bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification as a Sword in the War for Talent: Understanding Organizational Identification Through a Prospective Employee Lens
Authors: Hollstein Anna S. , Schade Michael , Kanitz Christopher , Burmann Christoph
Published: November 2024

In the intense “war for talent”, companies increasingly leverage employer branding. Previous research cites the relevance of identification for current employees (internal employer branding); our research instead addresses the relevance of identification for attracting prospective employees (external employer branding). Drawing on social identity and social comparison theory, we consider if and how prospective employees' sense of identification with the company brand, the work community, and the CEO as a human brand influences their intentions to apply. This study features a mixed‐method two‐study design. A qualitative study identifies both internal (team) and external (network) dimensions of identification with the work community. The quantitative study (including 507 job seekers) further suggests that identification with the work community exerts the strongest impact on intentions to apply. The effects of both identification with the work community and with the human brand on intentions to apply are mediated by identification with the company brand. Therefore, companies can enhance the effectiveness of their external employer branding by leveraging all three identification constructs.
Exosomal circular RNAs in tumor microenvironment: An emphasis on signaling pathways and clinical opportunities
Authors: Li Junshu , Zhou Wencheng , Wang Huiling , Huang Meijuan , Deng Hongxin
Published: November 2024

Exosomes can regulate the malignant progression of tumors by carrying a variety of genetic information and transmitting it to target cells. Recent studies indicate that exosomal circular RNAs (circRNAs) regulate multiple biological processes in carcinogenesis, such as tumor growth, metastasis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, drug resistance, autophagy, metabolism, angiogenesis, and immune escape. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), exosomal circRNAs can be transferred among tumor cells, endothelial cells, cancer‐associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and microbiota, affecting tumor initiation and progression. Due to the high stability and widespread presence of exosomal circRNAs, they hold promise as biomarkers for tumor diagnosis and prognosis prediction in blood and urine. In addition, designing nanoparticles targeting exosomal circRNAs and utilizing exosomal circRNAs derived from immune cells or stem cells provide new strategies for cancer therapy. In this review, we examined the crucial role of exosomal circRNAs in regulating tumor‐related signaling pathways and summarized the transmission of exosomal circRNAs between various types of cells and their impact on the TME. Finally, our review highlights the potential of exosomal circRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic prediction biomarkers, as well as suggesting new strategies for clinical therapy.
Barriers and Facilitators to Participation in Clinical Trials Related to Familial Frontotemporal Dementia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Zammitt David , Brotherhood Emilie V. , Fearn Caroline , Greaves Caroline , Hayes Ollie , Harding Emma , Lykourgos Madalena , Rohrer Jonathan D. , Stott Josh
Published: November 2024

Aims

Familial frontotemporal dementia (fFTD) is an inherited neurodegenerative condition characterised by executive dysfunction, impairments in social cognition, behaviour and language. Although no disease‐modifying interventions are currently available, several treatments are undergoing clinical trials. This study sought to understand the barriers and facilitators to taking part in such trials, as well as general perceptions of the treatments undergoing trial.

Method

Twelve interviews took place with fourteen participants: eight individuals who were genetically at‐risk of developing fFTD, two individuals diagnosed with fFTD and four spousal carers. Their views and experiences of clinical trials were explored using thematic analysis.

Results

Five main themes were developed: (1) effects on the individual, (2) implications for others, (3) systemic considerations, (4) the impact of genetic status and disease progression and (5) the role of communication and understanding.

Conclusions

The decision to participate in clinical trials was said to be complex, involving consideration of logistical barriers alongside health implications. Participants identified potential advantages of participating in clinical trials to be direct health benefits and the ability to help others, however risks to participants and their families' physical and psychological wellbeing were also named. Relationships between organisations and participants were consistently considered to be important, with lack of psychological care at various timepoints post diagnosis; unclear communication and expectation‐setting; and inadequate organisational collaboration all identified as barriers. Participants indicated that increased health‐professional interest in FTD and an associated increase in opportunities would be key facilitators for greater participation in clinical trials.
Finite‐time output feedback preview control for linear parameter‐varying systems with input saturation
Authors: Li Li , Lu Yanrong , Zhang Yaofeng
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the finite‐time preview saturated control problem for linear parameter‐varying systems with input saturation. The external disturbances and input saturation, previewable reference signals, and parameter variations are considered simultaneously. First, using the error system method, we construct an augmented error system with previewed information. This transforms the finite‐time preview saturated control problem into a finite‐time stabilization problem. Next, static output‐feedback controllers are used to guarantee the finite‐time boundedness of the closed‐loop system. Sufficient conditions guarantee the existence of the desired controllers are obtained using linear matrix inequalities. At last, we use a numerical simulation to show the proposed design method's effectiveness.
Development of a Clinically Relevant Preclinical Animal Model to Mimic Suburethral Implantation of Support Materials for Stress Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Chapple Christopher R. , Seyam Raouf , Alsulaiman Omar , Bullock Anthony J. , Al‐Mohana Falah , MacNeil Sheila , Altaweel Waleed
Published: November 2024

Background

Following the severe complications widely reported in some women following polypropylene suburethral mesh implantation for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence, it has become clear that careful preclinical study in an appropriate animal model is essential. The preclinical model described here allows the postoperative clinical and histochemical assessment of material implanted in the sheep vagina and represents a model that allows prediction of the potential vaginal tissue responses to suburethral mesh implantation before implantation into humans.

