was dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 318, 32.3%), followed by congenital heart disease (n = 249, 25.3%). There were 85 (8.6%) children explanted with favorable outcomes. The underlying diagnosis was known in 44 (51.8%) cases: 14 (8.4%) of 166 cardiomyopathies, 17 (48.6%) of 35 myocarditis, and 12 (16.7%) of 72 with congenital heart disease were explanted. When the type of support was known, the rate of LVAD patients explanted was 21.3% (n = 19/89) and 2.4% (n = 1/42) of BiVAD patients were explanted.

Conclusion

Explantation from BHE is not uncommon at 8.6%, but significant variation exists in the explantation data reported. Myocarditis and LVAD support may be populations suitable for weaning. Standardization of reporting measures and prospective registries may help identify patients suitable for this alternative to transplant and help develop weaning protocols.
Population genetics for insect conservation and control
Authors: Beaurepaire Alexis L. , Webster Matthew T. , Neumann Peter
Published: February 2024

Insects are essential not only for ecosystem functioning and food security but also comprise some of the world's most destructive invasive species. Therefore, both insect declines and invasions raise major conservation concerns globally and call for respective conservation or mitigation measures. However, studies of insects are hampered by intrinsic biological features of these organisms, which include extreme population fluctuations, a huge diversity of ecological strategies, and common cryptic species. Population genetics provides a large toolkit to adequately accommodate those features, thereby enabling researchers to inform and monitor the efficacy of conservation and mitigation programs. Here, we provide an overview of the molecular and analytical methods that are relevant to insect conservation or mitigation and highlight the challenges involved in their implementation. We detail how and why temporal changes in genetic diversity, population structure and migration, and the genetic basis of adaptation should be taken into account to inform insect management programs. Finally, we review the barriers to the broad adoption of population genetics in insect research and provide guidelines to facilitate the use of these methods by stakeholders. Overall, this review provides theoretical and practical guidelines for implementing population genetics in both insect conservation and control.
The use of lung ultrasound in evaluation of extravascular lung water in hemodialysis patients: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Elgenidy Anas , Amin Mostafa Atef , Awad Ahmed K. , Emad Abdullah , Nassar Abdelrahman , Alomari Omar , Ibrahim Radwa , Husain‐Syed Faeq , Aly Mostafa G.
Published: February 2024

Rationale and Objectives

Determining dry weight is crucial for optimizing hemodialysis, influencing efficacy, cardiovascular outcomes, and overall survival. Traditional clinical assessment methods for dry weight, relying on factors such as blood pressure and edema, frequently lack reliability. Lung ultrasound stands out as a promising tool for assessing volume status, given its non‐invasiveness and reproducibility. This study aims to explore the role of Lung ultrasound in evaluating the impact of hemodialysis and ultrafiltration on extravascular lung water, with a specific focus on changes in B‐lines post‐hemodialysis compared to pre‐hemodialysis.

Materials and Methods

The research encompassed searches across PubMed, WOS, and Scopus databases for studies related to lung ultrasound and hemodialysis. A meta‐analysis was then performed to determine the mean differences in various parameters before compared to after, hemodialysis, including the number of B‐lines, indexed end‐inspiratory and end‐expiratory inferior vena cava diameters, inferior vena cava collapsibility index, weight, blood pressure, and serum levels of NT‐pro‐BNP.

Results

Our meta‐analysis, included 33 studies with 2301 hemodialysis patients, revealed a significant decrease in the number of B‐lines post‐hemodialysis (mean difference = 8.30, 95% CI [3.55 to 13.05]). Furthermore, there was a noteworthy reduction in inspiratory and expiratory inferior vena cava diameters post‐hemodialysis (mean difference = 2.32, 95% CI [0.31 to 4.33]; mean difference = 4.05, 95% CI [2.44 to 5.65], respectively). Additionally, a significant positive correlation was observed between B‐lines and the maximum inferior vena cava diameter both pre‐ and post‐hemodialysis (correlation coefficient = 0.39; correlation coefficient = 0.32, respectively).

