bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Surrounding Hydrogen Injection Parameters on Coherent Jet Characteristics in Electric Arc Furnace Steelmaking Process
Authors: Yang Lingzhi , Chen Weizhen , Hu Hang , Wei Guangsheng , Zou Yuchi , Wang Shuai , Chen Feng , Guo Yufeng
Published: June 2024

The application of coherent oxygen injection improves the smelting efficiency and product quality by promoting the homogenization and impurities removal effects in electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking process. CH4 is widely applied as surrounding gas in traditional coherent jets, which inescapability generates some greenhouse gases (GHG), and against the ambitious carbon reduction goal. Herein, H2 instead of CH4 as surrounding gas in coherent jet is introduced. Based on fluid and combustion mechanics, a computational fluid dynamics model with hydrogen–oxygen combustion is developed and validated to study coherent jet characteristics considering H2 flow and ambient temperature. The results indicate that the shrouding hydrogen nozzle has a significant impact on the potential core length of the coherent jet. Shrouding oxygen can solve the problem of excessive consumption of main oxygen by shrouding hydrogen. When the equivalent ratio between shrouding hydrogen and shrouding oxygen maintains 1, increasing the flow rates is highly beneficial for improving oxygen jet performance at tested conditions. The potential core length of the jet increases little with the ambient temperature in the range of 1100–1700 K. This research is expected to extend hydrogen application in EAF steelmaking process for GHG reduction.
Large Eddy Simulation on Transient Flow Characteristics in a Submerged Entry Nozzle with Different Stopper Rod Locations
Authors: Li Shiyu , Liu Fenggang , Chen Wei , Zhang Lifeng
Published: June 2024

A 3D mathematical model combining the large eddy simulation turbulent model and discrete phase model is developed to investigate the influence of the stopper rod location on transient flow characteristics and the deposition of inclusions in a bifurcated submerged entry nozzle (SEN). Transient flow characteristics, including the instantaneous flow pattern, jet speed, vertical and horizontal jet angle, and the backflow zone speed and fraction, are quantitatively compared. Transient jet flow characteristics of the left and right SEN port are almost consistent when the stopper rod is ideally centered. When the stopper rod is offset 10 mm, the discrepancy of the jet speed, vertical jet angle, and backflow zone fraction is 0.12 m s−1, 4°, and 4%, respectively. The horizontal angle and backflow speed are primarily affected by the vortex swirling direction at the bottom region of the SEN well. A positive horizontal jet angle is observed under the counterclockwise vortex, resulting in a higher backflow speed. Conversely, a negative horizontal jet angle and a lower backflow speed are observed when the vortex swirling direction is clockwise. The deposition rate of inclusions on the upper SEN wall is much higher when stopper rod is offset.
Unveiling the aftermath of conflict and herbarium specimens’ loss: Typifications of species described by Pohl within the Neotropical genus Vellozia
Authors: Lopes Jenifer C. , Magri Renato A. , Prado Jefferson
Published: June 2024

Johann Emanuel Pohl (1782–1834) was a Bohemian‐born Austrian botanist who, together with Johann Baptist von Spix and Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius, traveled to Brazil from 1817 to 1821. He described several new plant species from Brazil, including those in the genus Vellozia (Velloziaceae). The material analyzed by Pohl was deposited mainly at herbarium W; however, part of the collection was destroyed by war accidents, including most of the types of Vellozia. Vellozia is a Neotropical genus with its main distribution in the Brazilian vegetation named campos rupestres. Vellozia is among the most abundant and species‐rich vascular‐plant genera in the campos rupestres with 125 recognized species. Pohl described 14 new species of Vellozia. We designate lectotypes for the names V. gardneri (a synonym of V. glauca), V. graminea, V. phalocarpa, V. pusilla, and V. triquetra.
Traumatic nasogastric intubation as a suspected cause of laryngeal obstruction in a horse recovering from emergency laparotomy
Authors: Gavet Morgane , Junot Stéphane
Published: June 2024

An 18‐year‐old mare, admitted for colic, underwent an exploratory laparotomy for right dorsal colon displacement. During recovery from anaesthesia, a severe acute onset laryngeal obstruction occurred at standing, requiring orotracheal re‐intubation, which relieved the obstruction. This was followed by secondary pulmonary oedema, treated with furosemide (2 mg/kg intravenously) and oxygen. At re‐extubation, attempted 30 minutes later, the horse re‐obstructed immediately and collapsed, prompting an emergency tracheostomy. Furosemide (2 mg/kg intravenously) and dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg intravenously) were also administered. The horse stood up thereafter with a patent airway. In the history, to note, nasogastric intubation was particularly difficult at admission, and was identified as a potential cause of laryngeal trauma that may have precipitated laryngeal obstruction due to severe local inflammation. Dynamic laryngeal collapse probably also played a role due to high inspiratory negative pressure generated at the precise timing of standing, similar to exercise.
Microparticles of arsenic water treatment media and water softener resin observed in treated water at private wells
Authors: Rockafellow‐Baldoni Megan , Spayd Steven E. , Robson Mark G.
Published: June 2024

Observation of arsenic water treatment adsorption media in the treated water of several homes with high arsenic private wells led to the hypothesis that treatment media was escaping the treatment systems and entering the plumbing and drinking water. Our research at 62 homes identified that microparticles of arsenic water treatment media and/or water softener resin had escaped the treatment system in 71% of the homes. This is a potential health hazard as ingesting arsenic treatment media or water softener resin may lead to an elevated ingestion exposure to arsenic and other contaminants. Potential causes of media escape from the treatment systems include media observed to be smaller in size than specifications and media breaking into smaller pieces. One interim solution to media escape is installation of a post‐treatment sediment filter. New developments in media durability or treatment system design and maintenance may be needed to prevent media escaping into drinking water.

