bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of reactive coarse recycled aggregate with different expansion history on alkali silica reactivity and mechanical properties of new concrete
Authors: Moghimi Saeid , Yuksel Cihat , Ramyar Kambiz
Published: December 2023

Recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) provide an environmentally friendly solution by reducing the depletion of natural resources. This study investigates the impact of the expansion history of RCA on its reactivity with alkalis in newly produced concrete. Parent concrete samples were collected from the RILEM AAR‐4 curing cabinet (60°C and >90% RH) to produce coarse RCA with four different expansion levels (0.00%, 0.05%, 0.12%, and 0.20%). The results show that the expansion levels of the new concrete mixtures decreased as the ASR expansion history of parent concrete increased. The 20‐week compressive strength and elastic modulus of the reactive aggregate concrete containing no mineral admixture and exposed to AAR‐4 test conditions were lower than those of their water‐cured counterparts. However, no decrease was observed in the elastic modulus of concrete mixtures that showed an expansion level lower than 0.03% (the maximum expansion for nonreactive aggregate as recommended by the RILEM AAR‐4 standard).
SVR Control Method Adapted to Three‐Phase Unbalanced Voltage in Distribution Systems with Photovoltaics and Electric Vehicles
Authors: Okuno Tatsuki , Kaneko Akihisa , Hayashi Yasuhiro , Ishimaru Masaaki , Doi Minoru
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes a control method for step voltage regulators (SVRs) to avoid voltage violations in distribution systems with unbalanced voltages due to photovoltaic (PV) generation and electric vehicle (EV) charging. Distribution system operators must effectively address voltage problems resulting from the widespread installation of distributed energy resources under the optimizing the utilization of existing voltage regulators to establish an efficient and rational infrastructure. Therefore, this study focused on advancements in voltage control using SVR based on line‐drop compensator (LDC) control, which is widely used in actual operations. We propose a method that utilizes voltage data from information technology switches to detect and address voltage unbalances in the control section, allowing for the sequential adjustment of the monitoring target in LDC control to maintain appropriate voltage limits under unbalanced conditions. We conducted power flow calculations using a distribution system model that represents an actual distribution system in the Hokuriku area. The effectiveness of the proposed method was evaluated in terms of its impact on PV and EV hosting capacity, as well as the frequency of tap operations. © 2023 The Authors. IEEJ Transactions on Electrical and Electronic Engineering published by Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A contemporary analysis of 20,086 deceased donor liver biopsies
Authors: Wang Benjamin K. , Chen Alyssa Y. , Prasadh Jai , Desai Drewv , Shubin Andrew D. , Raschzok Nathanael , MacConmara Malcolm , Ivanics Tommy , Cotter Thomas , Hwang Christine , Shah Jigesh A. , Mufti Arjmand , Vagefi Parsia A. , Hanish Steven I. , Patel Madhukar S.
Published: December 2023

Background

Pre‐transplant deceased donor liver biopsy may impact decision making; however, interpretation of the results remains variable and depends on accepting center practice patterns.

Methods

In this cohort study, adult recipients from 04/01/2015–12/31/2020 were identified using the UNOS STARfile data. The deceased donor liver biopsies were stratified by risk based on degree of fibrosis, macrovesicular fat content, and level of portal infiltration (low‐risk: no fibrosis, no portal infiltrates, and <30% macrosteatosis; moderate‐risk: some fibrosis or mild infiltrates and <30% macrosteatosis; high‐risk: most fibrosis, moderate/marked infiltrates, or ≥30% macrosteatosis). Graft utilization, donor risk profile, and recipient outcomes were compared across groups.

Results

Of the 51,094 donor livers available, 20,086 (39.3%) were biopsied, and 34,606 (67.7%) were transplanted. Of the transplanted livers, 14,908 (43.1%) were biopsied. The transplanted grafts had lower mean macrovesicular fat content (9.3% transplanted vs. 26.9% non‐transplanted, P < 0.001) and less often had any degree of fibrosis (20.9% vs. 39.9%, P < 0.001) or portal infiltration (51.3% vs. 58.2%, P < 0.001) versus non‐transplanted grafts. Post‐transplant recipient LOS (14.2 days high‐risk vs. 15.2 days low‐risk, P = 0.170) and 1‐year graft survival (90.5% vs. 91.7%, P = 0.137) did not differ significantly between high‐ versus low‐risk groups. Kaplan‐Meier survival estimates further revealed no differences in the 5‐year graft survival across risk strata (P = 0.833). Of the 5178 grafts biopsied and turned down, PSM revealed 1338 (26.0%) were potentially useable based on biopsy results and donor characteristics.

