bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Language Barriers and Age on English Hearing Test App Accuracy for Polish Users
Authors: Pastucha Małgorzata , Gos Elżbieta , Skarżyński Henryk , Jedrzejczak W. Wiktor
Published: November 2024

Objective

The development of health applications (apps) includes those for testing hearing, although most of them are available only in English. This study investigates whether poor English language proficiency creates a barrier for Polish users in the accuracy of such an app in measuring self‐determined hearing thresholds.

Study Design

The study compared hearing thresholds measured by an English‐language app and a professionally conducted reference test, with attention to participants' English proficiency and age.

Setting

The English‐language app “Hearing test, Audiogram,” was used to determine hearing thresholds. A reference test was performed by an audiologist using specialized equipment.

Methods

Participants were 87 nonnative English language speakers aged 16 to 88. They were divided into 3 groups based on their proficiency in English: no knowledge (Group 1), basic (Group 2), and advanced (Group 3). The mean differences between hearing thresholds determined using the app and the reference tests were measured for each group.

Results

The accuracy of the results varied according to the level of English proficiency. A statistically significant difference was found between Group 1 (no knowledge) and Group 3 (advanced), with mean differences of 13.6, 9.3, and 6.7 dB for Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, meaning that discrepancies were larger in the less proficient groups. However, when participant age was considered, language proficiency was less important and was no longer a significant factor.

Conclusion

This study revealed that English language proficiency does affect the accuracy of mobile app‐based hearing tests, but age of the user is also important.
Hollow Structured‐Controllable Polyimide Nanofibers with Extreme Conditions Tolerance for Efficient Thermal Insulation
Authors: Li Renhao , Bao Yan , Guo Ruyue , Gao Lu , Zhang Wenbo , Liu Chao , Zhao Haihang
Published: November 2024

The rational use of efficient thermal insulation materials is one of the effective strategies for energy management. However, existing thermal insulation materials often exhibit poor stability, suboptimal thermal insulation performance, and weak mechanical properties in some extreme environments. Herein, this work develops an easy and scalable strategy for creating hollow polyimide (PI) nanofibers through coaxial electrospinning and high‐temperature template removal technology, in which the internal hollow structure is precisely controlled. A large amount of air is filled in the hollow structure within the nanofibers and the voids between the nanofibers, giving PI nanofibers low density (23.3 mg cm−3) and high porosity (98.2%). This characteristic also effectively suppresses the heat transfer of PI nanofibers, resulting in an ultralow thermal conductivity (20.6 mW m−1 K−1). Meanwhile, PI nanofibers also exhibit excellent mechanical properties with a stress and strain of 5.52 MPa and 62.7%, respectively. In addition, compared to other commercial thermal insulation materials, PI nanofibers demonstrate superior extreme temperature tolerance (from −196 to 350 °C) and flame retardancy (limit oxygen index of 30.8%). Given these advantages, this work provides inspiration for the structural design of nanofiber materials with efficient thermal insulation.
Effect of Unknown and Fragmented Tokens on the Performance of Multilingual Language Models at Low-Resource Tasks
Authors: Nag Arijit , Samanta Bidisha , Mukherjee Animesh , Ganguly Niloy , Chakrabarty Soumen
Published: November 2024

Multilingual language models (MLLMs) like mBERT promise to extend the benefits of NLP research to low-resource languages (LRLs). However, LRL vocabulary is often seriously under-represented in the workpiece dictionaries of MLLMs. This leads to many LRL words being replaced by UNK (unknown tokens) or concatenated from morphologically unrelated wordpieces, consequently leading to low task accuracy. Pre-training MLLMs after including LRL documents is extremely resource-intensive in terms of both human inputs and computational resources. In this chapter, we study intuitive strategies to seek and protect “vulnerable words” in LRLs by introducing them into MLLM dictionaries, providing reasonable initialisations of their embeddings, followed by limited fine-tuning, subject to the limits of available LRL corpora. Our experiments show some significant performance improvements and also some surprising limits to such vocabulary augmentation strategies in various classification tasks in multiple diverse LRLs as well as code-mixed datasets. We release the code and data to enable further research.
Who’s the Expert Here? Negotiating Expertise in Palliative Care and Transplant Medicine
Authors: Rehsmann Julia
Published: November 2024

This chapter explores how different understandings of expert knowledge shape ethnographic research and knowledge production in biomedical contexts, drawing on long-term fieldwork conducted in a transplant clinic in Germany and a palliative care centre in Switzerland. These settings represent distinct forms of biomedical practice, with transplant medicine emphasising high-tech surgical interventions and palliative care focusing on holistic patient care. By comparing these settings, the chapter examines the methodological and epistemological implications of differing conceptions of expertise. I argue that while methodological differences can be explained by research foci and medical fields explored, they also shed light on different understandings of expertise within these settings. The first part of the chapter examines methodological specificities in biomedical contexts and how they influence fieldwork practices, including considerations such as wardrobe choices and the symbolism of white coats. The second part focuses on the post-fieldwork phase, highlighting the challenges anthropologists face in publishing their research across disciplinary boundaries. I conclude by highlighting the evolving nature of expertise over the course of an academic career, and the importance of experiential knowledge and participatory approaches in fostering interdisciplinary dialogue within biomedicine and anthropology.
Agents of the State? Migration Networks of Theatre Practitioners in Galicia and Banat
Authors: Hopp Jorit Jens
Published: November 2024

