Functional Forms Research Articles

Discrete-Time Survival Analysis Incorporating Time Structure in Developmental Research

Discrete-time survival analysis (DTSA) is a method widely used by social and behavioral researchers as it aids in the exploration of patterns in time-to-event measures. However, the traditional DTSA models often fail to adequately represent the structured dynamics of hazardous processes. This study introduces structural DTSA, an alternative approach that extends traditional DTSA by incorporating functional forms of hazard changes. With structural DTSA, a reparameterization of the functional forms is also possible for more meaningful interpretations of the results of time-to-event data analyses. This study aims to provide a detailed tutorial on structured DTSA, demonstrating its applicability in social and behavioral research. Henceforth, we demonstrate the application of structured DTSA using data on smoking initiation from the National Longitudinal Study of Youth 1997 (NLSY97). These findings highlight the potential of structured DTSA for various developmental studies.

Early in vitro results indicate that de-O-acetylated sialic acids increase Selectin binding in cancers

Cancers utilize a simple glycan, Sialic Acid, to engage in metastatic processes via the Sialic acid (Sia) -Selectin pathway. Selectins recognize and bind to sialylated substrates, resulting in adhesion, migration, and extravasation, however, how deviations from the canonical form of Sia regulate binding to Selectin receptors (E, L, and P) on hemopoietic cells resulting in these metastatic processes, remained a gap in knowledge. De-O-acetylated Sias has been recently shown to be an integral substrate to the binding of sialic acid binding proteins. The two proteins responsible for regulating the acetyl functional group on Sia’s C6 tail, are Sialic acid acetylesterase (SIAE) and Sialic acid O acetyltransferase (CASD1). To elucidate the contribution of functional group alterations on Sia, 9-O and 7,9-O-acetylation of Sia was modulated via the use of CRISRP-Cas9 gene editing and with Sialyl Glycan Recognition Probes, to produce either O-acetylated-Sia or de-O-acetylated- Sia, respectively. In vitro experiments revealed that increased cell surface expression of de-O-acetylated- Sia resulted in an increase in Selectin binding, enhanced cell proliferation, and increased migration capabilities both in lung and colon cancer. These results delineate for the first time the mechanistic contribution of de-O-acetylated-Sia to Selectin binding, reinforcing the importance of elucidating functional group alterations on Sia and their contribution. Without accurate identification of which functionalized form of Sia is being utilized to bind to sialic acid binding proteins, we cannot accurately produce glycan therapeutics with the correct specificity and reactivity, thus this work contributes an integral component in the development of promising therapeutic avenues, for example in the realm of enzyme antibody drug conjugates.

A comprehensive multi-objective framework for the estimation of crash frequency models

A common and challenging data and modeling aspect in crash analysis is unobserved heterogeneity, which is often handled using random parameters and special distributions such as Lindley. Random parameters can be estimated with respect to each observation for the entire dataset, and grouped across segments of the dataset, with variable means, or variable variances. The selection of the best approach to handle unobserved heterogeneity depends on the data characteristics and requires the corresponding hypothesis testing. In addition to dealing with unobserved heterogeneity, crash frequency modeling often requires explicit consideration of functional forms, transformations, and identification of likely contributing factors. During model estimation, it is important to consider multiple objectives such as in- and out-of-sample goodness-of-fit to generate reliable and transferable insights. Taking all of these aspects and objectives into account simultaneously represents a very large number of modeling decisions and hypothesis testing. Limited testing and model development may lead to bias and missing relevant specifications with important insights. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a comprehensive optimization framework, underpinned by a mathematical programming formulation, for systematic hypothesis testing considering simultaneously multiple objectives, unobserved heterogeneity, grouped random parameters, functional forms, transformations, heterogeneity in means, and the identification of likely contributing factors. The proposed framework employs a variety of metaheuristic solution algorithms to address the complexity and non-convexity of the estimation and optimization problem. Several metaheuristics were tested including Simulated Annealing, Differential Evolution and Harmony Search. Harmony Search provided convergence with low sensitivity to the choice of hyperparameters. The effectiveness of the framework was evaluated using three real-world data sets, generating sound and consistent results compared to the corresponding published models. These results demonstrate the ability of the proposed framework to efficiently estimate sound and parsimonious crash data count models while reducing costs associated with time and required knowledge, bias, and sub-optimal solutions due to limited testing. To support experimental testing for analysts and modelers, the Python package “MetaCountRegressor,” which includes algorithms and software, is available on PyPi.

