bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound Biometry
Authors: Shammas Maya C. , John Shammas H.
Published: July 2024

A-scan echography is used to measure the eye’s axial length. During A-scan biometry, the ultrasound beam must stay perpendicular to the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces, the anterior and posterior lens surfaces, and the retinal surface, forming an incidence angle of 90° with each of these surfaces. The immersion technique is preferred over the contact technique. Axial length measurements obtained with the contact technique were shorter than those obtained with the immersion technique by an average of 0.24 mm, mainly due to corneal compression. The A-scan patterns of the phakic, aphakic, and pseudophakic eye are described, along other challenging eyes such as the eyes with silicone-filled vitreous.
Algebraic ER=EPR and complexity transfer
Authors: Engelhardt Netta , Liu Hong
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We propose an algebraic definition of ER=EPR in the GN → 0 limit, which associates bulk spacetime connectivity/disconnectivity to the operator algebraic structure of a quantum gravity system. The new formulation not only includes information on the amount of entanglement, but also more importantly the structure of entanglement. We give an independent definition of a quantum wormhole as part of the proposal. This algebraic version of ER=EPR sheds light on a recent puzzle regarding spacetime disconnectivity in holographic systems with $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(1/GN) entanglement. We discuss the emergence of quantum connectivity in the context of black hole evaporation and further argue that at the Page time, the black hole-radiation system undergoes a transition involving the transfer of an emergent type III1 subalgebra of high complexity operators from the black hole to radiation. We argue this is a general phenomenon that occurs whenever there is an exchange of dominance between two competing quantum extremal surfaces.
Colorimetric enzymatic rapid test for the determination of atropine in baby food using a smartphone
Authors: Domínguez M. , Moraru D. , Lasso S. , Sanz-Vicente I. , de Marcos S. , Galbán J.
Published: July 2024

A method for the enzymatic determination of atropine has been developed, which is based on a sequence of reactions involving (1) the hydrolysis of atropine to give tropine; (2) the enzymatic oxidation of tropine with NAD (catalysed by tropinone reductase); and (3) an indicator reaction, in which the NADH previously formed reduces the dye iodonitrotetrazolium chloride (INT) to a reddish species, the reaction catalysed by diaphorase. The method was first developed in solution (linear response range from 2.4 × 10−6 M to 1.0 × 10−4 M). It was then implemented in cellulose platforms to develop a rapid test where the determination is made by measuring the RGB coordinates of the platforms using a smartphone-based device. The device is based on the integrating sphere concept and contains a light source to avoid external illumination effects. The smartphone is controlled by an app that allows a calibration line to be generated and the atropine concentration to be quantified; moreover, since the app normalizes the CCD response of the smartphone, the results and calibrations obtained with different smartphones are similar and can be shared. Using the G coordinate, the results were shown to have a linear response with the concentration of atropine ranging from 1.2 × 10−5 M to 3.0 × 10−4 M with an RSD of 1.4% (n = 5). The method has been applied to the determination of atropine in baby food and buckwheat samples with good results.

Graphical Abstract
Perceptual decoupling in the sustained attention to response task is unlikely
Authors: Bedi Aman , Russell Paul N. , Helton William S.
Published: July 2024

Researchers dispute the cause of errors in high Go, low No Go target detection tasks, like the Sustained Attention to Response Task (SART). Some researchers propose errors in the SART are due to perceptual decoupling, where a participant is unaware of stimulus identity. This lack of external awareness causes an erroneous response. Other researchers suggest the majority of the errors in the SART are instead due to response leniency, not perceptual decoupling. Response delays may enable a participant who is initially unaware of stimulus identity, perceptually decoupled, to become aware of stimulus identity, or perceptually recoupled. If, however, the stimulus presentation time is shortened to the minimum necessary for stimulus recognition and the stimulus is disrupted with a structured mask, then there should be no time to enable perception to recouple even with a response delay. From the perceptual decoupling perspective, there should be no impact of a response delay on performance in this case. Alternatively if response bias is critical, then even in this case a response delay may impact performance. In this study, we shortened stimulus presentation time and added a structured mask. We examined whether a response delay impacted performance in the SART and tasks where the SART’s response format was reversed. We expected a response delay would only impact signal detection theory bias, c, in the SART, where response leniency is an issue. In the reverse formatted SART, since bias was not expected to be lenient, we expected no impact or minimal impact of a response delay on response bias. These predictions were verified. Response bias is more critical in understanding SART performance, than perceptual decoupling, which is rare if it occurs at all in the SART.
Recovery of muscular tissue and functional results of patients treated with a gluteus maximus flap transfer due to chronic abductor deficiency after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Ruckenstuhl Paul , Wassilew Georgi , Theobald Katrin , Hipfl Christian , Pumberger Matthias , Perka Carsten , Hardt Sebastian
Published: July 2024

Background

To evaluate the function of the abductor mechanism after a gluteus maximus flap transfer due to a degeneration of the muscles after hip arthroplasty, we analyzed the post-operative functional outcome as well as radiographic effects in muscle tissue.