Practitioner Points

Arsenic in private wells is often treated with point‐of‐entry whole house adsorption systems.

Arsenic adsorption treatment media and/or water softener resin was observed in treated water at 44 of 62 homes inspected.

Water treatment media escaping into treated water is a potential hazardous exposure pathway.

Potential causes and solutions are discussed.
Foreword by Dr Uncle Stan Grant Senior
Authors: Grant Stan
Published: June 2024

From birth, I grew up on Wiradyuri Country, and I am endlessly grateful to my grandfather, Budyaan Wilfred Johnson, for teaching me many things, including the language of our Ancestors. He was a strong cultural leader and a strategic genius who had a long-term vision for the recovery of his people. Despite being jailed for speaking to me in Wiradyuri, he went on to teach me (and my brother Cecil) away from the settler colonial authorities who would incarcerate him and remove us from our family. Today, our language is being used to quietly heal and rebuild the lives of our people so they can once again care for Country and raise strong, healthy, vibrant families.
New Pathway to Adolescent Wellbeing: The Case for Online Special Religious Education in Public Schools
Authors: Khaled Leila
Published: June 2024

Special Religious Education (SRE) provides an opportunity for students of faith backgrounds to foster their religious identity and spiritual health. However, many students currently have no access to weekly onsite SRE. This research plans on introducing and evaluating a weekly online SRE intervention in public high schools for a minority cohort—Muslim SRE. The theory of practice architectures (TPA) frames the study. This chapter makes a case for online SRE by presenting the study’s underpinnings using relevant literature on adolescent wellbeing, religion, and education. This study intends to inform policymakers and practitioners arguing for contemporary ways to improve and widen access to SRE. Online SRE could reveal a large-scale, cost-effective, and practical educational measure for enhancing the wellbeing of adolescents of faith backgrounds in public schools, even for those considered at-risk (In this chapter, SRE is also referred to as religious education. This is not to be confused with General Religious Education—the inclusive teaching about different religions.).
Education that Makes Life Manageable, Comprehensible, and Meaningful: Experiences of the Monash Access Program, a University Alternative Entry Pathway
Authors: Reimer Kristin Elaine
Published: June 2024

Although formal education is arguably a powerful force for good, the experience of schooling can feel disempowering and disheartening to some young people. This chapter listens to students who have had negative experiences of schooling and entered university through an alternative pathway. Seven students who graduated from the Monash Access Program (MAP) in four different years share their insights into formal education. MAP is an intentionally relational program, grounded in critical praxis, for mature-aged students who have experienced educational disruptions. By drawing on Antonovsky’s concept ofsense of coherenceto understand the students’ insights, this study shows how MAP helped students to make sense of education as manageable, comprehensible, and meaningful. These students, who have had both educational disadvantage (prior to university) and educational advantage (through MAP), offer their perspectives into education’s role in helping us to live well and to create a world worth living in for all. With this study, after listening to the students, I argue that formal education can provide us with experiences of manageability, comprehensibility, and meaningfulness in order to create a world where we are able to thrive individually and collectively.
Exploring “Living Well” Through Children’s Play
Authors: Kaukko Mervi , Haswell Nick , Wilkinson Jane
Published: June 2024

This chapter considers how “living well in a world worth living in” is imagined, replicated and lived in children’s free play. Drawing primarily on video data collected by 21 young migrant and refugee background primary school students in Finland and Australia, we consider what children’s play can reveal about a just, equitable and fair world in the present and in future, and how schools can support its development by providing the needed cultural-discursive, material-economic, and social-political arrangements for play. Our chapter shows that as children play, they not only create, simulate, and negotiate between themselves an imagined, future-oriented world worth living in for all, but also, through the real collaboration, empathy and care they develop and practise together, they bring that world into being.
Brassica rapa CURLY LEAF is a major H3K27 methyltransferase regulating flowering time
Authors: Poza-Viejo Laura , Payá-Milans Miriam , Wilkinson Mark D. , Piñeiro Manuel , Jarillo José A. , Crevillén Pedro
Published: June 2024

Main conclusion

In Brassica rapa, the epigenetic modifier BraA.CLF orchestrates flowering by modulating H3K27me3 levels at the floral integrator genes FT, SOC1, and SEP3, thereby influencing their expression.