Conclusion

Carefully matched deceased donor livers with some fibrosis, inflammation, or steatosis ≥30% may be suitable for transplantation. Further study of this group of grafts may decrease turndowns of potentially useable organs.
Synthesis of the (Sn4Bi4)2− Anion by Mild Oxidation of (Sn2Bi2)2−
Authors: Lohse Yannick R. , Weinert Bastian , Peerless Benjamin , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: December 2023

Reactions involving Zintl ions are typically carried out in N‐based solvents such as liquid ammonia (NH3(l)), ethane‐1,2‐diamine (en), pyridine (py), or acetonitrile (CH3CN). We are currently investigating the application of other solvents as alternatives. Herein, we present the synthesis of the (Sn4Bi4)2− anion, obtained as its [K(crypt‐222)]+ salt (crypt‐222=4,7,13,16,21,24‐hexaoxa‐1,10‐diazabicyclo[8.8.8]hexacosane), from reactions of the binary, pseudo‐tetrahedral Zintl anion (Sn2Bi2)2− in the presence of phosphines as oxidation agents in ortho‐difluorobenzene (o‐DFB). The cluster comprises 38 valence electrons, hence, represents an arachno‐type architecture according to Wade‐Mingos rules. Micro‐X‐ray fluorescence (μ‐XFS) spectroscopy rationalized the elemental composition of the anion, and quantum chemical studies served to compare the stability of possible structural isomers of the global minimum structure.
Die Entwicklung der Sozialverbände – von der Kriegsopferbewegung zum sozialpolitischen Interessenvertreter und Rechtsdienstleister
Authors: Weyrich Katharina
Published: December 2023

Um sich dem Forschungsgegenstand der sozialrechtsbezogenen Beratung zu nähern und ihre Rolle im Zugang zum System sozialer Sicherung zu erforschen, gilt es, sich auch mit den Organisationen auseinanderzusetzen, die die Durchführung der Beratung verantworten. Der Fokus der für die vorliegende Arbeit durchgeführten Studie liegt hauptsächlich auf den Sozialverbänden. Im folgenden Abschnitt wird auf deren Ursprung und Geschichte eingegangen.
Die sozialrechtsbezogene Beratung und der Zugang zum System sozialer Sicherung – theoretische und empirische Annäherungen an das Forschungsfeld
Authors: Weyrich Katharina
Published: December 2023

Dieses Kapitel gibt einen Überblick über den Stand der Forschung zur sozialverbandlichen Beratung sowie zu den aktuellen wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnissen über den Zugang zum Recht respektive zu den sozialen Sicherungssystemen, die im Zusammenhang mit der vorliegenden Studie relevant sind.
Die sozialrechtsbezogene Beratung als Forschungssituation – fallspezifische Ergebnisdarstellungen
Authors: Weyrich Katharina
Published: December 2023

Während meines ersten Feldaufenthaltes am 09.07.2018 bei einem VdK-Landesverband konnte ich die übersetzendeBeratung als letzte von drei Beratungsgesprächen an diesem Tag teilnehmend beobachten. Die Beraterin Melanie Birkenbach bittet Reiner und Sylvia Schneider in ihr Büro und stellt mich den Ratsuchenden vor. Sie bietet den beiden zwei freie Stühle an und setzt sich selbst wieder an ihren Schreibtisch, wo neben einem Computer und Büroutensilien auch einige beratungsbezogene Dokumente liegen. Die Ratsuchenden nehmen ihre Plätze ein.
Die Gewährleistung eines effektiven Zugangs zum System sozialer Sicherung
Authors: Weyrich Katharina
Published: December 2023

Aus den Einzelfalldarstellungen und dem Fallvergleich der beobachteten Beratungssituationen in Kapitel 5 ist hervorgegangen, dass der Zugang zum System sozialer Sicherung in den jeweiligen Beratungs-Arenen für die Ratsuchenden entweder gewährleistet ist oder verwehrt bleibt. Im folgenden Teilkapitel werde ich die situierten Rechtsmobilisierungsphasen des naming, blaming und claiming fallübergreifend rekonstruieren und herausarbeiten, inwiefern die sozialrechtsbezogene Beratung soziale Sicherungsleistungen für Ratsuchende effektiv zugänglich macht und unter welchen Voraussetzungen die Herstellung eines Zugangs geschieht.
miR-181a plays the tumor-suppressor role in chronic myeloid leukemia CD34 + cells partially via SERPINE1
Authors: Zhang Xiuyan , Ma Wenjuan , Xue Wen , Wang Yu , Chen Pan , Li Quanxue , Li Yuan-Yuan , Hu Xiaohui , Zhao Yun , Zhou Haixia
Published: December 2023

The formation of the BCR-ABL fusion gene drives human chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The last 2 decades have witnessed that specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs, e.g., imatinib mesylate, IM) against ABL1 improve disease treatment, although some patients still suffer from relapse and TKI resistance. Therefore, a better understanding of the molecular pathology of CML is still urgently needed. miR-181a-5p (miR-181a) acts as a tumor suppressor in CML; however, the molecular mechanism of miR-181a in CML stem/progenitor cells remains elusive. Herein, we showed that miR-181a inhibited the growth of CML CD34+ cells, including the quiescent subset, and sensitized them to IM treatment, while miR-181a inhibition by a sponge sequence collaborated with BCR-ABL to enhance the growth of normal CD34+ cells. Transcriptome data and biochemical analysis revealed that SERPINE1 was a bona fide and critical target of miR-181a, which deepened the understanding of the regulatory mechanism of SERPINE1. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of SERPINE1 led to apoptosis mainly mediated by caspase-9 activation. The dual inhibition of SERPINE1 and BCR-ABL exhibited a significantly stronger inhibitory effect than a single agent. Taken together, this study demonstrates that a novel miR-181a/SERPINE1 axis modulates CML stem/progenitor cells, which likely provides an important approach to override TKI resistance.
Weak and parabolic solutions of advection–diffusion equations with rough velocity field
Authors: Bonicatto Paolo , Ciampa Gennaro , Crippa Gianluca
Published: December 2023