Objectives

To develop and evaluate a relevant preclinical animal model to mimic suburethral implantation of support materials for stress urinary incontinence.

Material

Fourteen parous ewes of 30–40 kg were used. Under general anesthetic, animals were placed in the lithotomy position. A 12‐French Foley catheter was inserted. The ventral vaginal wall was longitudinally incised. The space between the vaginal wall and the urethra was developed, with lateral retropubic dissection. Either a standard transvaginal polypropylene tape (seven animals) or a fascia mimetic microfibre spun polyurethane tape (seven animals) were inserted using an introducer either via a suprapubic (seven animals) or a transvaginal approach (seven animals) into the suburethral and retropubic space. The incisions were closed, and the catheter was removed. A betadine vaginal pack was placed and removed after 24 h. Postoperatively, the animals were observed carefully for pain and complications and allowed access to water and food under continuous veterinary supervision adhering to USA‐approved protocols.

Results

On the second postoperative day, all the animals passed urine freely and had regular bowel motions. No procedure related complications were observed.

Conclusion

This is the first large animal model which has been designed for suburethral implantation. and which can be effectively used for the preoperative evaluation of novel materials designed for suburethral implantation. We believe that this technique in this large animal model accurately reproduces the surgical technique used to treat stress urinary incontinence in women. It provides a new and effective in vivo model for the objective evaluation of new materials to treat female stress incontinence.
Outpatient diabetes management influences glycemic control for critically ill patients during nutrition support: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Dickerson Roland N. , McLeod Allison R. , Stonecipher Alison E. , Farrar Julie E. , Byerly Saskya , Filiberto Dina M. , Fischer Peter E.
Published: November 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine whether successful outpatient management of diabetes, as assessed by hemoglobin A1c (Hgb A1c), influences inpatient glycemic control.

Methods

Adult patients, aged >17 years, admitted to the trauma intensive care unit, who received continuous nutrition therapy, and exhibited a blood glucose concentration (BG) > 149 mg/dl or 8.3 mmol/L were retrospectively evaluated. Controlled diabetes mellitus (DM‐C) was defined as a history of DM and a Hgb A1c < 7%. Uncontrolled DM (DM‐U) was defined as an Hgb A1c ≥ 7%. Those without a history of DM and an Hgb A1c < 6.5% were classified as without DM (no DM). Patients were managed via intravenous regular human insulin (RHI) infusion or subcutaneous neutral protamine Hagedorn insulin with intravenous sliding scale RHI (SSI) or SSI alone. Target BG range was 70–149 mg/dl (3.9–8.3 mmol/L). Glycemic control was evaluated for the first 7 days of nutrition therapy.

Results

Twenty‐two patients with DM‐C, 24 with DM‐U, and 32 with no DM were evaluated. Despite no difference in carbohydrate intake, those with DM‐U received 70 ± 54 units daily vs 15 ± 16 and 14 ± 18 units daily for the DM‐C and no DM groups, respectively (P = 0.001). Target BG range was achieved for 11 ± 5 h/day vs 14 ± 7 and 16 ± 6 h/day, respectively (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Early identification of DM‐U would assist in recognizing patients with difficulty achieving glycemic control.
Occupational licensing and income inequality in the states
Authors: Chen Wendy , Franko William W. , McGrath Robert J.
Published: November 2024

The decades‐long rise of economic inequality in the U.S. has led to a growing body of literature examining the role of policy in shaping income differences. We examine one such policy: occupational licensing regulations. Licensing can restrict employment and reduce market competition, which can then inflate wages for those in licensed professions. Existing research demonstrates that occupational licensure does increase wages in specific industries, leading some scholars to argue that licensing makes income inequality worse. We add nuance by arguing that the effect of licensing on inequality is dependent on which occupation classes experience the largest wage premiums. Using a comprehensive over‐time database of state licensing regulations, we first demonstrate that medium‐ and low‐wage jobs garner larger wage premiums than high‐wage occupations. Second, consistent with this result we then show that the occupational licensing regulations have the overall effect of reducing state income inequality. This research contributes to our understanding of the causes of growing inequality and how public policy can shape economic disparities through sometimes unintended and indirect ways.
Clinical Utility of a Novel Triplex Digital PCR Assay for Clone Monitoring in Sequential and Relapsed Pediatric B‐Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Patients
Authors: Bhatia Prateek , Thakur Rozy , Sreedharanunni Sreejesh , Singh Minu , Malhotra Meenakshi , Arora Swati , George Ashish , Trehan Amita
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) studies for clonal disease monitoring in B‐acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients are currently limited due to the heterogeneous nature of mutations, which limit cost‐effective assay designs.

Materials and Methods

In this study, 70 samples (14 relapse and 56 sequential therapy samples) were tested for 13 recurrent mutations identified on deep sequencing in our published cohort (KRAS, NRAS, NT5C2, PMS2, UHRF1, KMT2D, and TP53 genes) via a novel triplex digital PCR assay.