CURLY LEAF (CLF) is the catalytic subunit of the plant Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 that mediates the trimethylation of histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3), an epigenetic modification that leads to gene silencing. While the function of CURLY LEAF (CLF) has been extensively studied in Arabidopsis thaliana, its role in Brassica crops is barely known. In this study, we focused on the Brassica rapa homolog of CLF and found that the loss-of-function mutant braA.clf-1 exhibits an accelerated flowering together with pleiotropic phenotypic alterations compared to wild-type plants. In addition, we carried out transcriptomic and H3K27me3 genome-wide analyses to identify the genes regulated by BraA.CLF. Interestingly, we observed that several floral regulatory genes, including the B. rapa homologs of FT, SOC1 and SEP3, show reduced H3K27me3 levels and increased transcript levels compared to wild-type plants, suggesting that they are direct targets of BraA.CLF and key players in regulating flowering time in this crop. In addition, the results obtained will enhance our understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms regulating key developmental traits and will aid to increase crop yield by engineering new Brassica varieties with different flowering time requirements.
Multimodales Imaging bei Uveitis
Authors: Deák Gábor György , Zhou Mei , Funk Marion
Published: June 2024

Die großen Fortschritte in der Entwicklung von Bildgebungstechniken in der Augenheilkunde haben auch bei Uveitiserkrankungen unsere Mittel zur Diagnosestellung und Verlaufsbeobachtung erheblich erweitert und verbessert. Dieser Artikel soll einen aktuellen Überblick bieten über spezielle Aspekte, die bei bildgebenden Verfahren in dieser Patientengruppe zu beachten sind. Die Möglichkeiten zur Darstellung der Aderhaut, Vor- und Nachteile der optischen Kohärenztomographie-Angiographie (OCT-A), der Weitwinkelbildgebung sowie Fundusautofluoreszenz (FAF) werden erörtert.
Iodine-125 seed inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis of cholangiocarcinoma cells by inducing the ROS/p53 axis
Authors: Kang Fuping , Wu Jing , Hong Li , Zhang Peng , Song Jianjun
Published: June 2024

With advances in radioactive particle implantation in clinical practice, Iodine-125 (125I) seed brachytherapy has emerged as a promising treatment for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), showing good prognosis; however, the underlying molecular mechanism of the therapeutic effect of 125I seed is unclear. To study the effects of 125I seed on the proliferation and apoptosis of CCA cells. CCA cell lines, RBE and HCCC-9810, were treated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger acetylcysteine (NAC) or the p53 functional inhibitor, pifithrin-α hydrobromide (PFTα). Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, 5-bromo-2-deoxy-uridine (BrdU) staining, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and flow cytometry assay were performed to test the radiation-sensitivity of 125I seed toward CCA cells at different radiation doses (0.4 mCi and 0.8 mCi). 2,7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCF-DA) assay, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and western blot analysis were performed to assess the effect of 125I seed on the ROS/p53 axis. A dose-dependent inhibitory effect of 125I seeds on the proliferation of CCA cells was observed. The 125I seed promoted apoptosis of CCA cells and induced the activation of the ROS/p53 pathway in a dose-dependent manner. NAC or PFTα treatment effectively reversed the stimulatory effect of 125I seed on the proliferation of CCA cells. NAC or PFTα suppressed apoptosis and p53 protein expression induced by the 125I seed. 125I seed can inhibit cell growth mainly through the apoptotic pathway. The mechanism may involve the activation of p53 and its downstream apoptotic pathway by up-regulating the level of ROS in cells.
Altruistic behavior and international environmental agreements: a differential game approach
Authors: Sacco Armando
Published: June 2024

In the last three decades International Environmental Agreements (IEAs) have been widely analyzed. Classic models predict that only coalitions formed by a few countries can be stable, generating a rich literature devoted to solving the small coalition puzzle. The fundamental idea behind the great part of the literature is that players are selfish: to achieve a large stable coalition it is necessary to design an agreement that includes a credible system of incentives or punishments. The aim of this model is to study the effects, on equilibrium strategies and on the stability of an IEA, of players that do not look only at their own interests, but that take care of the wellness of the other players in coalition. Following the approach of the Paris Agreement in 2015, countries that join the coalition do not decide emissions collectively, but each of them sets their own emissions. The model is the usual two-step game: first the players have to choose whether they want to join the coalition or not, in the second step they solve a Nash differential game to find the optimal emissions. The stability of the coalition is studied in two cases: (i) with the classic internal and external stability, (ii) defining an altruistic stability condition.
Development support as education aid or labor trade? South Korean nurses in West Germany (1965–1976)
Authors: Yu Jinyoung , Seo Jungwook
Published: June 2024

Over 10,000 South Korean nurses were sent to West Germany in the 11-year period between 1965 and 1976. It is known that they were dispatched because of South Korea’s need for capital and expertise after the Korean War (1950–1953). To assist in this endeavor, West Germany helped South Korea through development support (educational aid). However, Korean nurses were not simply trainees since they had received a proper education and qualifications. Thus, this “educational aid” could critically be termed little more than “labor trade” because the highly educated nurses were forced to take work with lower wages than their background warranted.
The experience of men with breast cancer: a metasynthesis
Authors: Guarinoni Milena Giovanna , Motta Paolo Carlo
Published: June 2024

Aim

To assess men’s experiences when diagnosed with breast cancer.