Prediction of vertical transport of microplastics: Shape- and aging-dependent drag models

The prediction of vertical transport of microplastics (MPs) is essential for understanding their multidimensional transport, fate, and environmental risks, but drag models applicable to aging MPs are currently understudied. In this study, pristine and UV-aged polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polystyrene (PS) MPs were used for settling experiments. Combining physicochemical properties and transport data, a shape-dependent drag model based on the Corey shape factor was optimized with average errors of 9.73% and 10.42% and coefficients of determination of 0.6878 and 0.8359 for predicting the settling terminal velocities (ut) for PET and PS MPs, respectively. Meanwhile, aging-dependent drag models were constructed by incorporating the carbonyl index as functional forms of the newly defined aging index, which can be used to differentiate the effects of shape and aging characteristics on the vertical transport of MPs. These aging-dependent models showed better predictive abilities with average errors of 3.97% and 4.56% in predicting ut for PET MPs, and of 5.89% and 6.91% for PS MPs. Additionally, the drag models in this study improved applicability to predict vertical transport of environmentally-collected weathered MPs. With the continuous improvement of the transport database of diverse MPs, this study is expected to provide scientific support for predicting the environmental behaviors of MPs and formulating targeted pollution control strategies.

Non-minimally coupled teleparallel scalar field reconstruction of matter bounce scenario

Teleparallel description of gravity theories where the gravity is mediated through the tetrad field and consequent torsion provide an alternative route to explain the late time cosmic speed up issue. Generalisation of the teleparallel gravity theory with different functional forms of the torsion scalar T leads to f(T) gravity. The role of scalar field played in addressing issues in cosmology and astrophysics has developed an interest in the inclusion of a scalar field along with an interaction potential in the action. Such a generalised gravity theory is dubbed as f(T,ϕ)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$f(T,\\phi )$$\\end{document} theory. We have explored such a gravity theory to reconstruct the interaction potential of the scalar field required for an extended matter bounce scenario. The cosmological implications of the reconstructed scalar field potential are studied considering two viable and well known functional forms of f(T,ϕ)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$f(T,\\phi )$$\\end{document}. The energy conditions of these model are discussed to assess the viability of the cosmological models.

Physics-guided symbolic neural network reveals optimal functional forms describing ground motions

This study presents a novel framework for ground motion modelling utilizing Physics-Guided Symbolic Neural Networks (PGSNN). Symbolic neural networks offer a new method for knowledge discovery, providing a unique perspective for automatically uncovering predictive functional forms from data. This approach differs from traditional methods as it does not rely on predefined equations. Instead, it employs symbolic operators to freely combine input parameters in a high-dimensional space. This method addresses the problem of data imbalance by incorporating physical guidance to ensure that the model produces results that are consistent with established physical principles. The resulting equations align with the expectations of the engineering seismology community, particularly within the magnitude-distance ranges, where classical equations are well calibrated. The prediction performance of the PGSNN, evaluated across different intensity measures (PGA, PGV, and PSA), was assessed by calculating the residuals between measured and predicted values and their standard deviations. The predictive capability of this model was verified using new event records. The results indicate that the prediction performance of the PGSNN is comparable to those of traditional methods.

