bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the stability of relativistic perfect fluids with linear equations of state $$p=K\rho $$ where $$1/3<K<1$$
Authors: Marshall Elliot , Oliynyk Todd A.
Published: September 2023

For $$1/3<K<1$$

1
/
3
<
K
<
1

, we consider the stability of two distinct families of spatially homogeneous solutions to the relativistic Euler equations with a linear equation of state $$p=K\rho $$

p
=
K
ρ

on exponentially expanding FLRW spacetimes. The two families are distinguished by one being spatially isotropic while the other is not. We establish the future stability of nonlinear perturbations of the non-isotropic family for the full range of parameter values $$1/3<K<1$$

1
/
3
<
K
<
1

, which improves a previous stability result established by the second author that required K to lie in the restricted range (1/3, 1/2). As a first step towards understanding the behaviour of nonlinear perturbations of the isotropic family, we construct numerical solutions to the relativistic Euler equations under a $$\mathbb {T}{}^2$$

T

2

-symmetry assumption. These solutions are generated from initial data at a fixed time that is chosen to be suitably close to the initial data of an isotropic solution. Our numerical results reveal that, for the full parameter range $$1/3<K<1$$

1
/
3
<
K
<
1

, the density gradient $$\frac{\partial _{x}\rho }{\rho }$$

∂
x

ρ

ρ

associated to a nonlinear perturbation of an isotropic solution develops steep gradients near a finite number of spatial points where it becomes unbounded at future timelike infinity. This behavior of the density gradient was anticipated by Rendall (Ann Henri Poincaré 5(6):1041–1064, 2004), and our numerical results confirm his expectations.
Farming system change under different climate scenarios and its impact on food security: an analytical framework to inform adaptation policy in developing countries
Authors: Abbas Máriam , Ribeiro Paulo Flores , Santos José Lima
Published: September 2023

Developing countries are considered extremely vulnerable to climate change, due to their socioeconomic context (high levels of poverty) and high dependence of their livelihoods on natural resources. Rural areas in these countries concentrate most of the poorest and food-insecure people in the world, with farmers being among the most vulnerable to climate change. The impacts of climate change are expected to be spatially heterogeneous. In this sense, this paper aims at exploring the direct, marginal effect of climate change on farming system choice and its implications to food security in Mozambique, using a space-for-time approach. Our results suggest that major changes are to be expected in farming system choice and their spatial distribution due to climate change, which will potentially impact the livelihoods and food security status of smallholder farmers. Farming systems including food/cash crops and/or livestock, which are among the most food secure, will tend to be replaced by other systems in all climate scenarios. Mixed farming systems (including food and livestock) and livestock-oriented systems, mostly food insecure, predominant in arid areas are expected to expand with climate change. Food security and innovation stress maps were sketched out from the modelling results, identifying priority areas for public intervention. We also highlight how our approach can be an effective and easily replicable framework to address this type of issues in other developing regions facing similar problems.
A framework for generating large-scale microphone array data for machine learning
Authors: Kujawski Adam , Pelling Art J. R. , Jekosch Simon , Sarradj Ennes
Published: September 2023

The use of machine learning for localization of sound sources from microphone array data has increased rapidly in recent years. Newly developed methods are of great value for hearing aids, speech technologies, smart home systems or engineering acoustics. The existence of openly available data is crucial for the comparability and development of new data-driven methods. However, the literature review reveals a lack of openly available datasets, especially for large microphone arrays. This contribution introduces a framework for generation of acoustic data for machine learning. It implements tools for the reproducible random sampling of virtual measurement scenarios. The framework allows computations on multiple machines, which significantly speeds up the process of data generation. Using the framework, an example of a development dataset for sound source characterization with a 64-channel array is given. A containerized environment running the simulation source code is openly available. The presented approach enables the user to calculate large datasets, to store only the features necessary for training, and to share the source code which is needed to reproduce datasets instead of sharing the data itself. This avoids the problem of distributing large datasets and enables reproducible research.
Text-aided Group Decision-making Process Observation Method (x-GDP): a novel methodology for observing the joint decision-making process of travel choices
Authors: Parady Giancarlos , Oyama Yuki , Chikaraishi Makoto
Published: September 2023

