bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergence of ensemble forecast distributions in weak and strong forcing convective weather regimes
Authors: Tempest Kirsten I. , Craig George C. , Puh Matjaž , Keil Christian
Published: May 2024

The constraint of computational power and the huge number of degrees of freedom of the atmosphere means a sampling uncertainty exists in probabilistic ensemble forecasts. In our previous study, the uncertainty could be quantified, creating a convergence measure which converges proportional to in the limit of large ensemble size . This power law can then be extrapolated to determine how sampling uncertainty would decrease with larger ensemble sizes and hence find the necessary ensemble size. It is unknown, however, how the sampling uncertainty depends on different weather regimes. This study extends the previous idealised ensemble developed, by including weak and strong forcing convective weather regimes, to look at how sampling uncertainty convergence differs in each. Two ‐member ensembles were run, with weak and strong forcing respectively. Comparisons with a kilometre‐scale weather prediction model ensured realistic weak and strong forcing regimes by comparing the rain, convective available potential energy (CAPE), convective adjustment timescale, and distribution shapes throughout the diurnal cycle. Differences in distribution shape between the regimes led to differences in the convergence measure. Large differences in spread between weak and strong forcing runs throughout the  hr period led to large differences in sampling uncertainty of the mean and standard deviation, which could be quantified according to well‐known equations. The timing of these differences was case‐dependent. For extreme statistics such as the quantile and for cases where there was precipitation, the moisture variables for the weak forcing case had the largest sampling uncertainty and required the most members for convergence proportional to . This was due to the tails of the weak forcing moisture variables containing the least amount of density. Different ensemble sizes will hence be required depending on whether one is in the weak or strong forcing convective weather regime.
Rapid determination of 111 anti‐infective drugs possibly added in cosmetics using high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry with scheduled multiple reaction monitoring
Authors: Jian Longhai , Han Jing , Wen Hongliang , Shen Yiting , Zhang Kai , Yu Ling , Zheng Rong , Peng Xingsheng , Zhao Liuqing , Sun Chunye
Published: May 2024

Rationale

Illegal addition of anti‐infective drugs to cosmetics at low concentrations has been found. The illicit addition of anti‐infective drugs encompasses a wide variety of medications. The current sample purification methods are inadequate to detect all these compounds. A sensitive, wide‐coverage, and weak‐matrix‐effect measurement method needs to be established to address this issue.

Methods

Samples were extracted using acetonitrile, diluted 25 times, and then analyzed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) to detect 111 anti‐infective drugs. The method was validated and assessed for matrix effect before being applied to cosmetic products.

Results

The calibration curves for the analytes exhibited a strong correlation coefficient (r > 0.995). The limit of detection ranged from 0.006 to 0.6 mg/kg. Matrix effects were significantly improved after a 25‐fold dilution. The method was successfully applied to various cosmetics. Two of 82 samples tested contained lincomycin and miconazole, respectively.

Conclusions

The developed method is quick and reliable to analyze anti‐infective drugs in cosmetics, with potential for both qualitative and quantitative analyses. It is a valuable tool for cosmetic research and development, contributing to safer and more effective cosmetic products.
Structural Complexity in Adapted Reading Materials: A Study Based on the Amount of Information
Authors: Shi Yaqian , Lei Lei
Published: May 2024

Most of the previous studies focused on lexical and syntactic features in adapted texts while little attention has been paid to the structural complexity from the perspective of the amount of information. In this study, we intend to examine the differences in structural complexity in adapted texts from the perspective of the amount of information at the lexical and grammatical levels. We also aim to identify the lexical and grammatical features that contribute most to such differences. The data used in this study were reading texts from Newsela, that is, reading materials for English learners under the educational system of K‐12 in the United States. This study yields several findings of interest. First, the adapted texts differ in the structural complexity at both lexical and grammatical levels in terms of their amount of information. Second, the differences display a decreasing trend. That is, the differences become smaller when the level of the text increases. Third, function words and part‐of‐speech trigrams with a preposition(s) and/or a noun(s) contribute most to the differences. The findings provide significant implications for the adaptation of language materials such as reading texts and test materials.
Evaluating four decades of energy policy evolution for sustainable development of a South Asian country—Nepal: A comprehensive review
Authors: Bhattarai Utsav , Maraseni Tek , Devkota Laxmi P. , Apan Armando
Published: May 2024