This chapter provides a strong methodological argument for the use of network research methods in the analysis of historical migration patterns of theatre artists. By discussing the application of network research methods in other areas, Hopp shows the problems, but also the advantages of adapting these methods to theatre historiography. Finally, using data on theatre professionals in the Austrian crown lands of Bohemia, Galicia and Banat between 1848 and 1859, Hopp demonstrates how the visualisation of networks can be used to test hypotheses about the influence of centralisation measures on migration patterns.
The Times and Toils of Moyshe Hurwitz
Authors: Abeliovich Ruthie
Published: November 2024

The Yiddish playwright and impresario Moyshe Hurwitz (1844–1910) was among the central theatre makers of the Yiddish popular theatre scene. This chapter explores Hurwitz’s migration, his business initiatives, production activities, theatre writings and influence on the Yiddish popular theatre scene, in order to understand how his theatre created and navigated the formation of a migratory community. As this chapter shows, Hurwitz created performative models that fictionalized the theatre as a home for Jewish migrants and as a mode of participation in community-building processes.
Defining the Theatre Migrant: A Concept Developed Through the Lens of Nineteenth-Century Theatre Practices
Authors: Szymanski-Düll Berenika
Published: November 2024

Drawing from an analysis of the highly mobile nineteenth-century theatre practices, this chapter analyses notions of migration and mobility and argues that neither is sufficient to capture the lived experiences of theatre professionals of that time. It therefore proposes the concept of the theatre migrant. By examining the biographies and mobilities of European-born actors, the introduction of this concept aims not only to shed light on a unique historical phenomenon but also to highlight that different forms of mobility need to be distinguished within the broader discourse on migration. In this context, this chapter identifies the complexity of the reasons for theatre migration, emphasizing the complex interplay of individual motivations, structural factors, and external influences.
Embracing the Entrepreneurial Challenge: Learning from Failures and Setbacks
Authors: Kuckertz Andreas , Leicht Thomas , Scheu Maximilian , da Silva Wagner Indra , Ebersberger Bernd
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, you will learn why adopting a positive mindset toward failure is essential, how to cope with inevitable setbacks in your start-up journey, and how to make the best out of a failed start-up. We outline that failure is common on the way to success and argue that failure can lead to valuable lessons and new opportunities—if dealt with consciously. Embracing everyday failures helps build resilience and clarity and assists in managing stress. We help sharpen the mindset toward failure by introducing principles that encourage quick learning from setbacks. We offer advice for immediate action.
Onwards and Upwards: Hacking Entrepreneurial Growth
Authors: Kuckertz Andreas , Leicht Thomas , Scheu Maximilian , da Silva Wagner Indra , Ebersberger Bernd
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, you will learn what growth hacking is, when you should start with growth hacking, and how to implement a growth hacking process in your start-up. We define growth hacking as a creative, resourceful approach that uses innovative strategies to expand your customer base and increase sales. Differentiating between the early experimentation phase and the subsequent scaling phase of a start-up, we emphasize the necessity of achieving product/market fit before focusing on scaling. We then provide practical advice on creating growth equations to align activities with growth goals and offer a step-by-step framework to conduct growth hacking and iterate through growth initiatives. We offer advice for immediate action.
Solutions of a Unification of the Cauchy and the Goła̧b-Schinzel Type Equations on a Cone
Authors: Chudziak Jacek , Kočan Zdeněk
Published: November 2024

Inspired by a problem of invariance of power series families of probability distributions under binomial thinning, Baron and Wesołowski (Res Math 76:168, 2021) investigated a functional equation being a unification of the Cauchy and the Goła̧b-Schinzel type equations. They determined the solutions of the equation with no or mild regularity assumptions imposed on unknown functions. In this paper we extend their results onto a multi-dimensional case.
Antiplasmodial potential of compounds isolated from Ziziphus mucronata and their binding to Plasmodium falciparum HGXPRT using biophysical and molecular docking studies
Authors: Masia Kgaugelo J. , Mhlongo Ndumiso N. , Pooe Ofentse J. , Ibrahim Mohammed A. , Kappo Abidemi P. , Simelane Mthokozisi B. C.
Published: November 2024