Conclusion

These findings indicate the effectiveness of lung ultrasound in detection of volume overload and assessment of response to ultrafiltration in hemodialysis patients.
Big data approach in the field of gastric and colorectal cancer research
Authors: Cheung Ka Shing
Published: February 2024

Big data is characterized by three attributes: volume, variety,, and velocity. In healthcare setting, big data refers to vast dataset that is electronically stored and managed in an automated manner and has the potential to enhance human health and healthcare system. In this review, gastric cancer (GC) and postcolonoscopy colorectal cancer (PCCRC) will be used to illustrate application of big data approach in the field of gastrointestinal cancer research. Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication only reduces GC risk by 46% due to preexisting precancerous lesions. Apart from endoscopy surveillance, identifying medications that modify GC risk is another strategy. Population‐based cohort studies showed that long‐term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) associated with higher GC risk after HP eradication, while aspirin and statins associated with lower risk. While diabetes mellitus conferred 73% higher GC risk, metformin use associated with 51% lower risk, effect of which was independent of glycemic control. Nonetheless, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NA‐NSAIDs) are not associated with lower GC risk. CRC can still occur after initial colonoscopy in which no cancer was detected (i.e. PCCRC). Between 2005 and 2013, the rate of interval‐type PCCRC‐3y (defined as CRC diagnosed between 6 and 36 months of index colonoscopy which was negative for CRC) was 7.9% in Hong Kong, with >80% being distal cancers and higher cancer‐specific mortality compared with detected CRC. Certain clinical and endoscopy‐related factors were associated with PCCRC‐3 risk. Medications shown to have chemopreventive effects on PCCRC include statins, NA‐NSAIDs, and angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers.
Comparative genomics identifies genetic markers linked to structural variations that differentiate Puccinia graminis tritici and secalis formae speciales
Authors: Bryan Anthony , Korolev Andrey , Bergmann Susan , Boshoff Willem H. P. , Flath Kerstin , Justesen Annemarie F. , Schulz Philipp , Visser Botma , Saunders Diane G. O.
Published: February 2024

Stem rust is a serious disease of many gramineous plants including small grain staples such as wheat, barley, rye and triticale. Separate formae speciales (ff. spp.) of the causal fungus, Puccinia graminis, predominantly infect certain host plant genera. However, despite these taxonomic subdivisions, many P. graminis ff. spp. are genetically too similar to distinguish using existing genetic markers. For those infecting cereals, this is particularly challenging for P. graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) and P. graminis f. sp. secalis (Pgs). Herein we harnessed newly available genomic data for 39 Pgt and Pgs isolates and identified four regions of structural variation that were used to design four simple PCR‐based assays to distinguish the aforementioned formae speciales. These genomic regions display large presence/absence variation between Pgt and Pgs isolates, and yet a high degree of sequence conservation within shared neighbouring regions, facilitating primer design. We also confirmed lack of amplification in host plant genera analysed, which included assessment of the shared alternate host of Pgt and Pgs, Berberis vulgaris. Accurate classification of P. graminis ff. spp. infections on B. vulgaris is exceptionally valuable to rapidly define plants harbouring P. graminis inoculum when adjacent to cereal crops. Finally, we demonstrated utility of these four genetic markers to correctly distinguish a genetically diverse array of Pgt and Pgs isolates. This strategy could now be readily applied to other pathogens of interest, which will be of increasing value as genomic resources continue to rapidly expand for many key biotic threats to agricultural productivity.
Impact of bacteriocins on multidrug‐resistant bacteria and their application in aquaculture disease prevention and control
Authors: Chen Xiaoli , Liu Hong , Liu Shuangping , Mao Jian
Published: February 2024

