bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Racial differences in patient‐reported outcomes among men treated with radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer
Authors: Koelker Mara , Labban Muhieddine , Frego Nicola , Ye Jamie , Lipsitz Stuart R. , Hubbell Harrison Taylor , Edelen Maria , Steele Grant , Salinas Kevin , Meyer Christian P. , Makanjuola Jonathan , Moore Caroline M. , Cole Alexander P. , Kibel Adam S. , Trinh Quoc‐Dien
Published: September 2023

Background

Real‐world data on racial differences in the side effects of radical prostatectomy on quality of life (QoL) are lacking. We aimed to evaluate differences in patient‐reported outcome measure (PROM) among non‐Hispanic Black (NHB) and non‐Hispanic White (NHW) men using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite for Clinical Practice (EPIC‐CP) questionnaire to measure health‐related QoL after radical prostatectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed prospectively collected PROMs using EPIC‐CP scores at a tertiary care center between 2015 and 2021 for men with prostate cancer undergoing radical prostatectomy. The primary endpoint was the overall QoL score for NHB and NHW men, with a total score of 60 and higher scores indicating worse QoL. An imputed mixed linear regression model was used to examine the effect of covariates on the change in overall QoL score following surgery. A pairwise comparison was used to estimate the mean QoL scores before surgery as well as up to 24 months after surgery.

Results

Our cohort consisted of 2229 men who answered at least one EPIC‐CP questionnaire before or after surgery, of which 110 (4.94%) were NHB and 2119 (95.07%) were NHW men. The QoL scores differed for NHB and NHW at baseline (2.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36–4.31, p = 0.02), 3 months (4.36, 95% CI 2.29–6.42, p < 0.01), 6 months (3.26, 95% CI 1.10–5.43, p < 0.01), and 12 months after surgery (2.48, 95% CI 0.19–4.77, p = 0.03) with NHB having worse scores. There was no difference in QoL between NHB and NHW men 24 months after surgery.

Conclusions

A significant difference in QoL between NHB and NHW men was reported before surgery, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, with NHB having worse QoL scores. However, there was no long‐term difference in reported QoL. Our findings inform strategies that can be implemented to mitigate racial differences in short‐term outcomes.
The monitoring and evaluation challenges of the sustainable development goals: An assessment in three European countries
Authors: De Francesco Fabrizio , Pattyn Valérie , Salamon Hannah
Published: September 2023

While discourse about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has primarily focused on ‘whether the goals’ are achieved, there remains limited understanding of how developed countries organize their monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems, which play a crucial role in tracking progress towards the SDGs. In this contribution, we unpack the M&E frameworks of Belgium, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. To do so, we have devised an analytical heuristic that combines insights from the literature on policy performance measurement and measurement infrastructures with the more specific literature on SDG governance. Through document analysis and elite interviews conducted in 2021, our findings highlight similarity in underdeveloped M&E frameworks, rather than significant variation across the three case studies. The results do not suggest a linkage between SDG performance and the development of M&E frameworks.
A review of the glacial environment arthropod trace fossilsUmfoloziaandWarvichniumwith the description of new ichnotaxa
Authors: de Barros Gabriel E. B. , de C. P. e M. Peixoto Bernardo , Lima João H. D. , Minter Nicholas J. , Sedorko Daniel
Published: September 2023

