bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation on the tension lap splices used in the joints of precast RC foundation piles
Authors: Haavisto Jukka , Laaksonen Anssi
Published: August 2024

The joints between precast reinforced concrete pile segments in deep foundations are typically mechanically lockable. They include anchor bars embedded inside the ends of each segment, forming lap splices with the main bars. Because of their particular technology, these lap splices are somewhat different from traditional lap splices, as shown in the first part of this paper, where the impact of their specific characteristics on the tensile behavior of the joints is discussed. The experimental section presents the results of 19 tensile tests on these lap splices and compares them with established theoretical models. The roles of various parameters (lap length, type and amount of confining reinforcement, type of anchor bars, and concrete cover thickness) are investigated. One of the major findings indicates a significantly lower lap capacity when using plain‐bar spirals compared to closed‐ribbed stirrups. Additionally, at low stress levels, the models tend to be unconservative. Building on this insight, a modified model is proposed for lap splices provided with plain‐bar spirals.
Tipping mechanisms in a conceptual model of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation
Authors: Chapman Ruth , Sinet Sacha , Ritchie Paul D. L.
Published: August 2024

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) forms an essential component of the global ocean circulation. Paleoclimate records indicate the AMOC’s capability to tip between different states that resulted in large global climate impacts. Using an AMOC box model, re‐calibrated against a global circulation model, HadGEM3, we present a new bifurcation analysis and showcase mechanisms that may lead the AMOC to tip from its current ‘on’ state to a collapsed ‘off’ state under climate change. We find that bifurcation‐ and noise‐induced tipping remain viable tipping mechanisms as in previous calibrations, while rate‐induced tipping only occurs for specific parameter configurations of this model.
Relevance of PSInSAR Analyses at ITRF Co-location Sites
Authors: Collilieux Xavier , Altamimi Zuheir , Chen Jingyi , Courde Clément , Du Zheyuan , Furhmann Thomas , Gisinger Christoph , Gruber Thomas , Hippenstiel Ryan , Poreh Davod , Rebischung Paul , Sato Yudai
Published: August 2024

The PSInSAR (Persistent Scatterer Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) technique allows determining deformation maps over large areas. In this paper, we investigate the applicability of PSInSAR analyses for ITRF co-location sites characterized by spatial extents varying between 20 m and 3 km. Although PSInSAR shows some limitations such as spatial resolution and sparse Persistent Scatterer distribution, this technology can be used to determine relative motion between geodetic instrumentation at sufficient spatial detail, specifically for large sites. The spatial resolution varies from 3 × 22 m [rg × az] from typical Sentinel 1A/1B products (IW mode) to 0.6 × 0.25 m [rg × az] for staring spotlight mode of TerraSAR-X/Tandem-X. As an illustration, C-band PSInSAR results derived by the European Ground Motion Service (EGMS) from Sentinel 1A/1B images have been investigated for the five largest ITRF co-location sites in Europe. Maximum relative velocity differences have been found to be smaller than 2.0 mm/yr. Moreover, as high-resolution X-band SAR images show great potential for mapping deformations at high resolution, an inventory of already available TerraSAR-X/Tandem-X images at ITRF co-location sites has been established. Based on this, five candidate sites are proposed for further PSInSAR analyses using X-band data.
Radiation and reaction at one loop
Authors: Elkhidir Asaad , O’Connell Donal , Sergola Matteo , Vazquez-Holm Ingrid A.
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study classical radiation fields at next-to-leading order using the methods of scattering amplitudes. The fields of interest to us are sourced when two massive, point-like objects scatter inelastically, and can be computed from one-loop amplitudes. The real and imaginary parts of the amplitudes play important but physically distinct roles in the radiation field. We argue that the imaginary part captures the effects of radiation reaction. This aspect of radiation reaction is directly linked to cuts of one-loop amplitudes which expose Compton trees. We also discuss the fascinating interplay between renormalisation, radiation reaction and classical field theory from this perspective.
Exact degeneracy of Casimir energy for $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory on ADE singularities and S-duality
Authors: Ju Chao
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Classically, the ground states of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory on ℝ × S3/Γ where Γ is a discrete ADE subgroup of SU(2) are represented by flat Wilson lines winding around the ADE singularity. By a duality relating such ground states to WZW conformal blocks, the ground state degeneracy cannot be lifted by quantum corrections. Using the superconformal index, we compute the supersymmetric Casimir energy of each flat Wilson line for SU(2) SYM on different ADE singularities and find that the flat Wilson lines all have the same supersymmetric Casimir energy. We argue that this exact degeneracy is peculiar to $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 supersymmetry and show that the degeneracy is lifted when the number of supersymmetry is reduced. In particular, we uncover a surprising result for the ground state structure of the conformal $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 SU(2) four-flavor theory on S3/Γ. For $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM, S-duality maps the ground state Wilson lines to ground state t’ Hooft lines taking values in the Langlands dual group. We show that the supersymmetric Casimir energy of the t’ Hooft line ground states is the same as the Wilson line ground states. This can be viewed as a ground state test of S-duality.
The utility of the prehospital shock index, age shock index, and modified shock index for predicting hypofibrinogenaemia in trauma patients: an observational retrospective study
Authors: Moon Jihwan , Park Sungwook
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Reduced fibrinogen levels are associated with worse outcomes in bleeding trauma patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of the prehospital shock index (SI) and its derivatives, the age shock index (aSI) and the modified shock index (mSI), as predictors of hypofibrinogenaemia in trauma patients.