Forms of Design Resistance in the Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine

The purpose of the study is to investigate design forms of creative resistance to Russian aggression in the temporarily occupied territories. Research methods involve combining art analysis with documentary recording of resistance efforts under occupation conditions. Scientific novelty. It consists in the introduction into scientific circulation of previously undescribed and unanalyzed volume of works of graphic design or related to it, which were created either in the occupied territories, or for use in such territories. For the first time, the types of graphic design used for underground work are defined, the stylistics, means and methods of execution are analyzed. Conclusions. Graphic design uses creative techniques and technologies that can be effectively used in resistance actions in the occupied territories. The effectiveness of graphic design is determined by the ability to express itself in many areas of application in various forms, including: stickers, money, postcards, illustrations, posters, newspapers, growth figures, street graffiti, etc. As a result of the conducted art analysis of the body of works, the ideological motivation, specifics of performance, and stylistics of the visual aids, which use widespread forms of functioning of graphic design in the modern world, were established. Despite the partial isolation from Ukraine, the information coming from the controlled territory of the state was enough for Ukrainian artists to invent creative technologies and create appropriate samples in the conditions of a total ban on Ukrainian content by the occupying administrations and sufficiently severe punishment for violating the rules established by the aggressors. The presence of the Russian language and paraphernalia in the mentioned works is a requirement for the effective performance of the task and targeting the target audience.

Fleksja rzeczownika w małopolskich rotach przysiąg sądowych

INFLECTION OF NOUNS IN THE LESSER POLAND JUDICIAL OATHS: LESSER POLAND MIDDLE ROTA – MASCULINE AND NEUTER DECLENSIONS The author of the article reviews the declensional forms of nouns found in the oldest Middle Polish judicial oaths according to Leski’s declension system. Within each declension, subtypes were distinguished by gender, taking into account the division into hard- and soft-stem nouns. This review was limited to common nouns, excluding anthroponyms and toponyms due to the volume constraints of this study. For the same reasons, masculine and neuter declension nouns were analyzed, first presenting material suitable for each case and number, then subjecting it to formal and statistical analysis. The conducted research allowed us to conclude that, in this fragment of the inflectional system, the persistence of its fundamentals is still quite evident. The most innovative forms, however, are as follows:– acc. sg. declension -o-//-jo- (appearance of genitive forms in the accusative function in almost all animate nouns),– instr. sg. declension -o-//-jo- (new ending -em< *-ъmь from the -ŭ- declension and -‘em< *-ьmь from the -i- and -en- declensions),– loc. sg. for soft-stem nouns with almost exclusive ending -u transferred from the -ŭ- declension. In other represented forms of inflected nouns of masculine and neuter declensions in the rotes, newer forms from the clearly expansive -ŭ- declension appeared. Variations in the distribution of endings or the process of newer and older forms rubbing against each other are illustrated by examples of parallel facultative endings, such as lista//lystu or vszitka/ vszitku in gen. sg., kmeczv//kmeczovi in dat. sg., penandzi/penandzy, grossij/groszy/grossz/grossow in gen. pl., or stawech/stawach in loc. pl.

Applicability of 3D concrete printing technology in building construction with different architectural design decisions in housing

3D Printing (3DP) technology, one of the layered production methodologies where design and construction configurations can be made with increasing digitalization and Industry 4.0, is one of the leading techniques of the period. 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) also comes to the fore in the construction industry. The study aims to observe the impact of architectural design decisions on the 3DCP process by developing controlled and consistent design alternatives. Architectural designs developed with different geometric forms in the housing function were subjected to digital planning, 3DCP preparation, and 3DCP prototype final product stages. In the integration of design and 3D concrete printing (3DCP), two key aspects were investigated: (i) the impact of different geometric forms (square, rectangle, hexagon, octagon, circle, and ellipse) on the buildability performance of 3D-printed structures, and (ii) how variations in design details influence printing time, material consumption, cost, and the feasibility of mass production in architectural applications. For the 3DCP process, 3D-printable cementitious mixture was developed, and a 3D printer with dimensions of 100 x 100 × 40 cm was used. The results obtained during the printing process were analyzed in comparison with the building evaluation parameters. As a result, the house with circular geometry showed the optimum behavior according to the parameters of buildability, cost, and mass producibility. The circle geometric form provides a 4.2 % advantage over the octagon in terms of buildability, a 16.6 % advantage over the ellipse in terms of cost, and a 20 % advantage over the ellipse in terms of mass producibility.