In this study, we assessed the accomplishments and shortcomings of an exhaustive collection of energy policies of Nepal over four decades, using a five‐dimensional energy security framework (availability, affordability, technology, sustainability and governance) for sustainable development. We adopted a mixed‐method approach involving thorough review of 70 policy documents (1984–2022), systematic review of 86 peer‐reviewed journal articles on Nepal's energy policy, and consultations with 11 experts. Our evaluation shows that while there is a progressive trend, Nepal's energy policies face challenges of political instability, governance issues, siloed development practices, lagging research and development, inefficient energy demand management, and heavy reliance on international support. Additionally, we offer four tailored recommendations for the related stakeholders: supply‐side management, demand‐side management, multi‐sector collaboration, and political stability and good governance. The insights and recommendations we provide have significant regional implications, particularly in the context of potential cross‐border clean electricity sharing in South Asia.
Facilitating learning at multiple levels with Systems Thinking‐assisted serious games: Insights from the SUSTAIN project
Authors: Armenia Stefano , Barnabè Federico , Pompei Alessandro , Scolozzi Rocco
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on the potential of Systems Thinking‐assisted serious games to facilitate learning at multiple levels. These levels refer both to the actors (primarily the designers and the players, but also the facilitators and the educators) involved throughout the main stages of a serious game lifecycle and the typology of learning that is facilitated (i.e., single or double‐loop learning). From a methodological point of view, this study presents and discusses an action research‐based case study aimed at developing a Systems Thinking‐assisted board game in the field of urban sustainability. Systems Thinking (in terms of methods, principles, and tools) is employed in all the phases of the design and use of the serious game and is key in fostering learning, both for the players and the game designers. Overall, this paper not only provides novel insights into the field of serious games but also leads to the proposal of a core set of methodological suggestions based on Systems Thinking principles and methods that can assist academics and practitioners in creating and using board games for educational purposes.
Fast quantitative determination of monoclonal antibody in infusion bags using protein A nano liquid chromatography
Authors: Andre Claire , Guillaume Yves Claude
Published: May 2024

Staphylococcus aureus Protein A was immobilized on an in‐house made neutravidin poly (glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate) capillary column with a 25 µm internal diameter, a length of 30 mm and a mass loadability of 60 ng. The immobilized quantity of protein A on the organic monolith was very low, in the pico mole range (1.80 pmol). This was of significance importance when working with less available or expensive purified enzyme. This capillary column was integrated into a nano liquid chromatographic system and used for the fast determination without dilution of the doses of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in standardized infusion bags prepared in advance in a pharmacy department. This chromatographic method was linear in the studied concentration range with good precision and accuracy. Heat stressed studies indicated that the protein A affinity capillary column was able to monitor degraded mAbs. As well, the high specificity of this column to capture immunoglobulin G2 in cell culture supernatant was visualized. As the mAbs are produced through genetic engineering of animal cells this last result demonstrated that this novel protein A column could be used in the feature for rapid screening of immunoglobulin G concentration in cell culture.
Epidemiology of heat‐related illness in dogs under UK emergency veterinary care in 2022
Authors: Beard Sian , Hall Emily J. , Bradbury Jude , Carter Anne J. , Gilbert Sophie , O'Neill Dan G.
Published: May 2024

Background

Dogs are exposed to increasing environmental risk for developing heat‐related illness (HRI), with 2022 recorded as the hottest year to date in the UK and most of Europe.

Methods

This study used VetCompass data to report the incidence risk, event fatality rate and canine risk factors for HRI in dogs presenting to Vets Now emergency care practices in the UK during 2022.

Results

From the clinical records of 167,751 dogs under care at Vets Now emergency clinics in 2022, 384 HRI events were identified. The 2022 incidence risk of HRI within the Vets Now caseload was 0.23% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21%‒0.25%), with an event fatality rate of 26.56% (95% CI: 21.66%–32.25%). Multivariable analysis identified breed, age and sex/neuter status as risk factors for HRI. Brachycephalic dogs had 4.21 times the odds of HRI compared to mesocephalic dogs (95% CI: 3.22‒5.49, p < 0.001).

Limitations

The clinical data used in this study were not primarily recorded for research and had some substantial levels of missing data (especially patient bodyweight).

Conclusion

In order to protect canine welfare, improved long‐term mitigation strategies are urgently needed to minimise HRI risk and associated fatality in UK dogs.
Ethical considerations in companion animal care: Examining the consequences of rabies in an unvaccinated Boerboel dog and implications for animal welfare policies
Authors: Orum Terese Gabriel , Nwofor Faith Obiageri , Akinniyi Damilare Joshua , Davou Joseph Alex , Nwanga Ephraim N.
Published: May 2024