Joint travel decisions, particularly related to social activities remain poorly explained in traditional behavioral models. A key reason for this is the lack of empirical data, and the difficulties associated with collecting such data in the first place. To address this problem, we propose Text-aided Group Decision-making Process Observation Method (x-GDP), a novel survey methodology to collect data on joint activities from all members of a given clique. More specifically, on a Zoom-moderated experiment, participant cliques are asked to coordinate an activity (or set of activities) using a group chat interface. The experiment requires not only the coordination but the execution of the planned activity, thus guaranteeing a real discussion that takes into consideration the preferences and constraints of clique members. Through this method we are able to observe not only the outcome of the choice process, but also the decision-making process itself in a quasi-naturalistic manner, including the alternatives that compose the choice set, individual and clique characteristics that might affect the choice process, as well as the discussion behind the choice via texts. In this paper we introduce the results of an x-GDP survey implementation focusing on joint eating-out activities in the Greater Tokyo Area. Preliminary data analysis clearly illustrates the heterogeneity of the choice processes among groups and how members’ spatiotemporal constraints, individual and relational characteristics, as well as the bargaining process affect choice outcomes. Given the unique characteristics of the collected data, we discuss how x-GDP can be used to (i) identify and categorize group decision-making patterns, (ii) model group decisions explicitly considering the decision-making process, (iii) estimate joint accessibility measures and (iv) analyze choice set generation processes.
An analysis of international mobility and research productivity in computer science
Authors: Finocchi Irene , Ribichini Andrea , Schaerf Marco
Published: September 2023

In this article, we study the international mobility of researchers in the field of computer science (CS). Our analysis hinges upon Scopus data spanning a time period of 30 years (1991–2020) and involves a total of 969,835 researchers and 8,412,543 publications. Our contribution is two-fold. First, we characterize mobility as a fairly common phenomenon in CS, we highlight a strong correlation with standard bibliometric indicators at all seniority levels and a lower propensity of female researchers to relocate internationally than their male colleagues. Second, we analyze individual career paths building from them a mobility graph and identifying common patterns, such as the most traveled connections between different countries, whether they are equally traversed in both directions and the most frequently visited countries. The temporal evolution of the above patterns within our 30-year time frame is also investigated. The United States emerged as a preferred destination for internationally mobile authors, with strong connections to China (from the early 2000s), Canada, and several prominent European countries, most notably the United Kingdom, Germany, and France.
How to frame innovation in mathematics
Authors: Fisseni Bernhard , Sarikaya Deniz , Schröder Bernhard
Published: September 2023

We discuss conceptual change and progress within mathematics, in particular how tools, structural concepts and representations are transferred between fields that appear to be unconnected or remote from each other. The theoretical background is provided by the frame concept, which is used in linguistics, cognitive science and artificial intelligence to model how explicitly given information is combined with expectations deriving from background knowledge. In mathematical proofs, we distinguish two kinds of frames, namely structural frames and ontological frames. The interaction between both kinds of frames can drive mathematical interpretation. We first discuss two examples where structural frames (formulaic notation) drive ontological development (the discovery or exploration of mathematical objects). The development of Boole’s Boolean algebra may at first appear as a metaphorical treatment of the (then) new area of logic. In the analysis, we discuss how different (aspects of) certain algebraic frames change in the transfer, how arising difficulties are solved and overall argue that Boole uses the numerical algebra frame as a research template for the discovery of a system for calculations in logic. Following Ifrah, we analyse the discovery of zero as an extension to the number ontology as driven by the development of notation. Both structural and ontological frames are extended and simplified as notation progresses. Finally, we discuss two examples from infinite combinatorics, viz. topological graph theory, and one foundational issue. In both examples, the two simultaneous frames about one object are maintained independently. They motivate different research questions, but may also fruitfully interact: shifting between multiple synchronously maintained perspectives acts as a motor of innovation. The analysis shows how a frame-based approach allows to model how different perspectives drive mathematical innovation because they highlight different aspects, questions and heuristics.
A Computational Study of Cluster Dynamics in Structural Lubricity: Role of Cluster Rotation
Authors: Oo Wai , Baykara Mehmet , Gao Hongyu
Published: September 2023

We present a computational study of sliding between gold clusters and a highly oriented pyrolytic graphite substrate, a material system that exhibits ultra-low friction due to structural lubricity. By means of molecular dynamics, it is found that clusters may undergo spontaneous rotations during manipulation as a result of elastic instability, leading to attenuated friction due to enhanced interfacial incommensurability. In the case of a free cluster, shear stresses exhibit a non-monotonic dependency on the strength of the tip-cluster interaction, whereby rigid clusters experience nearly constant shear stresses. Finally, it is shown that the suppression of the translational degrees of freedom of a cluster’s outermost-layer can partially annihilate out-of-plane phonon vibrations, which leads to a reduction of energy dissipation that is in compliance with Stokesian damping. It is projected that the physical insight attained by the study presented here will result in enhanced control and interpretation of manipulation experiments at structurally lubric contacts.
Harnessing distributional semantics to build context-aware justifications for recommender systems
Authors: Musto Cataldo , Spillo Giuseppe , Semeraro Giovanni
Published: September 2023

