bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Existential Arithmetics with Addition and Bitwise Minimum
Authors: Starchak Mikhail R.
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a similar approach for existential first-order characterizations of the languages recognizable by finite automata, by Parikh automata, and by multi-counter machines over the alphabet $$\left\{ 0,1,...,k-1\right\} ^{n}$$

0
,
1
,
.
.
.
,
k
-
1

n

for some $$k\ge 2$$

k
≥
2

. The set of k-FA-recognizable relations coincides with the set of relations, which are existentially definable in the structure
"Image missing"
, where
"Image missing"
corresponds to the bitwise minimum of base k. In order to obtain an existential first-order description of k-Parikh automata languages, we extend this structure with the predicate $$ EqNZB _{k}(x,y)$$

E
q
N
Z

B
k

(
x
,
y
)

which is true if and only if x and y have the same number of non-zero bits in k-ary encoding. Using essentially the same ideas, we encode computations of k-multi-counter machines and thus show that every recursively enumerable relation over the natural numbers is existentially definable in the aforementioned structure supplemented with concatenation $$z=x\smallfrown _{k} y\rightleftharpoons z = x + k^{l_{k}(x)}y$$

z
=
x

⌢
k

y
⇌
z
=
x
+

k

l
k

(
x
)

y

, where $$l_{k}(x)$$

l
k

(
x
)

is the bit-length of x in base k. This result gives us another proof of DPR-theorem.
BeoNet-Halle – Aufbau einer multifunktionalen Datenbank zur automatisierten Extraktion von Versorgungsdaten aus Haus- und Facharztpraxen
Authors: Moser Konstantin , Mikolajczyk Rafael , Bauer Alexander , Tiller Daniel , Christoph Jan , Purschke Oliver , Lückmann Sara Lena , Frese Thomas
Published: April 2023

Das Beobachtungspraxennetzwerk Halle (BeoNet-Halle) ist eine innovative Datenbank der ambulanten Versorgung, die seit 2020 deutschlandweit Versorgungsdaten von teilnehmenden Haus- und Facharztpraxen sammelt und für die Forschung und Versorgung zur Verfügung stellt. Aufgebaut und betreut wird die Datenbank vom Institut für Medizinische Epidemiologie, Biometrie und Informatik und vom Institut für Allgemeinmedizin der Medizinischen Fakultät der Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg. Weiterhin ist das Datenintegrationszentrum der Universitätsmedizin Halle an dem Projekt beteiligt. In die Datenbank sollen grundsätzlich anonymisierte und pseudonymisierte patientenbezogene Daten aus allen marktüblichen Praxisverwaltungssystemen einfließen. In diesem Artikel beschreiben wir den Aufbau und die Methoden der multifunktional nutzbaren Datenbank BeoNet und beziffern den aktuellen Datenbestand. Die Arbeitsabläufe von der Einholung, Übermittlung und Speicherung von breiten Einwilligungen (Broad Consent) werden dargestellt und Vorteile und Limitationen der Datenbank werden erörtert.

BeoNet-Halle enthält aktuell anonymisierte Datensätze von 73.043 Patienten aus 5 Arztpraxen. Es wurden 2.653.437 nach ICD-10 kodierte Diagnosen und 1.403.726 Verordnungen sowie 1.894.074 Laborergebnisse erfasst. Pseudonymisierte Daten von 481 Patienten wurden erfolgreich exportiert.

Das BeoNet-Halle ermöglicht eine nahezu lückenlose Darstellung des Versorgungsgeschehens in den teilnehmenden Praxen. Die Datenbank soll zukünftig praxisübergreifende Behandlungspfade der Patienten abbilden und qualitativ hochwertige Versorgungsdaten liefern, um zur gesundheitspolitischen Entscheidungsfindung und zur Optimierung von Versorgungsprozessen beitragen zu können.
AI ethics as subordinated innovation network
Authors: Steinhoff James
Published: April 2023

AI ethics is proposed, by the Big Tech companies which lead AI research and development, as the cure for diverse social problems posed by the commercialization of data-intensive technologies. It aims to reconcile capitalist AI production with ethics. However, AI ethics is itself now the subject of wide criticism; most notably, it is accused of being no more than “ethics washing” a cynical means of dissimulation for Big Tech, while it continues its business operations unchanged. This paper aims to critically assess, and go beyond the ethics washing thesis. I argue that AI ethics is indeed ethics washing, but not only that. It has a more significant economic function for Big Tech. To make this argument I draw on the theory of intellectual monopoly capital. I argue that ethics washing is better understood as a subordinated innovation network: a dispersed network of contributors beyond Big Tech’s formal employment whose research is indirectly planned by Big Tech, which also appropriates its results. These results are not intended to render AI more ethical, but rather to advance the business processes of data-intensive capital. Because the parameters of AI ethics are indirectly set in advance by Big tech, the ostensible goal that AI ethics sets for itself—to resolve the contradiction between business and ethics—is in fact insoluble. I demonstrate this via an analysis of the latest trend in AI ethics: the operationalization of ethical principles.
Particle-based approach to the Eulerian distortion field and its dynamics
Authors: Hütter Markus , Pavelka Michal
Published: April 2023