Methods

This present study included six consecutive patients operatively treated with a gluteus maximus flap due to chronic gluteal deficiency after total hip arthroplasty. All patients presented a preoperative severe limp, hip abductor deficiency and a history of conservative treatment without the relief of symptoms. MRI scans were performed pre- and postoperatively to evaluate the muscle volume and grade of degeneration of the abductor mechanism. For clinical evaluation, the Harris hip score (HHS) was applied pre- and postoperatively. Moreover, the intensity of pain, the Trendelenburg sign, the internal rotation lag sign and the abductor muscle force were measured before and after surgery.

Results

Overall, the evaluation of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed no significant changes in total muscle volume during the follow-up period. Separate measurements presented a significant growth of muscle volume for the gluteus minimus and tensor fascia lata compared to preoperative imaging during the follow-up period. The amount of fat volume decreased for all the measured muscles with statistical significance for the gluteus minimus, the gluteus medius and the tensor fascia lata. No further muscle degeneration and no flap necrosis were measured. The postoperative HHS results were not statistically significant compared to the preoperative results.

Conclusions

Besides fair clinical results, the radiological measurements indicate that the flap transfer enables functional muscular tissue recovery and prevents further degeneration. Given these conditions, the gluteus maximus muscle flap transfer represents a viable treatment option for patients with chronic gluteal deficiency in selected patients.
Histopathological growth pattern and vessel co-option in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Li Zihan , Nguyen Canh Hiep , Takahashi Kenta , Le Thanh Dong , Nguyen Thi Quynh , Yang Rui , Yoshimura Kaori , Sato Yasunori , Nguyen Thi Khuyen , Nakata Hiroki , Ikeda Hiroko , Kozaka Kazuto , Kobayashi Satoshi , Yagi Shintaro , Harada Kenichi
Published: July 2024

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) exhibits different blood imaging features and prognosis depending on histology. To clarity histopathological growth patterns (HGPs) and vascularization processes of iCCA, we collected 145 surgical specimens and histologically classified them into large bile duct (LBD) (20 cases), small bile duct (SBD) (54), cholangiolocarcinoma (CLC) (35), combined SBD–CLC (cSBD–CLC) (26), and ductal plate malformation (DPM) (10) (sub)types. According to the invasive pattern at the interface between tumor and adjacent background liver, HGPs were classified into desmoplastic, pushing, and replacing HGPs. Desmoplastic HGP predominated in LBD type (55.5%), while replacing HGP was common in CLC (82.9%) and cSBD–CLC (84.6%) subtypes. Desmoplastic HGP reflected angiogenesis, while replacing HGP showed vessel co-option in addition to angiogenesis. By evaluating microvessel density (MVD) using vascular markers, ELTD1 identified vessel co-option and angiogenesis, and ELTD1-positive MVD at invasive margin in replacing HGP was significantly higher than those in desmoplastic and pushing HGPs. REDD1, an angiogenesis-related marker, demonstrated preferably higher MVD in the tumor center than in other areas. iCCA (sub)types and HGPs were closely related to vessel co-option and immune-related factors (lymphatic vessels, lymphocytes, and neutrophils). In conclusion, HGPs and vascular mechanisms characterize iCCA (sub)types and vessel co-option linked to the immune microenvironment.
Understanding the family burden and caregiver role in stroke rehabilitation: insights from a retrospective study
Authors: Maggio Maria Grazia , Corallo Francesco , De Francesco Morena , De Cola Maria Cristina , De Luca Rosaria , Manuli Alfredo , Quartarone Angelo , Rizzo Amelia , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Stroke negatively impacts both patients and their families, who must face multiple changes after the onset of the disease. Family caregivers must face new problems with a possible sense of inadequacy, stress and burden. Our retrospective study aimed to assess the burden of caregivers during the rehabilitation process of patients with Stroke.

Material and method

This study included patients with a diagnosis of stroke and their caregiver, who attended the Day Hospital of the IRCCS Neurolesi Center "Bonino-Pulejo", Messina, Italy, between January 2018 and October 2019, using electronic recovery system data. The final sample consisted of 30 patients and their caregivers.

Results

Significant improvements were observed in patients' cognitive and mood scores, reflecting the efficacy of rehabilitation therapies. Additionally, a correlation emerged between patients' reported anxiety levels and caregivers' reported depression levels, highlighting a dynamic interaction between the emotional states of the two groups.