Methods

This retrospective study included 2383 patients who presented to a regional trauma center. We reviewed the plasma fibrinogen levels upon admission to the trauma center and patients were divided into two groups: the hypofibrinogenaemia group and the normal group. The predictive performances of the SI, aSI, and mSI were assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

Of the 2383 patients, 235 (9.9%) had hypofibrinogenaemia. Patients with hypofibrinogenaemia were more likely to receive transfusions within 4 h and had significantly greater in-hospital mortality than patients with normal fibrinogen levels. The AUCs of prehospital SI, prehospital aSI, and prehospital mSI for the prediction of hypofibrinogenaemia were 0.75 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.73–0.77), 0.70 (95% CI 0.68–0.72), and 0.75 (95% CI 0.73–0.77), respectively.

Conclusion

Prehospital SI and prehospital mSI demonstrated moderate performance for identifying trauma patients with hypofibrinogenaemia. The prehospital aSI had poor predictive performance. In the prehospital setting, the use of prehospital SI or prehospital mSI as the sole predictor of hypofibrinogenaemia in trauma patients is not recommended.
Hot deformation behavior and physical-based constitutive modelling under plane-stress state for nickel-based superalloy sheets
Authors: Bao Zhennan , Chen Xuexin , Wu Shihao , Xie Liwei , Yang Bo , Zheng Kailun , Wang Yaping
Published: August 2024

Forming limit curves (FLC) at high temperatures under plane-stress states are beneficial for guiding the process parameter design of hot forming superalloy sheets. Constrained by the high deformation temperatures, the establishment of FLCs of superalloy sheets at high temperatures is extremely difficult. This paper conducts an experimental and modelling research to establish the physical-based model with the accurate prediction of hot flow behavior as well as micro grain sizes, using which, the forming limit curves can be predicted. First, the uniaxial tensile tests under different temperatures and strain rates and electron backscattered scattering detection (EBSD) observations of typical conditions were conducted to obtain the hot flow behavior and grain evolution. Second, the dome test at room temperature was performed, and the corresponding simulation was further carried out to obtain the forming limit at room temperature under plane-stress states. Using the above results, a plane-stress constitutive model for GH3128 superalloy was established enabling plane-stress test results under typical hot conditions to be accurately predicted. The prediction accuracies of hot uniaxial and biaxial stretching results are 94.2% and 95.4%, respectively.
A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Alternative Management Strategies for Red Deer in Denmark
Authors: Jensen Frank , Lundhede Thomas , Sunde Peter
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we conduct a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) of five alternative management strategies for red deer in Denmark: free harvest, trophy hunting, maximum harvest and two cases for natural demographic population compositions. To capture the outcome under each strategy we use a biological sex- and age-structured population model. The net benefit function includes meat values, recreational values, browsing damage costs and traffic damage costs and these values and costs are assumed to differ for the various sex and age classes of red deer. We show that the maximum harvest strategy leads to a reasonably high positive total net benefit, while the free harvest strategy yields a small positive net benefit. On the other hand, the trophy hunting strategy generates a high negative net benefit, while small negative net benefits are obtained under the two strategies for natural demographic population compositions.
Clinical applications of 3D printing in colorectal surgery: A systematic review
Authors: Habermann Alyssa C. , Timmerman William R. , Cohen Stephen M. , Burkhardt Brian W. , Amendola Michael F.
Published: August 2024

Background

The utilization of three-dimensional printing has grown rapidly within the field of surgery over recent years. Within the subspecialty of colorectal surgery, the technology has been used to create personalized anatomical models for preoperative planning, models for surgical training, and occasionally customized implantable devices and surgical instruments. We aim to provide a systematic review of the current literature discussing clinical applications of three-dimensional printing in colorectal surgery.

Methods

Full-text studies published in English which described the application of 3D printing in pre-surgical planning, advanced surgical planning, and patient education within the field of colorectal surgery were included. Exclusion criteria were duplicate articles, review papers, studies exclusively dealing with surgical training and/or education, studies which used only virtual models, and studies which described colorectal cancer only as it pertained to other organs.

Results

Eighteen studies were included in this review. There were two randomized controlled trials, one retrospective outcomes study, five case reports/series, one animal model, and nine technical notes/feasibility studies. There were three studies on advanced surgical planning/device manufacturing, six on pre-surgical planning, two on pelvic anatomy modeling, eight on various types of anatomy modeling, and one on patient education.