Aquaculture plays an important role in meeting human demand for animal protein. Disease is a critical factor that restricts the green and healthy development of aquaculture. Intensive aquaculture practices can increase the susceptibility of aquatic animals to pathogens due to environmental stress. Antibiotics are commonly used for disease prevention and control, but their frequent use in aquaculture can increase the risk of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria and resistance gene transmission, posing a threat to the health of aquatic animals and humans. Recent studies have shown that bacteriocins have inhibitory effects on different species of bacteria, fungi and viruses, and can even affect natural resistance structures such as bacterial biofilms, presenting promising prospects as antimicrobial agents. Bacteriocins have potential applications in various fields such as agriculture, food and medicine, but limited research has been conducted on their impact on aquaculture disease prevention and control, and the underlying mechanisms remain to be explored. Therefore, this review aims to summarise the classification, sources, preparation methods, antibacterial activity against multidrug‐resistant bacteria and application of bacteriocins as antimicrobial agents in aquaculture disease prevention and control. In addition, limitations of bacteriocin application in aquaculture and future research directions are also discussed.
Peritoneal Protein Loss With Time in Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Malho Guedes Anabela , Marques Roberto Calças , Domingos Ana Teresa , Laranjo Céu , Silva Ana Paula , Rodrigues Anabela , Krediet Raymond T.
Published: February 2024

Longitudinal evolution of peritoneal protein loss (PPL), a reflection of hydrostatic pressure–driven leak of plasma proteins through the large‐pore pathway, is not clear. Time on PD causes loss of mesothelial cells, vasculopathy, and increased thickness of the submesothelial fibrous layer. Are these structural changes associated with progressive increase of PPL, in a parallel with the rise in the D/P creatinine? The aim of the present study was to identify longitudinal changes of PPL over time. This single‐center, longitudinal study included 52 peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients with a median follow‐up of 26.5 months, evaluated at two different time points with a minimum interval of 6 months. Repeated measures analysis was performed using paired sample t‐test or the nonparametric Wilcoxon signed‐rank test, depending on the distribution. After a median interval of 15.5 months, lower levels of residual renal function and urine volume, lower Kt/V, and creatinine clearance were found. D/P creatinine and PPL were stable, but a decrease in ultrafiltration was present. Systemic inflammation, nutrition, and volume overload showed no significant change with time on PD. Analysis of a subpopulation with over 48 months between initial and subsequential assessment (n = 11) showed again no difference in inflammation, nutritional and hydration parameters from baseline, but importantly PPL decreased after more than 4 years on PD (mean difference 1.2 g/24, p = 0.033). D/P creatinine and dip of sodium remained unchanged. The absence of deleterious effects of time on PD is reassuring, pointing to the benefit of updated PD prescription, including the standard use of more biocompatible solutions towards membrane preservation and adjusted prescription avoiding overhydration and inflammation while maintaining nutritional status. After controlling for confounders, PPL may act as a biomarker of acquired venous vasculopathy, even if small pore fluid transport rates and free water transport are preserved.
Phasehood as defective intervention: Possessor extraction and selective DP islandhood in West Circassian
Authors: Ershova Ksenia
Published: February 2024

Ā‐extraction of possessors in West Circassian is constrained in a puzzling way: the possessor of an ergative or applied argument DP may not undergo clausebound wh‐movement, but long‐distance possessor extraction across a clausal boundary is grammatical. Based on the variable islandhood of these DPs, this paper argues for an agree‐based approach to phasehood. Phase opacity is treated as intervention defective intervention, with the phase intervening between the probe and the goal. Defective intervention does not take place if the corresponding phase has independently entered an Agree relation with the movement‐triggering probe. Islandhood is thus correctly predicted to be contextually determined: in West Circassian, the difference between clausebound and long‐distance possessor extraction is conditioned by the set of agreement features on the local movement‐triggering probe: a wh‐feature on C in the case of clausebound extraction and a successive‐cyclic edge feature on embedded C in the case of long‐distance wh‐movement. Additionally, the account appeals to the opacity of phase edges to explain the contrast between DPs that display islandhood effects (ergative and applied argument DPs) and constituents that are uniformly transparent for subextraction (the absolutive DP and postpositional phrases).
Optical coherence tomographic features of feline acute corneal hydrops: A case report
Authors: Jeong Manbok , Yoo Sukjong
Published: February 2024

Objective

The objective of the study was to describe the optical coherence tomographic features of a cat with acute corneal hydrops.