Subject and Methods: The breast is a symbol of femininity. Therefore, it is no surprise that studies on women’s experiences with breast cancer predominate in the literature. Because breast cancer accounts for just 1% of all cancers among men, it is often overlooked. Nevertheless, it accounts for proportionately more deaths than penile or testicular cancer. Five major databases were queried in December 2022 to review primary studies with qualitative design.

Results

Of the 206 articles selected and screened, eight met the inclusion criteria. Three highlighting men’s experience with stigmatisation and their need to be taken into consideration, even through information not solely aimed at women, are from a German study conducted between 2018 and 2020. Three from the UK between 2003 and 2007, also emphasise the stigma and the need for more information directed specifically at men. The study from the United States points out that men who receive treatment in women’s care spaces experience feelings of inadequacy. Last, a recent Israeli paper (2021) describes how men conceal the disease to avoid the stigma altogether.

Conclusion

The paper examines the paltry, recent research on men’s emotional experience with breast cancer, which is culturally relegated to women. However, a clear need emerges for more attention to be paid to addressing communications and relations for these male patients as well.
Psychometric Characteristics of the Italian Version of the Revised Sociosexual Orientation Inventory
Authors: Ciocca Giacomo , Giorgini Roberto , Petrocchi Laura , Origlia Giulia , Occhiuto Giuseppe , Aversa Antonio , Liuzza Marco Tullio
Published: June 2024

Sociosexuality refers to the tendency to engage in uncommitted sexual behavior and has been dissected into three domains: sociosexual behavior, attitudes, and desire (Penke & Asendorpf, 2008), which led to the revised Sociosexual Orientation Inventory (SOI-R), which was validated on a German sample. The current research aimed at translating and validating an Italian version (I-SOI-R), administered to three distinct Italian participant groups. In the first sample (N = 710, females = 521, age = 18–59 years), we found evidence for a bifactor model, articulated in a general sociosexuality factor and three specific factors (behavior, attitudes, desire). High internal consistency was established for total and subscale scores, alongside favorable test–retest reliability. A connection was found between relationship status and sociosexual desire, though not gender dependent. We found evidence for test–retest reliability in a second sample (N = 55, females = 37, age 20–58 years). In a third study (N = 305, females = 147, age = 19–60 years), the earlier findings were replicated, further confirming the I-SOI-R's construct, criterion, and nomological validity on an online sample. Combining data from the three studies revealed full configural, metric, and scalar invariance regarding gender. This allowed us to meaningfully compare the observed scores of women and men and replicated the finding that men display higher levels of unrestricted sociosexuality. In conclusion, the I-SOI-R may serve as a valuable tool to assess and enhance sexual health, albeit warranting future research on construct and criterion validity.
Not Even Absent: Dependent Origination, Emptiness, and the Two Truths in the Thought of Nāgārjuna
Authors: Macor Jackson Cole
Published: June 2024

As one of the most pivotal thinkers in the history Mahāyāna Buddhism, the writings of Nāgārjuna have long attracted the attention of scholars aiming to interpret in declarative terms the meaning of the arguments contained therein. However, the very aim of such an endeavor that seeks to ascribe to Nāgārjuna a philosophical position is fundamentally at odds with the unwaveringly critical nature of his project. In order to illustrate the singular character of Nāgārjuna’s methodology, this article seeks to clarify three crucial points concerning his thought: (1) the central concept in his philosophical works, dependent origination (pratītyasamutpāda), ironically denotes the non-origination (anutpāda) of any entity (bhāva) whatsoever and is universal in scope; (2) emptiness (śūnyatā) is not a meaningful predicate of any entity, meaning that no entity exists that can be identified as being empty; and (3) the Two Truths (satyadvaya) are not a philosophically significant device for Nāgārjuna and subsequently do not provide a means by which to mitigate the radical consequences of his arguments. As a result, we can understand Nāgārjuna’s claim to have no postulative thesis (pratijñā) as a statement that he predicates no quality (dharma) of any subject (dharmin), and that his methodology is strictly critical, offering us no constructive theory by which to make sense of reality.
Mannooligosaccharide production from açaí seeds by enzymatic hydrolysis: optimization through response surface methodology
Authors: Murillo-Franco Sarha Lucia , Galvis-Nieto Juan David , Orrego Carlos E.
Published: June 2024