The Eulerian distortion field is an essential ingredient for the continuum modeling of finite elastic and inelastic deformations of materials; however, its relation to finer levels of description has not yet been established. This paper provides a definition of the Eulerian distortion field in terms of the arrangement of the constituent microscopic particles, which is beneficial for fundamental studies as well as for the analysis of computer simulations, e.g., molecular dynamics simulations. Using coarse graining and nonequilibrium thermodynamics, the dynamics of the Eulerian distortion field is examined in detail and related to the underlying dynamics of the particles. First, the usual kinematics of the distortion and the known expression for the Cauchy stress tensor are recovered. And second, it is found that the Mandel stress and the plastic deformation-rate tensor in the natural configuration constitute the relevant force–flux pair for the relaxation of the distortion. Finally, the procedure is illustrated on two examples, namely on an amorphous solid and on a crystalline solid with one slip system.
PAReTT: A Python Package for the Automated Retrieval and Management of Divergence Time Data from the TimeTree Resource for Downstream Analyses
Authors: Le Clercq Louis-Stéphane , Kotzé Antoinette , Grobler J. Paul , Dalton Desiré Lee
Published: April 2023

Evolutionary processes happen gradually over time and are, thus, considered time dependent. In addition, several evolutionary processes are either adaptations to local habitats or changing habitats, otherwise restricted thereby. Since evolutionary processes driving speciation take place within the landscape of environmental and temporal bounds, several published studies have aimed at providing accurate, fossil-calibrated, estimates of the divergence times of both extant and extinct species. Correct calibration is critical towards attributing evolutionary adaptations and speciation both to the time and paleogeography that contributed to it. Data from more than 4000 studies and nearly 1,50,000 species are available from a central TimeTree resource and provide opportunities of retrieving divergence times, evolutionary timelines, and time trees in various formats for most vertebrates. These data greatly enhance the ability of researchers to investigate evolution. However, there is limited functionality when studying lists of species that require batch retrieval. To overcome this, a PYTHON package termed Python-Automated Retrieval of TimeTree data (PAReTT) was created to facilitate a biologist-friendly interaction with the TimeTree resource. Here, we illustrate the use of the package through three examples that includes the use of timeline data, time tree data, and divergence time data. Furthermore, PAReTT was previously used in a meta-analysis of candidate genes to illustrate the relationship between divergence times and candidate genes of migration. The PAReTT package is available for download from GitHub or as a pre-compiled Windows executable, with extensive documentation on the package available on GitHub wiki pages regarding dependencies, installation, and implementation of the various functions.
Early Postoperative Results after Thymectomy for Thymic Cancer: A Single‐Institution Experience
Authors: Petroncini Matteo , Solli Piergiorgio , Brandolini Jury , Lai Giulia , Antonacci Filippo , Garelli Elena , Kawamukai Kenji , Forti Parri Sergio Nicola , Bonfanti Barbara , Dolci Giampiero , Bertoglio Pietro
Published: April 2023

Background

Surgery for thymic cancers is considered the key of curative treatment. Preoperative patients’ characteristics and intraoperative features might influence postoperative outcome. We aim to verify short‐term outcomes and possible risk factors for complications after thymectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated patients undergoing surgery for thymoma or thymic carcinoma in the period between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2021, in our department. Preoperative features, surgical technique (open, bilateral VATS, RATS), intraoperative characteristics and incidence of postoperative complications (PC) were analyzed.

Results

We included in the study 138 patients. Open surgery was performed in 76 patients (55.1%), in 36 VATS (26.1%) and in 26 RATS (36.1%). Resection of one or more adjacent organs due to neoplastic infiltration was required in 25 patients. PC appeared in 25 patients (52% Clavien–Dindo grade I, 12% grade IVa). Open surgery had a higher incidence of PC (p < 0.001), longer postoperative in‐hospital stay (p = 0.045) and larger neoplasm (p = 0.006). PC were significant related to pulmonary resection (p = 0.006), phrenic nerve resection (p = 0.029), resection of more than one organ (p = 0.009) and open surgery (p = 0.001), but only extended surgery of more organs was confirmed as independent prognostic factor for PC (p = 0.0013). Patients with preoperative myasthenia symptoms have a trend toward stage IVa complications (p = 0.065). No differences were observed between outcomes of VATS and RATS.

Conclusions

Extended resections are related to a higher incidence of PC, while VATS and RATS guarantee a lower incidence of PC and shorter postoperative stay even in patients that require extended resections. Symptomatic myasthenia patients might have a higher risk toward more severe complications.
Major iatrogenic bile duct injury during elective cholecystectomy: a Czech population register-based study
Authors: Klos Dušan , Gregořík Michal , Pavlík Tomáš , Loveček Martin , Tesaříková Jana , Skalický Pavel
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Bile duct injury (BDI) remains the most serious complication following cholecystectomy. However, the actual incidence of BDI in the Czech Republic remains unknown. Hence, we aimed to identify the incidence of major BDI requiring operative reconstruction after elective cholecystectomy in our region despite the prevailing modern 4 K Ultra HD laparoscopy and Critical View of Safety (CVS) standards implemented in daily surgical practice among the Czech population.