This paper introduces a methodology to generate review-based natural language justifications supporting personalized suggestions returned by a recommender system. The hallmark of our strategy lies in the fact that natural language justifications are adapted to the different contextual situations in which the items will be consumed. In particular, our strategy relies on the following intuition: Just like the selection of the most suitable item is influenced by the contexts of usage, a justification that supports a recommendation should vary as well. As an example, depending on whether a person is going out with her friends or her family, a justification that supports a restaurant recommendation should include different concepts and aspects. Accordingly, we designed a pipeline based on distributional semantics models to generate a vector space representation of each context. Such a representation, which relies on a term-context matrix, is used to identify the most suitable review excerpts that discuss aspects that are particularly relevant for a certain context. The methodology was validated by means of two user studies, carried out in two different domains (i.e., movies and restaurants). Moreover, we also analyzed whether and how our justifications impact on the perceived transparency of the recommendation process and allow the user to make more informed choices. As shown by the results, our intuitions were supported by the user studies.
Bacterial diseases in marine fish species: current trends and future prospects in disease management
Authors: Hegde Avani , Kabra Suhani , Basawa Renuka Manjunath , Khile Dnyanada Anil , Abbu Rahil Ummar Faruk , Thomas Naomi Ann , Manickam Nava Bharati , Raval Ritu
Published: September 2023

The fisheries sub-sector of aquaculture—i.e., the pisciculture industry, contributes significantly to a country’s economy, employing a sizable proportion of the population. It also makes important contributions to household food security because the current demand for animal protein cannot be fulfilled by harvesting wild fish from riverines, lakes, dams, and oceans. For good pond management techniques and sustaining fish health, the fisherfolk, and the industry require well-established regulatory structures, efficient disease management strategies, and other extended services. In rearing marine fish, infections resulting from disease outbreaks are a weighty concern because they can cause considerable economic loss due to morbidity and mortality. Consequently, to find effective solutions for the prevention and control of the major diseases limiting fish production in aquaculture, multidisciplinary studies on the traits of potential fish pathogens, the biology of the fish as hosts, and an adequate understanding of the global environmental factors are fundamental. This review highlights the various bacterial diseases and their causative pathogens prevalent in the pisciculture industry and the current solutions while emphasising marine fish species. Given that preexisting methods are known to have several disadvantages, other sustainable alternatives like antimicrobial peptides, synthetic peptides, probiotics, and medicinal treatments have emerged to be an enormous potential solution to these challenges.

Graphical abstract
Extraction of rare earth elements from monazite leach liquor using functionalized chitosan sorbents derived from shrimp waste
Authors: Matter Emad A. , Dhmees Abdelghaffar S. , Salem Waheed M. , El-Magied Mahmoud O. Abd , Ahmed Gaber Hashem Gaber
Published: September 2023

With the growing need for high-purity rare-earth elements (REEs), the separation of these REEs has received much attention recently. The objective of this research is to produce chitosan from shrimp waste, then modify it with different functionality, and investigate the adsorption properties of chitosan adsorbents towards La(III) ions. First, from shrimp waste, chitosan (ch) with a significant degree of deacetylation, purity, and solubility was produced. The purified chitosan was cross-linked with epichlorohydrin (ep), and then, it was modified with 3,6,9,12-tetraazatetradecane-1,14-diamine (HA) to produce polyaminated chitosan (HA@ep@Ch). The polycarboxylated/imine chitosan (CM@HA@ep@Ch) was obtained by treating polyaminated chitosan with chloroacetic acid in isopropyl alcohol. The chitosan adsorbents were characterized and applied for lanthanum recovery from synthetic and monazite leach liquor samples. The factors controlling the recovery process were studied and discussed. The performance of the adsorbents was achieved through equilibrium, dynamic, and isothermal studies. HA@ep@Ch and CM@HA@ep@Ch showed good performance for lanthanum recovery with a maximum capacity of 114.52 and 141.76 mg/g at 330 K, respectively. The isotherm parameters refer to the monolayer of lanthanum adsorbed into the adsorbents through chelation and ion exchange mechanisms. A 0.5-M HCl solution was found effective to elute 95.8% of the adsorbed lanthanum on HA@ep@Ch, and 93.4% of the adsorbed lanthanum on CM@HA@ep@Ch. The adsorbents showed greater selectivity in extracting La, Ce, Pr, Nd, and Sm (62–75%) from REE leach liquid compared to extracting other REEs (20–41%).
A Pesticide Decision Support Tool to guide the selection of less environmentally harmful pesticides for the sugar cane industry
Authors: St. John Warne Michael , Neale Peta A. , Macpherson Michael J.
Published: September 2023