Conclusion

The study highlights the intricate interplay between caregiver characteristics, patient outcomes, and family dynamics in the context of caregiving. Targeted interventions aimed at improving family resilience and coping mechanisms are crucial to optimizing the well-being of both caregivers and patients.
Genomic insights into Leminorella grimontii and its chromosomal class A GRI β-lactamase
Authors: Aldeia Claudia , Campos-Madueno Edgar I. , Endimiani Andrea
Published: July 2024

Leminorella grimontii strain LG-KP-E1-2-T0 was isolated from Zophobas morio larvae. It showed a susceptibility phenotype compatible with the expression of an inducible extended-spectrum β-lactamase. The presence of a chromosomal bla gene encoding for the class A GRI-1 β-lactamase was revealed by whole-genome sequencing. GRI-1 shared the highest amino acid identity with RIC-1 and OXY-type β-lactamases (76–80%). Analysis of six further publicly-available L. grimontii draft genomes deposited in NCBI revealed that blaGRI−1 was always present. Core-genome analysis indicated that LG-KP-E1-2-T0 was unique from other strains. We provided the first complete genome of L. grimontii and new insights on its chromosomal β-lactamases.
The effect of growth mindset on motivation and strategy use in Hong Kong students’ integrated writing performance
Authors: Zhang Jiahuan , Liu Yaping , Cheong Choo Mui
Published: July 2024

Growth mindset (GM) theory conceptualizes that one’s ability can be improved with effort (Dweck, Self-theories: Their role in motivation, personality, and development, Taylor & Francis, 1999) from a social-cognitive perspective. Self-determination theory (SDT) emphasizes the motivational source of learning, i.e. autonomous motivation (AM) and controlled motivation (CM). The two motivational theories can both lead to strategy use (SU) in writing contexts. To provide a more comprehensive understanding of motivation, this study investigated GM, AM, CM and SU through an integrated writing task. Participants were 465 secondary-four students in Hong Kong. Structural equation modelling showed that GM indirectly promoted writing performance through the mediation of AM and SU. Besides, neither motivations exerted direct effect on writing performance, whereas both did so via the mediation of SU. The findings unveiled the importance of GM in Hong Kong secondary school students’ writing performance since it contributed to AM and SU. Regarding pedagogical implications, we encourage the proliferation of GM in every-day classroom.
Histological evaluation of different concentrations of hyaluronic-acid-added zinc oxide eugenol on rat molar pulp
Authors: Bektas Irmak , Hazar Yoruc Afife Binnaz , Cinel Leyla , Ekinci Meltem , Horoz Seher Eda , Turet Deniz Mukaddes , Mentes Ali
Published: July 2024

Hyaluronic acid (HA), known for diverse properties, was investigated for its potential in dental pulp therapy. This study investigated the potential of HA in dental pulp therapy by examining the physical properties and effects of zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) pulpotomy materials containing varying HA concentrations on rat molar teeth. In vitro tests assessed compressive strength and hardness of ZOE materials blended with HA (0.5%, 1%, 3%) and HA gels (0.54%, 0.8%). 120 samples, encompassing the control group, underwent compressive strength testing, while 60 samples were designated for hardness assessment. In vivo experiments on rat molars studied histological effects of HA-containing ZOE on dental pulp over 1 week and 1 month. Gels with HA concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 0.54% were used in pulpotomy on 22 rats. Each rat underwent the procedure on four teeth, with one tooth serving as a control, totaling 88 teeth subjected to the intervention. In the analyses, SPSS 22.0 was used and the significance level was set at P = 0.05. Findings showed that HA at 0.5% maintained compressive strength, but higher concentrations decreased mechanical properties significantly (P = 0.001). Histological assessments indicated better outcomes with lower HA concentrations in terms of odontoblast layer continuity (P = 0.005 at 1 month) and pulp vitality (P = 0.001 at 1 week and P = 0.018 at 1 month). The study suggests HA holds promise for pulpotomy and regenerative endodontic treatments, but further research is needed to understand long-term clinical implications.
The potential of agroforestry to buffer climate change impacts on suitability of coffee and banana in Uganda
Authors: Abigaba David , Chemura Abel , Gornott Christoph , Schauberger Bernhard
Published: July 2024

Coffee, an important global commodity, is threatened by climate change. Agroforestry has been considered as one option to maintain or enhance coffee production. In this study, we use a machine learning ensemble consisting of MaxEnt, Random Forest and Boosted Regression Trees to assess climate change impacts on the suitability to grow Arabica coffee, Robusta coffee and bananas in Uganda by 2050. Based on this, the buffering potential of Cordia africana and Ficus natalensis, the two commonly used shading trees in agroforestry systems is assessed. Our robust models (AUC of 0.7–0.9) indicate temperature-related variables as relevant for Arabica coffee suitability, while precipitation-related variables determine Robusta coffee and banana suitability. Under current climatic conditions, only a quarter of the total land area is suitable for growing Arabica coffee, while over three-quarters are suitable for Robusta coffee and bananas. Our results suggest that climate change will reduce the area suitable to grow Arabica coffee, Robusta coffee and bananas by 20%, 9% and 3.5%, respectively, under SSP3-RCP7.0 by 2050. A shift in areas suitable for Arabica coffee to highlands might occur, leading to potential encroachment on protected areas. In our model, implementing agroforestry with up to 50% shading could partially offset suitable area losses for Robusta coffee—but not for Arabica coffee. The potential to produce valuable Arabica coffee thus decreases under climate change and cannot be averted by agroforestry. We conclude that the implementation and design of agroforestry must be based on species, elevation, and regional climate projections to avoid maladaptation.
A non-anticipative learning-optimization framework for solving multi-stage stochastic programs
Authors: Yilmaz Dogacan , Büyüktahtakın İ. Esra
Published: July 2024