Methods

In the absence of a specific registry for BDI, we analysed data from The Czech National Patient Register of Reimbursed Healthcare Services, where all procedures are mandatorily recorded. We investigated 76,345 patients who were enrolled for at least a year and underwent elective cholecystectomy during the period from 2018–2021. In this cohort, we examined the incidence of major BDI following the reconstruction of the biliary tract and other complications.

Results

A total of 76,345 elective cholecystectomies were performed during the study period, and 186 major BDIs were registered (0.24%). Most elective cholecystectomies were performed laparoscopically (84.7%), with the remaining open (15.3%). The incidence of BDI was higher in the open surgery group (150 BDI/11700 cases/1.28%) than in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (36 BDI/64645 cases/0.06%). Furthermore, the total hospital stays with BDI after reconstruction was 13.6 days. However, the majority of laparoscopic elective cholecystectomies (57,914, 89.6%) were safe and standard procedures with no complications.

Conclusion

Our study corroborates the findings of previous nationwide studies. Therefore, though laparoscopic cholecystectomy is reliable, the risks of BDI cannot be eliminated.
Longitudinal changes in serum adropin levels and liver fat content during liraglutide treatment in newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wu Xiaojuan , Li Xinyue , Chang Xiaona , Ding Xiaoyu , Wang Qiu , Jiang Tao , Wang Guang , Liu Jia
Published: April 2023

Aims

To explore the effect of liraglutide treatment on serum adropin and its relationship to the liver fat content in newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).

Methods

Serum adropin level and liver fat content were assessed in patients with T2DM and MAFLD (n = 22), along with healthy controls (n = 22). Afterward, the patients received liraglutide treatment for 12 weeks. Serum adropin levels were examined by a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Liver fat content was quantified via magnetic resonance imaging-estimated proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF).

Results

We found that patients with newly diagnosed T2DM and MAFLD had lower serum adropin levels [2.79 ± 0.47 vs. 3.27 ± 0.79 ng/mL, P < 0.05] and higher liver fat content [19.12 ± 9.46 vs. 4.67 ± 0.61%, P < 0.001], compared to healthy controls.

Following 12-week liraglutide treatment, serum adropin levels increased from 2.83(2.44, 3.24) to 3.65(3.20, 3.85) ng/mL (P < 0.001), and liver fat content decreased from 18.04(11.08, 27.65) to 7.74(6.42, 13.49) % (P < 0.001) in patients with T2DM and MAFLD. Furthermore, increases in serum adropin were strongly associated with decreases in liver fat content (β = − 5.933, P < 0.001), liver enzyme and glucolipid metabolism parameters.

Conclusion

The increase in serum adropin level following liraglutide treatment was strongly correlated with the reduction in liver fat content and glucolipid metabolism. Hence, adropin might be a potential marker for the beneficial effects of liraglutide on treating T2DM and MAFLD.
Queckenstedt’s test repurposed for the quantitative assessment of the cerebrospinal fluid pulsatility curve
Authors: Kheram Najmeh , Boraschi Andrea , Pfender Nikolai , Spiegelberg Andreas , Kurtcuoglu Vartan , Curt Armin , Schubert Martin , Zipser Carl Moritz
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Before the era of spinal imaging, presence of a spinal canal block was tested through gross changes in cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFP) provoked by manual compression of the jugular veins (referred to as Queckenstedt's test; QT). Beyond these provoked gross changes, cardiac-driven CSFP peak-to-valley amplitudes (CSFPp) can be recorded during CSFP registration. This is the first study to assess whether the QT can be repurposed to derive descriptors of the CSF pulsatility curve, focusing on feasibility and repeatability.

Method

Lumbar puncture was performed in lateral recumbent position in fourteen elderly patients (59.7±9.3 years, 6F) (NCT02170155) without stenosis of the spinal canal. CSFP was recorded during resting state and QT. A surrogate for the relative pulse pressure coefficient was computed from repeated QTs (i.e., RPPC-Q).

Results

Resting state mean CSFP was 12.3 mmHg (IQR 3.2) and CSFPp was 1.0 mmHg (0.5). Mean CSFP rise during QT was 12.5 mmHg (7.3). CSFPp showed an average 3-fold increase at peak QT compared to the resting state. Median RPPC-Q was 0.18 (0.04). There was no systematic error in the computed metrics between the first and second QT.

Conclusion

This technical note describes a method to reliably derive, beyond gross CSFP increments, metrics related to cardiac-driven amplitudes during QT (i.e., RPPC-Q). A study comparing these metrics as obtained by established procedures (i.e., infusion testing) and by QT is warranted.
Preprocedural mouthwashes for infection control in dentistry—an update
Authors: Weber Johanna , Bonn Eva L. , Auer David L. , Kirschneck Christian , Buchalla Wolfgang , Scholz Konstantin J. , Cieplik Fabian
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Aerosols and splatter are routinely generated in dental practice and can be contaminated by potentially harmful bacteria or viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, preprocedural mouthwashes containing antiseptic agents have been proposed as a potential measure for infection control in dental practice. This review article aims to summarize the clinical (and, if insufficient, preclinical) evidence on preprocedural mouthwashes containing antiseptic agents and to draw conclusions for dental practitioners.

Methods

Literature on preprocedural mouthwashes for reduction of bacterial or viral load in dental aerosols was searched and summarized.