We study the Cauchy problem for the advection–diffusion equation $$\partial _t u + {{\,\mathrm{\textrm{div}}\,}}(u\varvec{b}) = \Delta u$$

∂
t

u
+

div

(
u

b

)

=
Δ
u

associated with a merely integrable divergence-free vector field $$\varvec{b}$$

b

defined on the torus. We discuss existence, regularity and uniqueness results for distributional and parabolic solutions, in different regimes of integrability both for the vector field and for the initial datum. We offer an up-to-date picture of the available results scattered in the literature, and we include some original proofs. We also propose some open problems, motivated by very recent results which show ill-posedness of the equation in certain regimes of integrability via convex integration schemes.
MRI of cerebral oedema in ischaemic stroke and its current use in routine clinical practice
Authors: Čivrný Jakub , Tomáš Dorňák , Černá Marie
Published: December 2023

Currently, with the knowledge of the role of collateral circulation in the development of cerebral ischaemia, traditional therapeutic windows are being prolonged, with time not being the only criterion. Instead, a more personalised approach is applied to select additional patients who might benefit from active treatment. This review briefly describes the current knowledge of the pathophysiology of the development of early ischaemic changes, the capabilities of MRI to depict such changes, and the basics of the routinely used imaging techniques broadly available for the assessment of individual phases of cerebral ischaemia, and summarises the possible clinical use of routine MR imaging, including patient selection for active treatment and assessment of the outcome on the basis of imaging.
River Sediments Downstream of Villages in a Karstic Watershed Exhibited Increased Numbers and Higher Diversity of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria
Authors: Modra Helena , Ulmann Vit , Gersl Milan , Babak Vladimir , Konecny Ondrej , Hubelova Dana , Caha Jan , Kudelka Jan , Falkinham Joseph Oliver , Pavlik Ivo
Published: December 2023

The impact of residential villages on the nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in streams flowing through them has not been studied in detail. Water and sediments of streams are highly susceptible to anthropogenic inputs such as surface water flows. This study investigated the impact of seven residential villages in a karst watershed on the prevalence and species spectrum of NTM in water and sediments. Higher NTM species diversity (i.e., 19 out of 28 detected) was recorded downstream of the villages and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) compared to sampling sites upstream (i.e., 5). Significantly, higher Zn and lower silicon concentrations were detected in sediments inside the village and downstream of the WWTP’s effluents. Higher phosphorus concentration in sediment was downstream of WWTPs compared to other sampling sites. The effluent from the WWTPs had a substantial impact on water quality parameters with significant increases in total phosphorus, anions (Cl–and N-NH3–), and cations (Na+ and K+). The results provide insights into NTM numbers and species diversity distribution in a karst watershed and the impact of urban areas. Although in this report the focus is on the NTM, it is likely that other water and sediment microbes will be influenced as well.

Graphical Abstract
QTL Regions and Candidate Genes Associated with Selected Morphological Traits of Winter Triticale (× Triticosecale) Seedlings
Authors: Gołębiowska-Paluch Gabriela , Dyda Mateusz , Wajdzik Katarzyna
Published: December 2023

The development and viability of seedlings are crucial in overwintering cereals, as it can affect not only an adult plant physiological condition, but also the size and quality of future grain. Recent studies on the genetic control of morphological and yield-related traits have been focused on adult plants of wheat, barley, maize, and rice. However, there is insufficient research describing the genetic control of cereals in the seedling stage. To fill that gap, the winter triticale ‘Hewo’ × ‘Magnat’-doubled haploid lines population was used to locate quantitative trait loci associated with selected traits measured at the seedling stage: the width and length of the first and second leaves, the leaf blade and leaf sheath lengths as well as the length-to-width ratio. Based on the genetic map for ‘Hewo’ × ‘Magnat’ DH population, main four loci, statistically significant (P < 0.05) and strongly associated with the second leaf length and width as well as their ratio were identified. Those regions were located on rye chromosomes 4R, 5R, and 6R with LOD value up to 20.35. In addition, candidate genes in localized regions were identified. The work also demonstrated correlations between the morphology of the second leaf, especially its length-to-width ratio, and the encoded proteins. As described in this paper, results are, to our knowledge, a first attempt to determine the genetic control of triticale seedlings and can provide a new insight on this field and become a reference for developing novel triticale varieties in breeding programmes.
Analysis of biomarkers in speculative CNS-enriched extracellular vesicles for parkinsonian disorders: a comprehensive systematic review and diagnostic meta-analysis
Authors: Taha Hash Brown , Bogoniewski Aleksander
Published: December 2023

Background and objective

Parkinsonian disorders, including Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple system atrophy (MSA), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and corticobasal syndrome (CBS), exhibit overlapping early-stage symptoms, complicating definitive diagnosis despite heterogeneous cellular and regional pathophysiology. Additionally, the progression and the eventual conversion of prodromal conditions such as REM behavior disorder (RBD) to PD, MSA, or DLB remain challenging to predict. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small, membrane-enclosed structures released by cells, playing a vital role in communicating cell-state-specific messages. Due to their ability to cross the blood–brain barrier into the peripheral circulation, measuring biomarkers in blood-isolated speculative CNS enriched EVs has become a popular diagnostic approach. However, replication and independent validation remain challenging in this field. Here, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of speculative CNS-enriched EVs for parkinsonian disorders.