Results and Discussion

A total of seven major clones of NRAS [five] and NT5C2 [two] were noted in six out of 14 (43%) relapse patients, accounting for 44% of early relapses. In addition, 10 minor clones (PMS2 [two], NRAS [four], NT5C2 [three], and TP53 [one]) were noted in five out of 14 (36%) patients. In the 56 sequential therapy samples, six major clones were noted (NRAS [five], KRAS [one]) in four out of 14 (28.5%) patients, with two increasing in size in maintenance samples, leading to subsequent relapse in both cases. In addition, therapy‐acquired minor clones in NT5C2 [four] and PMS2 [one] were seen to emerge in maintenance samples in four out of 14 (28.5%) patients, with concordant detection of such major and minor clones in unpaired relapse samples, indicating the need for their active surveillance during therapy. Overall, digital PCR validated NRAS and NT5C2 major clones in one‐third (10 out of 27; 37%) of cases, driving nearly half of early relapses.
Experiences of Children Studying at the School Where the Teacher Mother or Father Work
Authors: Yıldırım Kibar , Canpolat Murat
Published: November 2024

Teacher parents enroll their children in the schools where they work nowadays. This qualitative study aimed to explore what children experience when they attend a school where their teachers and parents work. The students, aged between 10 and 13 years (M = 11.2; SD = 1.22), were all students at the school where their parents worked during their middle school years. Of the students who were in the same school as their parents, the parents of six of them were also course teachers. The thematic analysis of the qualitative interviews identified the following four main themes: Advantages, expectations, artificial friendship, and recommendations. Within the framework of the findings, practical recommendations were offered to psychological help professionals and families working on the subject.
dRama: Differential Ramachandran Plot as a Tool to Analyze Subtle Changes in Protein Secondary Structure
Authors: Batys Piotr , Krzemień Leszek , Barbasz Jakub
Published: November 2024

Determination of the changes in protein structure is crucial for a better understanding of their function and properties, which is highly important in identifying the causes of the disease, new drug development, and clinical applications. The Ramachandran plot, displaying the set of torsional angles, phi (Φ) and psi (Ψ), of the protein backbone, serves as a popular and convenient tool for secondary structure analysis and interpretation. However, identifying subtle changes in protein structure is often hindered in traditional Ramachandran plot, especially with the large amount of data generated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In this paper, we proposed a useful and efficient tool, that is, differential Ramachandran plot (dRama), which enables to compare protein structures and extract the differences, providing a highly readable graphical representation. dRama is available at: https://github.com/MaksWolf44/dRama.
Structure–function mapping and mechanistic insights on the SARS CoV2 Nsp1
Authors: Salgueiro Bruno A. , Saramago Margarida , Tully Mark D. , Arraiano Cecília M. , Moe Elin , Matos Rute G. , Matias Pedro M. , Romão Célia V.
Published: November 2024

Non‐structural protein 1 (Nsp1) is a key component of the infectious process caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV2), responsible for the COVID‐19 pandemic. Our previous data demonstrated that Nsp1 can degrade both RNA and DNA in the absence of the ribosome, a process dependent on the metal ions Mn2+, Ca2+, or Mg2+ (Salgueiro et al., SARS‐CoV2 Nsp1 is a metal‐dependent DNA and RNA endonuclease. Biometals. 2024;37:1127–1146). The protein is composed of two structural domains: the N‐terminal domain (NTD) and C‐terminal domain (CTD), connected by a loop. To elucidate the function of each structural domain, we generated four truncated versions of Nsp1 containing either the NTD or the CTD. Our results indicate that the Nsp1SARS‐CoV2 domains play distinct functional roles. Specifically, the NTD is involved in nucleotide binding and regulation, while the CTD acts as the catalytic domain. Moreover, a tyrosyl radical was detected during the nuclease activity, and an in‐depth analysis of the different constructs suggested that Y136 could be involved in this process. Indeed, our results show that Y136F Nsp1 variant lacks DNA nuclease activity but retains its RNA nuclease activity. Furthermore, we observed that the CTD has a propensity to associate with hydrophobic environments, suggesting that it might associate with cell membranes. However, the cellular function of this association requires further investigation. This study sheds light on the functions of the individual domains of Nsp1, providing valuable insights into its mechanism of action in Coronaviruses.
Evolutionary analysis of Quinone Reductases 1 and 2 suggests that NQO2 evolved to function as a pseudoenzyme
Authors: Islam Faiza , Basilone Nicoletta , Yoo Vania , Ball Eric , Shilton Brian
Published: November 2024