Conclusions

While more studies with a higher level of evidence are needed, the findings of this review suggest many promising applications of three-dimensional printing within the field of colorectal surgery with the potential to improve patient outcomes and experiences.
Optic nerve sheath measurement to monitor disease activity in giant cell arteritis: a pilot study
Authors: Ross Carolyn , Ducharme-Bénard Stéphanie , Hussein Samer , Meunier Rosalie-Sélène , Pagnoux Christian , Makhzoum Jean-Paul
Published: August 2024

Introduction/Objectives

Optic nerve sheath (ONS) enhancement using magnetic resonance imaging of the orbits was observed in patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA). We previously showed that ONS diameter (ONSD) by bedside ultrasound is increased in patient with active GCA. This study aims to assess whether ONSD decreases with clinical remission in patients with GCA.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted from June 2022 to January 2023. Patients who had an optic nerve ultrasound at GCA diagnosis as part of a previous crosssectional study were eligible. Optic nerve ultrasound was performed by the same investigator at diagnosis and month 3. ONSD (includes the optic nerve and its sheath) and optic nerve diameter (OND) were measured. Descriptive statistics for baseline characteristics and paired sample t-test were performed to assess the mean difference in OND and ONSD between diagnosis and month 3.

Results

Nine patients with GCA were included. The median age at disease onset was 79 years (interquartile range (IQR) of 79–82 years), and 7 patients were males. All patients were in clinical remission at month 3 on prednisone (median dose of 15 mg/day, IQR of 10–25 mg). The mean ONSD was lower at month 3 (3.76 mm) compared to baseline (5.98 mm), with a paired mean difference of 2.22 mm (95% CI 1.41–3.03 mm, p < 0.001). As anticipated, OND measurements did not vary between diagnosis and month 3.

Conclusion

ONSD on ultrasound improves after 3 months of therapy in patients with GCA. A longer prospective study is required to determine if ONSD is useful to assess disease activity in GCA.

Key Points

• ONS ultrasound can identify patients with active GCA.• The ONSD on ultrasound is dynamic and improved after 3 months of GCA therapy.• ONS ultrasound may be useful to monitor disease activity in GCA.
Protective effects of a novel FS-Collagen hydrolysates against UV- and d-galactose-induced skin aging
Authors: Zhang Yihan , Huang Guangye , Zhang Zhen , Xu Yongzhao , Ren Jiaoyan , Sun Wei , Chen Jianwen , He Ruikun
Published: August 2024

The oral consumption of collagen hydrolysates derived from various animal tissues has been demonstrated to have beneficial effects on skin health, particularly in combating the signs of aging. Here in this study, a novel animal-derived FS-Collagen hydrolysates were developed and its effects against skin aging was analyzed in a new mice skin aging model established through a combination of UV irradiation and d-galactose induction. 8 Weeks of oral FS-Collagen administration demonstrated significant protective effects against skin aging in mice, evidenced by the preservation of the skin’s macroscopic appearance, the restoration of skin composition and structure, an enhancement in antioxidant capacity and the inhibition of inflammation. Additionally, FS-Collagen safeguards skin barrier integrity and cellular connections, particularly by maintaining the expression levels of Dsg1 and Jam-A. In summary, the FS-Collagen exhibits positive effects in countering skin aging and holds promise as an alternative functional nutrition supplement for anti-skin aging care.
Characterization of susceptibility patterns and adaptability of the newly emerged Candida auris
Authors: Semenya Matlou D. , Aladejana Adebowale E. , Ndlovu Sizwe I.
Published: August 2024

The emergence of Candida auris has caused a major concern in the public health worldwide. This novel fungus is characterized by its multidrug resistance profile, ability to thrive in harsh and stressful conditions, as well as high temperatures and salt concentrations, persistence on hospital surfaces, causing nosocomial infections and outbreaks, and unique fitness properties. Here, we study the antifungal susceptibility patterns, thermotolerance, and halotolerance of 15 putative C. auris clinical isolates from Inkosi Albert Academic Hospital, Durban, South Africa. Five of the C. auris isolates showed resistance to all three antifungals (fluconazole, amphotericin B, and micafungin) and were selected for characterization of their adaptability mechanisms. Four of the tested multidrug-resistant C. auris isolates (C. auris strain F25, C. auris strain F276, C. auris F283, and C. auris M153) showed good growth when exposed to high temperature (42 °C) and salinity (10% NaCl) conditions whereas one isolate (C. auris F65) showed moderate growth under these conditions. Candida parapsilosis showed poor growth whereas C. albicans no growth under these conditions. The five C. auris strains were positive for all the adaptive features.
Refugee Entrepreneurship: Resolving Multi-contextuality and Differential Exclusion
Authors: Yetkin Ugur , Tunçalp Deniz
Published: August 2024

This study examines the multi-contextual dynamics of refugee entrepreneurship through the lens of embeddedness. It attempts to explain the interplay of inclusion and exclusion within a host society. For this purpose, the study qualitatively analyses the narratives of 39 Syrian refugee entrepreneurs and four critical informants in Türkiye. Our findings reveal a diverse set of refugee entrepreneurs, categorized into survival, ethnic-targeting, and integrating entrepreneurs, based on their motivations and level of embeddedness. Interestingly, as refugee entrepreneurs become more embedded in the host country, they experience increased exclusion due to various societal factors. To navigate these challenges, entrepreneurs continually negotiate their societal position using innovative strategies to combat exclusion. Our study incorporates social, political, institutional, and spatial contexts across host, home, and third countries. Thus, it extends the embeddedness literature by highlighting refugee entrepreneurs' multi-layered and multi-locational embeddedness. Our findings also emphasise the significant role of political embeddedness, which Research often overlooks. Differentially excluding refugee entrepreneurs from society and their counter-strategies are closely tied to their limited political embeddedness. Finally, we discuss the ethical and policy implications of promoting the inclusion of refugee entrepreneurs and contributing to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. We argue that clear integration policies, removal of institutional barriers, and international cooperation are necessary.
ArcMatch: high-performance subgraph matching for labeled graphs by exploiting edge domains
Authors: Bonnici Vincenzo , Grasso Roberto , Micale Giovanni , Maria Antonio di , Shasha Dennis , Pulvirenti Alfredo , Giugno Rosalba
Published: August 2024