Pesticides applied to agricultural land have been shown to decrease the quality of water entering the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. This issue is addressed by the Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan which includes a pesticide reduction target. As part of a wider educational strategy, one method that could help meet the target is to provide stakeholders with information that assists in the selection and use of pesticide active ingredients (PAIs) that pose a lower risk to aquatic environments compared to those currently used. This study developed a Pesticide Decision Support Tool (PDST) in collaboration with stakeholders for the sugar cane industry. The PDST covers all PAIs registered and applied to sugar cane in Australia and four additional PAIs registered for use on crops grown in rotation with sugar cane. The PDST incorporates both the measure of mobility and persistence of a PAI and the measure of effect, which is based on the PAI application rate and ecotoxicity threshold value. The aquatic risk, which is the product of the measure of effect and the measure of mobility and persistence, is a measure of the likelihood that a PAI will reach the aquatic environment and cause harmful effects. Insecticide active ingredients (e.g., cadusafos, chlorpyrifos) posed the greatest aquatic risk, followed by herbicide active ingredients (e.g., MSMA, metolachlor), while fungicide AIs typically had a lower aquatic risk. An interactive spreadsheet allows characteristics, including application rate and tank mixes, to be considered when assessing the potential risk. While focusing on sugar cane, the results are equally appropriate to other crops that use the same PAIs provided the application rates are corrected to the new crop. In addition, the approach used in the PDST can be applied internationally and to any PAIs with sufficient toxicity, mobility, and persistence data.
Functional network disorganization and cognitive decline following fractionated whole-brain radiation in mice
Authors: Seitzman Benjamin A. , Reynoso Francisco J. , Mitchell Timothy J. , Bice Annie R. , Jarang Anmol , Wang Xiaodan , Mpoy Cedric , Strong Lori , Rogers Buck E. , Yuede Carla M. , Rubin Joshua B. , Perkins Stephanie M. , Bauer Adam Q.
Published: September 2023

Cognitive dysfunction following radiotherapy (RT) is one of the most common complications associated with RT delivered to the brain, but the precise mechanisms behind this dysfunction are not well understood, and to date, there are no preventative measures or effective treatments. To improve patient outcomes, a better understanding of the effects of radiation on the brain’s functional systems is required. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has shown promise in this regard, however, compared to neural activity, hemodynamic measures of brain function are slow and indirect. Understanding how RT acutely and chronically affects functional brain organization requires more direct examination of temporally evolving neural dynamics as they relate to cerebral hemodynamics for bridging with human studies. In order to adequately study the underlying mechanisms of RT-induced cognitive dysfunction, the development of clinically mimetic RT protocols in animal models is needed. To address these challenges, we developed a fractionated whole-brain RT protocol (3Gy/day for 10 days) and applied longitudinal wide field optical imaging (WFOI) of neural and hemodynamic brain activity at 1, 2, and 3 months post RT. At each time point, mice were subject to repeated behavioral testing across a variety of sensorimotor and cognitive domains. Disruptions in cortical neuronal and hemodynamic activity observed 1 month post RT were significantly worsened by 3 months. While broad changes were observed in functional brain organization post RT, brain regions most impacted by RT occurred within those overlapping with the mouse default mode network and other association areas similar to prior reports in human subjects. Further, significant cognitive deficits were observed following tests of novel object investigation and responses to auditory and contextual cues after fear conditioning. Our results fill a much-needed gap in understanding the effects of whole-brain RT on systems level brain organization and how RT affects neuronal versus hemodynamic signaling in the cortex. Having established a clinically-relevant injury model, future studies can examine therapeutic interventions designed to reduce neuroinflammation-based injury following RT. Given the overlap of sequelae that occur following RT with and without chemotherapy, these tools can also be easily incorporated to examine chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment.
Problematic Pornography Use: Can It Be Accurately Measured via the Problematic Pornography Use Scale?
Authors: Zarate Daniel , Allen Andrew , Kannis-Dymand Lee , Karimi Leila , Stavropoulos Vasileios
Published: September 2023

Pornography use has increased its popularity worldwide, raising concerns about potential disordered use. Considering the lack of recognition in diagnostic manuals, conceptual clarification and the validation of robust instruments assessing this problem are much needed. The current study is aimed at assessing the psychometric properties of the Problematic Pornography Use Scale (PPUS). Exploratory and confirmatory analyses (EFA and CFA) were used to assess a four-factor and a bifactor solution. Additionally, this study used latent profile (LPA) and sensitivity analyses to determine suggested cut-off values to identify at-risk users. A large sample of adult pornography users completed the PPUS online (N = 1149). A four-factor solution as proposed by Kor and colleagues (Addictive Behaviors, 39(5), 861-868, Kor et al., Addictive Behaviors 39:861–868, 2014) was identified as the optimal factorial structure. Participants were classified into five profiles, with 3.9% identified as at-risk users, 19.9% as moderate to high risk. A cut-off value of 33 was suggested to accurately identify at-risk users. The PPUS is a multidimensional instrument, showing good adept ability to detect users at risk of problematic pornography use.
Comparative Study of Numerical Methods for Predicting Wave-Induced Motions and Loads on a Semisubmersible
Authors: Gao Qian , Jiang Changqing , Yang Youjun , Ritschel Uwe
Published: September 2023