Methods

We conducted a PRISMA-guided systematic review and meta-analysis, covering 18 studies with a total of 1695 patients with PD, 253 with MSA, 21 with DLB, 172 with PSP, 152 with CBS, 189 with RBD, and 1288 HCs, employing either hierarchical bivariate models or univariate models based on study size.

Results

Diagnostic accuracy was moderate for differentiating patients with PD from HCs, but revealed high heterogeneity and significant publication bias, suggesting an inflation of the perceived diagnostic effectiveness. The bias observed indicates that studies with non-significant or lower effect sizes were less likely to be published. Although results for differentiating patients with PD from those with MSA or PSP and CBS appeared promising, their validity is limited due to the small number of involved studies coming from the same research group. Despite initial reports, our analyses suggest that using speculative CNS-enriched EV biomarkers may not reliably differentiate patients with MSA from HCs or patients with RBD from HCs, due to their lesser accuracy and substantial variability among the studies, further complicated by substantial publication bias.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore the moderate, yet unreliable diagnostic accuracy of biomarkers in speculative CNS-enriched EVs in differentiating parkinsonian disorders, highlighting the presence of substantial heterogeneity and significant publication bias. These observations reinforce the need for larger, more standardized, and unbiased studies to validate the utility of these biomarkers but also call for the development of better biomarkers for parkinsonian disorders.
Pain quality patterns in delayed onset muscle soreness of the lower back suggest sensitization of fascia rather than muscle afferents: a secondary analysis study
Authors: Brandl Andreas , Wilke Jan , Egner Christoph , Schmidt Tobias , Schilder Andreas , Schleip Robert
Published: December 2023

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) of the lower back is considered a surrogate for acute low back pain (aLBP) in experimental studies. Of note, it is often unquestioningly assumed to be muscle pain. To date, there has not been a study analyzing lumbar DOMS in terms of its pain origin, which was the aim of this study. Sixteen healthy individuals (L-DOMS) were enrolled for the present study and matched to participants from a previous study (n = 16, L-PAIN) who had undergone selective electrical stimulation of the thoracolumbar fascia and the multifidus muscle. DOMS was induced in the lower back of the L-DOMS group using eccentric trunk extensions performed until exhaustion. On subsequent days, pain on palpation (100-mm analogue scale), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and the Pain Sensation Scale (SES) were used to examine the sensory characteristics of DOMS. Pain on palpation showed a significant increase 24 and 48 h after eccentric training, whereas PPT was not affected (p > 0.05). Factor analysis of L-DOMS and L-PAIN sensory descriptors (SES) yielded a stable three-factor solution distinguishing superficial thermal (“heat pain “) from superficial mechanical pain (“sharp pain”) and “deep pain.” “Heat pain “ and “deep pain” in L-DOMS were almost identical to sensory descriptors from electrical stimulation of fascial tissue (L-PAIN, all p > 0.679) but significantly different from muscle pain (all p < 0.029). The differences in sensory description patterns as well as in PPT and self-reported DOMS for palpation pain scores suggest that DOMS has a fascial rather than a muscular origin.
Recent insights into the morphology, molecular characterization and tissue localization of the caprine Sarcocystis species infecting domestic goats (Capra hiricus): Sarcocystis moulei, Sarcocystis capracanis, and Sarcocystis hircicanis
Authors: El-Morsey Ahmed , Abdo Walied
Published: December 2023

Ninety-seven (64.67%) out of 150 domestic goats (Capra hiricus) carcasses were found to be infected by Sarcocystis moulei, Sarcocystis capracanis, and Sarcocystis hircicanis sarcocysts. Sarcocystis moulei macrosarcocysts were detected in the cardiac, esophageal, skeletal, lingual, and diaphragmatic muscles of seven goats (4.67%) out of the 150 examined animals, whereas the microscopic Sarcocystis species were found in (90/150 = 60%). Two morphotypes of S. moulei were observed. Morphotype (I) macrosarcocysts were large-sized oval, ovoid, spherical, and measured 2–7 mm in length x 2–6 mm in width. Sarcocystis moulei morphotype (II) macrosarcocysts were spindle-shaped, spheroid, sometimes elongated, and measured 1.8–6 x 0.5–2 mm. By TEM, all S. moulei morphotypes were ultrastructurally the same and had a sarcocyst wall that was characterized by highly branched or cauliflower-like villar protrusions (VP) with dumbbell-like structures. The VP interior was packed with well-developed microtubules in longitudinal and cross arrangements. Sarcocystis moulei cyst wall was 3–6 μm thick. Sarcocystis capracanis microsarcocysts detected herein had a cyst wall that ranged from 4–8 μm in thickness. The VP was upright finger-like or cylindrical. The PVM had electron-dense corrugations in the region of the VP. Few amounts of microfilaments were detected inside the cores of VP. Sarcocystis hircicanis had a thinner cyst wall (~1–3 μm) with hairy long VP that ranged from 1 to 7.5 μm in length. Microtubules were missing inside the cores of the VP. The three caprine Sarcocystis species were molecularly characterized on the level of the 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, and Cox1 genes.
Impact of text reminders on pneumatic compression device (PCD) compliance in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema
Authors: Maingi Shail , O’Malley Ellen M.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Do cell phone text reminders impact the rate of compliance with pneumatic compression device (PCD) therapy among women with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL)?