Consider a large labeled graph (network), denoted the target. Subgraph matching is the problem of finding all instances of a small subgraph, denoted the query, in the target graph. Unlike the majority of existing methods that are restricted to graphs with labels solely on vertices, our proposed approach, named can effectively handle graphs with labels on both vertices and edges. ntroduces an efficient new vertex/edge domain data structure filtering procedure to speed up subgraph queries. The procedure, called path-based reduction, filters initial domains by scanning them for paths up to a specified length that appear in the query graph. Additionally, ncorporates existing techniques like variable ordering and parent selection, as well as adapting the core search process, to take advantage of the information within edge domains. Experiments in real scenarios such as protein–protein interaction graphs, co-authorship networks, and email networks, show that s faster than state-of-the-art systems varying the number of distinct vertex labels over the whole target graph and query sizes.
The impact of corporate social responsibility on green innovation: do industry, data type and region matter? a meta-analysis research
Authors: Gurler Hasan Emin
Published: August 2024

This study aims to explore the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and green innovation due to the fragmented and inconsistent findings in previous research. To achieve this, a meta-analysis is conducted on 29 peer-reviewed articles. The aim is to unravel the overall relationship between CSR and green innovation and identify potential factors that may influence this relationship, such as industry, data type, and region. The author’s results concluded that the robust relationship between CSR and green innovation remains consistent and strong, whether in manufacturing or other industries. Moreover, the outcomes indicate that research based on primary data demonstrates a more robust relationship between CSR and green innovation than secondary data studies. The findings also bring attention to regional differences in the relationship between CSR and green innovation, with studies conducted in North America displaying the most notable influence. This study represents the first-ever comprehensive meta-analytic investigation into the relationship between CSR and green innovation.
Randomized single-blinded study comparing sedation effectiveness and hemodynamic stability of remifentanil vs dexmedetomidine infusion for electrophysiology procedures in patients of National Heart Institute cathlab
Authors: Hassan Rozaini , Mutalib Azlee Abdul , Shang Chen Yi , Sachdev Nirpal Singh , Rahman Farkad Abdul , Ling Esther Siew Lee
Published: August 2024

Background

While studies comparing the effectiveness of remifentanil and dexmedetomidine are prevalent in other nations, using remifentanil alone is uncommon in Malaysia. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of sedation with remifentanil or dexmedetomidine infusion in monitored anesthesia care for electrophysiology procedures.

Methods

This study is a single-center, single-blinded, prospective randomized clinical study. One hundred twenty patients were randomized into two groups (remifentanil vs dexmedetomidine). Demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes, including level of sedation, vital signs, and patient satisfaction were monitored and recorded.

Results

Group R showed a higher mean observer’s assessment of alertness/sedation score (3.9 ± 0.7 vs 3.6 ± 0.8; p = 0.008), mean arterial pressure (92.0 ± 12.0 vs 83.0 ± 13.0 mmHg; p < 0.001), heart rate (82.0 ± 20.0 vs 73.0 ± 18.0 beats/min; p = 0.006), systolic blood pressure (139.0 ± 16.0 vs 123.0 ± 17.0 mmHg; p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (75.0 ± 13.0 vs 69.0 ± 14.0 mmHg; p = 0.009) than Group D. Oxygen saturation (99.0 ± 1.0%; p = 0.220) and respiration rate (16.0 ± 3.0 breaths/min; p = 0.361) for both groups were the same. Adverse events, including hypotension, bradycardia, and respiratory depression were observed in both groups. Both groups gave positive responses ranging from fair to good for patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

Dexmedetomidine is a better choice of anesthesia as it was associated with a higher level of sedation, more stable hemodynamics, lower incidence of adverse events, and better patient satisfaction.