This case investigates and documents the occurrence of rabies in an unvaccinated 4‐month‐old Boerboel dog in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, emphasising the ethical considerations and implications for existing animal welfare policies. Despite Nigeria enacting the Animal Diseases (Control) Act, 2022, cases of rabies persist, contributing to thousands of human rabies cases annually. The legal framework highlights the ethical responsibilities of pet owners, mandating annual rabies vaccinations and holding owners accountable for their pets' actions. This case report details the dog's behavioural changes, subsequent euthanasia and laboratory confirmation of rabies. Investigations reveal gaps in vaccination compliance with challenges in community cooperation for free vaccination initiatives. The case highlights the global significance of rabies control, highlighting the ethical responsibilities of pet owners, emphasises the consequences of rabies, and advocates for strengthened policies and improved compliance to effectively combat rabies and protect both animal and human welfare in Nigeria.
Lellouch-Lüscher factor for the K → 3π decays
Authors: Pang Jin-Yi , Bubna Rishabh , Müller Fabian , Rusetsky Akaki , Wu Jia-Jun
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We derive an explicit expression for the Lellouch-Lüscher (LL) factor in the K → 3π decays at leading order (without derivative couplings). Several important technical details are addressed, like a proper decomposition into the isospin amplitudes, the choice of a minimal set of effective couplings and the renormalization, as well as the algorithm for the solution of the pertinent Faddeev equations in the infinite volume which is based on the contour deformation method. Most importantly, our numerical results demonstrate that the three-body force contributes very little to the LL factor. This result paves the way for the study of the K → 3π decays on the lattice.
New channel to search for dark matter at Belle II
Authors: Liang Jinhan , Liu Zuowei , Yang Lan
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We propose a new “disappearing positron track” channel at Belle II to search for dark matter, in which a positron that is produced at the primary interaction vertex scatters with the electromagnetic calorimeter to produce dark matter particles. Such scatterings can occur via either annihilation with atomic electrons, or the bremsstrahlung process with target nuclei. The main backgrounds are due to photons and neutrons that are produced in the same scatterings and then escape detection. We require a large missing energy and further veto certain activities in the KLM detector to suppress such backgrounds. To illustrate the sensitivity of the new channel, we consider a new physics model where dark matter interacts with the standard model via a dark photon, which decays predominantly to dark matter; we find that our proposed channel can probe some currently unexplored parameter space, surpassing both the mono-photon channel at Belle II and the NA64 constraints.
A domain wall and chiral edge currents in holographic chiral phase transitions
Authors: Ishigaki Shuta , Matsumoto Masataka , Yoshii Ryosuke
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We investigate spatially inhomogeneous solutions in a top-down holographic model: the D3/D7 model which provides a holographic description of the chiral phase transition for a finite external magnetic field, chemical potential, and temperature. We numerically find a domain wall (or kink) solution in the three dimensional space, which incorporates between the chiral symmetry broken phase at the spatial infinity, under the homogeneous sources. Along with the inhomogeneity of the chiral condensate, the charge density is also spatially modulated. The modulated charge density and finite magnetic field lead to the chiral edge current close to the domain wall. We explore the dependences of those profiles on the chemical potential and temperature near the first and second order phase transition points. Our results indicate that the inhomogeneous solutions we found are in good agreement with those obtained by the Ginzburg-Landau theory in the vicinity of the transition points.
A model of randomly-coupled Pauli spins
Authors: Hanada Masanori , Jevicki Antal , Liu Xianlong , Rinaldi Enrico , Tezuka Masaki
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We construct a model of Pauli spin operators with all-to-all 4-local interactions by replacing Majorana fermions in the SYK model with spin operators. Equivalently, we replace fermions with hard-core bosons. We study this model numerically and compare the properties with those of the SYK model. We observe a striking quantitative coincidence between the spin model and the SYK model, which suggests that this spin model is strongly chaotic and, perhaps, can play some role in holography. We also discuss the path-integral approach with multi-local fields and the possibility of quantum simulations. This model may be an interesting target for quantum simulations because Pauli spins are easier to implement than fermions on qubit-based quantum devices.
Decay estimates for Cayley transforms and inverses of semigroup generators via the $$\mathcal {B}$$-calculus
Authors: Wakaiki Masashi
Published: May 2024

Let $$-A$$

-
A

be the generator of a bounded $$C_0$$

C
0

-semigroup $$(e^{-tA})_{t \ge 0}$$

(

e

-
t
A

)

t
≥
0

on a Hilbert space. First we study the long-time asymptotic behavior of the Cayley transform $$V_{\omega }(A) :=(A-\omega I) (A+\omega I)^{-1}$$

V
ω

(
A
)

:
=

(
A
-
ω
I
)

(
A
+
ω
I
)

-
1

with $$\omega >0$$

ω
>
0

. We give a decay estimate for $$\Vert V_{\omega }(A)^nA^{-1}\Vert $$

‖

V
ω

(
A
)

n

A

-
1

‖

when $$(e^{-tA})_{t \ge 0}$$

(

e

-
t
A

)

t
≥
0

is polynomially stable. Considering the case where the parameter $$\omega $$
ω
varies, we estimate $$\Vert (\prod _{k=1}^n V_{\omega _k}(A))A^{-1}\Vert $$

‖

(

∏

k
=
1

n

V

ω
k

(
A
)

)

A

-
1

‖

for exponentially stable $$C_0$$

C
0

-semigroups $$(e^{-tA})_{t \ge 0}$$

(

e

-
t
A

)

t
≥
0

. Next we show that if the generator $$-A$$

-
A

of the bounded $$C_0$$

C
0

-semigroup has a bounded inverse, then $$\sup _{t \ge 0} \Vert e^{-tA^{-1}} A^{-\alpha } \Vert < \infty $$

sup

t
≥
0

‖

e

-
t

A

-
1

A

-
α

‖

<
∞

for all $$\alpha >0$$

α
>
0

. We also present an estimate for the rate of decay of $$\Vert e^{-tA^{-1}} A^{-1} \Vert $$