Methods

A prospective, randomized, 2-group feasibility study conducted at 2 centers. Participants were adult females (≥18 years old) with unilateral BCRL who had the capability of receiving reminder text messages. All participants underwent PCD therapy. Participants were randomized 1:1 to control (no text messages) or test group (received text message reminders if the PCD had not been used for 2 consecutive days). The rate of compliance between treatment groups was the main outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures were changes in arm girth, quality of life (QOL), and symptom severity.

Results

Twenty-nine participants were enrolled and randomized, 25 were available for follow-up at 60 days (14 test, 11 control). Overall, 52.2% (12/23) of all participants were completely compliant, an additional 43.5% (10/23) were partially compliant, and 1 patient (4.3%) was noncompliant. The test and control groups did not differ in device compliance. In the pooled population, weight, BMI, and arm girth were improved. Overall disease-specific QOL and symptom severity were improved. Regression analysis showed benefits were greater among participants with higher rates of compliance.

Conclusions

Automated text reminders did not improve compliance in patients with BCRL as compliance rates were already high in this patient population. Improvements in weight, BMI, arm girth, disease-specific quality of life, and symptom severity measures were observed regardless of the treatment assignment. Full compliance resulted in greater functional and QOL benefits.

Trial registration

The study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04432727) on June 16, 2020.
Study of the Dynamic Failure Characteristics of Anisotropic Shales Under Impact Brazilian Splitting
Authors: Feng Xianhui , Gong Bin , Liang Zhengzhao , Wang Shanyong , Tang Chun’an , Li Hong , Ma Tianhui
Published: December 2023

The mechanical behaviors of shales with transversely isotropic characteristics under dynamic loading have great significance for structural instability in geotechnical engineering. To understand the effect of transverse isotropy on the deformability and tensile strength of shales subjected to dynamic loading, a group of impact Brazilian tests were carried out on shale specimens via a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) testing system. High-speed digital image correlation technology was applied to monitor the fracture process. The experimental results demonstrate that the failure strength has considerable anisotropy as the bedding angle of the embedded layers changes. Moreover, the tensile strength of shales with vertical bedding is usually higher than that of shales with parallel bedding. The observed failure mode is mainly the interaction between tensile and/or shear fractures, and with increasing loading rate, layer-activated fractures tend to occur. Furthermore, five typical failure patterns of transversely isotropic shales characterized by different mechanisms under dynamic Brazilian testing were found. The shales were sensitive to the strain rate when the deformation and fracture response under dynamic loading were assessed. In addition, the modified Nova‒Zaninetti criterion that considers the strain rate effect was proposed according to the Brazilian splitting data and dynamic coordinate system. The established criterion not only properly represents the law of dynamic strength but also provides a new understanding of the effect of strain rate on strength. It has proven to be effective for predicting the dynamic strength characteristics of shales.
Mechanisms of Block Instability at the Toe of a Slowly Deforming Rock Slope
Authors: Carlà Tommaso , Gigli Giovanni , Lombardi Luca , Nocentini Massimiliano , Gracchi Teresa , Rossi Guglielmo , Tacconi Stefanelli Carlo , Raspini Federico , Fubelli Giandomenico , Casagli Nicola
Published: December 2023

Steep alpine rock slopes undergoing deformation may give rise to concurrent landslide hazards of different type and magnitude. The underlying mechanisms of instability are often challenging to investigate due to their inherent complexity; furthermore, they can occur on poorly accessible terrain, preventing the collection of data by means of traditional field techniques or even inhibiting awareness of hazards. This paper focuses upon one such case, in which a major transportation corridor running along the floor of the Aosta Valley (Western Italian Alps) is affected by significant—and until recently unknown—rockfall hazards promoted by a previously collapsed rockslide still deforming slowly at elevations almost 600 m above the road. In particular, two large discrete blocks (volume > 103 m3) lie precariously at the toe of the slide and could fall downslope at extremely rapid velocity. The design of countermeasures for the stabilization or removal of these blocks would require the assessment of their mechanical interaction with the bedrock and degree of internal fracturing (i.e., possible pervasive damage within the blocks). We perform this task by first exploring potential kinematic styles and damage patterns at failure according to a series of preliminary finite-element models. We then use detailed displacement measurements from remote sensing and in situ monitoring, in conjunction with repeat topographic surveying from a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) and a drone laser scanner (DLS), to reconstruct the actual kinematics of the blocks. The results substantiate the hypothesis that instability is primarily controlled by transient degradation of friction on a through-going basal rupture surface. Development of a large tensile fracture in one of the two blocks is inferred to be conditioned by increased non-planarity of the slipping joint in comparison with the other block. We highlight that optimized integration of cutting-edge rock slope investigation tools can help address otherwise unresolved key aspects of complex instabilities in steep mountainous areas.
Changes to women’s childbirth plans during the COVID-19 pandemic and posttraumatic stress symptoms: a cross-national study
Authors: Mesquita Ana , Costa Raquel , Dikmen-Yildiz Pelin , Faria Susana , Silvestrini Gabriela , Mateus Vera , Vousoura Eleni , Wilson Claire A. , Felice Ethel , Ajaz Erilda , Hadjigeorgiou Eleni , Hancheva Camellia , Contreras-García Yolanda , Domínguez-Salas Sara , Motrico Emma , Soares Isabel , Ayers Susan
Published: December 2023