Recognized for its bioactive compounds, açaí has become a functional food, but it has a low pulp yield, and the seeds are the main waste. This study investigates the potential of açaí seeds (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) to produce mannooligosaccharides (MOS) through enzymatic hydrolysis. Using response surface methodology (RSM), the research optimizes MOS extraction while minimizing mannose production and reducing processing time, achieving MOS production of about 10 g/L, a value within the range of similar investigations. The RSM quadratic models establish correlations between MOS production (M2–M5) and enzymatic hydrolysis conditions, with R2 values ranging from 0.6136 to 0.9031. These models are used to emphasize MOS performance (M2–M5) while reducing mannose production, which also promotes profitability by reducing time. Experimental validation agrees with model predictions, highlighting optimal conditions near 40 °C, intermediate enzyme loading, and basic pH that effectively promotes MOS generation on mannose within an accelerated processing time frame. With predictions of experimental results within a margin of error of < 9%, the validity of the models was acceptable. This research contributes to the advancement of the understanding of the enzymatic hydrolysis of açaí seeds, which is a step toward the sustainable use of resources with a focus on process engineering aspects.
A novel framework for deriving water retention behavior of multimodal unsaturated soils based on pore size distribution data
Authors: Yan Wei , Cudmani Roberto
Published: June 2024

The soil water retention curve (SWRC) strongly influences the hydro-mechanical properties of unsaturated soils. It plays a decisive role in geotechnical and geo-environmental applications in the vadose zone. This paper advances a novel framework to derive the water retention behavior of multimodal deformable soils based on the pore size distribution (PSD) measurements. The multiple effects of suction on the soil pore structure and total volume during SWRC tests are considered. The complete picture of soil microstructure is quantitatively described by the void ratio (for the pore volume) and a newly defined microstructural state parameter (for pore size distribution) from a probabilistic multimodal PSD model. Assuming a reversible microstructure evolution, a unique PSD surface for wetting and drying links the SWRC and PSD curves in the pore radius-suction-probability space. A closed-form water retention expression is obtained, facilitating the model's implementation in particle applications. The model is validated using the water retention data of four different soil types, showing a strong consistency between the measurement and the reproduced curve. The proposed method provides new insights into the pore structure evolution, the water retention behavior and the relationship between them for multimodal deformable soils.
Advancing Gamification Research and Practice with Three Underexplored Ideas in Self-Determination Theory
Authors: Gao Fei
Published: June 2024

Gamification possesses a great potential to shape human behaviors and performance. However, the mixed results in gamification research suggest the need to develop a thorough understanding of the mechanistic underpinnings of gamification. Although self-determination theory (SDT) provides a solid theoretical framework to achieve such purposes, it has been mostly applied superficially, limiting its potential to significantly impact gamification research and practice. This paper suggests that SDT, particularly three ideas in SDT – a continuum of motivation, the mutually supportive nature of basic psychological needs, and the functional significance of an event – have not been fully explored in gamification research and practice. Attention to the three ideas and relevant SDT literature will advance gamification research and practice in the following ways. First, the idea of continuum of motivation can serve as a powerful framework to conceptualize gamification. Second, the ideas of mutually supportive nature of basic psychological needs and the functional significance of an event can help us develop a nuanced instead of simplistic approach to gamification design. Finally, the three ideas suggest important research directions that have yet to be fully explored in current gamification research.
Contraction assessment of abdominal muscles using automated segmentation designed for wearable ultrasound applications
Authors: Strohm Hannah , Rothluebbers Sven , Perotti Luis , Stamm Oskar , Fournelle Marc , Jenne Juergen , Guenther Matthias
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Wearable ultrasound devices can be used to continuously monitor muscle activity. One possible application is to provide real-time feedback during physiotherapy, to show a patient whether an exercise is performed correctly. Algorithms which automatically analyze the data can be of importance to overcome the need for manual assessment and annotations and speed up evaluations especially when considering real-time video sequences. They even could be used to present feedback in an understandable manner to patients in a home-use scenario. The following work investigates three deep learning based segmentation approaches for abdominal muscles in ultrasound videos during a segmental stabilizing exercise. The segmentations are used to automatically classify the contraction state of the muscles.

Methods

The first approach employs a simple 2D network, while the remaining two integrate the time information from the videos either via additional tracking or directly into the network architecture. The contraction state is determined by comparing measures such as muscle thickness and center of mass between rest and exercise. A retrospective analysis is conducted but also a real-time scenario is simulated, where classification is performed during exercise.

Results

Using the proposed segmentation algorithms, 71% of the muscle states are classified correctly in the retrospective analysis in comparison to 90% accuracy with manual reference segmentation. For the real-time approach the majority of given feedback during exercise is correct when the retrospective analysis had come to the correct result, too.

Conclusion

Both retrospective and real-time analysis prove to be feasible. While no substantial differences between the algorithms were observed regarding classification, the networks incorporating the time information showed temporally more consistent segmentations. Limitations of the approaches as well as reasons for failing cases in segmentation, classification and real-time assessment are discussed and requirements regarding image quality and hardware design are derived.
User-centered design of an augmented reality inspection tool for industry 4.0 operators
Authors: Barbieri Loris , Marino Emanuele , Bruno Fabio , Muzzupappa Maurizio , Colacino Biagio
Published: June 2024