Quinone reductases 1 and 2 (NQO1 and NQO2) are paralogous FAD‐linked enzymes found in all amniotes. NQO1 and NQO2 have similar structures, and both catalyze the reduction of quinones and other electrophiles; however, the two enzymes differ in their cosubstrate preference. While NQO1 can use both redox couples NADH and NADPH, NQO2 is almost inactive with these cosubstrates and instead must use dihydronicotinamide riboside (NRH) and small synthetic cosubstrates such as N‐benzyl‐dihydronicotinamide (BNAH) for efficient catalysis. We used ancestral sequence reconstruction to investigate the catalytic properties of a predicted common ancestor and two additional ancestors from each of the evolutionary pathways to extant NQO1 and NQO2. In all cases, the small nicotinamide cosubstrates NRH and BNAH were good cosubstrates for the common ancestor and the enzymes along both the NQO1 and NQO2 lineages. In contrast, with NADH as cosubstrate, extant NQO1 evolved to a catalytic efficiency 100 times higher than the common ancestor, while NQO2 has evolved to a catalytic efficiency 3000 times lower than the common ancestor. The evolutionary analysis combined with site‐directed mutagenesis revealed a potential site of interaction for the ADP portion of NAD(P)H in NQO1 that is altered in charge and structure in NQO2. The results indicate that while NQO1 evolved to have greater efficiency with NAD(P)H, befitting an enzymatic function in cells, NQO2 was under selective pressure to acquire extremely low catalytic efficiency with NAD(P)H. These divergent trajectories have implications for the functions of both enzymes.
The Crystal Structure of Human IgD‐Fc Reveals Unexpected Differences With Other Antibody Isotypes
Authors: Davies Anna M. , Bui Tam T. T. , Pacheco‐Gómez Raúl , Vester Susan K. , Beavil Andrew J. , Gould Hannah J. , Sutton Brian J. , McDonnell James M.
Published: November 2024

Of the five human antibody isotypes, the function of IgD is the least well‐understood, although various studies point to a role for IgD in mucosal immunity. IgD is also the least well structurally characterized isotype. Until recently, when crystal structures were reported for the IgD Fab, the only structural information available was a model for intact IgD based on solution scattering data. We now report the crystal structure of human IgD‐Fc solved at 3.0 Å resolution. Although similar in overall architecture to other human isotypes, IgD‐Fc displays markedly different orientations of the Cδ3 domains in the Cδ3 domain dimer and the lowest interface area of all the human isotypes. The nature of the residues that form the dimer interface also differs from those conserved in the other isotypes. By contrast, the interface between the Cδ2 and Cδ3 domains in each chain is the largest among the human isotypes. This interface is characterized by two binding pockets, not seen in other isotypes, and points to a potential role for the Cδ2/Cδ3 interface in stabilizing the IgD‐Fc homodimer. We investigated the thermal stability of IgD‐Fc, alone and in the context of an intact IgD antibody, and found that IgD‐Fc unfolds in a single transition. Human IgD‐Fc clearly has unique structural features not seen in the other human isotypes, and comparison with other mammalian IgD sequences suggests that these unique features might be widely conserved.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor‐induced autoimmune limbic encephalitis with positivity for anti‐Hu antibodies in a patient with small‐cell lung cancer: A case report and literature review
Authors: Nakahara Lynn , Matsuura Shun , Suzuki Ryo , Kawamura Akira , Nagasaki Takumi , Masuda Takafumi , Yamada Kotaro , Nakamura Ryuuichi , Hiramatsu Toshiya , Akiyama Norimichi , Tanaka Kazuki , Koshimizu Naoki , Igasaki Shota
Published: November 2024

In recent years, there has been an increasing number of studies on neurological symptoms induced as paraneoplastic neurological syndrome (PNS) or neurological immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Herein, we report a 68‐year‐old male patient with small‐cell lung cancer who developed memory impairment and autonomic nervous system dysfunction after three courses of carboplatin, etoposide, and durvalumab therapy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed hyperintense areas restricted to the bilateral temporal lobes. Moreover, based on the blood test results, the patient was strongly positive for anti‐neuronal nuclear antibodies. Hence, he was diagnosed with autoimmune limbic encephalitis (ALE). Corticosteroid pulse therapy was administered. After treatment, the patient exhibited gradual improvement in memory impairment. However, while tapering the prednisolone dose, the patient exhibited relapse of memory disturbance owing to ALE. It is challenging to distinguish PNS from neurological irAEs. However, ICI‐induced ALE with positivity for anti‐Hu antibodies has an extremely poor prognosis.
Convex endobronchial ultrasound bronchoscope may enhance visualization and diagnosis by respiratory physicians: Clinical image of an endoscopic ultrasound with bronchoscope
Authors: Matsuoka Suzuka , Takigawa Yuki , Sato Ken , Inoue Tomoyoshi , Watanabe Hiromi , Kudo Kenichiro , Sato Akiko , Fujiwara Keiichi , Shibayama Takuo
Published: November 2024

Key message

Herein, we present the detection of two cystic lesions via the transesophageal route using endobronchial ultrasound and emphasize the fact that understanding the anatomy may enhance the diagnostic yield.
Nano‐Silica‐Based Double‐Layer Antireflective Coatings with Mildew Resistance and Moisture Resistance for KDP Crystals
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Chen , Jiang Hezirui , Wang Hongqiang , Shen Jun
Published: November 2024

Sol–gel nano‐silica antireflective (AR) coatings with moisture resistance are widely used for optical elements, such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) crystals, but their mildew resistance is often disregarded. This work reports a double‐layer AR coating with moisture resistance and mildew resistance for KDP crystals. A polydimethylsiloxane‐modified dense silica coating and a quaternary ammonium salt (QAS) modified nanoporous silica coating are selected as the bottom layer and top layer, which effectively serve as a moisture barrier and an antireflection layer, respectively. The coated KDP crystal shows excellent antireflection properties with a maximum transmittance of 99.1% at 532 nm. Perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane vapor treatment is performed further to improve the resistance to moisture and mildew. The resultant double‐layer coating exhibits superior moisture resistance with almost no change in optical transmittance after a 3‐month exposure to a high‐humidity environment. The introduction of QAS and hydrophobicity in the top layer provides exceptional resistance against mildew, achieving an antimicrobial rate of 99.9% against E. coli and A. flavus. Moreover, the laser‐induced damage threshold reaches 17.0 J cm−2 (355 nm, 4.5 ns). This work imparts moisture resistance and mildew resistance to AR coatings, providing valuable insights for designing multifunctional AR coatings on optical components.
Revisiting the Viable System Model as an emancipatory systems approach
Authors: Espinosa Angela
Published: November 2024