Trace fossils are important records of the presence and behaviour of animals in the past, especially in deposits where few body fossils are preserved. They tend to provide the main palaeobiological record for past glacial environments, and are thus very important for understanding the ecology of these palaeoenvironments. Two ichnogenera are common in glacial sediments:UmfoloziaandWarvichnium. BothUmfoloziaandWarvichniumare attributed to arthropods; the former occurs across the Late Palaeozoic Ice Age (LPIA) and the latter occurs during both the LPIA and the Quaternary glacial event. Here, we review the stratigraphic record, ichnotaxonomy, palaeoecology, palaeoenvironments and possible tracemakers of these two ichnogenera. In addition to assessing morphological ichnotaxobases, we use multivariate morphometric analysis and inferential statistical tests to support our ichnotaxonomic revisions. The diagnosis ofUmfoloziais revised, with the description of a new ichnospecies,Umfolozia terere, and the emendation ofUmfolozia riojana(formerlyUmfolozia longula). We revisedWarvichnium, maintaining the originalWarvichnium ulbrichiand allocating two morphologies to the ichnogenusIrichnus:Irichnus saltatoriusandI. paripinnatusisp. nov. These trace fossils record several behaviours, and have implications for palaeoenvironmental interpretations and the evolution of invertebrate ecosystems. UsingUmfoloziaandWarvichniumas case studies, we demonstrate the application of morphometric analysis in ichnotaxonomy and highlight this as a tool that may be applied to other trace‐fossil groups.
Numerically optimized post‐cracking branch of the constitutive tensile model for fiber‐reinforced concrete with natural and recycled aggregates
Authors: Vandevyvere Brecht , Vandewalle Lucie , Li Jiabin
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates the post‐cracking behavior of glass fiber‐reinforced recycled concrete (FR‐RAC). This was done on eight fiber‐reinforced concrete (FRC) mixtures, with three types of recycled aggregates (RAs), while the used fibers were the CEM‐FIL Minibars™ with a fiber content of 0.50 and 0.75 V%. Based on those investigated mixtures, it was found that the proposed constitutive tensile model of the fib Model Code 2010 and the model of di Prisco overestimate the measured load–CMOD curves. Therefore, the post‐cracking branch of the constitutive tensile model was numerically optimized. This was done by optimizing the ka and kc value in the simplified model (Equations 16 and 17), proposed by Vandevyvere and based on the model of di Prisco. The ka value relates to the tensile strength at serviceability limit state, while the factor kc relates to the tensile strength at ultimate limit state (ULS). The numerically optimized ka and kc value, abbreviated by and , indicates a lower value and a higher value than the model of di Prisco et al. In addition, the extensive test data in this study show an increased post‐cracking behavior for the 0.75 V% mixtures with RAs. However, the and values are 0.325 and 0.710 for NAC‐0.75 V%, and only slightly different and values are obtained for the FR‐RAC mixtures. Therefore, one unified constitutive tensile model is proposed for all FRC mixtures. In addition, the numerically optimized model indicates a lower neutral axis location as well as a higher maximum tensile strain () and compressive strain () for the recycled concrete mixtures. The value at CMOD3 is 0.074‰ for NAC‐0.75 V%, while the nRAC‐0.75 V% mixture indicates a value of 0.100‰. This explains the improved fiber activation of the fiber‐reinforced recycled concrete mixtures (with 0.75 V% glass fibers).
Hysteretic performance of prestressed concrete beams with AFRP tendons under cyclic loading
Authors: Hu Xinyu , Xue Weichen , Zheng Renguang
Published: September 2023

This paper aims to evaluate the hysteretic performance of prestressed concrete beams with aramid fiber‐reinforced polymer (AFRP) tendons. Eight beams were constructed and tested under cyclic loading, with test variables covering the type of prestressing tendons (AFRP and steel), the ratio of internal tendons to external tendons (3:0 and 1:2) and the bond condition of internal tendons (fully bonded, partially bonded, and unbonded). Results showed that the failure of all the beams was dominated by concrete crushing and nonprestressed rebars rupturing at pure bending sections. AFRP prestressed beams exhibited commensurate bearing capacity, displacement ductility, energy dissipation and residual deformation with steel prestressed beams. The combination of internal and external tendons, and using unbonded or partially bonded tendons could improve the ductility of AFRP prestressed beams. Additionally, the finite element (FE) models of AFRP prestressed beams were developed using ABAQUS based on the coupling method under the local coordinate system. The simulated results closely matched the experimental results in terms of the failure mode and load–displacement curve. Parametric predictions, including the unbonded length of AFRP tendon, partial prestressing ratio, jacking stress and concrete strength were presented to extend the experimental works.
Integrative analysis from multi‐center studies identifies a weighted gene co‐expression network analysis‐based Tregs signature in ovarian cancer
Authors: Cao Yang , Liu Ying‐Lei , Lu Xiao‐Yan , Kai Hai‐Li , Han Yun , Zheng Yan‐Li
Published: September 2023

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a malignancy associated with poor prognosis and has been linked to regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the immune microenvironment. Nevertheless, the association between Tregs‐related genes (TRGs) and OC prognosis remains incompletely understood. The xCell algorithm was used to analyze Tregs scores across multiple cohorts. Weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to identify potential TRGs and molecular subtypes. Furthermore, we used nine machine learning algorithms to create risk models with prognostic indicators for patients. Reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence staining were used to demonstrate the immunosuppressive ability of Tregs and the expression of key TRGs in clinical samples. Our study found that higher Tregs scores were significantly correlated with poorer overall survival. Recurrent patients exhibited increased Tregs infiltration and reduced CD8+ T cell. Moreover, molecular subtyping using seven key TRGs revealed that subtype B exhibited higher enrichment of multiple oncogenic pathways and had a worse prognosis. Notably, subtype B exhibited high Tregs levels, suggesting immune suppression. In addition, we validated machine learning‐derived prognostic models across multiple platform cohorts to better distinguish patient survival and predict immunotherapy efficacy. Finally, the differential expression of key TRGs was validated using clinical samples. Our study provides novel insights into the role of Tregs in the immune microenvironment of OC. We identified potential therapeutic targets derived from Tregs (CD24, FHL2, GPM6A, HOXD8, NAP1L5, REN, and TOX3) for personalized treatment and created a machining learning‐based prognostic model for OC patients, which could be useful in clinical practice.
Resveratrol alleviates perinatal methylmercury‐induced neurobehavioral impairments by modulating the gut microbiota composition and neurotransmitter disturbances
Authors: Chen Fang , Zhang Li , Liu Yi , Zhang Aihua , Wang Wenjuan
Published: September 2023