Animal Studied

A 4‐year‐old castrated male domestic shorthaired showing conjunctival redness, ocular discharge, and intermittent squinting of both eyes with asymmetrical disease onset.

Methods

Complete ophthalmic examination and optical coherence tomography were performed.

Results

On slit‐lamp biomicroscopic examination, severe intrastromal fluid pockets with profound bullae were observed in the dorsomedial region in both eyes. A diagnosis of feline acute corneal hydrops was made in both eyes. Optical coherence tomography revealed profound stromal lamellar separation representing heterogeneous reflective areas, and fluid pockets and bullae of variable size were concomitant to Descemet's membrane detachment demonstrated by a well‐defined homogeneous hyporeflective area. Upon reevaluation 30 days during healing process for both eyes, the thickened epithelia and the thinning pan‐stromal areas were identified as homogeneously hyper‐reflective epithelia and as heterogeneous hyper‐reflectivity, respectively. A thickened posterior corneal surface was shown as heterogeneous with patchy hyper‐reflectivity. Additionally, Descemet's membrane detachment in the initial presentation had two distinct forms suspicious of Descemet's membrane rupture in each eye: a break with rolled ends and a break with flat ends.

Conclusion

To the author's knowledge, this study represents the first documentation of in vivo detection of Descemet's membrane detachment and presumed rupture in a cat experiencing acute corneal hydrops. These observations strongly indicate that Descemet's membrane detachment/rupture acts as a most likely risk factor in the onset of acute corneal hydrops in cats.
The Impact of Economic Integration on Income Inequality in the EU: A Panel Data Analysis of the EU Members from 2002-2020
Authors: De Wettinck Quinten , van Mourik Aad
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the relation between economic integration and income inequality for the 27 current EU members from 2002 to 2020. The Gini coefficient is the dependent variable in a panel data regression analysis, and is expressed as a function of indicators related to economic integration (total trade, intra-EU trade, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow and outflow) and a set of control variables. Although much research points to a significant relationship between inequality and integration, there is no consensus on the sign and magnitude of the effect. In this paper, four random effects panel models are estimated with robust standard errors to uncover this relationship. The results show that in the context of the EU, intra-EU trade is associated with decreased income inequality, while overall trade and FDI in- or outflow seem to have no direct effect on the income gap. In addition, the level of economic development seems to moderate the effect of intra-EU trade: for countries with a below-average gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, the reducing effect of integration on Gini is weaker than for richer countries. Additionally, market capitalisation, the presence of natural resources and government spending on social benefits are associated with reduced inequality, while unemployment and population size seem to drive income disparities. These results are consistent with a major part of the existing literature and lead to interesting conclusions for policy makers. The originality of this work differentiating it from prior research is twofold: (1) the region of examination is the EU, which is not often the subject of similar analyses, and (2) an interaction effect is examined that differs from the conventional measures for less developed economies.
Failure Pressure Evaluation of Corroded Pipeline Using Semi-Empirical and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Torres Juliana v. S. , Motta Renato S. , Afonso Silvana M. B. , Bouchonneau Nadège , Lyra Paulo R. M. , Willmersdorf Ramiro B. , Pimentel Júlio T.
Published: February 2024