This paper acknowledges M.J. Jackson's contributions to the development of systems thinking and particularly to organisational cybernetics. It also reviews his criticisms of Stafford Beer's Viable System Model (VSM) as a ‘unitary, functionalist’ systemic approach, unable to deal with individual, social and political issues, and of Team Syntegrity (TS) as a ‘simple, and somewhere in the middle between pluralist and coercive’, approach. It argues that whilst Jackson has evolved his view of VSM and TS over the last few decades and has become more supportive of them, Beer and his followers have addressed several of his original criticisms. By referring to recent VSM theoretical and methodological developments, and providing examples of VSM applications in complex, politicised multi‐stakeholder's environments, it illustrates how the VSM deals with individual, social and political complexities in practice. It then suggests that, to strengthen Jackson's legacy on systems research and multimethodology, it would be useful to develop a ‘critical empathetic approach’—not only still critical but also supportive and creative—to nourish the development of a more robust trans‐disciplinary systems research agenda.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Laser Additive Repaired 20CrNi4Mo Piercing Plug with and without Preoxidized Layer
Authors: Chen Xin , Wang Chunxue , Liang Zhenkui , Wu Jianhui , Sun Tao , Feng Xiaomei , Shen Yifu , Huang Guoqiang
Published: November 2024

The 20CrNi4Mo alloy with excellent high‐temperature stability is often used to manufacture low‐alloy steel piercing plugs, which are subject to harsh service conditions and usually fail due to severe wear. Repairing and remanufacturing failed piercing plugs not only extends the product's lifecycle but also has significant resource and environmental benefits. In this work, the feasibility of laser additive repair of failed piercing plugs using 20CrNi4Mo powder by selective laser melting technology is explored and the effect of preoxidation on the surface microstructure and mechanical properties of the repaired layer is investigated. The results show that the repaired layer has good metallurgical bonding with the substrate, and the densification reaches 99.8%. Compared with the substrate, the ultimate tensile strength and microhardness of the repaired layer increase by 88.97% and 70.68% to 1287 MPa and 380 HV, respectively. The oxide film exhibits a clear two‐layer, with the repair layer exhibiting a thicker oxide film. The average friction coefficient of the oxidized repair layer (0.263) is reduced compared with that of the oxidized substrate (0.382). This work provides a feasible and effective way to realize the repairing and remanufacturing of failed piercing plugs with enhanced surface mechanical properties.
Strain distribution prediction in UHPC beams using deep learning model
Authors: Zhang Xuebing , Chen Baikuang , Zheng Zhizhou , Liu Xiaochun , Chen Zhizhan , Cao Jun , Zhang Tianyun , Xie Xiaonan , Gao Binwei , Xiang Ping
Published: November 2024

Over the last three decades, ultra‐high‐performance concrete (UHPC) has emerged as a highly innovative cementitious engineering material. This paper utilizes a distributed fiber optic sensor based on optical frequency domain reflectometry (OFDR) combined with the deep learning model to monitor and predict the strain distribution in UHPC T‐beams subjected to two point bending experiment. These sensors are deployed on the side surfaces of the UHPC T‐beams to capture the strain distribution when subjected to vertical loads, facilitating the determination of crack locations based on strain distribution peaks. While time series modeling is widely used in civil engineering to monitor potential damage using sensor data, its application in tracking and predicting known cracks is less explored. To address this gap, a Long Short‐Term Memory (LSTM) neural network model is developed to forecast the increase in the peak value of the strain distribution prior to structural damage, thus predicting crack initiation. The accuracy of the proposed LSTM model in predicting the UHPC strain distribution was thoroughly investigated. The results demonstrate excellent agreement between the predicted strain distributions and those detected by the ODISI 6000 monitoring system. The root‐mean‐square errors of the model‐predicted strains are generally below 10 με, with an average coefficient of determination (R2) reaching up to 98%, indicating a high degree of accuracy.
Bending performance of RC beams reinforced with UHPFRC strips with different geometry and positions
Authors: Ahmed Sayed , Mohamed Eman Yehia , Mohamed Heba A. , Emara Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Ultra‐high‐performance fiber‐reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) is one of the most favorable materials for strengthening RC beams. Studies on UHPFRC strengthening of RC beams mainly address flexural behavior. Further research is needed on key factors, such as UHPFRC‐to‐beam bond and system cost linked to strip geometry. This research studies experimentally and theoretically the possibility of strengthening the RC beams by combining a strip of UHPFRC to the bottom surface of some specimens or the bottom and top surfaces together for others. The study focused on three key variables to assess the effectiveness of UHPFRC strengthening strips: placement (bottom side only or both sides), length of the bottom strip relative to the total beam length (0.50, 0.60, and 0.80 L), and presence or absence of concrete cover on the bottom side before casting the UHPFRC strip. The results for a load‐deflection response, crack propagation, stiffness, and energy dissipation were used to compare other strengthened specimens. Eight strengthened specimens, divided into three series, were tested through a 4‐point loading regime to consider the effects of different parameters. Results revealed that strengthened beams on the bottom and top sides showed remarkably enhanced ultimate load, stiffness, and energy dissipation. UHPFRC strip length and removal of concrete cover were the most significant parameters. Moreover, extending the strip length from 1000 to 1200 mm shifted failure from shear to bending, increasing stiffness by 29% and load capacity by 23%, while deflection and energy dissipation were less affected. Further increasing the strip length to 1600 mm boosted load capacity and stiffness by 38% and 75%, while deflection and energy dissipation dropped by 21% and 31%. Finally, a numerical analysis was presented to investigate the influence of numerous parameters that might influence the bending performance of strengthened RC beams.
Easy, Rapid and High‐Throughput Production of Single and Multicompartment Liposomes by Vortex Emulsification
Authors: Luo Zhen‐Hong , Shi Gong‐Yu , Deng Nan‐Nan
Published: November 2024