A considerable number of women giving birth during COVID-19 pandemic reported being concerned about changes to their childbirth plans and experiences due to imposed restrictions. Research prior to the pandemic suggests that women may be more at risk of post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) due to unmet expectations of their childbirth plans. Therefore, this study aimed to examine if the mismatch between women’s planned birth and actual birth experiences during COVID-19 was associated with women’s postpartum PTSS. Women in the postpartum period (up to 6 months after birth) across 11 countries reported on childbirth experiences, mental health, COVID-19-related factors, and PTSS (PTSD checklist DSM-5 version) using self-report questionnaires (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04595123). More than half (64%) of the 3532 postpartum women included in the analysis reported changes to their childbirth plans. All changes were significantly associated with PTSS scores. Participants with one and two changes to their childbirth plans had a 12% and 38% increase, respectively, in PTSS scores compared to those with no changes (Exp(β) = 1.12; 95% CI [1.06–1.19]; p < 0.001 and Exp(β) = 1.38; 95% CI [1.29–1.48]; p < 0.001). In addition, the effect of having one change in the childbirth plan on PTSS scores was stronger in primigravida than in multigravida (Exp(β) = 0.86; 95% CI [0.77–0.97]; p = 0.014). Changes to women’s childbirth plans during the COVID-19 pandemic were common and associated with women’s postpartum PTSS score. Developing health policies that protect women from the negative consequences of unexpected or unintended birth experiences is important for perinatal mental health.
Exploring the influence of nasal morbidity on quality of life following endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery: a retrospective cohort study of 95 patients
Authors: Hegde Rutwik , Prodan Vlad , Futera Karolina , Hathorn Iain , Gohil Rohit , Hughes Mark A.
Published: December 2023

The endoscopic endonasal approach is more disruptive to normal anatomy (particularly nasal mucosa) than the transseptal submucosal microscopic approach. This may result in greater postoperative nasal morbidity, in turn reducing quality of life. We aimed to assess the severity and time course of nasal morbidity, and its impact on quality of life, following endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery in this retrospective cohort study. We identified 95 patients who underwent endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery for anterior skull base pathologies. Nasal-specific questions from the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) and the Anterior Skull Base inventory (ASB-12) were combined with quality-of-life questions. Patient demographics, diagnosis, and operative data were collected from electronic records. Age of the cohort ranged from 14–83 years. Time elapsed since surgery ranged from 3–85 months. 85/95 (89%) felt that nasal morbidity associated with surgery was acceptable, given the underlying reason for, and outcome of surgery; 10/95 (11%) did not. 71/95 (75%) reported no change or improvement in olfaction 3-months following surgery. 24/95 (25%) reported a deterioration in olfaction which was mild in 7%, moderate in 7%, and severe in 11%. Nasal crusting, nasal obstruction, and headache were moderately problematic symptoms but improved significantly by 3-month follow-up. Nasal discharge, nasal pain, and nasal whistling were mildly problematic and improved significantly by 3-months. 62/95 (65%) patients reported ‘no change’ in day-to-day activities due to the effects on their nose after surgery. 19/95 (20%) had ‘mild inconvenience’, 8/95 (8%) ‘moderate inconvenience’ and 6/95 (6%) ‘severe inconvenience’. Endoscopic anterior skull base surgery is associated with nasal morbidity. Whilst 35% of patients appreciate a consequent negative impact on day-to-day life, the overwhelming majority feel that nasal morbidity is acceptable, given the wider surgical goals.
Kea, bird of versatility. Kea parrots (Nestor notabilis) show high behavioural flexibility in solving a demonstrated sequence task
Authors: Suwandschieff Elisabeth , Huber Ludwig , Bugnyar Thomas , Schwing Raoul
Published: December 2023

Social learning is an important aspect of dealing with the complexity of life. The transmission of information via the observation of other individuals is a cost-effective way of acquiring information. It is widespread within the animal kingdom but may differ strongly in the social learning mechanisms applied by the divergent species. Here we tested eighteen Kea (Nestor notabilis) parrots on their propensity to socially learn, and imitate, a demonstrated sequence of steps necessary to open an apparatus containing food. The demonstration by a conspecific led to more successful openings by observer birds, than control birds without a demonstration. However, all successful individuals showed great variation in their response topography and abandoned faithfully copying the task in favour of exploration. While the results provide little evidence for motor imitation they do provide further evidence for kea’s propensity towards exploration and rapidly shifting solving strategies, indicative of behavioural flexibility.
Robustness of priority deriving methods for pairwise comparison matrices against rank reversal: a probabilistic approach
Authors: Górecki Jan , Bartl David , Ramík Jaroslav
Published: December 2023