We present a non-anticipative learning- and scenario-based prediction-optimization (ScenPredOpt) framework that combines deep learning, heuristics, and mathematical solvers for solving combinatorial problems under uncertainty. Specifically, we transform neural machine translation frameworks to predict the optimal solutions of scenario-based multi-stage stochastic programs. The learning models are trained efficiently using the input and solution data of the multi-stage single-scenario deterministic problems. Then our ScenPredOpt framework creates a mapping from the inputs used in training into an output of predictions that are close to optimal solutions. We present a Non-anticipative Encoder-Decoder with Attention (NEDA) approach, which ensures the non-anticipativity property of multi-stage stochastic programs and, thus, time consistency by calibrating the learned information based on the problem’s scenario tree and adjusting the hidden states of the neural network. In our ScenPredOpt framework, the percent predicted variables used for the solution are iteratively reduced through a relaxation of the problem to eliminate infeasibility. Then, a linear relaxation-based heuristic is performed to further reduce the solution time. Finally, a mathematical solver is used to generate the complete solution. We present the results on two NP-Hard sequential optimization problems under uncertainty: stochastic multi-item capacitated lot-sizing and stochastic multistage multidimensional knapsack. The results show that the solution time can be reduced by a factor of 599 with an optimality gap of only 0.08%. We compare the results of the ScenPredOpt framework with cutting-edge exact and heuristic solution algorithms for the problems studied and find that our framework is more effective. Additionally, the computational results demonstrate that ScenPredOpt can solve instances with a larger number of items and scenarios than the trained ones. Our non-anticipative learning-optimization approach can be beneficial for stochastic programming problems involving binary variables that are solved repeatedly with various types of dimensions and similar decisions at each period.
Advanced computational model of rod ERG kinetics
Authors: Tyler Christopher W.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The electroretinogram (ERG) is the summed response from all levels of the retinal processing of light, and exhibits several profound nonlinearities in the underlying processing pathways. Accurate computational models of the ERG are important, both for understanding the multifold processes of light transduction to ecologically useful signals by the retina, and for their diagnostic capabilities for the identification and characterization of retinal disease mechanisms. There are, however, very few computational models of the ERG waveform, and none that account for the full extent of its features over time.

Methods

This study takes the neuroanalytic approach to modeling the ERG waveform, defined as a computational model based on the main features of the transmitter kinetics of the retinal neurons.

Results

The present neuroanalytic model of the human rod ERG is elaborated from the same general principles as that of Hood and Birch (Vis Neurosci 8(2):107–126, 1992), but incorporates the more recent understanding of the early nonlinear stages of ERG generation by Robson and Frishman (Prog Retinal Eye Res 39:1–22, 2014). As a result, it provides a substantially better match than previous models of rod responses in six different waveform features of the ERG flash intensity series on which the Hood and Birch model was based.

Conclusion

The neuroanalytic approach extends previous models of the component waves of the ERG, and can be structured to provide an accurate characterization of the full timecourse of the ERG waveform. The approach thus holds promise for advancing the theoretical understanding of the retinal kinetics of the light response.
Monensin Suppresses Multiple Features of House Dust Mite-Induced Experimental Asthma in Mice
Authors: Allam Venkata Sita Rama Raju , Akula Srinivas , Waern Ida , Taha Sowsan , Wernersson Sara , Pejler Gunnar
Published: July 2024

Despite intense efforts to develop efficient therapeutic regimes for asthma, there is a large demand for novel treatment strategies in this disease. Here we evaluated the impact of monensin, a drug with potent anti-mast cell effects, in a mouse model of asthma. Allergic airway inflammation was induced by sensitization of mice with house dust mite (HDM) antigen, and effects of monensin on airway hyperreactivity and inflammatory parameters were studied. Following intraperitoneal administration, monensin did not suppress airway hyperreactivity but was shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, as manifested by reduced eosinophil- and lymphocyte infiltration into the airway lumen, and by suppressed inflammation of the lung tissue. After intranasal instillation, monensin exhibited similar anti-inflammatory effects as seen after intraperitoneal administration. Moreover, intranasally administered monensin was demonstrated to suppress goblet cell hyperplasia, and to cause a reduction in the expression of genes coding for key inflammatory markers. Further, monensin blocked mast cell degranulation in the airways of allergen-sensitized mice. Together, this study reveals that monensin has the capacity to suppress key pathological events associated with allergic airway inflammation.
Universal Refugee Social Protection Guidelines: A Discussion into the Challenges to Their Successful Adoption
Authors: Masuku Sikanyiso
Published: July 2024