Results

Preprocedural mouthwashes, particularly those containing chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), or essential oils (EO), can significantly reduce the bacterial load in dental aerosols. With respect to viruses such as HSV-1, there are too little clinical data to draw any clear recommendations. On the other hand, clinical data is consolidating that CPC-containing mouthwashes can temporarily reduce the intraoral viral load and infectivity in SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals. Nevertheless, potential risks and side effects due to regular antiseptic use such as ecological effects or adaptation of bacteria need to be considered.

Conclusions

The use of preprocedural mouthwashes containing antiseptics can be recommended according to currently available data, but further studies are needed, particularly on the effects on other viruses besides SARS-CoV-2. When selecting a specific antiseptic, the biggest data basis currently exists for CHX, CPC, EO, or combinations thereof.

Clinical relevance

Preprocedural mouthwashes containing antiseptics can serve as part of a bundle of measures for protection of dental personnel despite some remaining ambiguities and in view of potential risks and side effects.
Future changes in wind energy resources in Egypt under Paris climate agreements’ goals
Authors: Gebaly Ahmed Mohamed , Nashwan Mohamed Salem , Khadr Wael Mohamed Hamdy , Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: April 2023

The Paris climate agreements’ goals ambitiously aim to hold mean global warming below 2.0°C and to pursue efforts to limit the warming to 1.5°C. One of the effective strategies for achieving these goals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector is using wind power. As Egypt is heavily investing in wind farm projects and planning to depend more on wind energy resources in its energy mix, it is important to assess the impact of climate change on its future wind energy production. This study employed eight global climate models of CMIP6 to project the wind power density (WPD) changes under the shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) 1–1.9 and 1–2.6 that inform Paris climate agreements and SSP5–8.5 that present the extreme warming scenario. The results showed that the WPD would increase in most Egypt, except in the far southeast. Increases would be pronounced over the far western desert and in Winter compared to other seasons. Nevertheless, Summer and Fall shall have the highest WPD by the end of the century compared to the present. This is favorable because the seasonal WPD pattern is sufficient to meet the local energy need. Unlike the intra-annual variability, few changes were projected in the inter-annual variability of WPD. Furthermore, a shift towards stronger WPDs compared to the historical period was observed. This study’s results can be useful for energy policymakers and planners in managing wind energy production under climate change scenarios.
Data + pilot biases in modern GNSS signals
Authors: Montenbruck O. , Steigenberger P. , Sleewaegen J. M.
Published: April 2023

While traditional GNSS signals are always modulated with navigation data, various modern signals provide a distinct pilot channel without data modulation to support long coherent integration times. Intra-signal biases between the data and pilot components of such signals are evaluated for satellites of the GPS, Galileo, BeiDou-3, and QZSS constellations using measurements from a dedicated set of receivers. Peak values of about 2 ns are obtained for the GPS L5 signal, while slightly smaller values of up to 1 ns apply for the B1C and B2a signals of BeiDou-3 as well as the QZSS L1C signal. For Galileo E1 and E5a/b, data + pilot biases are confined to less than 0.1–0.3 ns, which is typically less than other pseudorange errors for these signals. Fully negligible values of < 0.05 ns are obtained for the L1C and L2C signals of GPS as well as the L2C signal of QZSS in accord with expectations for time-multiplexed or interlaced modulations. To support consistent processing of multi-GNSS data in heterogeneous networks, biases between combined data + pilot tracking and pilot-only tracking are derived in a dedicated zero-baseline receiver test bed. The analysis confirms the general understanding that biases between combined and pilot-only pseudoranges amount to a fixed fraction of the corresponding data + pilot biases. This fraction depends on the power sharing of the data and pilot component in the respective signals and amounts to 50% in most cases. The results of this study are expected to remove the prevailing problem of two distinct receiver groups in the generation of satellite clock and bias products by the International GNSS Service and to enable a rigorous and consistent use of these products by multi-GNSS users.
Impact of Child Subsidies on Child Health, Well-Being, and Investment in Child Human Capital: Evidence from Russian Longitudinal Monitoring Survey 2010–2017
Authors: Proshin Alex
Published: April 2023

This study evaluates the impact of introducing the Maternity Capital (MC) program—a child subsidy of 250,000 Rub (7,150 euros or 10,000 USD, in 2007)—provided to mothers giving birth to/adopting a second or subsequent child since January 2007. Eligible Russian families could use this subsidy to improve family housing conditions, fund child’s education/childcare, or invest in the mother’s retirement fund. This study evaluates the impact of MC eligibility on various child health and developmental outcomes, household consumption patterns, and housing quality. Using data from the representative Russian Longitudinal Monitoring Survey 2010–2017, I tested regression discontinuity models and found that MC eligibility may have led to a small improvement in child health status, which could be explained by improved housing conditions, particularly in rural areas. However, children living in MC-eligible families were also more likely to report reduced socialisation. Heterogeneity analysis by child gender, household poverty status, and urban/rural residence suggests that MC incentives may have had a differential impact on some analysed outcomes. Results are robust to different polynomial and nonparametric RDD specifications.
Large nearest neighbour balls in hyperbolic stochastic geometry
Authors: Otto Moritz , Thäle Christoph
Published: April 2023