This work aims to answer the natural question of how probable it is that a given method produces rank reversal in a priority vector (PV) if a decision maker (DM) introduces perturbations to the pairwise comparison matrix (PCM) under concern. We focus primarily on the concept of robustness against rank reversal, independent of specific methods, and provide an in-depth statistical insight into the application of the Monte Carlo (MC) approach in this context. This concept is applied to three selected methods, with a special emphasis on scenarios where a method may not provide outputs for all possible PCMs. All results presented in this work are replicable using our open-source implementation.
Presuppositional Fallacies
Authors: Macagno Fabrizio
Published: December 2023

Presuppositions are at the same time a crucial and almost neglected dimension of arguments and fallacies. Arguments involve different types of presuppositions, which can be used for manipulative purposes in distinct ways. However, what are presuppositions? What is their dialectical function? Why and how can they be dangerous? This paper intends to address these questions by developing the pragmatic approaches to presupposition from a dialectical perspective. The use of presuppositions will be analyzed in terms of presumptive conclusions concerning the interlocutor’s acceptance of a proposition, which can be assessed as reasonable or unacceptable. Their dialectical function is described in terms of dark side commitments attributed to a collective "voice" representing what is commonly shared. For this reason, they count as attempts to include the presupposed contents into the hearer’s commitment store, which in some circumstances can reverse the burden of proof. The different manipulative strategies grounded on controversial presuppositions will be examined by showing the distinct roles that the latter play and the relationship between the degrees of presuppositional implicitness and the speaker’s burden of retraction.
Constrained evolution of Hamiltonian phase space distributions in the presence of natural, non-conservative forces
Authors: Boodram Oliver , Scheeres Daniel
Published: December 2023

Confidence regions for spacecraft state can be constructed in phase space which encapsulate some region where there is a likelihood for the state to reside. These regions can be treated as phase space distributions or structures. Structures, such as surfaces or volumes, are constrained to preserve specific properties as they evolve in phase space under Hamiltonian dynamics. Thus, spacecraft uncertainty is then constrained by Hamiltonian flow which can provide insight into state determination. This work examines the modified constraints in the presence of non-conservative forces which relate to both probabilistic and geometric properties of the evolving uncertainty structure. The modified constraints are then derived for a Two-Body and drag environment and are shown to be valid after comparison with alternative methods. Applying the modified constraints, the constrained evolution of the confidence region is then tied to a simple physical explanation for the changing knowledge in our spacecraft state, in the atmospheric drag environment and Poynting–Robertson drag environment.
The relative importance of distance education challenges to instructors in higher education – A ranking-type Delphi study
Authors: Sällberg Henrik , Folino Emil
Published: December 2023

The many challenges faced by instructors in distance education have been extensively documented in current literature. Nevertheless, the relative importance of such challenges has not been researched to the same extent. As instructors and institutions face limitations in terms of time and budget, the ability to effectively prioritise challenges becomes increasingly vital. This paper aims to investigate the relative importance of various distance education challenges to instructors. For this purpose, a ranking-type Delphi study of 90 instructors was conducted at a Swedish higher education institution of technology. In total 26 unique challenges were identified, out of which the top 13 challenges were further ranked by instructors. The ranking revealed that pedagogical challenges were regarded as being of highest relative importance, whereas technological and organisational challenges were of lesser significance. Instructors rated the following challenges as the most significant: lack of student responsiveness, diminished collaboration due to social distancing among students, substantial upfront course design investments by instructors, and limitations in instructor accessibility. These rankings were found to be largely consistent across different instructor characteristics. The findings of the study indicate the importance of investing in faculty training and support functions within higher education institutions to ensure the quality of distance education.
COVID-19 and public support for the Euro
Authors: Roth Felix , Jonung Lars , Most Aisada
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had disastrous effects on health and economic activity worldwide, including in the Euro Area. The application of mandatory lockdowns contributed to a sharp fall in production and a rise in unemployment, inducing an expansionary fiscal and monetary response. Using a uniquely large macro database, this paper examines the effects of the pandemic and the ensuing economic policies on public support for the common currency, the euro, as measured by the Eurobarometer survey. It finds that public support for the euro increased in a majority of the 19 Euro Area member states and reached historically high levels in the midst of the pandemic. This finding suggests that the expansionary fiscal policies initiated at the EU level significantly contributed to this outcome, while the monetary measures taken by the European Central Bank did not have a similar effect.
Interrogatives, inquiries, and exam questions
Authors: Gaszczyk Grzegorz
Published: December 2023

The speech act of inquiry is generally treated as a default kind of asking questions. The widespread norm states that one inquires whether p only if one does not know that p. However, the fact that inquiring is just one kind of asking questions has received little to no attention. Just as in the declarative mood we can perform not only assertions, but various other speech acts, like guesses or predictions, so in the interrogative mood we can also make various speech act types. I propose a speech-act-theoretic account of a distinct kind of question that I label exam questions. According to the proposed account, one performs an exam question p only if (i) one has access to the answer to p, and (ii) one does not officially know whether the hearer knows the answer to p. Exam questions satisfy all the necessary requirements of being a distinct kind of speech act. Additionally, my proposal contributes to the recent expansion of the normative approach to a variety of speech acts.
Why Specialized Service Ecosystems Emerge—the Case of Smart Parking in Germany
Authors: Zimmermann Sina , Schulz Thomas , Hein Andreas , Kaus Alexander Felix , Gewald Heiko , Krcmar Helmut
Published: December 2023