This paper discusses some of the impediments to the realization of refugee-specific conventions and the international bill of human rights content, i.e., the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the UDHR. The discrepancy highlights a broader failure in the diffusion of the global refugee regime and underscores the disparity between the intentions of global policy and its real-world impact. Challenges to global social policy diffusion (and the resultant  implementation gaps in Africa) are examined through the use of secondary data on refugees in South Africa and the region. Also examined is the content of human rights conventions and their adoption. The challenges noted include (i) compulsory forms of power within the global governance system and constraints on the global refugee regime; (ii) protracted social conflict situations, funding gaps, geopolitical reordering and an ensuing lack of cohesion amongst stakeholders in the transference of global social policy and (iii) limitations in the content of refugee rights and a poor alignment of the said content at the national and local contexts.
Short-term POI recommendation with personalized time-weighted latent ranking
Authors: Zou Yufeng , Zhao Kaiqi
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we formulate a novel Point-of-interest (POI) recommendation task to recommend a set of new POIs for visit in a short period following recent check-ins, named short-term POI recommendation. It differs from previously studied tasks and poses new challenges, such as modeling high-order POI transitions in a short period. We present PTWLR, a personalized time-weighted latent ranking model that jointly learns short-term POI transitions and user preferences with our proposed temporal weighting scheme to capture the temporal context of transitions. We extend our model to accommodate the transition dependencies on multiple recent check-ins. In experiments on real-world datasets, our model consistently outperforms seven widely used methods by significant margins in various contexts, demonstrating its effectiveness on our task. Further analysis shows that all proposed components contribute to performance improvement.
Techné of Rock Engravings—the Timna Case Study
Authors: Dubinsky Lena , Grosman Leore
Published: July 2024

Traditionally, rock engravings were studied through their visual characteristics. They have been analyzed with comparative and interpretative methodologies of iconography and iconology. However, there has been a recent shift towards identifying production processes, allowing reconstruction of operational characteristics through various methods. Nevertheless, the studies of the technological aspects typically focus on the operational and the mechanical, often omitting the visuality of the outcome. In the current paper, we are using ArchCUT3-D software for computational analysis of 3-D data acquired from various rock engravings located in Timna Park, southern Israel. We show how micro-morphological evidence, extracted from the engraved lines, can decode technical trends and variabilities in a technique’s particular implementation. Then, we conduct a focused examination of one group of engraved figures in order to establish a link between execution techniques and visual considerations. Based on our results and the following discussion, we suggest the term Techné to indicate the choice of technique that goes beyond the instrumental or purely operative perspectives. We highlight the intentional choice, which designs the visual rhetoric of the engraved marks and suggests cultural concepts that contrived the procedural processes.
In vitro and in vivo dissolution of biocompatible S59 glass scaffolds
Authors: Aalto-Setälä Laura , Uppstu Peter , Björkenheim Robert , Strömberg Gustav , Lindfors Nina C. , Pajarinen Jukka , Hupa Leena
Published: July 2024

Fabrication of porous tissue-engineering scaffolds from bioactive glasses (BAG) is complicated by the tendency of BAG compositions to crystallize in thermal treatments during scaffold manufacture. Here, experimental biocompatible glass S59 (SiO2 59.7 wt%, Na2O 25.5 wt%, CaO 11.0 wt%, P2O5 2.5 wt%, B2O3 1.3 wt%), known to be resistant to crystallization, was used in sintering of glass granules (300–500 µm) into porous scaffolds. The dissolution behavior of the scaffolds was then studied in vivo in rabbit femurs and under continuous flow conditions in vitro (14 days in vitro/56 days in vivo). The scaffolds were osteoconductive in vivo, as bone could grow into the scaffold structure. Still, the scaffolds could not induce sufficiently rapid bone ingrowth to replace the strength lost due to dissolution. The scaffolds lost their structure and strength as the scaffold necks dissolved. In vitro, S59 dissolved congruently throughout the 14-day experiments, resulting in only a slight reaction layer formation. Manufacturing BAG scaffolds from S59 that retain their amorphous structure was thus possible. The relatively rapid and stable dissolution of the scaffold implies that the glass S59 may have the potential to be used in composite implants providing initial strength and stable, predictable release of ions over longer exposure times.