In the context of Industry 4.0, the Operator 4.0 paradigm plays a crucial role in seamlessly integrating new digital technologies into smart factories. These technologies are designed to accommodate workers with varying skills, capabilities, and preferences. To promote the adoption of these innovative digital tools and ensure high user acceptance, it is essential to prioritize human factors and place workers at the heart of the development process. This can be achieved through structured design strategies, such as those employed in user-centered design approaches. Within this framework, this paper introduces an innovative Augmented Reality tool designed to facilitate and streamline real-time inspection activities performed by operators on assembled products at the workplace. The development of this tool was based on a user-centered design approach, which actively engaged end-users at different stages of design and testing phases. User studies were conducted using a real case study to evaluate the usability and user acceptance of the proposed solution. The results are encouraging, indicating a promising path forward for the effective and valid implementation of this AR tool in an industrial setting.
Intended or new parenthood? The child’s best interest: Italy and the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Nardocci Costanza
Published: June 2024

The article investigates domestic and supranational responses towards new forms of parenthood in the light of the child’s best interest. Examining the case law of the European Court of Human Rights and the Italian Courts on artificial reproductive technologies and surrogacy agreements, this article contends that the European Court of Human Rights did not abandon the ideal type of families based on biological bonds despite efforts to ensure the paramount relevance of children’s rights. Interlacing the Italian case and the European Court of Human Rights’ judgments against Italy, this article argues that persists a long way before the full recognition of forms of parenthood lacking genetic links, despite the willingness to safeguard the legal status of the child.
ESM data downscaling: a comparison of super-resolution deep learning models
Authors: Pawar Nikhil M. , Soltanmohammadi Ramin , Mahjour Seyed Kourosh , Faroughi Salah A.
Published: June 2024

Climate projections at fine spatial resolutions are required to conduct accurate risk assessment for critical infrastructure and design adaptation planning. Generating these projections using advanced Earth system models (ESM) requires significant computational resources. To address this issue, various statistical downscaling techniques have been introduced to generate fine-resolution data from coarse-resolution simulations. In this study, we evaluate and compare five deep learning-based downscaling techniques, namely, super-resolution convolutional neural networks, fast super-resolution convolutional neural network ESM, efficient sub-pixel convolutional neural network, enhanced deep residual network (EDRN), and super-resolution generative adversarial network (SRGAN). These techniques are applied to a dataset generated by the Energy Exascale Earth System Model (E3SM), focusing on key surface variables such as surface temperature, shortwave heat flux, and longwave heat flux. Models are trained and validated using paired fine-resolution (0.25$$^{\circ }$$

∘

) and coarse-resolution (1$$^{\circ }$$

∘

) monthly data obtained from a 9-year simulation. Next, blind testing is performed using monthly data obtained from two different years outside of the training and validation set. To evaluate the efficiency of each technique, different statistical metrics are used, including mean squared error (MSE), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), structural similarity index measure (SSIM), and learned perceptual image patch similarity (LPIPS). The results show that EDRN outperforms other algorithms in terms of PSNR, SSIM, and MSE, but struggles to capture fine-scale features in the data. In contrast, SRGAN, a generative model that uses perceptual loss, excels in capturing fine details at boundaries and internal structures, resulting in lower LPIPS than other methods.
Thermoregulation, incubator humidity, and skincare practices in appropriate for gestational age ultra-low birth weight infants: need for more evidence
Authors: Mishra Umesh , August Deanne , Walker Karen , Jani Pranav R. , Tracy Mark
Published: June 2024

Background

Although not universal, active care is being offered to infants weighing < 500 g at birth, referred to as ultra-low birth weight (ULBW) infants appropriate for gestational age. These infants have the greatest risk of dying or developing major morbidities. ULBW infants face challenges related to fluid and heat loss as well as skin injury in the initial days of life from extreme anatomical and physiological immaturity of the skin. Although there is an emerging literature on the outcomes of ULBW infants, there is a paucity of evidence to inform practice guidelines for delivering optimal care to this cohort of infants.

Data sources

A comprehensive review of the literature was performed using the PubMed and Embase databases. Searched keywords included “thermoregulation or body temperature regulation”, “incubator humidity”, “skin care”, “infant, extremely low birth weight” and “ultra-low birth weight infants”.

Results

Evidences for thermoregulation, incubator humidity, and skincare practices are available for preterm infants weighing < 1500 g at birth but not specifically for ULBW infants. Studies on thermoregulation, incubator humidity, or skincare practices had a small sample size and did not include a sub-group analysis for ULBW infants. Current practice recommendations in ULBW infants are adopted from research in very and/or extremely low birth weight infants.

Conclusions

This narrative review focuses on challenges in thermoregulation, incubator humidity, and skincare practices in ULBW infants, highlights current research gaps and suggests potential developments for informing practices for improving health outcomes in ULBW infants.
Low expression of the CCL5 gene and low serum concentrations of CCL5 in severe invasive group a streptococcal disease
Authors: Kailankangas V , Katayama S , Gröndahl-Yli-Hannuksela K , Vilhonen J , Tervaniemi MH , Rantakokko-Jalava K , Seiskari T , Lönnqvist E , Kere J , Oksi J , Syrjänen J , Vuopio J
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Our objective was to elucidate host dependent factors of disease severity in invasive group A Streptococcal disease (iGAS) using transcriptome profiling of iGAS cases of varying degrees of severity at different timepoints. To our knowledge there are no previous transcriptome studies in iGAS patients.