Traffic caused by drivers searching for a free parking space has numerous negative effects, such as increased emissions and noise pollution. Innovative solutions can reduce these negative effects by providing car drivers with better information via a smart parking app. However, smart parking apps currently do not offer overarching solutions which support the entire parking process. Utilizing a service-dominant logic perspective, we examine why such overarching solutions do not emerge, whereas specialized ecosystems flourish. We follow a multiple case study approach and conduct qualitative interviews with three app providers and fourteen associated parking operators in Germany. Our results show how conflicting institutional arrangements at the micro, meso, and macro context levels lead to specialization. Our study deepens the understanding of how conflicting institutional arrangements affect the emergence of service ecosystems, drawing practical recommendations to overcome specialized smart parking apps in favor of overarching solutions.
The technological physical laboratory to achieve improvements in the quality of learning in epistemic terms
Authors: Pequeno Jaildo Tavares , Fonseca Benjamim , Lopes Joaquim Bernardino Oliveira
Published: December 2023

This work aims to identify teaching and learning practices in practical classes of Computer Network Technology courses, which promote the use of the Physical Laboratory (PL) as an epistemic tool to improve learning in epistemic terms. Content analysis of Multimodal Narrations (MN) of three classes by two teachers were used. An MN aggregates and organizes the data collected in the PL environment. Based on the results, we infer that the student and the teacher, under certain conditions, use the physical laboratory as an epistemic tool since the physical interactions prove its use and reuse. In addition, this study allows, in the context of work in the physical laboratory of networks, to identify that the orchestrations of mediation patterns adopted by the teacher influence the students’ epistemic practices and the use of the laboratory as a tool to produce new knowledge. The following contributions are presented: (1) The quality of the students’ epistemic practices is increased if, in the teacher’s dynamics of mediation, the control of the students’ action is reduced; (2) The orchestration of the teacher’s mediation patterns is essential to achieve beneficial results in student learning with the use of artifacts from the physical laboratory of Computer Networks; (3) For the physical laboratory to become an epistemic tool, it is necessary that the mediation standards allow students to develop epistemic practices to a high or very high degree and there is a certain mediation orchestration.
Assessing the Longitudinal Associations Between Decision-Making Processes and Attention Problems in Early Adolescence
Authors: Wiker Thea , Pedersen Mads L. , Ferschmann Lia , Beck Dani , Norbom Linn B. , Dahl Andreas , von Soest Tilmann , Agartz Ingrid , Andreassen Ole A. , Moberget Torgeir , Westlye Lars T. , Huster Rene J. , Tamnes Christian K.
Published: December 2023

Cognitive functions and psychopathology develop in parallel in childhood and adolescence, but the temporal dynamics of their associations are poorly understood. The present study sought to elucidate the intertwined development of decision-making processes and attention problems using longitudinal data from late childhood (9–10 years) to mid-adolescence (11–13 years) from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study (n = 8918). We utilised hierarchical drift-diffusion modelling of behavioural data from the stop-signal task, parent-reported attention problems from the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and multigroup univariate and bivariate latent change score models. The results showed faster drift rate was associated with lower levels of inattention at baseline, as well as a greater reduction of inattention over time. Moreover, baseline drift rate negatively predicted change in attention problems in females, and baseline attention problems negatively predicted change in drift rate. Neither response caution (decision threshold) nor encoding- and responding processes (non-decision time) were significantly associated with attention problems. There were no significant sex differences in the associations between decision-making processes and attention problems. The study supports previous findings of reduced evidence accumulation in attention problems and additionally shows that development of this aspect of decision-making plays a role in developmental changes in attention problems in youth.
Molecular dynamics study on micelle-small molecule interactions: developing a strategy for an extensive comparison
Authors: Kabedev Aleksei , Bergström Christel A. S. , Larsson Per
Published: December 2023

Theoretical predictions of the solubilizing capacity of micelles and vesicles present in intestinal fluid are important for the development of new delivery techniques and bioavailability improvement. A balance between accuracy and computational cost is a key factor for an extensive study of numerous compounds in diverse environments. In this study, we aimed to determine an optimal molecular dynamics (MD) protocol to evaluate small-molecule interactions with micelles composed of bile salts and phospholipids. MD simulations were used to produce free energy profiles for three drug molecules (danazol, probucol, and prednisolone) and one surfactant molecule (sodium caprate) as a function of the distance from the colloid center of mass. To address the challenges associated with such tasks, we compared different simulation setups, including freely assembled colloids versus pre-organized spherical micelles, full free energy profiles versus only a few points of interest, and a coarse-grained model versus an all-atom model. Our findings demonstrate that combining these techniques is advantageous for achieving optimal performance and accuracy when evaluating the solubilization capacity of micelles.

Graphical abstract

All-atom (AA) and coarse-grained (CG) umbrella sampling (US) simulations and point-wise free energy (FE) calculations were compared to their efficiency to computationally analyze the solubilization of active pharmaceutical ingredients in intestinal fluid colloids.