Graphical Abstract
Sorption behavior of selected fission products on spent alum sludge
Authors: Metwally Sayed S. , Borai Emad H. , Hamed Mostafa M. , Hassan Reham S.
Published: July 2024

The spent alum sludge was employed for the removal of specific fission products including 137Cs, 85Sr, 152+154Eu, 99Mo, and 99Tc radionuclides from radioactive waste. The physicochemical features of spent alum sludge were investigated. The results illustrated that the uptake percentages were 94.2, 90.5, 87.6, 87.1, and 76.6%, correspondingly, for 99Mo, 152+154Eu, 99Tc, 85Sr, and 137Cs. The kinetic studies illustrated that the adsorption process obeyed Langmuir kinetics which is a combination of first-order and second-order expressions. The findings demonstrated that the spent alum sludge can be applied successfully as a low-cost and effective adsorbent for the treatment of radioactive waste.
Rule learning by modularity
Authors: Nössig Albert , Hell Tobias , Moser Georg
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we present a modular methodology that combines state-of-the-art methods in (stochastic) machine learning with well-established methods in inductive logic programming (ILP) and rule induction to provide efficient and scalable algorithms for the classification of vast data sets. By construction, these classifications are based on the synthesis of simple rules, thus providing direct explanations of the obtained classifications. Apart from evaluating our approach on the common large scale data sets MNIST, Fashion-MNIST and IMDB, we present novel results on explainable classifications of dental bills. The latter case study stems from an industrial collaboration with Allianz Private Krankenversicherung which is an insurance company offering diverse services in Germany.
CFD simulation of a Rushton turbine stirred-tank using open-source software with critical evaluation of MRF-based rotation modeling
Authors: Reid Alfred , Rossi Riccardo , Cottini Ciro , Benassi Andrea
Published: July 2024

A critical evaluation of the impact of the Multiple Reference Frame (MRF) technique on steady RANS simulations of a Rushton turbine stirred-tank is presented. The analysis, based on the open-source software OpenFOAM, is focused on the choice of the diameter and thickness of the MRF region and on their effect on the predicted velocity field and mixing times in the tank. Five diameters of the MRF region are compared for the same operating conditions of the turbine, showing limited differences in velocity profiles, which are found in general good agreement with available experimental data. Significant differences are nonetheless found in the predicted levels of turbulence intensity within the tank, with a considerable amount of artificially generated turbulence at the boundary of the MRF region for the largest diameters. The impact of the different predictions of the turbulent field on the modeling of the mixing process in the tank is evaluated by simulating the release of a passive scalar, using the frozen-flow field hypothesis. The results show changes in mixing times up to a factor of three when comparing MRF regions of different sizes. Thus, the present investigation highlights the importance of assessing the effect of the MRF zone size on numerical results as a standard practice in RANS based simulations of stirred-tanks.
Ephemeris accuracy improvement for moons of gas giants: a deep learning based method
Authors: Guo Xiaotao , Jiang Yu , Liu Yongjie
Published: July 2024

Ephemerides accuracy of gas giant planetary system is of paramount importance in astronomical research, planetary exploration missions, and space navigation. Traditional mathematical methods face challenges when processing with data of different observation precisions, which may lead to extra noise and reduce the ephemeris accuracy. This paper proposes an Denoising Autoencoder based Method for Ephemeris Improvement (DAMEI) to improve the accuracy of ephemerides for moons in gas giant planetary system. Utilizing multiple sources of data efficiently, the DAMEI method can mitigate the impact of noise and uncertainty introduced by observational data with different precisions. Based on the symmetrical structure, the DAMEI method learns to encode essential motion features of gas giant planetary system into a latent space and captures the intricate patterns in planetary motion from observational data, subsequently decodes it to improve the ephemeris accuracy. The experimental results show that, for Jupiter’s major satellites (Galilean moons), the DAMEI method achieves more accurate ephemeris of up to 91.65% compared with current mathematical method. The proposed method is also assessed with satellites of Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. It is shown that the DAMEI method also presents a better performance of up to 95.37%. The promising performance of DAMEI method can reduce the uncertainty introduced by low-accuracy data and improve ephemeris accuracy making the utmost of observational data with different precisions.
Radiomics and visual analysis for predicting success of transplantation of heterotopic glioblastoma in mice with MRI
Authors: Wagner Sabine , Ewald Christian , Freitag Diana , Herrmann Karl-Heinz , Koch Arend , Bauer Johannes , Vogl Thomas J. , Kemmling André , Gufler Hubert
Published: July 2024

Background

Quantifying tumor growth and treatment response noninvasively poses a challenge to all experimental tumor models. The aim of our study was, to assess the value of quantitative and visual examination and radiomic feature analysis of high-resolution MR images of heterotopic glioblastoma xenografts in mice to determine tumor cell proliferation (TCP).

Methods

Human glioblastoma cells were injected subcutaneously into both flanks of immunodeficient mice and followed up on a 3 T MR scanner. Volumes and signal intensities were calculated. Visual assessment of the internal tumor structure was based on a scoring system. Radiomic feature analysis was performed using MaZda software. The results were correlated with histopathology and immunochemistry.