Methods

We recruited iGAS cases from June 2018 to July 2020. Whole blood samples for transcriptome analysis and serum for biomarker analysis were collected at three timepoints representing the acute (A), the convalescent (B) and the post-infection phase (C). Gene expression was compared against clinical traits and disease course. Serum chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5, an inflammatory cytokine) concentration was also measured.

Results

Forty-five patients were enrolled. After disqualifying degraded or impure RNAs we had 34, 31 and 21 subjects at timepoints A, B, and C, respectively. Low expression of the CCL5 gene correlated strongly with severity (death or need for intensive care) at timepoint A (AUC = 0.92), supported by low concentrations of CCL5 in sera.

Conclusions

Low gene expression levels and low serum concentration of CCL5 in the early stages of an iGAS infection were associated with a more severe disease course. CCL5 might have potential as a predictor of disease severity.

Low expression of genes of cytotoxic immunity, especially CCL5, and corresponding low serum concentrations of CCL5 associated with a severe disease course, i.e. death, or need for intensive care, in early phase of invasive group A Streptococcal disease.
Patient Blood Management for the Critically-Ill Patient
Authors: Littlejohn James , Shen Liang , Srivastava Ankur , Navare Sagar , Barnhard Sarah
Published: June 2024

Purpose of the Review

Anemia in the critically ill is both insidious and highly prevalent; and has been implicated in poor outcomes in patients with and recovering from critical illness. Patient-oriented approaches to blood management (PBM) are gaining momentum and have widespread applications as a superior approach to anemia. The volume of publications pertaining to PBM has dramatically increased in the past 4 years, warranting further review of emerging paradigms in the ICU.

Recent Findings

IV iron alone and in conjunction with erythropoietin are being studied prospectively. Factor concentrates are used more frequently, and both point of care and viscoelastic testing algorithms have been shown to reduce utilization of blood products. Both whole blood and thrombopoietin also show promise in reducing transfusions.

Careful attention to PBM approaches has the potential to improve the quality and reduce the cost of care of patients in the ICU. Significant work remains, especially in the areas of education of care teams on the importance of reducing phlebotomy and updating knowledge of current indications for therapies aimed at increasing hemoglobin levels and reducing blood product transfusions.
Source types of induced earthquakes in underground mines: Revealed by regional moment tensor inversion
Authors: Liu Chengyu , Qu Junhao , Li Guoyi , Li Bo , Liu Fangbin , Zhang Zhihui , Li Zhiheng
Published: June 2024

Mining-induced earthquakes have been very frequent in recent years due to increasing mechanized mining. Compared with natural earthquakes, even a small one may cause significant damage to the mine area and its surroundings. Source type identification is important for better understanding the physical processes and is a crucial and fundamental issue for hazard assessment and emergency rescue in the mining environment. The moment tensor (MT) theory plays a pivotal role in distinguishing different source types. In this study, we concentrated on two strong reported “mine collapse earthquakes” in Qufu (ML 3.2, July 13, 2020) and Zoucheng (ML2.9, June 09, 2020), Shandong Province, China. Seismograms from regional seismic stations were utilized to calculate the full moment tensors through low-frequency full-waveform inversion. Our results show that the two studied events exhibit notably different source types. The DC (Double-Couple) component of both events are 5% (Qufu) and 60% (Zoucheng), respectively. The Qufu event which contains approximately 75% closing crack component, is more consistent with the theoretical models of collapse seismic source. However, the Zoucheng event, which exhibits a significant proportion of DC components, demonstrates characteristics typical of shear failure. Focusing on the Zoucheng event, which occurred at the Dongtan Coal Mine, further research was conducted on a local mining scale. Analyzed in conjunction with microseismic sensor data, geologic setting, and mining progress, we illustrated that the source type of Zoucheng event is not a collapse one. The fracture slip of a thick-hard roof due to an overlying load, characterized by a large DC component, is a plausible geomechanical interpretation.
Cold Water Phenomenon in Autumn in the Sea Area of the Xisha Islands
Authors: Sun Ruili , Li Peiliang , Zhai Fangguo , Gu Yanzhen , Zhang Yang , Wang Weili
Published: June 2024