‖

e

-
t

A

-
1

A

-
1

‖

, assuming that $$(e^{-tA})_{t \ge 0}$$

(

e

-
t
A

)

t
≥
0

is polynomially stable. To obtain these results, we use operator norm estimates offered by a functional calculus called the $$\mathcal {B}$$
B
-calculus.
Arbeitsunfähigkeit bei psychischen Störungen – ökonomische, individuelle und behandlungsspezifische Aspekte
Authors: Melzner Lena , Kröger Christoph
Published: May 2024

Mit den Veränderungen der modernen Arbeitswelt gehen Belastungen einher, die die psychische Gesundheit von Arbeitnehmenden negativ beeinflussen können. Im Einklang damit zeigt sich ein Anstieg des Anteils der Arbeitsunfähigkeits(AU)-Tage aufgrund von psychischen Störungen auf zuletzt 17,7 % im Vergleich zu 10,9 % im Jahr 2007, womit 2021 Kosten in Höhe von 42,9 Mrd. € aufgrund von Bruttowertschöpfungsverlusten und Produktionsausfällen verbunden waren.

Dieser Artikel gibt anhand aktueller gesundheitsökonomischer Studien einen Überblick über die volkswirtschaftlichen Auswirkungen von Arbeits- und Erwerbsunfähigkeit aufgrund psychischer Störungen in Deutschland. So sind in absoluten Zahlen die Ausgaben für Arbeitsunfähigkeit insbesondere bei häufigen psychischen Erkrankungen, wie affektiven und Angststörungen, hoch. Seltenere psychische Störungen, wie die posttraumatische Belastungsstörung (PTBS) und Essstörungen, verursachen im Verhältnis zu ihrer geringen Prävalenz insbesondere hohe Kosten aufgrund von Krankengeldzahlungen.

Neben diesen wirtschaftlichen Implikationen werden die Konsequenzen von Arbeits- und Erwerbsunfähigkeit sowie Arbeitslosigkeit auf individueller Ebene beleuchtet und Erklärungsansätze vorgestellt. Letztere verdeutlichen die Notwendigkeit wirksamer Behandlungsmethoden. Dabei haben sich anerkannte Therapieverfahren als effizient in der Reduktion von AU-Tagen erwiesen. Dies gilt umso mehr für arbeitsplatzbezogene Interventionen, die dahin gehend konventionellen Verfahren überlegen zu sein scheinen. Arbeitsplatzbezogene Therapieverfahren legen einen Fokus auf die Planung der Wiedereingliederung. Weitere naturalistische Studien sind nötig, um die Übertragbarkeit der Wirksamkeit der Behandlungsmodelle auf andere Störungsbilder überprüfen zu können.
Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of BI 685509, a soluble guanylyl cyclase activator, in healthy volunteers: Results from two randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wong Diane , Seitz Friedeborg , Bauer Verena , Giessmann Thomas , Schulze Friedrich
Published: May 2024

This study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of BI 685509 after oral single rising doses (SRDs) or multiple rising doses (MRDs) in healthy volunteers. In the SRD trial (NCT02694354; February 29, 2016), within each of the three dose groups (DGs), six subjects received BI 685509 (1.0, 2.5, or 5.0 mg) and two received placebo (N = 24). In the MRD trial (NCT03116906; April 17, 2017), within each of the five DGs, nine subjects received BI 685509 (uptitrated to 1 mg once daily [qd; DG1], 2.5 mg twice daily [DG2], 5.0 mg qd [DG3]; 3.0 mg three times daily [tid; DG4] or 4.0 mg tid [DG5]) and three received placebo, for 14–17 days (N = 60). In the SRD trial, 7/24 subjects (29.2%) had ≥ 1 adverse event (AE), most frequently orthostatic dysregulation (n = 4). In the MRD trial, 26/45 subjects (57.8%) receiving BI 685509 had ≥ 1 AE, most frequently orthostatic dysregulation and fatigue (each n = 12). Tolerance development led to a marked decrease in orthostatic dysregulation events (DG3). BI 685509 was rapidly absorbed after oral administration, and exposure increased in a dose-proportional manner after single doses. Multiple dosing resulted in near–dose-proportional increase in exposure and limited accumulation. BI 685509 pharmacokinetics appeared linear with time; steady state occurred 3–5 days after each multiple-dosing period. Increased plasma cyclic guanosine monophosphate and decreased blood pressure followed by a compensatory increase in heart rate indicated target engagement. BI 685509 was generally well tolerated; orthostatic dysregulation may be appropriately countered by careful uptitration.
Feasibility of virtual non-iodine coronary calcium scoring on dual source photon-counting coronary CT angiography: a dynamic phantom study
Authors: Dobrolinska Magdalena M. , Koetzier Lennart R. , Greuter Marcel J. W. , Vliegenthart Rozemarijn , van der Bie Judith , Prakken Niek H. J. , Slart Riemer H. J. A. , Leiner Tim , Budde Ricardo P. J. , Mastrodicasa Domenico , Booij Ronald , Fleischmann Dominik , Willemink Martin J. , van Straten Marcel , van der Werf Niels R.
Published: May 2024

Background

The aim of our current systematic dynamic phantom study was first, to optimize reconstruction parameters of coronary CTA (CCTA) acquired on photon counting CT (PCCT) for coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring, and second, to assess the feasibility of calculating CAC scores from CCTA, in comparison to reference calcium scoring CT (CSCT) scans.