Results

21 tumors in 14 animals were analyzed. The volumes of xenografts with high TCP (H-TCP) increased, whereas those with low TCP (L-TCP) or no TCP (N-TCP) continued to decrease over time (p < 0.05). A low intensity rim (rim sign) on unenhanced T1-weighted images provided the highest diagnostic accuracy at visual analysis for assessing H-TCP (p < 0.05). Applying radiomic feature analysis, wavelet transform parameters were best for distinguishing between H-TCP and L-TCP / N-TCP (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Visual and radiomic feature analysis of the internal structure of heterotopically implanted glioblastomas provide reproducible and quantifiable results to predict the success of transplantation.
Artificial intelligence innovations in neurosurgical oncology: a narrative review
Authors: Baker Clayton R. , Pease Matthew , Sexton Daniel P. , Abumoussa Andrew , Chambless Lola B.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become increasingly integrated clinically within neurosurgical oncology. This report reviews the cutting-edge technologies impacting tumor treatment and outcomes.

Methods

A rigorous literature search was performed with the aid of a research librarian to identify key articles referencing AI and related topics (machine learning (ML), computer vision (CV), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), etc.) for neurosurgical care of brain or spinal tumors.

Results

Treatment of central nervous system (CNS) tumors is being improved through advances across AI—such as AL, CV, and AR/VR. AI aided diagnostic and prognostication tools can influence pre-operative patient experience, while automated tumor segmentation and total resection predictions aid surgical planning. Novel intra-operative tools can rapidly provide histopathologic tumor classification to streamline treatment strategies. Post-operative video analysis, paired with rich surgical simulations, can enhance training feedback and regimens.

Conclusion

While limited generalizability, bias, and patient data security are current concerns, the advent of federated learning, along with growing data consortiums, provides an avenue for increasingly safe, powerful, and effective AI platforms in the future.
Envisioning a new model of network governance for global education
Authors: Dovigo Fabio
Published: July 2024

The 2021 UNESCO report Reimagining Our Futures Together presented a compelling case for establishing a new social contract on education that addresses the persistent exclusion of vulnerable individuals and ensures that knowledge and learning contribute to a more sustainable future. Research literature highlights a global trend towards replacing “hard” with “soft” governance in education, whereby legally binding procedures are replaced by advice and persuasion. The report analyzed how this trend is amplified by the current spread of datafication and digitalization in the field of education, as well as by the increasing role of non-state actors, as exemplified by the early childhood care and education (ECCE) sector. In response to this analysis, this article proposes that the risk of developing a commercial model of soft governance can be moderated by creating an innovative, networked approach to educational governance, led by UNESCO as a global convenor.
Measurement properties of utility-based health-related quality of life measures in cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention programs: a systematic review
Authors: Bulamu Norma B. , Gebremichael Lemlem G. , Hines Sonia , Mpundu-Kaambwa Christine , Pearson Vincent , Dafny Hila A. , Pinero de Plaza Maria Alejandra , Beleigoli Alline , Kaambwa Billingsley , Hendriks Jeroen M. , Clark Robyn A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To identify utility-based patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention programs (CR) and appraise existing evidence on their measurement properties. Secondly, to link their items to the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health (ICF) and the International Consortium of Health Outcome Measures (ICHOM) domains for cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

Eight databases were searched. The review followed the COSMIN and JBI guidelines for measurement properties systematic reviews and PRISMA 2020 reporting guidelines. Non-experimental and observational empirical studies of patients ≥ 18 years of age with CVD undergoing CR and assessed quality of life (QoL) or HRQoL using utility-based PROMs or one accompanied by health state utilities were included.

Results

Nine PROMs were identified with evidence on measurement properties for three measures: the German translations of SF-12, EQ-5D-5L, and MacNew heart disease HRQoL questionnaire. There was moderate quality evidence for responsiveness and hypothesis testing of the SF-12 and EQ-5D-5L, and high-quality evidence for responsiveness and hypothesis testing for the MacNew.

All items of SF-12 and EQ-5D were linked to ICF categories, but four items of the MacNew were not classified or defined. All the PROM domains were mapped onto similar constructs from the ICHOM global sets.

Conclusion

Three utility-based PROMs validated in CR were identified: the German versions of the EQ-5D and SF-12 and the MacNew questionnaire. These PROMs are linked to a breadth of ICF categories and all ICHOM global sets. Additional validation studies of PROMs in CR are required.
Illness presentation and quality of life in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and post COVID-19 condition: a pilot Australian cross-sectional study
Authors: Weigel Breanna , Eaton-Fitch Natalie , Thapaliya Kiran , Marshall-Gradisnik Sonya
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Post COVID-19 Condition (PCC), being persistent COVID-19 symptoms, is reminiscent of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)—a chronic multi-systemic illness characterised by neurocognitive, autonomic, endocrinological and immunological disturbances. This novel cross-sectional investigation aims to: (1) compare symptoms among people with ME/CFS (pwME/CFS) and people with PCC (pwPCC) to inform developing PCC diagnostic criteria; and (2) compare health outcomes between patients and people without acute or chronic illness (controls) to highlight the illness burdens of ME/CFS and PCC.

Methods

Sociodemographic and health outcome data were collected from n = 61 pwME/CFS, n = 31 pwPCC and n = 54 controls via validated, self-administered questionnaires, including the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2) and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule version 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0). PwME/CFS and pwPCC also provided self-reported severity and frequency of symptoms derived from the Canadian and International Consensus Criteria for ME/CFS and the World Health Organization case definition for PCC.