Graphical Abstract
Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis and Vδ2 γδ T-cell Expansion in STK4 Deficiency
Authors: Ying Wenjing , Long Xin , Vandergriff Travis , Karnati Hemanth , Heberton Meghan , Chen Mingyi , Wang Xiaochuan , Wysocki Christian , Kong Xiao-Fei
Published: August 2024

The clinical penetrance of infectious diseases varies considerably among patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI), even for identical genetic defects. This variability is influenced by pathogen exposure, healthcare access and host-environment interactions. We describe here a patient in his thirties who presented with epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) due to infection with a weakly virulent beta-papillomavirus (HPV38) and CD4+ T-cell lymphopenia. The patient was born to consanguineous parents living in the United States. Exome sequencing identified a previously unknown biallelic STK4 stop-gain mutation (p.Trp425X). The patient had no relevant history of infectious disease during childhood other than mild wart-like lesion on the skin, but he developed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and EBV viremia with a low viral load in his thirties. Despite his low CD4+ T-cell count, the patient had normal counts of CD3+ cells, predominantly double-negative T cells (67.4%), which turned out to be Vδ2+ γδ T cells. γδ T-cell expansion has frequently been observed in the 33 reported cases with STK4 deficiency. The Vδ2 γδ T cells of this STK4-deficient patient are mostly CD45RA-CD27+CCR7+ central memory γδT cells, and their ability to proliferate in response to T-cell activation was impaired, as was that of CD4+ T cells. In conclusion, γδ T-cell expansion may act as a compensatory mechanism to combat viral infection, providing immune protection in immunocompromised individuals.
Novel algorithms based on forward-backward splitting technique: effective methods for regression and classification
Authors: Atalan Yunus , Hacıoğlu Emirhan , Ertürk Müzeyyen , Gürsoy Faik , Milovanović Gradimir V.
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we introduce two novel forward-backward splitting algorithms (FBSAs) for nonsmooth convex minimization. We provide a thorough convergence analysis, emphasizing the new algorithms and contrasting them with existing ones. Our findings are validated through a numerical example. The practical utility of these algorithms in real-world applications, including machine learning for tasks such as classification, regression, and image deblurring reveal that these algorithms consistently approach optimal solutions with fewer iterations, highlighting their efficiency in real-world scenarios.
Is a Problem-Solving Intervention with Workplace Involvement for Employees on Sickness Absence Due to Common Mental Disorders More Effective, than Care as Usual, in Reducing Sickness Absence Days? Results of a Cluster-Randomised Controlled Trial in Primary Health Care
Authors: Karlsson Ida , Frantz Anna , Axén Iben , Bergström Gunnar , Bültmann Ute , Finnes Anna , Holmgren Kristina , Kwak Lydia , Björk Brämberg Elisabeth
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a problem-solving intervention with workplace involvement (PSI-WPI) added to care as usual (CAU) in reducing sickness absence days among employees with common mental disorders compared to CAU alone in Swedish primary health care on a monthly basis over 18-months follow-up.

Methods

We conducted a cluster-randomised controlled trial including 197 employees blinded to allocation (85 PSI-WPI and 112 CAU). As sickness absence data was skewed and over-dispersed, generalised estimating equations was used to enable a comparison between the intervention and control group for each month of the follow-up period.

Results

The median number of sickness absence days over the 18-month follow-up was 78 days, inter-quartile range (IQR) 18–196 for employees receiving PSI-WPI and 64 days, IQR 18–161 for employees receiving CAU. The time x group generalised estimating equations analysis showed no statistically significant difference in sickness absence days per month.

Conclusion

The addition of a PSI-WPI to CAU was not more effective in reducing sickness absence days. This may be explained by the primary health care context, lack of specialisation in occupational health and the Swedish social insurance system with specific time limits.

Trial registration.

The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03346395 on January 12th, 2018.
Physically adjusted ground motion prediction equations for induced seismicity at Preston New Road, UK
Authors: Suroyo Pungky Megasari , Sunny Jaleena , Edwards Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Predicting ground motions due to induced seismicity is a challenging task owing to the scarcity of data and heterogeneity of the uppermost crust. Dealing with this requires a thorough understanding of the underlying physics and consideration of inter-site variability. The most common ground motion model used in practice is the parametric ground motion prediction equation (GMPE), of which hundreds exist in the literature. However, relatively few are developed with a focus on induced seismicity. Developing GMPEs that are specific to an appropriate magnitude-distance range ($$R < 30$$

R
<
30

km; $$2 \le M \le 6$$

2
≤
M
≤
6

) is important for induced seismicity applications. This paper proposes a framework for the development of physically-based GMPEs to provide more accurate and reliable estimates of the potential induced-seismicity ground motion hazard, allowing for better risk assessment and management strategies. To demonstrate this approach, a new set of GMPEs for the 2018-2019 induced seismicity sequence at the Preston New Road (PNR) shale gas site near Blackpool, United Kingdom, is presented. The physically-based GMPE was developed based on a pseudo-finite-fault stochastic ground motion simulation, calibrated with parameters derived from the spectral analysis of weak-motion records from induced seismic events. An optimization-based calibration technique using the area metric (AM) was subsequently performed to calibrate optimal parameters for simulating ground motion at the PNR site. Finally, using a suite of forward simulations for events with $$1 \le M \le 6$$

1
≤
M
≤
6

recorded at distances up to 30 km, combined with empirical data, a location-specific GMPE was derived through adjustment of an existing model.
Efficient adsorption of thorium and cerium from Rosetta monazite concentrate using a novel phosphorylated Schiff-base adsorbent
Authors: Gado Mohamed A.
Published: August 2024