Consider a stationary Poisson process in a d-dimensional hyperbolic space. For $$R>0$$

R
>
0

define the point process $$\xi _R^{(k)}$$

ξ
R

(
k
)

of exceedance heights over a suitable threshold of the hyperbolic volumes of kth nearest neighbour balls centred around the points of the Poisson process within a hyperbolic ball of radius R centred at a fixed point. The point process $$\xi _R^{(k)}$$

ξ
R

(
k
)

is compared to an inhomogeneous Poisson process on the real line with intensity function $$e^{-u}$$

e

-
u

and point process convergence in the Kantorovich-Rubinstein distance is shown. From this, a quantitative limit theorem for the hyperbolic maximum kth nearest neighbour ball with a limiting Gumbel distribution is derived.
An Investigation of Age-related Neuropathophysiology in Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Fixel-based Analysis of Corpus Callosum White Matter Micro- and Macrostructure
Authors: Kirkovski Melissa , Singh Mervyn , Dhollander Thijs , Fuelscher Ian , Hyde Christian , Albein-Urios Natalia , Donaldson Peter H , Enticott Peter G
Published: April 2023

Fixel-based analysis was used to probe age-related changes in white matter micro- and macrostructure of the corpus callosum between participants with (N = 54) and without (N = 50) autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Data were obtained from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange-II (ABIDE-II). Compared to age-matched controls, young adolescents with ASD (11.19 ± 7.54 years) showed reduced macroscopic fiber cross-section (logFC) and combined fiber-density and cross-section (FDC). Reduced fiber-density (FD) and FDC was noted in a marginally older (13.87 ± 3.15 years) ASD cohort. Among the oldest ASD cohort (17.07 ± 3.56 years), a non-significant trend indicative of reduced FD was noted. White matter aberration appears greatest and most widespread among younger ASD cohorts. This supports the suggestion that some early neuropathophysiological indicators in ASD may dissipate with age.
The performance of dipole charge density mapping integrated with robotic magnetic navigation in the treatment of atrial tachycardias
Authors: Gagyi Rita B. , Yap Sing-Chien , Noten Anna M. E. , Wijchers Sip , Szili-Torok Tamas
Published: April 2023

Background

Catheter ablation (CA) has become a well-established first-line therapy for a broad spectrum of arrhythmias, including atrial tachycardias (ATs). In this study we aimed to assess the performance of the integrated novel high-resolution new generation noncontact mapping system (AcQMap) with robotic magnetic navigation (RMN) system in CA procedures for patients with ATs including comparing patient subgroups based on the utilized mapping modality, arrhythmia mechanism, localization and type of procedure.

Methods

All patients undergoing CA for AT using the AcQMap-RMN system were included. Procedural safety and efficacy were characterized by intra- and post-procedural complications. Acute procedural success and the long-term outcome were assessed in the overall group and in the subgroups.

Results

A total number of 70 patients were referred for CA with atrial arrhythmias including 67 AT/AFL (mean age 57.1 ± 14.4 years), and 3 additional patients with inappropriate sinus tachycardia. Thirty-eight patients had de novo AT, 24 had post-PVI AT including 2 patients with perinodal AT, and 5 had post-MAZE AT. Two patients (2.9%) suffered post-procedural complications including 1 patient with groin hematoma and 1 patient with a transient ischemic attack. Acute success was achieved in 63/67 (94.0%) procedures. Thirteen patients (19.4%) had documented recurrence at the end of the 12-months follow-up period. The performance of AcQMap was equally good in focal vs. reentry mechanisms (p = 0.61, acute success), in the left and right atrium (p = 0.21).

Conclusions

AcQMap-RMN integration might improve success rates in CA of ATs with low number of complications.
Decision-making criteria to shape mulching techniques for fire-prone landscapes
Authors: Petratou Dafni , Nunes João Pedro , Guimarães Maria Helena , Prats Sergio
Published: April 2023

Context

Wildfires have severe impacts on landscapes’ hydrological and sediment processes. They are linked to events such as flash floods and droughts, and high erosion rates which lead to loss of soil organic matter and detachment of seeds and seedlings. Mulching is an effective measure implemented directly after a fire to reduce soil erosion and increase soil water retention. However, its implementation has proved a challenge, mainly due to factors such as cost and public acceptance.

Objectives

This research aims to optimize the application of post-fire mulching by using decision-making criteria to select “how” and “where” the technique should be used. The specific objectives were to: (i) investigate the decision-making criteria on “how” to apply mulch by interviewing experts; (ii) define the cost-effectiveness relations of erosion modelling scenarios.

Methods

The Monchique 2003 wildfire in Southern Portugal was used as a case study Experts’ interviews and literature review were used to construct prioritization scenarios. Post-fire soil erosion was then modelled with the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model and the Sediment Connectivity Index for the three resulting scenarios (the “Soil” scenario, considering the net potential erosion; the “Water” scenario, focusing on th1e protection of water bodies from sedimentation; and the “Road” scenario, focusing on road protection); and at two erosion thresholds (1 and 10 Mg ha−1 year−1).

Results

The interviews and the literature review highlighted the importance of socio-economic parameters when it comes to mulch application. Moreover, models showed that small interventions, aimed at areas nearby water bodies and road networks can be more cost-effective than large interventions.