Numerical simulation tools based on potential-flow theory and/or Morison’s equation are widely used for predicting the hydrodynamic responses of floating offshore wind platforms. In general, these simplified approaches are used for the analysis under operational conditions, albeit with a carefully selected approach to account for viscous effects. Nevertheless, due to the limit hydrodynamic modelling to linear and weakly nonlinear models, these approaches severely underpredict the low-frequency nonlinear wave loads and dynamic responses of a semisubmersible. They may not capture important nonlinearities in severe sea states. For the prediction of wave-induced motions and loads on a semisubmersible, this work systematically compares a fully nonlinear viscous-flow solver and a hybrid model combining the potential-flow theory with Morison-drag loads in steep waves. Results show that when nonlinear phenomena are not dominant, the results obtained by the hybrid model and the high-fidelity method show reasonable agreement, while larger discrepancies occur for highly nonlinear regular waves. Specifically, regular waves with various steepness over different frequencies are focused in the present study, which supplements the understanding in applicability of these two groups of method.
Recommendations for the management of yttrium-90 radioembolization in the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases: a multidisciplinary review
Authors: González-Flores Encarna , Zambudio Natalia , Pardo-Moreno Pedro , Gonzalez-Astorga Beatriz , de la Rúa Jorge Roldán , Triviño-Ibáñez Eva M. , Navarro Pablo , Espinoza-Cámac Nataly , Casado Miguel Ángel , Rodríguez-Fernández Antonio
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Strategies for the treatment of liver metastases from colon cancer (lmCRC) are constantly evolving. Radioembolization with yttrium 90 (Y-90 TARE) has made significant advancements in treating liver tumors and is now considered a potential option allowing for future resection. This study reviewed the scientific evidence and developed recommendations for using Y-90 TARE as a treatment strategy for patients with unresectable lmCRC.

Methods

A multidisciplinary scientific committee, consisting of experts in medical oncology, hepatobiliary surgery, radiology, and nuclear medicine, all with extensive experience in treating patients with ImCRC with Y-90 TARE, led this project. The committee established the criteria for conducting a comprehensive literature review on Y-90 TARE in the treatment of lmCRC. The data extraction process involved addressing initial preliminary inquiries, which were consolidated into a final set of questions.

Results

This review offers recommendations for treating patients with lmCRC using Y-90 TARE, addressing four areas covering ten common questions: 1) General issues (multidisciplinary tumor committee, indications for treatment, contraindications); 2) Previous process (predictive biomarkers for patient selection, preintervention tests, published evidence); 3) Procedure (standard procedure); and 4) Post-intervention follow-up (potential toxicity and its management, parameters for evaluation, quality of life).

Conclusions

Based on the insights of the multidisciplinary committee, this document offers a comprehensive overview of the technical aspects involved in the management of Y-90 TARE. It synthesizes recommendations for applying Y-90 TARE across various phases of the treatment process.
Fabrication of sub-20 nm MoS2 horizontal nanowire on silicon substrates by inclusion of precursors into polystyrene-b-polyethylene oxide nanopatterns: Detailed structural investigation
Authors: Ghoshal Tandra , Morris Michael A.
Published: September 2023

Herein, we demonstrate the fabrication of sub-20 nm MoS2 horizontal nanowire arrays on silicon substrates using a self-assembled block copolymer assisted in situ inclusion approach. Microphase separated long-range ordered polystyrene-b-polyethylene oxide (PS-b-PEO) block copolymer (BCP) line-space nanopatterns were achieved through thermo-solvent annealing. The patterns produced had long-range order and domain sizes > 1 µm. The BCP structures were lightly etched and modified by anhydrous ethanol to facilitate insertion of molybdenum precursor within the film maintaining the parent BCP arrangements. Horizontal ordered molybdenum oxide nanowire arrays were then fabricated by ultraviolet (UV)/ozone treatment at room temperature. The oxides were converted to sulphides by thermal evaporation at different temperatures in Ar/H2 environment. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed the composition and phases of the molybdenum oxide and sulphide nanowires. Elemental mapping was performed to investigate the interfaces between the oxide and sulphide nanowires with the substrate surface. The formation and stability of the sulphide nanowires were studied at different temperatures. The photoluminescence and Raman properties were studied at different formation temperatures to investigate defects and estimate the number of layers.
Personality Enhanced Emotion Generation Modeling for Dialogue Systems
Authors: Ma Zhiqiang , Jia Wenchao , Zhou Yutong , Xu Biqi , Liu Zhiqiang , Wu Zhuoyi
Published: September 2023

Emotion plays a crucial role in human communication, as it adds depth and richness to conversations. In recent years, there has been growing interest in developing conversation systems with the ability to generate emotions. However, to create more engaging and realistic interactions, it is essential to consider the influence of personality on emotion generation. This paper proposes a novel approach that combines personality modeling with emotion generation for conversation systems. By incorporating personality traits into the emotion generation process, we aim to create more personalized and contextually appropriate emotional responses. Drawing from BigFive model and emotion computation techniques, our model takes into account individual differences in personality to generate emotions that align with each user’s unique characteristics. Experiments show that combining emotion modeling with personality in a dialogue system helps improve the performance of emotion generation models. Additionally, it is also verified that our approach outperforms other baselines on several metrics.
Reliable measurement methods for the isovolumic relaxation time: comparisons of dual gate Doppler and seven other methods
Authors: Kimura Noriko , Toide Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Sayuki , Tsujimoto Emi , Honda Asuka , Sawada Kenta , Higashi Ayako , Koshikawa Yuri , Hana Shinsei , Itabashi Yuji
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) is a useful indicator of diastolic dysfunction. However, a measurement method for IVRT has not been established. The Dual Gate Doppler method, which can record two separate pulse-wave Doppler signals simultaneously using two sample gates, may be ideal for measuring IVRT. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of IVRT measured using conventional methods versus that measured using the Dual Gate Doppler method.