DC24: A new density coherence functional for multiconfiguration density-coherence functional theory.

In this study, we explored several alternative functional forms to construct more accurate and more physical density coherence (DC) functionals for multiconfiguration density-coherence functional theory. Each functional is parameterized against the same database as used in our previous work. The best DC functional, which is called DC24, has a more physical interpretation, and-as a side benefit-it also has a mean unsigned error of 1.73 kcal/mol, which is a 9% improvement as compared to the previous functional. The article also contains a new definition of the unpaired electron density, which may be useful in other contexts as well.

MoPepGen: Rapid and Comprehensive Identification of Non-canonical Peptides.

Gene expression is a multi-step transformation of biological information from its storage form (DNA) into functional forms (protein and some RNAs). Regulatory activities at each step of this transformation multiply a single gene into a myriad of proteoforms. Proteogenomics is the study of how genomic and transcriptomic variation creates this proteomic diversity, and is limited by the challenges of modeling the complexities of gene-expression. We therefore created moPepGen, a graph-based algorithm that comprehensively generates non-canonical peptides in linear time. moPepGen works with multiple technologies, in multiple species and on all types of genetic and transcriptomic data. In human cancer proteomes, it enumerates previously unobservable noncanonical peptides arising from germline and somatic genomic variants, noncoding open reading frames, RNA fusions and RNA circularization. By enabling efficient detection and quantitation of previously hidden proteins in both existing and new proteomic data, moPepGen facilitates all proteogenomics applications. It is available at: https://github.com/uclahs-cds/package-moPepGen .

Epistemic authority in the digital public sphere. An integrative conceptual framework and research agenda

Abstract We develop an integrative conceptual framework and research agenda for studying epistemic authorities in the digital age. Consulting epistemic authorities (e.g., professional experts, well-informed laypeople, technologies) can be an efficient fast-track to knowledge. To fulfill this functional role, those who claim epistemic authority need to be both subjectively recognized (have a perceived advantage in knowledge) and objectively justified (have an actual advantage in knowledge). In a digital media context, new and unconventional knowledge sources have emerged that can fulfill the functional role of epistemic authorities. But false authorities that disseminate misinformation have emerged as well while other sources with important knowledge remain unrecognized. We further analyze the functional role of epistemic intermediaries that can mitigate such problematic developments by correcting false authorities and by providing endorsement for unrecognized authorities. We conclude with a research agenda to study functional forms of epistemic authorities and epistemic intermediaries in the digital public sphere.

Functional modulation of RAGE activation by multimeric S100B using single-domain antibodies.

S100B is a multifunctional protein primarily found in the brain, where it plays crucial roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. It has intra- and extracellular functions and, depending on S100B levels, can exhibit both neurotrophic and neurotoxic activities, both mediated by the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). Here, we report the discovery and characterization of nanobodies (Nbs) targeting dimeric and tetrameric S100B, which are the two most abundant oligomeric functional forms of the protein, aiming to modulate S100B-mediated RAGE activation. Two Nbs were selected for detailed structural and functional studies, and found to bind tetrameric S100B with high affinity, as determined by biolayer interferometry analysis and SEC-stable binary complex formation. Structural and docking analyses revealed preferential contact sites of Nbs with S100B regions implicated in interactions with RAGE, namely residues at the interfacial cleft on dimeric S100B and the at hydrophobic cleft formed by the association of two homodimeric units in the tetramer. In accordance, assays in SH-SY5Y cells showed that Nbs modulate the RAGE-mediated neurotrophic activity of S100B by hindering its functional interactions with the receptor. Biolayer interferometry competition assays between tetrameric S100B and the RAGE-VC1 domain, confirmed that Nbs selectively block S100B-mediated RAGE engagement, in agreement with cell activation experiments. These findings highlight Nbs as powerful tools for elucidating molecular and cellular mechanisms through the modulation of S100B and RAGE functions, inspiring potential therapeutic applications.