Methods

In this phantom study, an artificial coronary artery was translated at velocities corresponding to 0, < 60, and 60–75 beats per minute (bpm) within an anthropomorphic phantom. The density of calcifications was 100 (very low), 200 (low), 400 (medium), and 800 (high) mgHA/cm3, respectively. CCTA was reconstructed with the following parameters: virtual non-iodine (VNI), with and without iterative reconstruction (QIR level 2, QIR off, respectively); kernels Qr36 and Qr44f; slice thickness/increment 3.0/1.5 mm and 0.4/0.2 mm. The agreement in risk group classification between CACCCTA and CACCSCT scoring was measured using Cohen weighted linear κ with 95% CI.

Results

For CCTA reconstructed with 0.4 mm slice thickness, calcium detectability was perfect (100%). At < 60 bpm, CACCCTA of low, and medium density calcification was underestimated by 53%, and 15%, respectively. However, CACCCTA was not significantly different from CACCSCT of very low, and high-density calcifications. The best risk agreement was achieved when CCTA was reconstructed with QIR off, Qr44f, and 0.4 mm slice thickness (κ = 0.762, 95% CI 0.671–0.853).

Conclusion

In this dynamic phantom study, the detection of calcifications with different densities was excellent with CCTA on PCCT using thin-slice VNI reconstruction. Agatston scores were underestimated compared to CSCT but agreement in risk classification was substantial.

Clinical relevance statement

Photon counting CT may enable the implementation of coronary artery calcium scoring from coronary CTA in daily clinical practice.

Key Points

Photon-counting CTA allows for excellent detectability of low-density calcifications at all heart rates.

Coronary artery calcium scoring from coronary CTA acquired on photon counting CT is feasible, although improvement is needed.

Adoption of the standard acquisition and reconstruction protocol for calcium scoring is needed for improved quantification of coronary artery calcium to fully employ the potential of photon counting CT.
Accuracy of optical diagnosis with narrow band imaging in the surveillance of ulcerative colitis: a prospective study comparing Kudo, Kudo-IBD and NICE classifications
Authors: Cassinotti Andrea , Duca Piergiorgio , Maconi Giovanni , Beretta Elena , Sampietro Gianluca Matteo , Pellegrinelli Alessandro , Nebuloni Manuela , Ardizzone Sandro
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The diagnostic accuracy of Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) in the endoscopic surveillance of ulcerative colitis (UC) has been disappointing in most trials which used the Kudo classification. We aim to compare the performance of NBI in the lesion characterization of UC, when applied according to three different classifications (NICE, Kudo, Kudo-IBD).

Methods

In a prospective, real-life study, all visible lesions found during consecutive surveillance colonoscopies with NBI (Exera-II CV-180) for UC were classified as suspected or non-suspected for neoplasia according to the NICE, Kudo and Kudo-IBD criteria. The sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive (+LR) and negative (-LR) likelihood ratios of the three classifications were calculated, using histology as the reference standard.

Results

394 lesions (mean size 6 mm, range 2–40 mm) from 84 patients were analysed. Twenty-one neoplastic (5%), 49 hyperplastic (12%), and 324 inflammatory (82%) lesions were found. The diagnostic accuracy of the NICE, Kudo and Kudo-IBD classifications were, respectively: SE 76%-71%-86%; SP 55-69%-79% (p < 0.05 Kudo-IBD vs. both Kudo and NICE); +LR 1.69-2.34-4.15 (p < 0.05 Kudo-IBD vs. both Kudo and NICE); -LR 0.43-0.41-0.18.

Conclusion

The diagnostic accuracy of NBI in the differentiation of neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions in UC is low if used with conventional classifications of the general population, but it is significantly better with the modified Kudo classification specific for UC.
Serpentine supravenous hyperpigmentation induced by chemotherapy: a systematic review
Authors: Shan Judy , Obiakor Bianca C. , Cheng Justin , Francois Rony A. , Dobry Allison S.
Published: May 2024