Results

Both illness cohorts similarly experienced key ME/CFS symptoms. Few differences in symptoms were observed, with memory disturbances, muscle weakness, lymphadenopathy and nausea more prevalent, light-headedness more severe, unrefreshed sleep more frequent, and heart palpitations less frequent among pwME/CFS (all p < 0.05). The ME/CFS and PCC participants’ SF-36v2 or WHODAS 2.0 scores were comparable (all p > 0.05); however, both cohorts returned significantly lower scores in all SF-36v2 and WHODAS 2.0 domains when compared with controls (all p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This Australian-first investigation demonstrates the congruent and debilitating nature of ME/CFS and PCC, thereby emphasising the need for multidisciplinary care to maximise patient health outcomes.
Diversity targets
Authors: Cai Wei , Chen Yue , Rajgopal Shiva , Azinovic-Yang Li
Published: July 2024

From 2008 to 2020, 180 of S&P 1500 have disclosed employee diversity targets. We conduct the first analysis of firms’ employee diversity targets and ask three research questions: (i) who announces diversity targets? (ii) do firms deliver on their diversity targets? (iii) what are the implications of disclosure of such targets for employee hiring and investors? We find that firms with a greater willingness (proxied by past ESG penalties, higher CEO-to-median employee pay ratio, more media coverage, and after #MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements) and ability (proxied by financial strength, a blue-collar heavy labor force, and gender and ethnic minorities on boards) to improve employee diversity are more likely to disclose diversity targets. Exploiting the Revelio dataset of 15,639 firm-years for 1,203 distinct firms from 2008 to 2020, we observe that firms that disclosed a diversity target have indeed hired more diverse employees, but such diversity levels had already increased substantially prior to the target disclosure. Firms with numerical, forward-looking, and rank-and-file employee-targeted goals are associated with greater employee diversity relative to firms that announce other types of diversity goals. Moreover, improved diversity performance does not appear to occur at the cost of employee quality, as measured by Revelio. Overall our results have practical implications for how investors and stakeholders might want to interpret corporate diversity targets.
Exploring behaviours of RESTful APIs in an industrial setting
Authors: Karlsson Stefan , Jongeling Robbert , Čaušević Adnan , Sundmark Daniel
Published: July 2024

A common way of exposing functionality in contemporary systems is by providing a Web-API based on the REST API architectural guidelines. To describe REST APIs, the industry standard is currently OpenAPI-specifications. Test generation and fuzzing methods targeting OpenAPI-described REST APIs have been a very active research area in recent years. An open research challenge is to aid users in better understanding their API, in addition to finding faults and to cover all the code. In this paper, we address this challenge by proposing a set of behavioural properties, common to REST APIs, which are used to generate examples of behaviours that these APIs exhibit. These examples can be used both (i) to further the understanding of the API and (ii) as a source of automatic test cases. Our evaluation shows that our approach can generate examples deemedrelevantfor understanding the system and for a source of test generation by practitioners. In addition, we show that basing test generation on behavioural properties provides tests that are less dependent on the state of the system, while at the same time yielding a similar code coverage as state-of-the-art methods in REST API fuzzing in a given time limit.
Blackberry synthetic seeds storage: effects of temperature, time, and sowing substrate
Authors: Regni Luca , Micheli Maurizio , Pino Alberto Marco Del , Facchin Simona Lucia , Rabica Emanuele , Camilloni Leonardo , Cesarini Arianna , Proietti Primo
Published: July 2024

In vitro propagation, is becoming the predominant method for blackberry propagation due to its advantages compared to agamic traditional propagation methods. Synthetic seed technology represents a promising approach to further enhance the productivity of in vitro propagation facilitating the exchange of plant materials among laboratories and contributing to germplasm conservation efforts. This study aimed to establish an optimal protocol for the storage and sowing of synthetic blackberry seeds obtained through the encapsulation of clump bases. The synthetic seeds were sown without storage (Control) and after storage periods of 30, 60, and 120 days at 4 °C and 25 °C in the dark, in three different substrates (agarised, perlite, and potting). After forty-five days from sowing viability, regeneration rate, shoot and root numbers and lengths, as well as fresh and dry weights of the plantlets, were assessed. Results indicated that agarised substrate consistently exhibited favourable outcomes, with sustained regeneration rates and robust plantlet development even after prolonged storage at 4 °C. Synthetic seeds sown in perlite and potting substrates demonstrated enhanced regeneration rates following storage at 4 °C for 60 and 120 days. On the contrary, storage at 25 °C resulted in a notable decline in regeneration rate, highlighting its inadequacy for blackberry synthetic seed conservation purposes. These findings underscore the importance of sowing substrate selection and storage temperature in optimizing the storage and sowing protocols for synthetic blackberry seeds.