Distinctive impacts of ESG pillars on corporate financial performance: A random forest analysis of Korean listed firms

This study investigates the distinct effects of the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) pillars on corporate financial performance (CFP) measured by ROE and ROA. Using a random forest regression on a sample of Korean-listed firms, we address the positive correlations among these pillars and explore the nonlinear relationships between CFP and individual pillars without pre-specified functional forms. The findings indicate that both environmental and governance performances positively affect CFP, with environmental performance having a more substantial impact but diminishing returns at higher levels. Social performance negatively affects CFP. The environmental pillar emerges as the most reliable predictor of CFP.

A design strategy with the combination of neuro-regression and stochastic optimizations on the hyperelastic gasket

For numerous years, PVC and aluminum doors and windows have been integral components of buildings. The primary technical requisites for doors and windows encompass superior acoustic performance, thermal insulation, and effective sealing. Particularly, the sealing properties, crucially important, are ensured by the gaskets fitted onto the profiles. This paper aims to present a gasket design with a new methodology that includes a systematic modeling-optimization process based on multiple non-linear neuro-regression. Comprehensive research has been done by multiple non-linear neuro-regression analyses of gaskets due to deficient studies in the literature on hyperelastic materials. 17 candidate functional forms based on four basic mathematical structures (polynomial, trigonometric, logarithmic, and linear functions, and their hybrid or rational forms) have been proposed to model the FEM data of the gasket. Hybrid versions of three stochastic search algorithms, Differential Evolution, Random Search, and Simulated Annealing, are considered to solve highly non-linear, non-convex, multi-variables mixed continuous-discrete problems. The experimental results were compared with the numerical result using the finite-element analysis (FEA). Nonlinear static analyses were performed with Abaqus. Stress and logarithmic strain distributions are obtained. A good correlation was found between the experimental and the numerical results The optimum locations and numbers of the nodes have been found to obtain the minimum overflow distance and the maximum compression surface area for gaskets having the same topological structure.

Experiences of Patients With Cancer Using Electronic Symptom Management Systems: Qualitative Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis.

There are numerous symptoms related to cancer and its treatments that can affect the psychosomatic health and quality of life of patients with cancer. The use of electronic symptom management systems (ESMSs) can help patients with cancer monitor and manage their symptoms effectively, improving their health-related outcomes. However, patients' adhesion to ESMSs decreases over time, and little is known about their real experiences with them. Therefore, it is necessary to gain a deep understanding of patients' experiences with ESMSs. The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize qualitative studies on the experiences of patients with cancer using ESMSs. A total of 12 electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EBSCOhost, Embase, PsycINFO, ProQuest, Scopus, Wanfang database, CNKI, CBM, and VIP, were searched to collect relevant studies from the earliest available record until January 2, 2024. Qualitative and mixed methods studies published in English or Chinese were included. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement checklist) and the ENTREQ (Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research) statement were used to improve transparency in reporting the synthesis of the qualitative research. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklist was used to appraise the methodological quality of the included studies, and a meta-synthesis was conducted to interpret and synthesize the findings. A total of 21 studies were included in the meta-synthesis. The experiences of patients with cancer using ESMSs were summarized into three major categories: (1) perceptions and attitudes toward ESMSs; (2) the value of ESMSs; and (3) barriers, requirements, and suggestions for ESMSs. Subsequently, 10 subcategories emerged from the 3 major categories. The meta-synthesis revealed that patients with cancer had both positive and negative experiences with ESMSs. In general, patients recognized the value of ESMSs in symptom assessment and management and were willing to use them, but they still encountered barriers and wanted them to be improved. This systematic review provides implications for developing future ESMSs that improve health-related outcomes for patients with cancer. Future research should focus on strengthening electronic equipment and technical support for ESMSs, improving their functional contents and participation forms, and developing personalized applications tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of patients with cancer. PROSPERO CRD42023421730; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=421730.