Computational simulation using the finite element method (FEM) has proven to be one of the most efficient methods for the correct evaluation of the structural integrity of pipelines with corrosion-induced defects. In this paper, the results of the failure pressure of corroded pipelines obtained with a computer tool called PIPEFLAW based on nonlinear finite element analyses are presented and compared with the failure pressures of corroded pipes obtained with twelve (12) advanced semi-empirical models from the literature. A computational code was created in the Python language to automatically obtain the failure pressure of randomly generated cases of corroded pipes, which allows the analysis of multiple piping cases with isolated external corrosion defects in an idealized configuration. For this purpose, the LHS (Latin Hypercube Sampling) approach was adopted for the design of experiments to obtain a better distribution of cases in the sample space. Comparisons between the results using the FEM and semi-empirical models show, as expected, that the semi-empirical solutions are more conservative in most cases analyzed in this work. A statistical model is proposed that adheres to the relative error distribution for some of the models used. Moreover, the influence of some parameters (pipeline thickness, defect depth, defect length, defect width, yield stress and ultimate stress) on the failure pressure was evaluated. It was found that in most of the studied models the error increases as the defect depth increases.
Leveraging Compliance to Design a Minimally Invasive, Expandable Interbody Cage Capable of Customized Anatomical Fit for Spinal Fusion Surgery
Authors: Orr Daniel J. , Payne Christian , Jones Hailey , Anderson James , Sperry Alek , Sargent Brandon , Frankel Bruce M. , Howell Larry L. , Bowden Anton E.
Published: February 2024

As spinal fusion surgery continues to transition to less invasive techniques, there remains an unmet need for ever smaller and more complex interbody cages to meet the unique needs of this difficult surgery. This work focuses on the hypothesis that this need can be met using the inherent advantages of compliant mechanisms. Deployable Euler spiral connectors (DESCs), optimized using a gradient based optimization algorithm, were used as the foundation for a device that can stow to a very small size for device insertion then bilaterally deploy to a substantially larger device footprint. Additionally, a continuously adjustable lordotic angle was achieved using the same device so as to result in a customized anatomical fit. Several tests, including finite element analysis (FEA), compression testing, shear testing, and deployment in a cadaver, were performed as initial verification and validation that the concept device performs well under typical testing paradigms used for interbody cages. While further device testing and refinements are necessary prior to clinical use, the present work demonstrates the promise of this approach and highlights the potential of compliant mechanism devices for advancing minimally invasive (MIS) lumbar fusion.
Biomechanical Considerations of Refreshable Braille and Tactile Graphics Toward Equitable Access: A Review
Authors: Zakrajsek Anne D. , Foulkes Samuel , Nagel Nicole , Neurohr Fred , Nauman Eric A.
Published: February 2024

This review highlights the biomechanical foundations of braille and tactile graphic discrimination within the context of design innovations in information access for the blind and low-vision community. Braille discrimination is a complex and poorly understood process that necessitates the coordination of motor control, mechanotransduction, and cognitive-linguistic processing. Despite substantial technological advances and multiple design attempts over the last fifty years, a low-cost, high-fidelity refreshable braille and tactile graphics display has yet to be delivered. Consequently, the blind and low-vision communities are left with limited options for information access. This is amplified by the rapid adoption of graphical user interfaces for human-computer interaction, a move that the blind and low vision community were effectively excluded from. Text-to-speech screen readers lack the ability to convey the nuances necessary for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math education and offer limited privacy for the user. Printed braille and tactile graphics are effective modalities but are time and resource-intensive, difficult to access, and lack real-time rendering. Single- and multiline refreshable braille devices either lack functionality or are extremely cost-prohibitive. Early computational models of mechanotransduction through complex digital skin tissue and the kinematics of the braille reading finger are explored as insight into device design specifications. A use-centered, convergence approach for future designs is discussed in which the design space is defined by both the end-user requirements and the available technology.
Numerical and Analytical Simulation of the Growth of Amyloid-β Plaques
Authors: Kuznetsov Andrey V.
Published: February 2024