The increasing resistance of Plasmodium parasites to currently available antiplasmodial therapies poses a significant challenge in treating malaria. Since ancient times, plants have served as a primary source of novel pharmacologically active compounds for drug development. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the antiplasmodial properties of pentacyclic triterpenes isolated from Ziziphus mucronata bark, with an emphasis on their mechanism of action. Dichloromethane and ethyl acetate extracts of the stem bark were subjected to silica gel column chromatography, which led to the isolation of three known triterpenoids: betulinic acid, methyl betulinate, and lupeol. The compounds were then evaluated for antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum NF54 strains using the Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) assay. In silico evaluation of the isolated compounds was conducted through molecular docking and further validated with in vitro experiments against a purified protein target, Plasmodium falciparum hypoxanthine–guanine–xanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (PfHGXPRT). Betulinic acid, methyl betulinate, and lupeol exhibited potent antiplasmodial activities with IC50 values of 20, 10.11, and 7.56 µg/mL, respectively. Lupeol exhibited the highest binding energy of − 7.6 kcal/mol. Differential scanning fluorimetry revealed that lupeol decreases the Tm of PfHGXPRT, thus decreasing the protein’s thermal stability. At high concentrations, lupeol also increased protein absorbance, indicating the detection of hydrophobic amino acids and protein unfolding. This study proves that Z. mucronata could serve as a reservoir of effective agents for treating malaria, while also scientifically validating its use in traditional medicine. However, further experimental studies are required to substantiate its relevant therapeutic effects.
Data-independent acquisition-based blood proteomics unveils predictive biomarkers for neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: Chen Feng , Tan Kezhe , Lv Zhibao , Chen Faling , Xu Weijue , Gong Xiaohui , Lu Li , Sun Hailiang , Fu Qinqin , Zhuang Wenjun
Published: November 2024

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a life-threatening condition affecting preterm infants, sometimes necessitating surgical treatment. This study aimed to analyze differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and access their biological and clinical significance in the plasma of neonates with NEC. Peripheral blood samples were collected from NEC infants at various time points, and plasma was separated. Data-independent acquisition (DIA) technology was utilized to identify DEPs among NEC patients at different stages. Bioinformatic analyses, including Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, and protein-to-protein interaction analyses were performed on the DEPs. External datasets, along with receiver operating characteristic curves and gene set enrichment analysis, were used to clinically and biologically validate the findings. DEPs between the NEC and pre-NEC groups indicated reduced protein, heme, nitrogen, and purine nucleotide biosynthesis during NEC formation. In addition, enriched DEPs among the NEC groups at different time points suggested reconstructed extracellular matrix, aberrant B-lymphocyte immune responses, and decreased glycosaminoglycan levels during NEC progression. These findings were both clinically and biologically validated using external datasets. Our study highlights the clinical and biological relevance of proteomics in NEC patients. This study demonstrates key pathways involved in NEC pathogenesis and establishes DIA mass spectrometry as a powerful and noninvasive tool for evaluating and predicting NEC formation and progression.

Graphical Abstract
Biotechnological potential of salt tolerant and xerophilic species of Aspergillus
Authors: Pócsi István , Dijksterhuis Jan , Houbraken Jos , de Vries Ronald P.
Published: November 2024

Xerophilic fungi occupy versatile environments owing to their rich arsenal helping them successfully adapt to water constraints as a result of low relative humidity, high-osmolarity, and high-salinity conditions. The general term xerophilic fungi relates to organisms that tolerate and/or require reduced water activity, while halophilic and osmophilic are applied to specialized groups that require high salt concentrations or increased osmotic pressure, respectively. Species belonging to the family Aspergillaceae, and especially those classified in Aspergillus subgenus Aspergillus (sections Restricti and Aspergillus) and Polypaecilum, are particularly enriched in the group of osmophilic and salt-tolerant filamentous fungi. They produce an unprecedently wide spectrum of salt tolerant enzymes including proteases, peptidases, glutaminases, γ-glutamyl transpeptidases, various glycosidases such as cellulose-decomposing and starch-degrading hydrolases, lipases, tannases, and oxidareductases. These extremophilic fungi also represent a huge untapped treasure chest of yet-to-be-discovered, highly valuable, biologically active secondary metabolites. Furthermore, these organisms are indispensable agents in decolorizing textile dyes, degrading xenobiotics and removing excess ions in high-salt environments. They could also play a role in fermentation processes at low water activity leading to the preparation of daqu, meju, and tea. Considering current and future agricultural applications, salt-tolerant and osmophilic Aspergilli may contribute to the biosolubilization of phosphate in soil and the amelioration salt stress in crops. Transgenes from halophile Aspergilli may find promising applications in the engineering of salt stress and drought-tolerant agricultural crops. Aspergilli may also spoil feed and food and raise mycotoxin concentrations above the permissible doses and, therefore, the development of novel feed and food preservation technologies against these Aspergillus spp. is also urgently needed. On the other hand, some xerophilic Aspergilli have been shown to be promising biological control agents against mites.