Conclusions

Models helped to create a hierarchy of scenarios, enabling land managers to assess decision making tools at the landscape level, linking their priorities with practical issues of emergency stabilization practices.
Making brand activism successful: How advice-giving can boost support behavior and reap benefits for the brand
Authors: Thürridl Carina , Mattison Thompson Frauke
Published: April 2023

Brand activism, i.e., taking a public stance towards sociopolitical issues, is a controversial strategic marketing tool for firms. Prior work shows that at best, it has no significant positive impact on consumer support and outcomes for brands. In this research, we propose and explore how advice-giving impacts consumer brand activism support and brand liking. Across four studies we find that advice-giving leads to more successful brand activism by increasing brand activism support behavior, and also has benefits for the brand. We show that advice-giving drives higher levels of normative influence which leads to higher brand activism support behavior. We also study a boundary condition and show that even when brands do not follow consumers’ advice, advice-giving has no negative behavioral and attitudinal consequences for the brand. Overall, we contribute to literature on brand activism and advice-giving and help marketers in strategically and effectively designing their brand activism activities.
Comparison of prioritisation algorithms for the selection of patients for medication reviews in the emergency department: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Korup Signe Gejr , Almarsdóttir Anna Birna , Magnussen Line
Published: April 2023

Background

Risk prioritisation algorithms provide patients with a risk category that guides pharmacists to choose those needing medication reviews (MRs) the most. For this study the Medicine Risk Score (MERIS) and a modified Assessment of Risk Tool (ART) were used.

Aim

To examine how the selection of patients by the clinical pharmacists in an emergency department for MRs compared with the categorisation provided by MERIS and a modified version of ART (mART). Furthermore, examine the agreement between MERIS and mART.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted using data on all admitted patients during a two-month period. Data were entered into the prioritisation algorithms and independently ranked by the six pharmacists who were observed as they selected patients for MR. Risk scores and categorisations were compared between the algorithms and the pharmacists’ ranking using t-test, Z-test, Chi square, Kruskal Wallis H-test, or Kappa statistics.

Results

The study included 1133 patients. Significant differences were found between the pharmacists and the algorithms. The sensitivity and specificity of MERIS were 37.8% and 73.6%, for mART, 33.0% and 75.9%. Kappa was 0.58, showing moderate agreement. No significant differences were observed between the individual pharmacists’ selection, but differences were significant between how pharmacists ranked the importance of the provided MRs.

Conclusion

Pharmacists disagreed with the risk categorisation provided by MERIS and mART. However, MERIS and mART had similar sensitivity, specificity, and moderate agreement. Further research should focus on how clinical algorithms affect the selection of patients and on the importance of the MRs carried out by pharmacists.
The epistemic vices of corporations
Authors: Meyer Marco
Published: April 2023

Vice epistemology studies the qualities of individuals and collectives that undermine the creation, sharing, and storing of knowledge. There is no settled understanding of which epistemic vices exist at the collective level. Yet understanding which collective epistemic vices exist is important, both to facilitate research on the antecedents and effects of collective epistemic vice, and to advance philosophical discussions such as whether some collective epistemic vices are genuinely collective. I propose an empirical approach to identifying epistemic vices in corporations, analyzing a large dataset of online employee reviews. The approach has parallels to the methodology for identifying the big-five personality traits. It surfaces epistemic vices that are attributed to corporations by its own members and reduces the number of vices to the minimum required to describe differences between corporations. This approach yields a new taxonomy of epistemic vices for corporations. While two vices identified have close correlates in the existing literature, four others have not been identified at all or only in aspects. Two of these vices are ‘genuinely’ collective in the sense that they can only be attributed to collectives.
Enumeration of left braces with additive group $$C_2\times C_2\times C_4\times C_4$$
Authors: Ballester-Bolinches Adolfo , Esteban-Romero Ramón , Pérez-Calabuig Vicent
Published: April 2023

We show that the number of isomorphism classes of left braces of order 64 with additive group isomorphic to $$C_2\times C_2\times C_4\times C_4$$

C
2

×

C
2

×

C
4

×

C
4

is $$10{,}326{,}821$$

10
,
326
,
821

. This completes the classification of left braces of order 64, that turn out to fall into $$15{,}095{,}601$$

15
,
095
,
601

isomorphism classes.
Development of an augmented reality remote maintenance adoption model through qualitative analysis of success factors
Authors: Müller Maike , Stegelmeyer Dirk , Mishra Rakesh
Published: April 2023