Methods

A total of 104 patients (mean age 58 ± 21 years, 48 women) were examined using ultrasound equipment with Dual Gate Doppler at our hospital. In addition to Dual Gate Doppler method, IVRTs were measured using seven different methods: pulsed Doppler (PW method), continuous wave Doppler (CW method), and other methods. The IVRT values obtained using the Dual Gate Doppler method were compared with those measured using other methods.

Results

All IVRTs measured using conventional methods showed a strong correlation with the that measured using the Dual Gate Doppler method. However, there were slight deifferences among the IVRTs depending on the method. The PW method and the PW time difference method using only the PW showed small statistical bias and were not complicated. The IVRT measured using the CW method was significantly longer than that measured using the Dual Gate Doppler method.

Conclusions

Among the conventional methods, the PW method was the simplest and most practical method for measuring the IVRT in any conditions as arrhythmias. It is important to recognize the characteristics of IVRTs based on the measurement method.
Body Checking in Anorexia Nervosa: from Inquiry to Habit
Authors: Steglich-Petersen Asbjørn , Varga Somogy
Published: September 2023

Body checking, characterized by the repeated visual or physical inspection of particular parts of one’s own body (e.g. thighs, waist, or upper arms) is one of the most prominent behaviors associated with eating disorders, particularly Anorexia Nervosa (AN). In this paper, we explore the explanatory potential of the Recalcitrant Fear Model of AN (RFM) in relation to body checking. We argue that RFM, when combined with certain plausible auxiliary hypotheses about the cognitive and epistemic roles of emotions, is able to explain key characteristics of body checking, including how body checking behavior becomes habitual and compulsive.
Sensorless motor control for electro-mechanical flight control actuators
Authors: Kowalski Robert , Juchmann Patrick
Published: September 2023

Electro-mechanical flight control actuators have become a viable option as a replacement for conventional hydraulic actuators in future more electric aircraft. A rotor angle measurement is generally required for field-oriented control of the electrical machine and usually obtained from a safety-critical resolver. It contributes, however, to a rising local hardware complexity with a negative impact on space allocation, weight, motor inertia, reliability, and cost. This paper investigates sensorless control strategies that might substitute the resolver with an accurate estimate value. A hybrid observer is implemented that allows position control without an angle sensor at all speeds. In the high speed domain, the extended electromotive force of the permanent magnet synchronous machine is used for angle estimation. In the low speed domain, including standstill, anisotropy properties of the motor are exploited by applying the alternating injection method. The performance of the control algorithm is evaluated on an aileron actuator test rig for a large civil aircraft.
Hemoglobin A1c Serum Level Predicts 5-year Mortality in Patients with Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Dreier J. , Schernhammer E. , Haslacher H. , Stögmann E. , Lehrner J.
Published: September 2023

Background

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may occur as preclinical stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD), ultimately leading to dementia. Glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a diagnostic marker for diabetes mellitus and indicates mortality risk.

Objectives

This university-based, exploratory retrospective study examined the impact of HbA1c serum level on 5-year mortality among individuals with cognitive impairment.

Methods

Included were 1076 subjects aged at least 50 years who visited the Memory Outpatient Clinic of the Medical University of Vienna due to memory problems. Participants were diagnosed with SCD, MCI, or AD subsequent to neurological examination, standard laboratory blood tests, and neuropsychological testing. Survival was compared between diagnostic subgroups and with respect to HbA1c categories using log-rank tests based on Kaplan–Meier functions. The Neuropsychological Test Battery Vienna (NTBV) was dimensionally reduced, and a principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to further analyze results. Corresponding factor scores, HbA1c values, and baseline characteristics were included in Cox proportional hazards models to assess 5-year mortality risk.

Results

During the observation period, 323 patients (30%) died at a mean age comparable between diagnostic subgroups (SCD 84.2 ± 10.1, MCI 81.2 ± 8.3, AD 82.2 ± 7.4 years). Individuals with normal serum HbA1c levels had significant advantages in survival within the MCI (12.9 ± .3 vs. 10.0 ± .8 years) and the AD subgroups (8.2 ± .4 vs. 5.5 ± .6 years), and metric HbA1c predicted 5-year mortality (HR 1.24).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates an association between abnormal HbA1c serum levels and increased mortality.
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Celiac Portuguese Children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Coelho M. , Bernardo M. , Mendes S.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Celiac Disease (CD) presents a wide variety of clinical signs and symptoms, including oral manifestations. This study pretended to characterize Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) and reported oral manifestations in children with CD.