Key points

• Salt tolerant and osmophilic Aspergilli can be found in versatile environments

• These fungi are rich resources of valuable enzymes and secondary metabolites

• Biotechnological and agricultural applications of these fungi are expanding
Biocatalytic sulfation of aromatic and aliphatic alcohols catalyzed by arylsulfate sulfotransferases
Authors: Oroz-Guinea Isabel , Rath Marko , Tischler Isabelle , Ditrich Klaus , Schachtschabel Doreen , Breuer Michael , Kroutil Wolfgang
Published: November 2024

Many relevant metabolites, as well as chemical commodities, contain at least one sulfate ester group. Consequently, biocatalytic strategies to attach sulfate to a molecule under mild conditions are of high interest. In order to expand the enzymatic toolbox available, five new arylsulfate sulfotransferases (ASSTs) were identified in this study. Overexpression in Escherichia coli and enzyme purification resulted in soluble proteins which catalyzed the sulfate transfer to an acceptor substrate using p-nitrophenyl sulfate (pNPS) as sulfate donor. Optimal reaction conditions were established with respect to temperature and pH, as well as their tolerance to organic co-solvents and melting temperature. Additionally, the kinetic parameters (Vmax, KM, and kcat) were determined. The substrate scope for the acceptor showed that a structurally diverse spectrum of alcohols is accepted. The substrates included phenolic alcohols with one, two, and three hydroxy groups, linear and cyclic aliphatic alcohols, and amines. The phenolic substrates were accepted reaching activities of up to 154 U/mg purified enzyme. Additionally, also the aliphatic alcohols (both linear and cyclic) were accepted at reduced activity, showing that these enzymes are not limited to phenolic alcohols. Moreover, catalytic activity was detected when using aniline as an acceptor substrate implying their ability to sulfate also amino groups. Finally, the consecutive sulfation of di- and trihydroxy compounds was observed, resulting in the detection of the corresponding disulfated molecules.

Key points

• Five novel arylsulfate sulfotransferases were identified and characterized.

• Accepted substrates included aromatic and aliphatic alcohols, as well as aniline.

• Disulfation of di- and trihydroxy aromatic compounds was studied and confirmed.
Volumes and velocities: Meta-analysis of PC-MRI studies in normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Whitley Helen , Skalický Petr , Zazay Awista , Bubeníková Adéla , Bradáč Ondrej
Published: November 2024

Purpose  

Phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI) represents an opportunity to non-invasively investigate cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) flow in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). Studies in recent years have explored the diagnostic and prognostic value of PC-MRI derived parameters. This review aims to identify all PC-MRI studies of iNPH published since 2010, synthesise a review based on collated results, and analyse specific flow parameters identified in the selected studies.

Methods

Our protocol was prospectively registered on PROSPERO [CRD42020180826]. We systematically searched four databases: Pubmed, Web of Science, Ovid, and Cochrane library to identify all eligible studies. Quality assessment was performed using a modified Newcastle–Ottawa Scale [19]. Systematic review was conducted according to Prisma guidelines. A random-effects model was used to perform meta-analysis on the available flow parameters.

Results

Eighteen records were identified for inclusion. Five studies were eligible for meta-analysis, representing 107 iNPH patients and 82 controls. CSF flow parameters available for analysis were stroke volume and peak velocity. Both were significantly higher than controls (p = 0.0007 and p = 0.0045 respectively) according to our random-effects analysis, consistent with a model of hyper-dynamic CSF in iNPH. Our systematic review revealed average stroke volumes in iNPH ranging from 43uL to over 200uL. Peak velocity values ranged from 5.9 cm/s to 12.8 cm/s.

Conclusion

Significant increases in stroke volume and peak velocity values in iNPH patients suggest a place for PC-MRI as supplementary evidence in the diagnostic work-up of iNPH. Although shunting reduces aqueductal stroke volume and peak velocity, the ability of pre-shunt values to reliably predict treatment response remains complicated. We suggest that it may be more appropriate to consider a range of values that reflect varying probabilities of shunt success. We recommend that future studies should prioritise standardising PC-MRI protocols, and before then PC-MRI findings should be considered supportive rather than determinative.
From single-objective to multi-objective reinforcement learning-based model transformation
Authors: Eisenberg Martin , Wimmer Manuel
Published: November 2024

Model-driven optimization allows to directly apply domain-specific modeling languages to define models which are subsequently optimized by applying a predefined set of model transformation rules. Objectives guide the optimization processes which can range from one single objective formulation resulting in one single solution to a set of objectives that necessitates the identification of a Pareto-optimal set of solutions. In recent years, a multitude of reinforcement learning approaches has been proposed that support both optimization cases and competitive results for various problem instances have been reported. However, their application to the field of model-driven optimization has not gained much attention yet, especially when compared to the extensive application of meta-heuristic search approaches such as genetic algorithms. Thus, there is a lack of knowledge about the applicability and performance of reinforcement learning for model-driven optimization. We therefore present in this paper a general framework for applying reinforcement learning to model-driven optimization problems. In particular, we show how a catalog of different reinforcement learning algorithms can be integrated with existing model-driven optimization approaches that use a transformation rule application encoding. We exemplify this integration by presenting a dedicated reinforcement learning extension for MOMoT. We build on this tool support and investigate several case studies for validating the applicability of reinforcement learning for model-driven optimization and compare the performance against a genetic algorithm. The results show clear advantages of using RL for single-objective problems, especially for cases where the transformation steps are highly dependent on each other. For multi-objective problems, the results are more diverse and case-specific, which further motivates the usage of model-driven optimization to utilize different approaches to find the best solutions.
Heterogeneous multi-robot system mission planning with cooperative replenishment through data-driven rendezvous point selection
Authors: Do Haggi , Jang Junwoo , Kim Jinwhan
Published: November 2024