In recent decades, engineering manufacturers have increasingly adopted servitization strategies, making efficient maintenance service delivery a key corporate activity for revenue growth and profitability. Recently, augmented reality remote maintenance (ARRM) has become available and promises service delivery efficiency gains, which is why engineering manufacturers are starting to adopt it. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to analyze the promoting and inhibiting factors of ARRM adoption in support of industrial service delivery. To this end, a qualitative explorative approach based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework has been deployed. Data were collected from a systematic literature review and an empirical interview study with 16 companies. In total, 38 interviewees from different hierarchical levels participated in the interview study. Based on a thematic analysis, this paper provides a novel ARRM adoption model and contributes six technological, seven organizational, and four environmental adoption success factors. The promoting factors are ARRM key features, qualitative operational advantages, quantitative operational advantages, value proposition, value creation network, finance, image, adoption management, resource allocation, strategic realignment, skills gap, and governmental regulation; further, augmented reality user experience, data connection, information provision, intellectual property protection, and remote service acceptance were identified as inhibiting factors. This paper qualifies as the first attempt to consolidate engineering-focused ARRM literature with respect to remote service delivery, adding the industrial adoption perspective and elaborating on the impact of the inter-organizational nature of ARRM technology on industrial adoption. Thus, this research contributes to the transition from pure engineering research to industrial ARRM adoption research.
The funnier, the happier? The interplay between interpersonal humor styles on mental health via gratitude
Authors: Lu Su , Jiang Feng , Lan Junmei , Wang Ting
Published: April 2023

According to Martin’s taxonomy (2003), affiliative and aggressive humor are the two humor styles with an interpersonal focus. Many studies have demonstrated the mental health benefits of affiliative humor, whereas less consensus has been reached on aggressive humor. Focusing on the question “when and why aggressive humor would be related to mental health”, the current study proposed that the association of aggressive humor and mental health could be mediated by gratitude and moderated by affiliative humor. The proposals were tested in a large multi-university student sample (N = 4775, Mage = 20.37) in China, showing that trait gratitude mediated the negative relationship between aggressive humor and subjective happiness and the positive relationship between aggressive humor and depression. More importantly, this effect was less substantial for those who endorse a greater (vs. lesser) affiliative humor style. Implications of gratitude as a potential mechanism in explaining the mental health correlates of aggressive humor and the interplay of interpersonal humor styles are discussed.
Study on PET Recovery from Polymeric Mixtures, Using the Floatation Technique, and Valorization of the Collected Particles by Dyeing Them
Authors: Mpika Savvoula A. , Nikolaidis Nikolaos F. , Bikiaris Dimitrios N. , Vouvoudi Evangelia C. , Lazaridis Nikolaos K.
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study is to separate PET flakes by applying floatation technique, initially from binary polymer blends and later from the mixture of five common polymers such as polypropylene, polyethylene, poly(vinyl chloride), polstyrene and poly(ethylene terephthalate). A connection line between polymer and fiber is presumed in this study, because the dyeing of recovered polyester with three disperse dyes followed. The separation of plastics was performed in a Plexiglas air floatation column. The Lutensol® TO 8 surfactant of non-ionic origin was used to selectively wet the plastics. The parameters studied were pH values, surfactant concentration and treatment time. The dyeing of the recovered PET was performed with Serilene Blue RL, Serisol Crimson ECF and Serisol Yellow ECF dyes at 90 °C, 110 °C, 130 °C and pH = 4.6. The results obtained showed a good separation of polyester from both the binary mixtures and the mixture of five polymers with a recovery rate of up to 95 ± 2%. The influence of pH and concentration of surfactant is significantly demonstrated, while the effect of the treatment time is considered negligible. Finally, recovered polyester showed very good dyeing properties with all three disperse dyes, since the color exhaustion rate reached approximately 95% for the temperature of 130 °C, which is the usual dyeing temperature of polyester.
Who venerated the ancestors at the Petit-Chasseur site? Examining Early Bronze Age cultic activities around megalithic monuments through the archaeometric analyses of ceramic findings (Upper Rhône Valley, Switzerland, 2200–1600 BC)
Authors: Carloni Delia , Šegvić Branimir , Sartori Mario , Zanoni Giovanni , Besse Marie
Published: April 2023

Through the analyses of recovered pottery, this study explores the social dimension of an ancestor cult developed at the Petit-Chasseur megalithic necropolis (Upper Rhône Valley, Switzerland) during the Early Bronze Age (2200–1600 BC). The jar votive offerings and domestic pottery from settlement sites were characterized using a range of spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Acquired archaeometric data allowed identification of six ceramic fabrics and two types of clay substrate—illite- and muscovite-based—which were used in pottery production. The present article discusses the pottery composition in the light of natural resources available in the region, thus shedding light on raw material choices and paste preparation recipes. The Early Bronze Age people that lived in the Upper Rhône Valley seem to have shared a common ceramic tradition, partly inherited from the previous Bell Beaker populations. The compositional correspondence between the jar offerings and domestic pottery revealed that the majority of the known Early Bronze Age groups partook in cultic activities at the Petit-Chasseur megalithic necropolis.
Classification tools for business models: Status quo, comparison, and agenda
Authors: Schoormann Thorsten , Schweihoff Julia , Jussen Ilka , Möller Frederik
Published: April 2023

To sustain competitive advantage in dynamic business environments, organizations have to constantly adapt, innovate, and recombine their business models. As some configurations of business model design options are more successful than others, it is crucial to have a holistic understanding of the (current) solution space of those options and their dependencies. To be aware of and manage the set of possible design options, one can rely on classification tools, including taxonomies, typologies, and classification schemes. Given the availability of several tool types, different underlying assumptions for each type need to be considered when designing and applying a tool. Following a descriptive literature review approach, this paper structures the diverse body of classification research by presenting a repository of tools and deriving an analytical grid to disclose the similarities and differences between selected tool types. Thereby, this paper (1) raises awareness for the plurality of tools and their underpinning concepts, (2) provides a status quo overview across tool types, and (3) derives design-relevant knowledge for the tools, points to current challenges, and paves the ground for future research on the building, evaluation, and use of this class of tools.
Assessment of urban landslide groundwater characteristics and origin using artificial tracers, hydro-chemical and stable isotope approaches
Authors: Mammoliti Elisa , Fronzi Davide , Palpacelli Stefano , Biagiola Noemi , Tazioli Alberto
Published: April 2023