(Pyridine-2,5-diylbis(azaneylylidene)) bis-(methaneylylidene)) bis(benzene-5,1,3-triyl) tetrakis (hydrogen phosphonate) (PZMB) was successfully synthesized for Th(IV) and Ce(IV) adsorption, the adsorption parameters evaluated and found to be pH 3.5, time 60 min, dose 0.15 g. Adsorption kinetics, isotherm, and thermodynamics studies. Adsorption kinetics studies show that adsorbent follow pseudo-second-order model while isotherm studies conclude that adsorption processes fitted Langmuir and D-R isotherm model. The maximum adsorption capacity of BZMB of Th(IV) and Ce(IV) are 366.4 and 244.53 mg/g respectively, Thermodynamic studies indicate both adsorption processes exhibited by the PZMB were endothermic, spontaneous and sorption occurs in a random manner.
A variational model for finger-driven cell diffusion in the extracellular matrix
Authors: Favata Antonino , Rodella Andrea , Vidoli Stefano
Published: August 2024

We present a simple chemo-mechanical variational model for a fibrous material that describes (i) the emergence of the anisotropy due to microscopic buckling instabilities (ii) a diffusion in the substrate of the cell phase driven by the new created macroscopic bands characterized by intense compressive deformation. The model is applicable for simulating the spreading of cells within tissues and their interaction with tissue remodeling during mesenchymal migration.
Quality and Safety Considerations for Therapeutic Products Based on Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Takakura Yoshinobu , Hanayama Rikinari , Akiyoshi Kazunari , Futaki Shiroh , Hida Kyoko , Ichiki Takanori , Ishii-Watabe Akiko , Kuroda Masahiko , Maki Kazushige , Miura Yasuo , Okada Yoshiaki , Seo Naohiro , Takeuchi Toshihide , Yamaguchi Teruhide , Yoshioka Yusuke
Published: August 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) serve as an intrinsic system for delivering functional molecules within our body, playing significant roles in diverse physiological phenomena and diseases. Both native and engineered EVs are currently the subject of extensive research as promising therapeutics and drug delivery systems, primarily due to their remarkable attributes, such as targeting capabilities, biocompatibility, and low immunogenicity and mutagenicity. Nevertheless, their clinical application is still a long way off owing to multiple limitations. In this context, the Science Board of the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) of Japan has conducted a comprehensive assessment to identify the current issues related to the quality and safety of EV-based therapeutic products. Furthermore, we have presented several examples of the state-of-the-art methodologies employed in EV manufacturing, along with guidelines for critical processes, such as production, purification, characterization, quality evaluation and control, safety assessment, and clinical development and evaluation of EV-based therapeutics. These endeavors aim to facilitate the clinical application of EVs and pave the way for their transformative impact in healthcare.
Sosa on scepticism and the background
Authors: Pritchard Duncan
Published: August 2024

Sosa’s influential work on virtue epistemology includes an intriguing proposal about background commitments, which he in turn relates to the Wittgensteinian notion of a hinge commitment. A critique is offered of Sosa’s proposal, particularly with regard to how he aims to apply it to the problem of radical scepticism. In light of this critique, an alternative conception of hinge commitments is offered that enables them to play a very different role in our treatment of radical scepticism.
Health-related quality of life in psychiatric outpatients: a cross-sectional study of associations with symptoms, diagnoses, and employment status
Authors: Havnen Audun , Lindberg Martin Schevik , Lundqvist Jakob , Brattmyr Martin , Hjemdal Odin , Solem Stian
Published: August 2024

Background

This cross-sectional study aimed to explore health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a large heterogeneous patient sample seeking outpatient treatment at a specialist mental health clinic.

Method

A sample of 1947 patients with common mental disorders, including depressive-, anxiety-, personality-, hyperkinetic- and trauma-related disorders, completed the EuroQoL 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L) to assess HRQoL. We investigated clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with the EQ-5D index and the EQ Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) using regression analyses.

Results

The sample reported lower HRQoL compared with the general population and primary mental health care patients. Sick leave, disability pension, work assessment allowance, and more symptoms of anxiety and depression were associated with lower EQ-5D index and EQ VAS scores. Furthermore, being male, use of pain medication and having disorders related to trauma were associated with reduced EQ-5D index scores, while hyperkinetic disorders were associated with higher EQ-5D index scores.

Conclusion

HRQoL of psychiatric outpatients is clearly impaired. This study indicated a significant association between employment status, symptom severity, and HRQoL in treatment-seeking outpatients. The findings highlight the importance of assessing HRQoL as part of routine clinical assessment.
The Gendered Influence of Cross-Gender Friends on the Development of Adolescents’ Gender Role Attitudes
Authors: Kretschmer David
Published: August 2024

Gender role attitudes have important implications at the individual, family, and societal levels, underscoring the importance of understanding their development. Although parents predominate in the socialization of gender role attitudes in childhood, the influence of friends increases during adolescence. In particular, cross-gender friends can provide unique insights and perspectives on another gender group, making them likely to shape gender role attitudes. However, empirical explorations of the link between gender role attitudes and cross-gender friendships have been rare. Furthermore, the few studies conducted have yielded ambiguous results and have struggled to separate the influence of cross-gender friends from a selection of such friendships based on gender role attitudes. This study addresses these limitations by using longitudinal social network models to assess the co-evolution of friendship networks and gender role attitudes among 3,194 youth (Mage = 15.2, SD = 0.67, 51% female) in German schools. The findings reveal that, after accounting for selection processes, boys with cross-gender friends develop more egalitarian gender role attitudes, while girls’ attitudes are unaffected by cross-gender friendships. These findings suggest that promoting cross-gender friendships among adolescent boys holds the potential to foster egalitarian gender role attitudes.
Deep disagreement across moral revolutions
Authors: Lane Benedict
Published: August 2024