Cell‐sized liposomes, the self‐assembled phospholipid vesicles with bilayer membranes, have garnered substantial attention across various fields, particularly as cell mimics. In this study, we introduce a simplified method for rapidly producing single‐ and multicompartment liposomes using a common laboratory vortex mixer. The simplicity of our method has the potential to greatly facilitate artificial cell and tissue‐related research, potentially leading to broader applications of liposomes.
Numerical Investigation and Cross‐Section Type Selection of Concrete‐Filled Double Steel Plate (CFDSP) Composite Shear Walls Under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Cobanoglu Omer , Ni Xiangyong , Zhao Bin
Published: November 2024

Concrete‐filled double steel plate (CFDSP) composite shear walls have excellent seismic performance and are generally used as lateral resistance for high‐rise buildings. However, the numerical simulation of such walls is complicated because of the complex contact between the concrete, the external steel plate, and the shear studs. Eighteen CFDSP walls in the present literature were numerically simulated under cyclic and constant axial loading, and the accuracy was evaluated by comparing them with the experimental results. Then, the impact of cross‐section variations on the structural performance of CFDSP walls under the same steel content ratio was numerically investigated. Designed numerical walls were evaluated under the same loading conditions with four distinct cross‐sections for comparative analysis. Finally, parametric analysis was performed to observe the influence of aspect ratio, steel thickness, and stud spacing on the seismic performance of CFDSP walls. The analysis results show that the proposed numerical model can accurately recover the hysteretic curves of CFDSP walls regarding strength reduction, energy dissipation, and pinch behavior.
Considerations for the Design of Pedagogical Tasks in Computer‐Based L2 Listening
Authors: Cárdenas‐Claros Mónica S. , Dassonvalle Kimberley , Rodríguez‐Arias Paula , Cáceres‐Ramírez Belén
Published: November 2024

This multi‐stage study introduces a comprehensive set of considerations to inform task design for pedagogical purposes in computer‐based L2 listening environments. Using a 360‐degree approach to consideration construction and validation, which included bottom‐up and top‐down perspectives, this study engaged participants with diverse backgrounds in language learning, language teaching, and research, and employed varied data collection and data analysis procedures. During the initial stage, we used educational engineering techniques to elicit personal goals from 68 high school learners of English. In Stage 2, we undertook a participatory action research cycle involving pre‐service and in‐service language teachers to construct guidelines based on the data analysis and results from Stage 1. Finally, in Stage 3, we refined and validated those guidelines and devised a final set of eight considerations with the input of L2 listening and CALL experts. We conclude this paper by presenting the final set of eight considerations to the community and encourage implementation in diverse language teaching contexts.
Presence of Microplastics in Water, Soil, Organic Fertilizer, and Potato Plants on Potato Plantations
Authors: Setyobudi Roy Hendroko , Iswahyudi Iswahyudi , Damat Damat , Garfansa Marchel Putra , Hermayanti Diah , Ramadani Shefa Dwijayanti , Vincevica‐Gaile Zane , Nurfadilah Lira Rizqi , Savitri Evika Sandi , Meylanzharie Zhulvie
Published: November 2024

Microplastics (MPs) have become a significant environmental concern, but data on their presence in potato gardens are limited. This study aims to identify and quantify MPs in soil, organic fertilizer, irrigation water, and potato plants in potato gardens. Soil, fertilizer, irrigation water, and potato samples were collected from potato fields. Analysis was carried out using a microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify the shape, color, quantity, and type of MP polymer. The results indicate significant MPs contamination with the most dominant shape of fibers (86%) and fragments (8%), dominant color black (35%) and blue (27%), abundances of MPs 0.10–9.20 g−1, as well as the presence of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) polymers. These MPs have the potential to harm plant growth and soil quality. MPs are found in significant quantities in potato gardens and have the potential to disrupt agricultural ecosystems. The presence of MPs in potato gardens can affect the quality of agricultural products and human health throughout the food chain.
Assessment of Groundwater Quality and Fluoride Contamination in Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri Districts, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kavisri M. , Moovendhan Meivelu
Published: November 2024