In the framework of landslides, the hydrogeological features play an essential role in slope stability, governing water movement and thus resulting in modification of the effective stress in the soil. In this framework, the hydrogeological conceptualization of landslide areas and the identification of groundwater origin are key points to developing risk mitigation measures. In fact, groundwater recharge cannot always be attributed to local precipitation alone. Mixing processes between water derived from local infiltration and deep water upflow along tectonic lineaments or anthropogenic water can affect the groundwater balance on a local scale. This study aims to define the potential groundwater origin of one of the highest risk urban landslides in central Italy and to define a hydrogeological conceptual model by exploiting its existing drainage system network. This research is based on a multiple-techniques approach based on hydrological water balance, artificial tracer tests during recharge period, seasonal monitoring of the water stable-isotope content, hydro-chemical survey during low-flow periods, and analysis of the piezometric level fluctuation. All these analyses are coupled with a detailed reconstruction of the geology of the area depicted from boreholes and drill holes. Two groundwater bodies have been evidenced from the study. The shallower one is located in the landslide unstable zone and is hydraulically connected to a deeper groundwater body hosted in the underlying bedrock. Results highlighted that the local rainfall regime could not fully explain the hydro-chemical facies. Local water contributions to the landslide area coming from leakage of the urban sewerage system have been evidenced, excluding deep groundwater upflow from the fault system.
Targeting human mitochondrial NAD(P)+-dependent malic enzyme (ME2) impairs energy metabolism and redox state and exhibits antileukemic activity in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Chen Kun-Chi , Hsiao I-Hsin , Huang Yu-Nan , Chou Yu-Tung , Lin Yi-Chun , Hsieh Ju-Yi , Chang Yung-Lung , Wu Kang-Hsi , Liu Guang-Yaw , Hung Hui-Chih
Published: April 2023

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a fast-growing and highly fatal blood cancer, and recent research has shown that targeting metabolism may be a promising therapeutic approach for treating AML. One promising target is the human mitochondrial NAD(P)+-dependent malic enzyme (ME2), which is involved in the production of pyruvate and NAD(P)H and the regulation of the NAD+/NADH redox balance. Inhibition of ME2 via silencing ME2 or utilizing its allosteric inhibitor disodium embonate (Na2EA) causes a decrease in pyruvate and NADH, leading to a decrease in producing ATP via cellular respiration and oxidative phosphorylation. ME2 inhibition also decreases NADPH levels, resulting in an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress, which ultimately leads to cellular apoptosis. Additionally, ME2 inhibition reduces pyruvate metabolism and the biosynthetic pathway. ME2 silencing inhibits the growth of xenotransplanted human AML cells, and the allosteric ME2 inhibitor Na2EA demonstrates antileukemic activity against immune-deficient mice with disseminated AML. Both of these effects are a result of impaired energy metabolism in mitochondria. These findings suggest that the targeting ME2 may be an effective strategy for treating AML. Overall, ME2 plays an essential role in energy metabolism of AML cells, and its inhibition may offer a promising approach for AML treatment.
Autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytopathy: clinical analysis and review of 15 cases
Authors: Lan Wei , Li Jiming , Ai Peiying , Luo Weiliang
Published: April 2023

Background

To review clinical characteristics, auxiliary examination results, treatment effects, and outcomes of patients with autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytopathy (GFAP-A).

Methods

We collated and retrospectively analyzed clinical data of 15 patients admitted with clinical characteristics of an autoimmune GFAP-A acute encephalitis or meningitis phenotype.

Results

All patients were diagnosed with acute-onset meningoencephalitis and meningoencephalomyelitis. Initial presentations included pyrexia and headache at onset; dual symptoms of prominent tremor with urinary and bowel dysfunction; ataxia, psychiatric and behavioral abnormalities, and impaired consciousness; neck resistance; reduced extremity muscle strength; blurred vision; epileptic seizures; and reduced basic blood pressure. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination showed that the degree of protein elevation was significantly higher than the degree of increase in white blood cells. Moreover, in the absence of obvious low chloride and glucose levels, CSF chloride levels decreased in 13 patients, accompanied by a CSF glucose level decrease in four. Brain abnormalities were found in magnetic resonance imaging of ten patients, with a linear radial perivascular enhancement present in the lateral ventricles of two patients and symmetric abnormalities in the splenium of the corpus callosum in three patients.

Conclusions

Autoimmune GFAP-A may be a spectrum disorder, with acute- or subacute-onset meningitis, encephalitis, and myelitis being the main phenotypes. When used for acute stage treatment, combined hormone and immunoglobulin therapy was superior to hormone pulse therapy or immunoglobulin pulse therapy alone. However, hormone pulse therapy alone without immunoglobulin pulse therapy was associated with a greater number of remaining neurological deficits.