Numerical and analytical solutions were employed to calculate the radius of an amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque over time. To the author's knowledge, this study presents the first model simulating the growth of Aβ plaques. Findings indicate that the plaque can attain a diameter of 50 μm after 20 years of growth, provided the Aβ monomer degradation machinery is malfunctioning. A mathematical model incorporates nucleation and autocatalytic growth processes using the Finke–Watzky model. The resulting system of ordinary differential equations was solved numerically, and for the simplified case of infinitely long Aβ monomer half-life, an analytical solution was found. Assuming that Aβ aggregates stick together and using the distance between the plaques as an input parameter of the model, it was possible to calculate the plaque radius from the concentration of Aβ aggregates. This led to the “cube root hypothesis,” positing that Aβ plaque size increases proportionally to the cube root of time. This hypothesis helps explain why larger plaques grow more slowly. Furthermore, the obtained results suggest that the plaque size is independent of the kinetic constants governing Aβ plaque agglomeration, indicating that the kinetics of Aβ plaque agglomeration is not a limiting factor for plaque growth. Instead, the plaque growth rate is limited by the rates of Aβ monomer production and degradation.
A Graphical Approach to Visualize and Interpret Biochemically Coupled Biomechanical Models
Authors: Flanary Shannon M. , Peak Kara E. , Barocas Victor H.
Published: February 2024

The last decade has seen the emergence of progressively more complex mechanobiological models, often coupling biochemical and biomechanical components. The complexity of these models makes interpretation difficult, and although computational tools can solve model equations, there is considerable potential value in a simple method to explore the interplay between different model components. Pump and system performance curves, long utilized in centrifugal pump selection and design, inspire the development of a graphical technique to depict visually the performance of biochemically-coupled mechanical models. Our approach is based on a biochemical performance curve (analogous to the classical pump curve) and a biomechanical performance curve (analogous to the system curve). Upon construction of the two curves, their intersection, or lack thereof, describes the coupled model's equilibrium state(s). One can also observe graphically how an applied perturbation shifts one or both curves, and thus how the other component will respond, without rerunning the full model. While the upfront cost of generating the performance curve graphic varies with the efficiency of the model components, the easily interpretable visual depiction of what would otherwise be nonintuitive model behavior is valuable. Herein, we outline how performance curves can be constructed and interpreted for biochemically-coupled biomechanical models and apply the technique to two independent models in the cardiovascular space. The performance curve approach can illustrate and help identify weaknesses in model construction, inform user-applied perturbations and fitting procedures to generate intended behaviors, and improve the efficiency of the model generation and application process.
Enhancing the efficiency of egg collection of the astigmatid mite Carpoglyphus lactis (Acari: Carpoglyphidae) as a diet for predatory mites
Authors: Liu Zhenguo , Zhang Keshi , Zhang Zhi-qiang
Published: February 2024

N/A
Spin-related negative magnetoresistance in germanium films
Authors: Li Zhaoguo , Luo Yuechuan , Li Jia , Zhang Jicheng
Published: February 2024

Herein, we report the transport properties of Ge films. The variable-range hopping transport at low temperatures (T≲50K) and thermal activation transport at high temperatures (T≳50K) are observed in our Ge films. In the different temperature regimes, the anomalous magnetotransport properties are observed. In the low-temperature regime (T≲15K), the negative magnetoresistance (MR) at low field and positive MR at high field can be seen. In the moderate-temperature regime (15K≲T≲100K), the positive MR curve gradually evolves from a linear curve to a parabolic curve with increasing temperature, and the MR magnitude appears to be insensitive to temperature. In the high-temperature regime (T≳100K), the positive MR value increases with increasing temperature. By considering the angular-dependent MR, we can determine that the negative MR comes from the spin-related mechanism, and the positive MR is caused by the orbital-related mechanism. However, further study is required to determine the exact mechanisms behind the anomalous magnetotransport properties.
Translation and Adaptation of the Reinjury Anxiety Inventory, the Sport Injury Rehabilitation Adherence Scale, and the Athletic Injury Self-Efficacy Questionnaire Into Turkish
Authors: Turkeri-Bozkurt Hande , Yıldırım Sinan , Brewer Britton W. , Bayrakcı Tunay Volga , Koruç Ziya
Published: February 2024