Moral revolutions are rightly coming to be recognised as a philosophically interesting and historically important mode of moral change. What is less often acknowledged is that the very characteristics that make a moral change revolutionary pose a fundamental challenge to the possibility of moral progress. This is because moral revolutions are characterised by a diachronic form of deep moral disagreement: moral agents on either side of a moral revolution adopt different standards for assessing the merits of a moral argument, and according to the standards they adopt, agents on neither side of the revolution ought to accept the arguments being put forward by those on the other. This threatens to undermine the progressive status of many of our most celebrated historical examples of moral revolutions: if a moral revolution only looks progressive in light of a change in evaluative standards it itself brought about, then moral progress seems relative to a particular historical perspective; if prior to a moral revolution taking place the moral arguments in its favour fall short of the relevant standards, moral revolutions can never be the outcome of rational argumentation. This apparent relativism and irrationality sits uncomfortably alongside our common-sense intuition that the moral revolutions upon which our contemporary moral worldview rests count as genuine moral progress. In this paper, I deepen currently popular Kuhnian-inspired accounts of moral revolution by incorporating Wittgensteinian ideas from Philosophical Investigations and On Certainty. The result is an original way of thinking about deep moral disagreements, moral revolutions, and moral progress.
Repeated injections of vitamin E and Se improves testicular morphology, testosterone and in vitro and in vivo sperm fertility in subfertile rabbits
Authors: Fadl Aya M. , Samir Haney , Shahat Abdallah M.
Published: August 2024

Subfertility is a multifactorial disorder that affects the rabbit production industry. However, subfertility may be treated by using a simple intervention such as vitamin supplementation. Vitamin E and selenium (Se) are potent antioxidants that protect the male reproductive system. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of vitamin E and Se on testicular size, semen quality and freezability, antioxidant activity, testosterone levels, and fertility in subfertile rabbits. Twenty-one New Zealand rabbits were classified as subfertile rabbits based on their semen characteristics and fertility records. The rabbits were randomly allocated into 3 equal groups (G1: control; G2: injected with Vit E 100 IU/head + Se 0.1 mg/kg b.w.; G3: injected with Vit E 200 IU/head + Se 0.2 mg/kg b.w. once weekly for 8 weeks).Once weekly for 8 W, blood samples were collected to measure serum testosterone level and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and semen samples were collected by artificial vagina to assess the quality of fresh and frozen semen. At the 8th week of the study, 150 multiparous does were artificially inseminated with fresh semen to assess the fertility of rabbits after treatment; 50 does for each group. At the end of the study, rabbits were slaughtered to assess testicular morphometry. Fresh and post-thaw semen quality parameters were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in G3in comparison with G2and G1, respectively. Also, testosterone level was significantly (p < 0.05) increased at the 2nd week in G3in comparison with other groups. Conception and kindling rates were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in does which were inseminated with semen fromG3. In conclusion, injection of vitamin E and selenium at a higher dose (G3) improved the testicular morphology, quality of fresh and post-thaw semen, and most importantly, the fertility of subfertile rabbits.
Enhancement of Psychosocial Competence and Well-Being of Chinese High School Students under the COVID-19 Pandemic: Tin Ka Ping P.A.T.H.S. Project in Mainland China
Authors: Shek Daniel T. L.
Published: August 2024

Mental health problem is a growing problem in mainland China and the situation has worsened under the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides focusing on tertiary and secondary prevention strategies, there is an urgent need to enhance the well-being of adolescents through primary prevention programs. During the pandemic, a positive youth development program entitled “Tin Ka Ping P.A.T.H.S. Program” was implemented in schools in mainland China. In 2022/23 academic year, students were invited to write a weekly diary on their experience about the program after completion of the program (N = 2,337). Qualitative evaluation showed that 98.2% of the students perceived the program was beneficial to their well-being in different domains. Specifically, students perceived the program enhanced their sense of community, school and academic adjustment, interpersonal relations (family relations and peer relations), and intrapersonal competence (including optimism, resilience, positive coping with stress, spirituality, life meaning and cherishing one’s life). In conjunction with other quantitative and qualitative evaluation findings, the triangulated findings strongly suggest Tin Ka Ping P.A.T.H.S. Program is a promising program that enhances the psychosocial competence and quality of life of adolescents.
New Advances in Medical Management of Left Ventricular Assist Devices Recipients
Authors: Racharla Lekha , Sidhu Kiran , Vidula Himabindu
Published: August 2024

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to discuss medical management of patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) and to summarize recent advancements, specifically focusing on medications for anticoagulation, blood pressure, and heart failure.