Serpentine supravenous hyperpigmentation (SSH) describes increased skin pigmentation that develops in the area immediately overlying the vessels through which chemotherapeutic drugs are administered. While SSH can be cosmetically distressing and there are no definitive management options, the literature is severely limited and the variations in clinical presentation, risk factors, and histopathology of SSH across patients are not well understood. We aimed to systematically summarize characteristics from current available data, and thus improve SSH awareness and management. A literature search was conducted in PubMed using specific eligibility criteria through the end of December 2022. Included articles focused on patients who experienced SSH after chemotherapy infusion. Study quality was assessed using a modified Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine quality rating scheme. Of the 41 articles identified by literature search, 24 met eligibility criteria. Two additional articles were identified through the reference sections of retrieved articles, for 26 articles total. All articles were case reports, representing 28 patients total. Locations of SSH were mostly in the forearm near the site of injection (85%), and the most common associated symptom was erythema. Histopathologic analysis was available for half of cases, the majority of which were inflammatory in nature. The most common inflammatory pattern observed was a vacuolar/lichenoid interface dermatitis. Duration of SSH ranged from days to > 1 year after the chemotherapy was stopped. Six (21%) patients were managed with topical steroids and oral vasodilators, six (21%) patients switched to central venous infusion rather than peripheral infusion, five (18%) patients received only supportive care, three (11%) patients received venous washing with chemotherapy, three (11%) patients stopped chemotherapy, and one (4%) patient reduced the chemotherapy dosage. Ten (36%) patients attained complete resolution, seven (25%) had SSH that was near resolution/fading, and three (11%) had persistent hyperpigmentation. Although SSH often spontaneously resolves once the chemotherapeutic agent is stopped, it can persist in some patients and cause significant distress. As the literature is severely limited and there are no definitive treatments, additional research using more standardized definitions and methods of assessments is necessary to improve characterization of SSH and evaluate potential interventions.
Practicable solution approaches for differentiated pricing of vehicle sharing systems
Authors: Müller Christian
Published: May 2024

Vehicle sharing systems have become increasingly popular. However, one-way vehicle sharing system providers face a major challenge. The uneven distribution of vehicles across locations caused by the uneven nature of the demand patterns poses a problem, since there are accumulations of vehicles where the demand is low. This challenge can be solved with an appropriate pricing approach that creates incentives for user-based relocation by considering supply-side network effects. While the literature mostly focuses on trip-based pricing, we were inspired by the majority of car sharing providers who use origin-based minute pricing that differentiates based on the origins of rentals, such as Share Now. Therefore, we develop two different and practicable solution approaches to determine spatially and temporally differentiated origin-based minute prices that take into account supply-side network effects. The first solution approach does not differentiate between rentals and demand and calculates continuous prices for every period and location. The second solution approach determines the vehicle distribution for each period and then calculates the optimal prices for each period backwards. Extensive computational experiments show that our solution approaches anticipate supply-side network effects and thus generate a near-optimal profit in less computational time compared to more complex benchmarks from the literature. In a sensitivity analysis we additionally show that the results are robust against stochasticity of demand and that the solution approaches perform well for different price sets.
Population normative data for OxCAP-MH capability scores
Authors: Balázs Péter György , Łaszewska Agata , Simon Judit , Brodszky Valentin
Published: May 2024

Aim

The study aims to establish the first set of normative data for OxCAP-MH capability instrument and to examine its association with sociodemographic and anxiety/depression severity variables.

Methods

A large-sample cross-sectional online survey was conducted among the Hungarian adult general population in 2021. OxCAP-MH standardized mean scores were compared across age, sex, education level, residence, employment, and marital status. Linear regression analysis was employed to determine the impact of sociodemographic and anxiety/depression severity on the OxCAP-MH score.

Results

In total, N = 2000 individuals completed the survey. The sample mean age was 47.1, with female majority (53.4%). Most respondents had completed primary education (51%), were active on labour market (52.4%), lived in larger cities (70.0%), and were married/in relationship (61.1%). Nearly half of the participants reported experiencing depression (48.5%), anxiety (44.3%), and 38.6% reported having both. The mean OxCAP-MH score for the total sample was 67.2 (SD = 14.4), the highest in the non-depressed (74.4) and non-anxious (73.6) subgroups, the lowest among those with extremely severe depression (45.0) and severe anxiety (47.7). Regression results indicated that older individuals (by β = 0.1), males (β = 2.3), those with secondary or higher education (β = 2.7 and 4.5) and students (β = 6.8) had significantly (p<0.01) higher mental capabilities. Respondents with mild, moderate, severe, or extremely severe depression (β =  -6.6, -9.6, -13.8, -18.3) and those with mild, moderate, or severe anxiety (β =  -4.1, -7.7, -10.3) had lower capability scores.

Conclusion

The OxCAP-MH instrument effectively differentiated capabilities across sociodemographic groups and highlighting the impact of depression and anxiety severity on general population’s mental capability.
Can dietary C:N ratio influence water quality and microbiology in recirculating aquaculture systems?
Authors: Huang Xiaoyu , Aalto Sanni L. , Dalsgaard Johanne , Pedersen Per Bovbjerg
Published: May 2024