With advances in autonomy technology, the use of multi-robot systems is becoming increasingly viable and efficient. In particular, heterogeneous systems are effective in complicated missions that require various capabilities. When the missions are prolonged, certain robots such as quadcopter-typed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) run out of energy and require replenishment. As some robots such as unmanned surface vessels (USVs) have large payload capacities for carrying supplies, the UAVs can receive the necessary resources from the USVs amid the missions. In this paper, we propose a mission planning framework that aims to minimize the total mission duration with consideration of the energy replenishment of robots and the heterogeneity of robots and tasks. The proposed framework consists of four components: task allocation, rendezvous point selection, task planning, and plan combination. For replenishment, the location of the rendezvous must be chosen, and we propose using a data-driven approach to predict the best rendezvous point. Then, the prediction result is used for computing candidate plans of each robot in a distributed fashion, and the best candidates are combined to compute the final plan. To validate the efficacy of the proposed method, simulated experiments of various problem configurations are performed and analyzed.
A new sensing paradigm for the vibroacoustic detection of pedicle screw loosening
Authors: Seibold Matthias , Sigrist Bastian , Götschi Tobias , Widmer Jonas , Hodel Sandro , Farshad Mazda , Navab Nassir , Fürnstahl Philipp , Laux Christoph J.
Published: November 2024

The current clinical gold standard to assess the condition and detect loosening of pedicle screw implants is radiation-emitting medical imaging. However, solely based on medical imaging, clinicians are not able to reliably identify loose implants in a substantial amount of cases. To complement medical imaging for pedicle screw loosening detection, we propose a new methodology and paradigm for the radiation-free, non-destructive, and easy-to-integrate loosening detection based on vibroacoustic sensing. For the detection of a loose implant, we excite the vertebra of interest with a sine sweep vibration at the spinous process and use a custom highly sensitive piezo vibration sensor attached directly at the screw head to capture the propagated vibration characteristics which are analyzed using a detection pipeline based on spectrogram features and a SE-ResNet-18. To validate the proposed approach, we propose a novel, biomechanically validated simulation technique for pedicle screw loosening, conduct experiments using four human cadaveric lumbar spine specimens, and evaluate our algorithm in a cross-validation experiment. The proposed method reaches a sensitivity of $$91.50 \pm 6.58 \%$$

91.50
±
6.58
%

and a specificity of $$91.10 \pm 2.27 \%$$

91.10
±
2.27
%

for pedicle screw loosening detection.

Graphical abstract
Effects of Pandemic Response Measures on Crime Counts in English and Welsh Local Authorities
Authors: Pourshir Sefidi Niloufar , Shoari Nejad Amin , Mooney Peter
Published: November 2024

The global response to the COVID-19 pandemic between January 2020 and late 2021 saw extraordinary measures such as lockdowns and other restrictions being placed on citizens’ movements in many of the world’s major cities. In many of these cities, lockdowns required citizens to stay at home; non-essential business premises were closed, and movement was severely restricted. In this paper, we investigate the effect of these lockdowns and other pandemic response measures on crime counts within the local authorities of England and Wales. Using openly accessible crime records from major police forces in the UK from 2015 to 2023, we discuss the impacts of lockdowns on the incidences of crime. We show that as time passed and citizens’ response to the imposed measures eased, most types of crime gradually returned to pre-pandemic norms whilst others remained below their pre-pandemic levels. Furthermore, our work shows that the effects of pandemic response measures were not uniform across local authorities. We also discuss how the findings of this study contribute to law enforcement initiatives.
Medical gaslighting as a mechanism for medical trauma: case studies and analysis
Authors: Shapiro Devora , Hayburn Anna
Published: November 2024