Methods

Target-population were children with CD. An online questionnaire, applied to children’s parents, collected information about OHRQoL (using the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale—ECOHIS), oral health behaviours, and history of oral manifestations. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney, Kruskall-Wallis, and Spearman correlation tests (α = 0.05).

Results

The sample included 146 celiac patients, with a mean age of 10.5 years (sd = 4.1). Mean ECOHIS score was 5.2 (sd = 6.8). The most frequently reported oral manifestations were recurrent aphthous stomatitis (46.6%), dental caries (45.2%) and dental opacity (39%). About one third of the participants mentioned improvements in oral health when a gluten-free diet was introduced. Most of the reported oral manifestations had a significant association with the ECOHIS score (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The OHRQoL of children was good, however oral manifestations had a negative impact on OHRQoL. The most reported oral manifestations were recurrent aphthous stomatitis, dental caries, and dental opacities. Oral health professionals must be aware about the heterogeneity of the disease, to recognize oral manifestations associated and their importance in the early diagnosis to reduce complications and to an improvement in the OHRQoL of these patients.
Marketing at UNSW Sydney: Building Marketing Capability in Australasia
Authors: Roberts John H. , Uncles Mark , van Heerde Harald J. , Melnyk Valentyna , Dong Maggie Chuoyan
Published: September 2023

This paper traces the evolution of the marketing discipline within the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, the home of Australasia’s pioneering university-based marketing school. It contrasts how marketing has evolved in Australasia compared to North American and European schools. The early emphasis on industry engagement and practice and specialized education and research have given UNSW Sydney a number of advantages which it has leveraged through its education programs and impactful research. After detailing the development of the discipline of Marketing within UNSW and providing examples of where it has contributed to marketing thought and practice, the paper looks to the future, outlining how the School is moving forward.
Peritoneal dialysis discontinuation: to the root of the problem
Authors: Piarulli Paola , Vizzardi Valerio , Alberici Federico , Riva Hilary , Aramini Marta , Regusci Luca , Cippà Pietro , Bellasi Antonio
Published: September 2023

As the global burden of chronic kidney disease continues to increase, the use of peritoneal dialysis is often advocated as the preferred initial dialysis modality. Observational studies suggest a survival advantage for peritoneal dialysis over hemodialysis for the initial 2–3 years of dialysis. Peritoneal dialysis has been associated with better graft survival after kidney transplantation and has a reduced cost burden compared to hemodialysis. However, several medical and non-medical reasons may limit access to peritoneal dialysis, and less than 20% of patients with end-stage kidney disease are treated with peritoneal dialysis worldwide. In this narrative review, we sought to summarize the recent medical literature on risk factors for peritoneal dialysis discontinuation, distinguishing the early and the late phase after peritoneal dialysis initiation. Although the definition of clinically relevant outcomes varies among studies, we observed that center size, older age, and the presence of many comorbidities are risk factors associated with peritoneal dialysis discontinuation, regardless of the phase after peritoneal dialysis initiation. On the contrary, poor technique training and late referral to nephrology care, as opposed to the need for a caregiver, patient burnout and frequent hospitalizations, are related to early and late peritoneal dialysis drop-out, respectively. The aim of the review is to provide an overview of the most relevant parameters to be considered when advising patients in the selection of the most appropriate dialysis modality and in the clinical management of peritoneal dialysis patients. In addition, we wish to provide the readers with a critical appraisal of current literature and a call for a consensus on the definition of clinically relevant outcomes in peritoneal dialysis to better address patients' needs.

Graphical abstract
Non-invasive Cardiac Output Monitoring in Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Tandon Animesh , Bhattacharya Sarnab , Morca Ayse , Inan Omer T , Munther Daniel S , Ryan Shawn D , Latifi Samir Q , Lu Nanshu , Lasa Javier J , Marino Bradley S , Baloglu Orkun
Published: September 2023

Purpose of review

Cardiac output (CO) is a fundamental physiological parameter that measures the volume of blood that is pumped by the heart per unit of time, and helps define how oxygen is delivered to the tissues of the human body. In this paper, we discuss current methods of continuous CO monitoring while defining low CO syndrome (LCOS) and how analytical tools may help improve CO management in the subpopulation of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Recent findings

Non-invasive methods of measuring CO have become increasingly available in recent years. Advantages of non-invasive over invasive techniques include decreased risk of procedural complications, decreased exposure to sedative and/or anesthetic agents, and increased patient comfort. Pediatric patient populations are particularly sensitive to the risks and complications of invasive techniques given the relative size of current technologies to pediatric vascular and cardiac dimensions.