Fluoride is highly threatening to human health, and it is a serious issue worldwide, especially in India, because several states in India are at high risk of fluoride contamination in drinking water. In this study, the groundwater from Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts was chosen for estimation of quality and fluoride level. The 20 samples were collecetd from two districts, water quality and fluoride were estimated using standard protocols. The results showed that in Dharmapur districts, including Dharmapuri and Morappur, the water quality was very poor and the water was in bad condition, and also the water quality and fluoride levels were above the acceptable limits of WHO and TWAD board norms. In Krishnagiri district, such as Hosur, and Larger domestic water samples were highly polluted. The Pochampalli and Hangar, Anjetti, and area ground waters were in poor condition, the rest of the area's water quality and fluoride level are moderate, and may increase in the upcoming years. The quality of water and fluoride levels have crossed the permissible limits of WHO and TWAD board standards in several sites of Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts. Frequent monitoring, more awareness programs, fluoride removal advanced eco‐friendly, and highly efficient technologies are needed to manage these pollutants issues.
Frühe Hilfen im deutschsprachigen Raum – unterschiedliche Wege zum gleichen Ziel
Authors: Weigl Marion , Haas Sabine
Published: November 2024

Unter „Frühen Hilfen“ wird im deutschsprachigen Raum grundsätzlich ein Gesamtkonzept von Maßnahmen zur Gesundheitsförderung und insbesondere gezielten Frühintervention in Schwangerschaft und früher Kindheit verstanden, das sich vor allem an Familien in belastenden Lebenssituationen richtet. Dieser Artikel bietet einen Überblick über die Frühen Hilfen in Deutschland, Österreich, Schweiz, Liechtenstein und Südtirol.

Während in Deutschland verschiedene Modelle in die Umsetzung gelangt sind und bis heute noch nebeneinander fortbestehen, wurde in Österreich ein einheitliches Modell festgeschrieben. An diesem orientieren sich auch Südtirol und Liechtenstein. Für die Schweiz liegt zwar mittlerweile auch ein Konzept vor, die Umsetzung erfolgt jedoch bislang nur in einzelnen Kantonen. Eine rechtliche Verankerung gibt es bis dato in Deutschland, Österreich und Südtirol. In Deutschland, Österreich und Liechtenstein wurde jeweils ein nationales Zentrum zur laufenden fachlich-wissenschaftlichen Begleitung und Qualitätsentwicklung beauftragt. Auf Ebene der Bundesländer (Deutschland und Österreich) bzw. der Regionen (Südtirol) sind koordinierende Einheiten aktiv, die jedoch teilweise unterschiedliche Aufgaben innehaben. Das Kernelement der freiwilligen, kostenlosen und aufsuchenden Familienbegleitung erfolgt nach dem österreichischen Modell durch ein multiprofessionelles Team, in Deutschland durch definierte Berufsgruppen (Familienhebammen und Familien-Gesundheits- und Kinderkrankenpflegende). Die verfügbaren Daten sowie Ergebnisse aus der Begleitforschung zeigen, dass die Frühen Hilfen ihr Ziel erreichen. Familien werden entlastet, es werden Zugänge zu spezifischen Unterstützungsangeboten erleichtert. Als sozial bzw. sozioökonomisch benachteiligt geltende Familien können großteils gut erreicht werden.
Effects of drugs on the oxygen dissociation curve—a scoping review
Authors: Haller Thomas , Lesser Lukas , Woyke Simon
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The shape and position of the hemoglobin-oxygen dissociation curve (ODC) is of critical importance in medicine, as it determines the uptake of O2 in the lungs and the delivery of O2 to the tissues. Numerous reports have identified affinity-modulating effects of drugs in humans. Such effects may be relevant to conditions such as pulmonary diffusion disorders, peripheral vascular disease, or coronary artery disease. The aim of this scoping review was to assess and summarize the current evidence on these effects.

Methods

The review was based on the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. We searched PubMed and the Cochrane Library and only included papers with free full-text access. The search covers all papers published before September 2024 and used the following keywords: “Oxygen affinity” or “oxygen dissociation curve” in combination with > 100 substance classes that should cover most drugs in clinical use.

Results

The search returned 2447 hits of which 80 were selected for further full text review. In terms of discipline, cardiology accounted for the largest proportion, and in terms of effect quality, a right-ward shift resulting in improved tissue oxygenation was most common. For example, quantitative data show an increase in P50 of 6.1–12.4% and 25–53% for propranolol and RSR13, respectively.