Being dismissed or disparaged by medical professionals can be shocking and demoralizing for patients, leading to unnecessary harms (e.g., avoidance of medical treatment; depression; shame). This difficulty is further compounded when patients are also the target of wide-ranging stigmatization due to the nature of the medical and behavioral diagnoses they carry, and/or the social identities attributed to them by medical providers. Incorporating both clinical psychology and medical ethics perspectives, two clinical cases are presented demonstrating the insidious nature of the harms incurred to patients from traumatic medical experiences like those described above. Both cases are shown to illustrate the role that a particular form of gaslighting– medical gaslighting– plays in creating the conditions that result in a form of medical trauma. The term “medical gaslighting” currently lacks a clear and stable definition in the larger literature; the authors develop and establish a definition here. The case of Alex is offered, illustrating a standard form of medical trauma recognized in the literature, and the significance of epistemic injustice in preparing the grounds for medical gaslighting. Next, the case of Kiara is considered, in order to demonstrate how medical gaslighting becomes the vehicle for a more subtle form of medical trauma, not currently captured in standard diagnostic criteria. The claims presented here are testable, and the authors suggest that further work expanding the conceptual reach of medical trauma, and incorporating the concept of medical gaslighting into standard practice, is warranted.
The impact of gratitude practice on well-being and mental health in post-COVID times among Portuguese adults
Authors: Skrzelinska Joanna , Ferreira Joaquim A. , Linharelhos Mariana , Aguiar Ester , Matos Marcela
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic influenced the physical and mental health of millions of people around the world. Now, that the COVID emergency is over, its repercussions remain and management plans on how to regain emotional stability are discussed worldwide. The study examined the role of the multidimensional gratitude practice in regaining mental health and facilitating post-traumatic growth in post-COVID times. The weekly gratitude tasks were: gratitude diary, expressing gratitude, finding gratitude in past or current life, and practicing grateful mind. 63 Portuguese adults completed the study, 30 in the experimental and 33 in the control group. Before random allocation to the groups (pre-intervention Time 1), participants completed questionnaires on gratitude (GQ-6), depression, anxiety, stress (DASS-21), social safeness and pleasure (SSPS), satisfaction with life (SWLS), positive and negative affect (I-PANAS-SF), compassion motivation and action (CMAS) and post-traumatic growth (PTGI). Participants from the experimental group, at post-intervention (T2), showed significantly higher scores in life satisfaction, positive affect, compassion for others and post-traumatic growth compared with baseline (T1) and the waitlist group. They also showed a significant decrease in depression, stress and negative affect levels. No significant difference in anxiety or self-compassion was observed in the within-group or between-group comparison, which might be partially explained by the focus of the tasks, concentrated on finding gratitude outside rather than in self, and the timing of the intervention, being just after worldwide pandemic evoking fear of the unknown future. In conclusion, gratitude practice decreases psychological disturbance and enhances psychological well-being, compassion for others and facilitates post-traumatic growth in post-COVID reality. Due to the findings’ preliminary nature more research is needed to confirm the data.
New trends in mycosynthesis of cellulose nanocrystals promoted by gamma irradiation of sugarcane bagasse
Authors: Abdelkader R. S. , Helal G. A. , Galal Y. G. M. , Soliman S. M. , Khalil R. R. , Elsayed N.
Published: November 2024

The biological synthesis of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) involves utilizing cellulose-degrading microorganisms or their hydrolytic enzymes as catalysts for the controlled degradation of cellulose, yielding CNCs. Chemical synthesis of CNCs involves acid hydrolysis conducted for 45 min at 45 °C using sulfuric acid (64%). Neurospora intermedia (Assiut University Mycological Center (AUMC) 14,359), Fusarium verticillioides (AUMC 14360), and Rhizopus oryzae (AUMC 14361) were employed in the preparation of CNCs. Before both chemical and biological treatments, sugarcane bagasse (SCB) was irradiated with doses of 100, 200, and 300 kGy, enhancing the yield of nanocellulose from the cellulosic feedstock. The resultant nanocellulose was initially assessed using UV–Vis spectroscopy, and the characterization was further refined through Dynamic Light Scattering analysis to delineate particle size distribution within the nanoscale and to evaluate stability. CNCs and chemically purified cellulose (CPC) displayed analogous Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy but were markedly different from SCB. X-ray Diffraction patterns revealed a notably higher crystallinity of cellulose in nanocellulose, with larger crystallite dimensions compared to CPC and SCB. Transmission Electron Microscope investigations elucidated the morphology of the synthesized nanoparticles. In summary, the selection of F. verticillioides for nanocellulose production represents a promising and sustainable approach that combines effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and cost-efficiency in the synthesis of this valuable nanomaterial.

Graphical abstract
Exploration of Gas-Dependent Self-Adaptive Reconstruction Behavior of Cu2O for Electrochemical CO2 Conversion to Multi-Carbon Products
Authors: Zhang Chaoran , Gu Yichuan , Jiang Qu , Sheng Ziyang , Feng Ruohan , Wang Sihong , Zhang Haoyue , Xu Qianqing , Yuan Zijian , Song Fang
Published: November 2024