Novel device technologies, combined with emerging analytical techniques, may help improve measurement of CO in children and those with CHD, and allow earlier detection of LCOS.
Impact of a Mathematics Bridging Course on the Motivation and Learning Skills of University Students
Authors: Mayerhofer Martin , Lüftenegger Marko , Eichmair Michael
Published: September 2023

The transition from secondary to tertiary education is an exciting and yet challenging event in the educational biography of students. During this transition, students often meet with unexpected challenges, which may cause them to drop out from their degree program. Many universities offer bridging courses or longer-term interventions to support their incoming students in this period. To examine the effect of a bridging course designed to reduce gaps in prior mathematical knowledge, promote social-emotional well-being, and foster learning skills, we implement a repeated-measures intervention study. We analyze the outcomes of the intervention, which features tutors with special training, autonomous choice of topic areas, peer learning, and materials for self-directed learning. We measure the development of motivational beliefs reflecting the will to learn (achievement goals, satisfaction of basic psychological needs, implicit theories, self-efficacy) and the skills to learn (reactions to errors, self-regulated learning) at the secondary-tertiary transition. These aspects are captured at multiple measurement points among students (N = 679) who participate in the bridging course (intervention group) and those who do not (control group). The intervention boosts motivational beliefs related to social embeddedness and learning skills in the short term. The observed decrease in autonomy, competence, and self-efficacy might be explained by higher standards that students use for their self-assessment in the new peer group. In the long term, all aspects of the will to learn, except for social relatedness, show stable to strongly negative developments in both groups. Among those students who do not participate in the bridging course, mostly strongly negative developments are observed. The results suggest that the peer tutoring strategy is highly effective and the need for longer-term interventions to uphold the positive short-term effects.
The Social Impact of the Steel Industry in Belgium, China, and the United States: A Social Lifecycle Assessment (s-LCA)-Based Assessment of the Replacement of Fossil Coal with Waste Wood
Authors: Hadler Markus , Brenner-Fliesser Michael , Kaltenegger Ingrid
Published: September 2023

This paper compares the social impact of the steel industry in Belgium, China, and the United States as well as the effects of substituting fossil coal with waste wood following the social Lifecycle Assessment (s-LCA) principles defined by the UNEP/SETAC guidelines. It also aims to be beneficial for practitioners by introducing the s-LCA method and its application to the steel industry. A simplified approach is used by identifying social impacts via the social hotspot database and basing the analysis on national figures for the steel industry. The analysis demonstrates that social risks in the production chain of a Belgian steel mill are mainly situated in the iron ore and coal mining area; for the steel mill in China in the steel-making process itself as well as in coal and limestone mining, whereas the risks are rather equally distributed across the production chain in the United States. As for replacing fossil coal with waste wood, the analysis shows that the effects of this substitution process depend on the location of the steel factory and the previous use of waste wood.

Graphical Abstract
On deformations of isolated singularity functions
Authors: Menegon Aurélio , Pereira Miriam da Silva
Published: September 2023

We study multi-parameter deformations of isolated singularity function-germs on either a subanalytic set or a complex analytic space. We prove that if such a deformation has no coalescing of singular points, then it has weak constant topological type. This extends some classical results due to Lê and Ramanujam (Am J Math 98:67–78, 1976) and Parusiński (Bull Lond Math Soc 31(6):686–692, 1999), as well as a recent result due to Jesus-Almeida and the first author (Int Math Res Notices 2023(6):4869–4886, 2023). It also provides a sufficient condition for a one-parameter family of complex isolated singularity surfaces in $${\mathbb {C}}^3$$

C

3

to have weak constant topological type. On the other hand, for complex isolated singularity families defined on an isolated determinantal singularity, we prove that $$\mu$$
μ
-constancy implies weak constant topological type.
A model of service-oriented architecture of e-certification system to support boat registration and site visit inspection to support maritime safety and crew health inspection
Authors: Saputra Diaz , Gaol Ford Lumban , Abdurachman Edi , Sensuse Dana Indra , Matsuo Tokuro
Published: September 2023

This article describes the architecture of software services that provide registration of small boat data to build maritime safety. The proposed system architecture which so-called SIMKAPEL aims to support small boat registration for maritime safety. It is developed from a conventional service-oriented architecture (SOA) with an open standard for data interoperability between elements. The goal of this research is to implement and evaluate the proposed architecture to support small boat registration and e-certification. Several parts of the architecture have been implemented as a platform that provides core services and data sources to be used by Ministry of Transportation, Directorate General of Sea Transportation, and other government agencies. Finally, the proposed SIMKAPEL platform with the SOA architecture is evaluated for its benefits to users through the expert opinion survey to measure its efficiency. The analysis results showed that SOA-based SIMKAPEL is feasible to use as a boat e-certification system. Furthermore, experiment results provide three parameters (e.g., maritime safety, namely, cargo/passengers, boat safety facilities, and maritime safety systems) with efficiency values of 42%, 46%, and 42%, respectively. The parameter with the highest efficiency shows a big effect on the level of safety of the boat and passengers. Thus, the parameters that need to be prioritized and need boat owners’ attention are cargo/passenger, boat safety equipment, and maritime safety system.