Context: Psychological difficulties can adversely affect rehabilitation outcomes and make return to sport more difficult. Identifying psychological difficulties is possible with valid and reliable measurement tools. The purpose of this study is to translate and culturally adapt the Reinjury Anxiety Inventory (RIAI), the Sport Injury Rehabilitation Adherence Scale (SIRAS), and the Athletic Injury Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (AISEQ) into Turkish and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Turkish versions. Design: Cross‐sectional study. Methods: The instruments were forward- and back-translated, culturally adapted, and validated on 248 athletes and 34 physical therapists. The physical therapists of the athletes completed the SIRAS to evaluate the athletes. Statistical analysis included reliability tests (Cronbach alpha and test–retest), exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and correlational analysis. Floor and ceiling effects (<15%) were also assessed. Results: Confirmatory factor analyses revealed a satisfactory model fit for the RIAI and the AISEQ, and exploratory factor analysis revealed the 1-factor structure for the SIRAS as in the original. All 3 instruments displayed adequate internal consistency (Cronbach alpha coefficients ranged from .84 to .88) and test–retest reliability (coefficients ranged from .81 to .93). Convergent validity of the instruments was supported by significant correlations between the AISEQ and both the RIAI and the SIRAS. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the Turkish versions of the instruments were valid, consistent, and reliable in athletes who have serious injuries. Scores on these instruments could be useful for evaluating the contributions of psychological factors to return to sport following serious injuries. Clinicians are encouraged to use RIAI-Turkish (RIAI-TR), SIRAS-Turkish (SIRAS-TR), and AISEQ-Turkish (AISEQ-TR) together to make decisions about the treatment and rehabilitation plans of injured athletes.
Effects of Situated Game Teaching Through Set Plays on Badminton Tactical Knowledge, Technical Ability, and Game Performance Among Turkish Secondary School Students
Authors: Devrilmez Erhan , Li Weidong , Dervent Fatih , Çabıtçı Mustafa , Chen Senlin
Published: February 2024

Background: The Situated Game Teaching Through Set Plays (SGTSP) model, a newly proposed curricular model, extends the previous game-based approaches by adopting the Theory of Situated Learning as a framework to focus on the relational and situational nature of the changing relations of all game parameters in a specific momentary game scenario. However, as a new game-based model, SGTSP warrants further empirical research investigations to establish its effectiveness at advancing student learning such as skill acquisition and game competence. Purpose: To examine the effects of the SGTSP curricular model on secondary school students’ tactical knowledge, technical ability, and game performance in badminton when compared with a technique-focused approach during a 10-lesson unit. Methods: A completely randomized block design with a repeated measure was used to address the research purpose. A sample of 158 sixth graders from eight classes at two Turkish middle schools (67 girls and 89 boys; Mage = 12.62 ± 0.47) were assigned to either the SGTSP (n = 79 from four classes) or the technique-focused approach conditions (n = 79 from four classes) for the experiment. Assessments were conducted before and after the badminton instructional unit. The statistical models consisted of one of the four technical ability performances, components of game performance, or tactical knowledge as a dependent variable and eight independent variables: teacher, treatment, class nested within teacher and treatment, gender, skill levels, and three 2-way interactions between treatment, gender, and skill levels. A series of repeated-measure multivariate analyses of variance were conducted to analyze the data. Results: Participants in both groups improved tactical knowledge, forehand long serve, forehand clear, smash, and drop skills, and game performances from pre to post. Participants in the SGTSP condition showed significantly greater improvements (). Discussion and Conclusion: The findings of this study substantiated the positive effects of the SGTSP model on developing secondary school students’ badminton tactical knowledge, technical ability, and game performances in badminton compared with the traditional technique-focused approach.
Taking the stand
Authors: Charles Dan
Published: February 2024

For scientists, going to court as an expert witness brings risks and rewards
Budget cuts alarm French scientists
Authors: Pain Elisabeth
Published: February 2024

Research and education to lose almost €1 billion