Structural reconstruction of electrocatalysts plays a pivotal role in catalytic performances for CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), whereas the behavior is by far superficially understood. Here, we report that CO2 accessibility results in a universal self-adaptive structural reconstruction from Cu2O to Cu@CuxO composites, ending with feeding gas-dependent microstructures and catalytic performances. The CO2-rich atmosphere favors reconstruction for CO2RR, whereas the CO2-deficient one prefers that for hydrogen evolution reaction. With the assistance of spectroscopic analysis and theoretical calculations, we uncover a CO2-induced passivation behavior by identifying a reduction-resistant but catalytic active Cu(I)-rich amorphous layer stabilized by *CO intermediates. Additionally, we find extra CO production is indispensable for the robust production of C2H4. An inverse correlation between durability and FECO/FEC2H4 is disclosed, suggesting that the self-stabilization process involving the absorption of *CO intermediates on Cu(I) sites is essential for durable electrolysis. Guided by this insight, we design hollow Cu2O nanospheres for durable and selective CO2RR electrolysis in producing C2H4. Our work recognizes the previously overlooked passivation reconstruction and self-stabilizing behavior and highlights the critical role of the local atmosphere in modulating reconstruction and catalytic processes.
Wettbewerb und Wettbewerbsverzerrungen am Messestandort Deutschland
Authors: Haucap Justus , Fritz Daniel , Thorwarth Susanne
Published: November 2024

Die Messewirtschaft ist in Deutschland durch eine Konkurrenz privater und öffentlicher Messeveranstalter gekennzeichnet. Im Gegensatz zu den privaten Veranstaltern sind die öffentlichen Messeveranstalter vertikal integriert: Sie besitzen und betreiben einerseits die lokale Messeinfrastruktur, veranstalten aber auch selbst zahlreiche Messen. Aus dieser Asymmetrie können Wettbewerbsverzerrungen entstehen wie etwa eine Selbstbevorzugung. Die Corona-Pandemie hat diese Problematik nochmals verschärft. Durch eine Selbstregulierung, etwa in Form einer Selbstverpflichtung zu einem Code of Conduct, könnte sich die Messewirtschaft verpflichten, nicht zwischen Eigen- und Fremdmessen zu diskriminieren, um eine wettbewerbsschädliche Selbstbevorzugung zu vermeiden.
Evaluation of a novel large language model (LLM)-powered chatbot for oral boards scenarios
Authors: Silvestri Caitlin , Roshal Joshua , Shah Meghal , Widmann Warren D. , Townsend Courtney , Brian Riley , L’Huillier Joseph C. , Navarro Sergio M. , Lund Sarah , Sathe Tejas S.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

While previous studies have demonstrated that generative artificial intelligence (AI) can pass medical licensing exams, AI’s role as an examiner in complex, interactive assessments remains unknown. AI-powered chatbots could serve as educational tools to simulate oral examination dialogues. Here, we present initial validity evidence for an AI-powered chatbot designed for general surgery residents to prepare for the American Board of Surgery (ABS) Certifying Exam (CE).

Methods

We developed a chatbot using GPT-4 to simulate oral board scenarios. Scenarios were completed by general surgery residents from six different institutions. Two experienced surgeons evaluated the chatbot across five domains: inappropriate content, missing content, likelihood of harm, extent of harm, and hallucinations. We measured inter-rater reliability to determine evaluation consistency.

Results

Seventeen residents completed a total of 20 scenarios. Commonly tested topics included small bowel obstruction (30%), diverticulitis (20%), and breast disease (15%). Based on two independent reviewers, evaluation revealed 11–25% of chatbot simulations had no errors and an additional 11%–35% contained errors of minimal clinical significance. The chatbot limitations included incorrect management advice and critical omissions of information.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the potential of an AI-powered chatbot in enhancing surgical education through oral board simulations. Despite challenges in accuracy and safety, the chatbot offers a novel approach to medical education, underscoring the need for further refinement and standardized evaluation frameworks. Incorporating domain-specific knowledge and expert insights is crucial for improving the efficacy of AI tools in medical education.
PharmaLLM: A Medicine Prescriber Chatbot Exploiting Open-Source Large Language Models
Authors: Azam Ayesha , Naz Zubaira , Khan Muhammad Usman Ghani
Published: November 2024

The increasing adoption of large language models (LLMs) in healthcare presents both opportunities and challenges. While LLM-powered applications are being utilized for various medical tasks, concerns persist regarding their accuracy and reliability, particularly when not specifically trained on medical data. Using open-source models without proper fine-tuning for medical applications can lead to inaccurate or potentially harmful advice, underscoring the need for domain-specific adaptation. Therefore, this study addresses these issues by developing PharmaLLM, a fine-tuned version of the open-source Llama 2 model, designed to provide accurate medicine prescription information. PharmaLLM incorporates a multi-modal input/output mechanism, supporting both text and speech, to enhance accessibility. The fine-tuning process utilized LoRA (Low-Rank Adaptation) with a rank of 16 for parameter-efficient fine-tuning. The learning rate was maintained at 2e-4 for stable adjustments, and a batch size of 12 was chosen to balance computational efficiency and learning effectiveness. The system demonstrated strong performance metrics, achieving 87% accuracy, 92.16% F1 score, 94% sensitivity, 66% specificity, and 90% precision. A usability study involving 33 participants was conducted to evaluate the system using the Chatbot Usability Questionnaire, focusing on error handling, response generation, navigation, and personality. Results from the questionnaire indicated that participants found the system easy to navigate and the responses useful and relevant. PharmaLLM aims to facilitate improved patient-physician interactions, particularly in areas with limited healthcare resources and low literacy rates. This research contributes to the advancement of medical informatics by offering a reliable, accessible web-based tool that benefits both patients and healthcare providers.
The effect of foil proximity on shear-layer instability around oscillating foils
Authors: Gungor Ahmet , Verma Suyash , Khalid Muhammad Saif Ullah , Hemmati Arman
Published: November 2024