Conclusion

Despite a substantial body of data, the effects of the vast majority of drugs on the ODC have not been studied or have not been studied in sufficient detail. The undeniable potential for medical interventions to alter the ODC calls for revival of this area of research.
Analysis of the effects of fiber positioning on water transfer in hollow fiber humidifiers using cfd and statistical uniformity metrics
Authors: Pollak Markus , Tegethoff Wilhelm , Koehler Juergen
Published: November 2024

Hollow fiber membrane humidifiers are used in mobile proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell systems to humidify the supply air of the fuel cell and thereby to achieve a sufficient level of humidification of the PEM. A hollow fiber humidifier contains a large amount of hollow fiber membrane that transfers water from the moisture-laden exhaust gas of the fuel cell to the dry supply air along a concentration gradient. In this study, the effect of fiber placement on the water transfer inside hollow fiber bundles is investigated in detail using a validated CFD model of a membrane humidifier. To analyze the effects of fiber positioning, 80 simulations using humidifiers with different fiber numbers and placements are carried out and analyzed for two operating points. Two statistical metrics, the wrap-around discrepancy and a distance-based metric called MaxiMin, are used to assess the uniformity and space-filling properties of the fiber placements. Correlations of the uniformity of fiber placement and the water transfer inside hollow fiber bundles are then identified. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that both, the wrap-around discrepancy and the MaxiMin, can be used as optimization criterion for the fiber placement inside humidifiers to maximize water transfer rates. The optimization leads to an average improvement of 5 % in water transfer compared to a median random fiber distribution.
Resting metabolic rate and energy efficiency in response to an intensive 84-day combat-swimmer training in the German Armed Forces
Authors: Richter Tony H. , Braun Wiebke , Scheit Lorenz , Schröder Jan , Reer Rüdiger , Harth Volker , Bender Katrin , Koch Andreas , Bosy-Westphal Anja , Müller Manfred J.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

According to the ‘constrained model’, there are compensations in resting metabolic rate (RMR) at high levels of physical activity (PA). Here, we have used a standardized combat-swimmer training protocol (CST) to investigate whether changes in RMR (i) confirm the ‘constraint model’, and (ii) differ between successful participants and dropouts.

Methods

Controlled 84d CST in 44 male soldiers with 13 finally successful. Fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) were measured using Quantitative Magnetic Resonance. RMR was assessed by indirect calorimetry, VO2max, and work efficiency by treadmill spiroergometry. Plasma levels of thyroid hormones, testosterone, and cortisol were analysed by standard laboratory methods.

Results

CST increased VO2max (+ 6.9%) and exercise efficiency at low workloads of 10 and 12 km/h (+ 8.7 and + 6.5%; both p < 0.05). As energy balance was moderately negative (−356 ± 383 kcal/d), FFM and FM decreased (−2 and −16%; both p < 0.05). There was a considerable inter-individual variance but no change in in the mean values of RMR and RMRadjFFM. RMRadjFFM before CST had a negative association with its decrease with CST (p < 0.005). Concomitantly, plasma hormone levels were unchanged. When compared with dropouts, successful participants had a higher VO2max at baseline (5.2 ± 0.6 vs. 4.9 ± 04 l/min; p < 0.05) that increased with CST (+ 4.4 vs. −0.4%; p < 0.05) at similar changes in body composition and energy balance.

Conclusion

While CST increased VO2max and exercise efficiency as a compensation, there was an inter-individual variance in exercise-related compensation of RMR with no differences between ‘completers’ and ‘non-completers’.

Trial registration DRKS00018850, November 27, 2019.
Erfassung und Visualisierung unterirdischer Bewegungsräume zur Vervollständigung des Lagebilds in Urban Operations
Authors: Kern Josef , Rauch Carl , Wenighofer Robert , Schneider Daniel , Weitzer Mario
Published: November 2024

Im Forschungsprojekt EVUB (Erfassung und Visualisierung von unterirdischen Bewegungsräumen zur Vervollständigung des Lagebilds in Urban Operations) wurden die relevanten Geo-Faktoren, Infrastruktur und Bewegungsräume definiert, die als Grundlage für eine 3D-Darstellung für das Österreichische Bundesheer verwendet werden können.

Als Untersuchungsgebiet für einen Prototyp wurde ein Gebiet rund um den Wiener Karlsplatz definiert, um festzustellen, welche Daten aus öffentlichen Quellen recherchiert werden können und in welcher Qualität und Quantität diese vorliegen. Ferner wurde erhoben, welche nicht öffentlich zugänglichen Daten (Closed-Data) bereitgestellt und unter welchen Umständen diese Daten im Projekt verwendet werden können.

Im Testgebiet wurden verschiedene Erhebungsmethoden und -technologien erprobt: von der Modellierung von CAD-Gebäudeplänen über die Erfassung von Strukturen mit LiDAR-Scanner und einer Mixed Reality-Brille, zum Vermessen von Baustrukturen mit einem Laser-Entfernungsmessgerät und deren Verbindung mit Echtdaten für unzugängliche Areale.

Erhobene Daten wurden als 3D-Modelle aufbereitet und erfolgreich in das Führungsinformationssystem des NIKE-Forschungs- und Entwicklungsprogramms der Theresianischen Militärakademie integriert, wo diese Informationen von Einsatzkräften mit Hilfe von Augmented Reality genutzt werden können.

Ein wesentliches Projektziel war es, die Dimensionen und Komplexitäten der Thematik zu verstehen und auf dieser Grundlage den Aufwand einer Ausrollung in einem größeren Stadtgebiet sowie für aufwändigere Visualisierungen abschätzen zu können.

Für eine Ausweitung des Projekts auf die Erstellung eines österreichweiten Untertage-Atlasses wurden Vorarbeiten geleistet, die – bei entsprechender finanzieller und inhaltlicher Unterstützung der Städte und Gemeinden – in der nächsten Phase umgesetzt werden können.