The potential impacts of diet composition on water quality in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) have been studied only to a limited extent. This study examined the effects of different dietary C:N ratios on physiochemical water quality and associated microbiology in 12 pilot scale freshwater RAS with rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). By adjusting the proportions of protein, carbohydrate, and fat, four diets with different C:N ratios—fully embracing the span observed in commercial diets—were formulated (CN8.5, CN9.3, CN10.0, and CN12.2). Each diet was administered to three separate RAS for 4 weeks at a daily feed loading of 1.67 kg/m3 make-up water. At the end of the trial (in week 4), concentrations of nitrite-N, nitrate–N, and dissolved COD, and microbial activity were significantly lower and water clarity was simultaneously higher in systems fed the CN12.2 diet as compared to the other diets. Microbial community compositions in system water and biofilter biofilms and the overall microbial abundance in system water were not affected. This was likely due to the molar C:N ratios in system water not correlating to the dietary C:N ratios and being very low (0.27–0.34) throughout all dietary C:N levels, suggesting that microorganisms were carbon limited in all RAS. Altogether, the results demonstrate that changing dietary C:N ratios can affect physicochemical water quality and microbial activity in RAS. In contrast, changing dietary C:N ratios did not affect water C:N ratios or water or biofilter microbial community composition at least within the span of dietary C:N ratios observed for commercial juvenile rainbow trout feeds.
Unscrambling the Dynamics of Danger: Scientific Foundations and Evidence for the Looming Vulnerability Model and Looming Cognitive Style in Anxiety
Authors: Riskind John H.
Published: May 2024

Background

A revised looming vulnerability model is described that updates the original conceptual model and synthesizes new findings and evidence. The revised model extends the notion of dynamic threat by describing the role of cognitive-perceptual distortions. Moreover, it suggests that dynamic threat perceptions, particularly that threats are approaching, serve as warning signals that lower the threshold for appraising threat, influencing negative emotional responses (primarily but not only anxiety and fear), cognitive-affective processing, behavior, and maladaptive coping. Individual differences in “looming cognitive style” can lead to transdiagnostic vulnerability to anxiety (and less so, to depression), maladaptive defensive reactions, cognitive-affective (experiential) avoidance, and stress generation.

Methods

This article reviews the conceptualization proposed by the revised looming vulnerability model, and comprehensively reviews its scientific foundation, and current supporting evidence that has accrued for the model across diverse research domains.

Results

The revised conceptualization of the looming vulnerability model is amply supported by the accumulated research, which highlights the importance of dynamic stimuli for attention, memory, emotional, and neurological response. Likewise, the looming cognitive style is supported by a substantial number of studies, linking it to cognitive vulnerability to anxiety, biased threat processing, maladaptive coping and cognitive-affective avoidance, and developmental antecedents.

Conclusions

The review of evidence supports the revised looming vulnerability model's tenets about the importance of dynamic stimulusi features, which previous models have neglected, and of the looming cognitive style, which is proposed as a distinct cognitive vulnerability Clinical implications and future research directions are discussed.
State-corporate legal symbiosis and social harm: the case of the steel factory ‘Ilva’ in Taranto, Italy
Authors: Nicoli Aldini Carlo
Published: May 2024

For more than a decade, epidemiological surveys have shown that Taranto, Italy, has a critical health situation. In particular, two epidemiological reports have established a causal link between mortality and morbidity in Taranto and the industrial production of Ilva, one of Europe’s largest steel mills. Despite its negative impact on local health, Ilva has been allowed to produce thanks to a favorable legal framework. In particular, this article focuses on seven years central to the recent history of Ilva (2011–2017), in which the state has engaged in frenetic and compulsive lawmaking aimed to establish a favorable legal environment for Ilva to continue producing. It shows how the law has become an avenue for the Italian state and Ilva to establish a symbiotic relationship that has created the conditions to produce and reproduce harmful corporate practices. These laws are presented in juxtaposition with academic research and epidemiological surveys on Taranto’s public health, thus showing how the Italian state has responded to the increasing amount of evidence of corporate harm done in Taranto. The article contributes to the criminological scholarship on state-corporate crime and social harm by discussing the role of state law in the production and reproduction of harmful corporate practice. It also advances the literature on the Ilva case with a novel socio-legal reading of the socioenvironmental conflict ongoing in Taranto.
Enhancing student engagement through emerging technology integration in STEAM learning environments
Authors: Maričić Mirjana , Lavicza Zsolt
Published: May 2024

Emerging technologies can potentially transform education through student engagement. The aim of our study is threefold. Firstly, we aspired to examine the validity and reliability of Reeve and Tsengs’ 4-construct (emotional, behavioral, cognitive, and agentic) engagement scale (EBCA scale). Secondly, we aimed to examine whether and to what extent the integration of emerging technology through virtual simulations (VS) in STEAM activities can improve students’ perceived engagement. Thirdly, we strived to examine how the order of integration of VS in STEAM activities affects students’ perceived engagement. A cross-over research design was used. 84 primary school students (9–10 years old) were assigned to one of the following conditions: STA (science + technology + art); SA (science + art); STA + SA; and SA + STA. The results showed that the 4-factor EBCA scale model is aligned and fits the overall sample well. It was also observed that the longer students are involved in STEAM activities, the better their perceived engagement is, and the more they work on VS, the more they develop the values of attentive listening, directing attention, and investing effort in learning. The order of integration of VS affects perceived engagement, and students who learn with them first perceive engagement better. One of the implications of our study is to examine the metric characteristics of the EBCA scale on different samples as well. Other recommendations are stated in the discussion.
Household debt and financial vulnerability: empirical evidence for Spain, 2002–2020
Authors: Martín-Legendre Juan Ignacio , Sánchez-Santos José Manuel
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to analyse the evolution of Spanish households’ indebtedness and financial vulnerability over the course of this century using micro-data from the Household Finance and Consumption Survey. Our results show a growing debt participation of Spanish households and an increase in the stock of outstanding debt of indebted households, a trend that reversed with the end of the Great Recession. Moreover, the percentage of financially vulnerable households according to three indicators grew dramatically until the end of the downward phase of the last economic cycle and showed considerable signs of improvement during the second half of 2010s. These results, nonetheless, call attention to the number of Spanish households being unable to service their debts in the face of an economic downturn.
A metaheuristic approach to compare different combined economic emission dispatch methods involving load shifting policy
Authors: Misra Srikant , Panigrahi P. K. , Ghosh Saradindu , Dey Bishwajit
Published: May 2024