Three-dimensional vortex dynamics around two pitching foils arranged in side-by-side (parallel) configurations is numerically examined at a range of separation (gap) distances (

$0.5c \leqslant y^* \leqslant 1.5c$

). In-phase (

$\phi =0$

) and out-of-phase (

$\phi ={\rm \pi}$

) motions are considered for Strouhal numbers of

$0.3$

and

$0.5$

at a Reynolds number of

$8000$

. In this work, we show that the foil proximity effect, defined as the influence of one foil on the flow characteristics around the other, induces a spanwise instability in the braids of trailing-edge vortices (TEVs) during their roll-up. This is a newly identified instability that manifests itself in the form of secondary vortical structures with opposite circulation compared with the TEVs formed on the foils, which leads to the formation of double necking on the braids of the TEVs. We provide quantitative evidence linking the formation of these secondary structures to the braid instability. The first neck merges with the TEV, while the second neck detaches from the braid region and moves downstream independently. As the foil proximity effect intensifies (spacing between the foils decreases), secondary vortical structures, as well as the necks, become more prominent, leading to the emergence of three-dimensional wake features. Lastly, the influence of kinematics of the foils on three-dimensionality of the wake is investigated. At higher Strouhal numbers, broader regions of high strain are developed near the trailing edge, associated with the detachment of stronger structures from the braids of TEVs. The characterized instability demonstrates consistent properties for in-phase and out-of-phase motions, albeit with specific differences in dynamics of leading-edge vortices.
Friction drag reduction of Taylor–Couette flow over air-filled microgrooves
Authors: Liu Xiaochao , You Chenxi , Cao Yanlin , Xu Baorui , Yang Yantao , Li Hongyuan , Lv Pengyu , Sun Chao , Duan Huiling
Published: November 2024

Reducing drag under high turbulence is a critical but challenging issue that has engendered great concern. This study utilizes hydrophilic tips in superhydrophobic (SHP) grooves to enhance the stability of plastron, which results in a considerable drag reduction (

$DR$

) up to 62 %, at Reynolds number (

$Re$

) reaching

$2.79 \times 10^{4}$

. The effect of the spacing width

$w$

of the microgrooves on both

$DR$

and flow structures is investigated. Experimental results demonstrate that

$DR$

increases as either microgroove spacing

$w$

or

$Re$

increases. The velocity fields obtained using particle image velocimetry indicate that the air-filled SHP grooves induce a considerable wall slip. This slip significantly weakens the intensity of Taylor rolls, reduces local momentum transport, and consequently lowers drag. This phenomenon becomes more pronounced with increasing

$w$

. Furthermore, to quantify the multiscale relationship between global response and geometrical as well as driving parameters,

$DR\sim (w, \phi _s, Re)$

, a theoretical model is established based on angular momentum defect theory and magnitude estimate. It is demonstrated that a decrease in the surface solid fraction can reduce wall shear, and an increase in the groove width can weaken turbulence kinetic energy production, rendering enhanced slip and drag reduction. This research has implications for designing and optimizing turbulent-drag-reducing surfaces in various engineering applications, such as transportation and marine engineering.
Rough surfaces in underexplored surface morphology space and their implications on roughness modelling
Authors: Nair Shyam S. , Wadhai Vishal A. , Kunz Robert F. , Yang Xiang I.A.
Published: November 2024

We report direct numerical simulations results of the rough-wall channel, focusing on roughness with high

$k_{rms}/k_a$

statistics but small to negative

$Sk$

statistics, and we study the implications of this new dataset on rough-wall modelling. Here,

$k_{rms}$

is the root mean square,

$k_a$

is the first-order moment of roughness height, and

$Sk$

is the skewness. The effects of packing density, skewness and arrangement of roughness elements on mean streamwise velocity, equivalent roughness height (

$z_0$

) and Reynolds and dispersive stresses have been studied. We demonstrate that two-point correlation lengths of roughness height statistics play an important role in characterizing rough surfaces with identical moments of roughness height but different arrangements of roughness elements. Analysis of the present as well as historical data suggests that the task of rough-wall modelling is to identify geometric parameters that distinguish the rough surfaces within the calibration dataset. We demonstrate a novel feature selection procedure to determine these parameters. Further, since there is no finite set of roughness statistics that distinguish between all rough surfaces, we argue that obtaining a universal rough-wall model for making equivalent sand-grain roughness (

$k_s$

) predictions would be challenging, and that each rough-wall model would have its applicable range. This motivates the development of group-based rough-wall models. The applicability of multi-variate polynomial regression and feedforward neural networks for building such group-based rough-wall models using the selected features has been shown.