Theoretical insights and implications of bouncing cosmology in f(R,T2) theory

In this paper, we explore cosmological bouncing solutions to investigate the cosmic evolution in the framework of energy-momentum squared gravity. We consider flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker spacetime with a perfect matter distribution. We assume two different functional forms of f(R,T2) gravity model to examine the impact of this modified framework in the evolution of the universe. Furthermore, we consider a specific scale factor to investigate different cosmological parameters, analyzing the evolutionary behavior of the universe in this gravity. We also perform stability analysis using the perturbation technique. Our findings indicate that the null energy condition violates at the bounce point and equation of state parameter exhibits characteristics of a quintessence era or phantom regimes. These aspects highlight the complex interplay between energy conditions and stability in bouncing cosmological model. We conclude that the f(R,T2) theory successfully provides viable alternatives to the standard cosmological scenarios, offering insights into the early universe and the nature of gravity.

Cyclic di-AMP drives developmental cycle progression in Chlamydia trachomatis.

The obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia alternates between two functional forms during its developmental cycle: elementary body (EB) and reticulate body (RB). However, the molecular mechanisms governing the transitions between these forms are unknown. Here, we present evidence cyclic di-AMP (c-di-AMP) is a key factor in triggering the transition from RB to EB (i.e., secondary differentiation) in the chlamydial developmental cycle. By overexpressing or knocking down expression of c-di-AMP synthase genes, we made strains producing different levels of c-di-AMP, which we linked to changes in secondary differentiation status. Increases in c-di-AMP resulted in an earlier increase in transcription of EB-associated genes, and this was further manifested in earlier production of EBs. In contrast, when c-di-AMP levels were decreased, secondary differentiation was delayed. Based on these data, we conclude there is a threshold level of c-di-AMP needed to trigger secondary differentiation in Chlamydia . This is the first study to identify a mechanism by which secondary differentiation is initiated in Chlamydia and reveals a critical role for the second messenger signaling molecule c-di-AMP in this process.

Altering the redox status of Chlamydia trachomatis directly impacts its developmental cycle progression.

Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen with a unique developmental cycle. It differentiates between two functional and morphological forms: elementary body (EB) and reticulate body (RB). The signals that trigger differentiation from one form to the other are unknown. EBs and RBs have distinctive characteristics that distinguish them, including their size, infectivity, proteome, and transcriptome. Intriguingly, they also differ in their overall redox status as EBs are oxidized and RBs are reduced. We hypothesize that alterations in redox may serve as a trigger for secondary differentiation. To test this, we examined the function of the primary antioxidant enzyme alkyl hydroperoxide reductase subunit C (AhpC), a well-known member of the peroxiredoxins family, in chlamydial growth and development. Based on our hypothesis, we predicted that altering the expression of ahpC would modulate chlamydial redox status and trigger earlier or delayed secondary differentiation. To test this, we created ahpC overexpression and knockdown strains. During ahpC knockdown, ROS levels were elevated, and the bacteria were sensitive to a broad set of peroxide stresses. Interestingly, we observed increased expression of EB-associated genes and concurrent higher production of EBs at an earlier time in the developmental cycle, indicating earlier secondary differentiation occurs under elevated oxidation conditions. In contrast, overexpression of AhpC created a resistant phenotype against oxidizing agents and delayed secondary differentiation. Together, these results indicate that redox potential is a critical factor in developmental cycle progression. For the first time, our study provides a mechanism of chlamydial secondary differentiation dependent on redox status.

Ecological‐economic modeling of nutrient enrichment in multispecies fisheries

AbstractIn fisheries economics, multispecies or ecosystem models typically focus on interactions among fish species, often overlooking the flow of nutrients. However, biologists widely acknowledge that nutrients–Âİsuch as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium–Âİare vital for organisms and play crucial roles in ecosystem dynamics. This paper delves into a bioeconomic predator‐prey model incorporating nutrient enrichment through Holling Type II and Michaelis–Menten functional forms. Initially, we examine the system's dynamics before formulating an optimal time‐dependent harvest policy using the Pontryagin maximum principle. Our findings reveal that heightened nutrient enrichment can lead to the breakdown of a positive stable equilibrium, resulting in the extinction of both prey and predator. The stability of the ecosystem may also be influenced by the interplay of nutrient enrichment and predator harvest.