Using satellite observation and reanalysis data, we studied the cold water phenomenon in the sea area of the Xisha Islands in autumn from 2003 to 2022. The cold water phenomenon refers to a colder water body relative to its surrounding area, which can partially offset the impact of global warming, thereby contributing to the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems. The cold water with a central position close to the Xisha Islands is distributed in a nearly circular area, and exhibits seasonal and interannual variations. It usually occurs at the end of September, with its intensity rapidly increasing and reaching its peak on October 1, then gradually weakening, and finally disappearing by November 6. The maximum intensity of the cold water phenomenon can reach 1.6°C. This phenomenon notably observed in October 2006, 2009, 2013 and 2022, with intensities reaching 0.9°C, 1.1°C, 1.1°C, and 0.4°C, respectively. The dynamic mechanism of its formation can be described as follows: in autumn of some years, the northeast monsoon occurs in the northern part of the South China Sea (SCS), while the southwest monsoon still prevails in the southern part of the SCS, which causes the generation of strong positive wind stress curl (WSC) near the Xisha sea area. The positive WSC causes cyclonic circulation and further causes upwelling through Ekman pumping, which transports low‐temperature water from the seabed to the sea surface and thus leads to the occurrence of the cold water phenomenon in the Xisha sea area.
Source, Migration Pathways, and Atmospheric Release of Geologic Methane Associated With the Complex Permafrost Regimes of the Outer Mackenzie River Delta, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Dallimore Scott R. , Lapham Laura L. , Côté Michelle M. , Bowen Robert , MacLeod Roger , McIntosh Marcek Hadley A. , Wheat C. Geoff , Collett Timothy S.
Published: June 2024

Sources and fluxes of methane to the atmosphere from permafrost are significant but poorly constrained in global climate models. We present data collected from the variable permafrost setting of the outer Mackenzie River Delta, including observations of aquatic methane seepage, core determinations of in situ methane occurrence and seep gas isotope geochemistry. The sources and locations of in situ geologic methane occurrence and aquatic and atmospheric gas release appear to be controlled by the regional geology and permafrost conditions. Where permafrost is >250 m thick, thermogenic gas deposits at depth are isolated by laterally continuous, low permeability ice‐bearing sediments with few through‐going thawed taliks. Thus, the observed in situ methane and aquatic gas seepage appears to be dominated by microbial methane. In contrast, where permafrost is <80 m thick, taliks are more likely to be through‐going, providing permeable conduits from depth and migration pathways for both thermogenic and biogenic gas. Continuous annual fluid sampling of two lakes and a river channel documents aquatic methane flux from microbial sources, more deeply buried thermogenic sources, and mixtures of both. Using estimates of in situ methane concentration from deep core samples and observations of in situ free gas occurrences, we conclude that the reservoir of in situ geologic methane within ice bonded permafrost is substantial and that this methane is presently migrating with ongoing atmospheric release. It is our assessment that the permafrost setting, and processes described are sensitive to future climate change as the permafrost warms.
Forest Treatment Effects on Watershed Responses Under Warming
Authors: Cederstrom Charles J. , Vivoni Enrique R. , Mascaro Giuseppe , Svoma Bohumil
Published: June 2024

The effects of forest treatments on watershed hydrology have often been studied in isolation from climate change. Consequently, under a warming climate, it is unclear how forest thinning will impact snowpacks, evapotranspiration, and streamflow availability. In this study, we used a distributed hydrologic model to provide insight into the effects of warming and forest treatment on the hydrologic response of the Beaver Creek watershed (∼1,100 km2) of central Arizona. Prior to the numerical experiments, confidence in the hydrologic model performance was established by comparisons to long‐term observations (2003–2018) of snow water equivalent and streamflow using station observations and through spatially distributed estimates. Results indicated that warming during the 21st century could increase mean annual streamflow by 1.5% for warming levels up to +1°C, followed by a −29% decrease for continued warming up to +6°C, due to the varying effects of warming on snow sublimation, soil evaporation, and plant transpiration. On average, forest thinning increased streamflow by +12% (or 7 mm/yr) through lower plant transpiration by −19% (or −18 mm/yr), while also increasing the change in soil water storage by +42% (or 11 mm/yr). Forest thinning delayed the detrimental effects of warming on streamflow until +4°C, as compared to +2°C without forest treatment. Furthermore, model results suggested that forest cover reductions laterally displace water availability and evapotranspiration to downstream sites. These model‐derived mechanisms provide insights on the potential for water resilience toward warming effects afforded through treatment projects in southwestern US ponderosa pine forests.
Time‐And‐Space Averaging Applied to Intermittent Multiphase Flow Experiments
Authors: Wang Tingting , McClure James E. , Da Wang Ying , Berg Steffen , Chen Cheng , Mostaghimi Peyman , Armstrong Ryan T.
Published: June 2024

Various researchers have studied fluctuations in pore‐scale phase occupancy during multiphase flow in porous media using synchrotron‐based X‐ray microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT). However, the impact of these fluctuations on the concept of a representative volume is not yet fully understood. In this study, we performed spatial and temporal averaging of multiphase flow experiments visualized with synchrotron‐based micro‐CT, focusing on oil saturation as the key parameter to determine a representative time‐and‐space average. Our findings revealed that a saturation value representative of both time and space was achieved during fractional flow experiments in drainage mode with fractional flows of 0.8, 0.5, and 0.3. Furthermore, we computed a range of relative permeabilities on the basis of whether momentaneous saturation or time‐and‐space averaged saturation was utilized for direct simulation. Our results highlighted the importance of time‐and‐space averaging in determining a representative relative permeability and indicated that the temporal and spatial scales covered in a typical micro‐CT flow experiment were sufficient to obtain a representative saturation value for sandstone rock under intermittent flow conditions.