Distributed generators (DGs), which can be traditional fossil fuel generators or renewable energy sources (RES), must be appropriately planned in order to reduce a power network’s overall generating cost. Renewable energy sources (RES) should be prioritized because they provide a clean and sustainable energy supply and are abundant in nature. Demand side management (DSM) optimizes the scheduling of flexible loads to reduce peak demand and improve the load factor, while keeping daily demand unchanged. The test system in this research employs a dependable and effective hybrid optimization tool to plan the DGs of a dynamic system in a way that matches low active power production costs with low pollutant emissions. The fitness functions used in the test system were non-linear due to the presence of the valve point effect (VPE). The costs and emissions were evaluated for various fitness functions which included involvement of wind, DSM, and different types of combined economic emission dispatch (CEED) methods. The test system’s peak demand was cut by 12% and the load factor was raised from 0.7528 to 0.85 when DSM technique was used. The generation cost has been reduced from $1,014,996 to $1,012,182 using CSAJAYA algorithm which was further reduced to $1,007,441 after incorporating DSM. Likewise, the CEEDppf was also observed to be reduced to $1,231,435 and $1,216,885 with and without DSM compared to $1,232,001 from reported literature. Numerical results show that both the cost and emission were reduced significantly using the proposed CSAJAYA compared to a long-sighted list of algorithms published in literature.

Graphical Abstract
Change and Persistence in an Olive Landscape of Sicily. Geospatial Insights Into Biocultural Heritage
Authors: Ferrara Vincenza , Sala Giovanna , La Mantia Tommaso
Published: May 2024

Intercropping landscapes characterised by the presence of certain plant features are usually considered traditional landscapes, important for their biocultural heritage. In recent decades, olive agroforestry systems previously widespread throughout Sicily have transitioned to monocultures alongside the disappearance of other tree species. To analyse the dynamics of land use, we combine mathematical representations and oral narratives of spatial change, focussing our case study on a rural area of inner Sicily, Cozzo del Lampo, characterised by a high presence of century-old olive trees. By using local geonarratives in combination with the results of change detection analysis using historical aerial images spanning 50 years (1955 – 2005), we gain insights into the relationality of people and places over time, highlighting how biocultural heritage is correlated to both local culture and ecology, and demonstrating the value of ecological perspectives to understand past and current human actions. The active engagement of the local population in the interpretation of their own (past-present) practices is key to access new ecological knowledge.
Children’s Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Outcomes in Military Families: A Rapid Review
Authors: Opie Jessica E. , Hameed Mohajer , Vuong An , Painter Felicity , Booth Anna T. , Jiang Heng , Dowling Rowan , Boh Jessica , McLean Natalie , McIntosh Jennifer E.
Published: May 2024

In light of ongoing global military conflicts, including the Israel-Hamas war and the Russia-Ukraine war, it is imperative to study the effects of parental military service and deployment on the health and well-being of children within military families. Emerging evidence suggests that children with a parent in service appear to face unique developmental challenges associated with the military lifestyle, which differ from those experienced by civilian children. However, there is currently limited systematic research that compares the developmental outcomes of children with serving parents to their civilian peers. Therefore, the aim of this review is to synthesize existing literature on the behavioral, social, emotional, and educational functioning of children with currently serving parents in defense forces, in comparison to their civilian counterparts. This rapid systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology framework, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, and Cochrane Rapid Review methodological recommendations The following databases were searched: Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Relevant online databases were searched from February 2012 to 2022 to examine the contemporary literature. Fourteen identified published quantitative studies were identified. No qualitative studies were found, and no study reported on academic outcomes. Despite considerable sample heterogeneity across studies, military children of all ages appear to be a particularly vulnerable population. Findings suggest that children in military families experience substantially higher risk for negative psychological, social, and behavioral health outcomes than their civilian counterparts, with parental deployment increasing risk across all developmental stages (i.e., early, middle, and late childhood). Among these age groups, adolescents of currently serving members showed highest risk, particularly concerning suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviors. Implications are discussed in terms of early detection, preventative interventions, and support services for families and children with a serving parent. PROSPERO registration: CRD42022313999.