Recent Findings

Omission of aspirin in LVAD recipients is not associated with an increased risk of pump thrombosis, stroke, or peripheral arterial thromboembolism. Early data from small studies suggest that direct oral anticoagulants can be safely used in patients with the newer generation HeartMate 3 devices. Data supports a mean arterial blood pressure goal of 75-90 mmHg, with avoidance of hypotension. Finally, retrospective studies demonstrate that quadruple guideline-directed medical therapy can be used in patients on LVAD support without an increased risk of adverse events.

Management of LVAD patients is complex, requiring ongoing active decision-making for titration of medications. Larger studies of medical management are needed to further reduce the incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding, right ventricular failure, and increase the potential for myocardial recovery.
Barely alternating real almost chains and extension operators for compact lines
Authors: Avilés Antonio , Korpalski Maciej
Published: August 2024

Assume $$\text {MA}(\kappa )$$

MA
(
κ
)

. We show that for every real chain of size $$\kappa $$
κ
in the quotient Boolean algebra $$P(\omega )/fin$$

P
(
ω
)
/
f
i
n

we can find an almost chain of representatives such that every $$n\in \omega $$

n
∈
ω

oscillates at most three times along the almost chain. This is used to show that for every countable discrete extension of a separable compact line K of weight $$\kappa $$
κ
there exists an extension operator $$E:C(K)\longrightarrow C(L)$$

E
:
C
(
K
)
⟶
C
(
L
)

of norm at most three.
Ist der Schockraum noch zeitgemäß?
Authors: Dünser Martin W. , Noitz Matthias , Eisenburger Philip , Klinglmair Michaela , Meier Jens , Behringer Wilhelm
Published: August 2024

Kritisch kranke Notfallpatient:innen stellen unterschiedliche Anforderungen an Art und Dauer der Erstversorgung in einer Notfallabteilung. Während jene mit Trauma häufig so schnell wie möglich einer operativen Versorgung zugeführt werden müssen, unterscheiden sich kritisch kranke Patient:innen mit den unterschiedlichsten nicht-traumatologischen Pathologien sowohl in den Anforderungen an die Dringlichkeit der diagnostischen und therapeutischen Versorgung als auch in der Aufenthaltsdauer bis zur möglichen Reversierung der kritischen Erkrankung oder Festlegung Patient:innen-zentrierter Therapieziele.

Die Autoren plädieren dafür, in den Notfallabteilungen intensivmedizinische Behandlungsbereiche zu etablieren, die eine optimale Versorgung aller kritisch kranken Notfallpatient:innen (mit oder ohne Trauma) gestatten und die Anpassung der Behandlungsstrategien an die individuellen Bedürfnisse der Patient:innen erlauben. Schockräume bzw. Schockraumbehandlungsplätze zur Versorgung von Notfallpatient:innen, die einer Zeit-fokussierten und multiprofessionellen Erstbehandlung bedürfen (z. B. Schwerverletzte, Patient:innen unter laufender oder Z. n. kardiopulmonaler Reanimation, Patient:innen unter extrakorporaler kardiopulmonaler Reanimation (eCPR)) sollen in diesen Intensivbehandlungsbereichen integriert sein.
Finding Meaning in Politics: When Victims Become Activists
Authors: Bateson Regina
Published: August 2024

Victimization is often associated with increased political participation, and victims are influential political actors in many countries around the world. Yet for victims, activism is costly: they tell and re-tell painful stories, face searing criticism, and work to exhaustion—all at one of the worst moments of their lives. So why do they do it? Based on ethnographic research with Families for Safe Streets, a group of victims-turned-activists in New York City, this article advances a new explanation for victims’ participation in politics. I propose that for some victims, meaning-making is an in-process benefit of activism. My inductive research suggests three ways victims find meaning in politics. First, through their activism, victims can re-conceptualize the losses and harms they have suffered as policy problems, rather than random, inexplicable events. Victims may also seek to help others by changing laws to prevent similar tragedies from recurring, and some victims see their activism as a way of fulfilling important obligations to their communities, their families, and their deceased relatives.
From Gender Gap to Gender Gaps: Bringing Nonbinary People into Political Behavior Research
Authors: Albaugh Quinn M. , Harell Allison , Loewen Peter John , Rubenson Daniel , Stephenson Laura B.
Published: August 2024

The “gender gap” in voting is one of the most well-documented findings in survey research across democracies. However, gender gap research has traditionally assumed that everyone is either a man or a woman, which does not account for the growing number of people who identify as nonbinary. How do nonbinary people differ from men and women in their party identification and voting behavior? We answer this question using data from the 2021 Canadian Election Study online panel, which has a large enough subsample of nonbinary respondents to identify gaps in party identification and voting behavior. Nonbinary people are much less likely to identify with and vote for the Liberal Party or Conservative Party and much more likely to identify with and vote for the social democratic New Democratic Party (NDP) than both men and women. Many of these gaps persist even when restricting the analysis to LGBTQ respondents, adjusting for demographic variables that predict nonbinary identity, and adjusting for issue attitudes. Nonbinary people’s distinctiveness from men and women suggests that researchers need to add nonbinary response options to gender questions and, wherever possible, incorporate nonbinary people into analyses of gender and politics.