Methylmercury (MeHg), a potent neurotoxic substance, causes adverse health outcomes by modulating metabolites through altered gut microbiota patterns. Among the many metabolites, neurotransmitters play a particularly important role in the nervous system and behavior. Resveratrol (RSV) has been investigated as an antiaging, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and neuroprotective agent. The current study evaluated that RSV is protective of neurodevelopmental toxicity induced by MeHg and further explored the underlying mechanisms. Sprague–Dawley rats were treated with 1.2 mg/kg/d of MeHg, and the effects were evaluated after supplementation with RSV (20 mg/kg/d). The results indicated that MeHg had adverse effects on early neurodevelopmental indicators in the experimental group offspring as compared to control pups. Interestingly, RSV significantly improved the MeHg‐induced delays in the neurobehavioral reflexes and reduced the total mercury (THg) concentration in the colons of the offspring rats. In agreement, RSV administration improved the gut microbiota diversity and structure by increasing the abundance of probiotics and upregulating the expression of tight junction proteins. It also ameliorated the MeHg‐induced abnormalities in the expression profiles of neurotransmitters. Furthermore, eight key bacteria that were strongly linked with the neurotransmitters and neuroreflex parameters were identified. Taken together, these results demonstrate that RSV treatment effectively reduces the occurrence of neurodevelopmental toxicity caused by perinatal MeHg exposure by modulating the intestinal flora and neurotransmitter metabolism. These findings provide a new therapeutic approach for treating MeHg‐induced neurotoxicity.

The cover image is based on the Research Article Resveratrol alleviates perinatal methylmercury‐induced neurobehavioral impairments by modulating the gut microbiota composition and neurotransmitter disturbances by Fang Chen et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/tox.23973.
Positive population trends among meso‐ and megaherbivores follow intensive conservation efforts in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Authors: Claude Twahirwa Jean , Tuyisingize Deogratias , Sekabanza Antoine , Twagirimana Paul , Stoinski Tara S. , Muvunyi Richard , van der Hoek Yntze
Published: September 2023

It is unclear whether the remarkable recovery of mountain gorillas Gorilla beringei beringei in the Virunga Mountains, East Africa, that followed decades of intensive conservation efforts, is indicative of positive trends in abundance and distribution of other large mammals (meso‐ and megaherbivores). Positive population trends are particularly relevant for globally threatened elephants Loxodonta sp., as conservation and research efforts have predominantly focused on populations that range in lowland savanna ecosystems rather than the smaller but ecologically and genetically unique populations found in the Virunga montane ecosystems. We used marked pellet group counts in dung clearance plots to determine the density/abundance and distribution of three mesoherbivores (buffalo, black‐fronted duiker, bushbuck) and one megaherbivore (elephant) in Volcanoes National Park (VNP; covering part of the Virunga Mountains), Rwanda, in July–September 2008 and 2021. We estimated that elephants and duiker populations saw a minor increase between 2008 and 2021 while densities of buffalo and bushbuck increased substantially over the course of the past decade. We also found no evidence of substantial distributional shifts for elephants but observed increases in densities of the other species in the southwestern parts of the VNP. Overall, density estimates for all species were much higher in both 2008 and 2021 than in a previous survey in 2004, which suggests that meso‐ and megaherbivores have largely recovered from a steep decline in numbers towards the end of the 20th century, possibly benefitting from the same protection efforts that benefitted mountain gorillas.
Introduction
Authors: Caro-Gonzalez Antonia
Published: September 2023

Eoh-for-Good—Leading Systemic Transformation for the Common Good is the result of many years of dreaming, experimenting and implementing systemic ways to drive transformations for the common good.
Designing Ad Hoc Impact Monitoring Systems
Authors: Caro-Gonzalez Antonia
Published: September 2023

This chapter explores the significance of evidence-based decision-making, providing valuable insights into creating comprehensive impact follow-up systems and a battery of indicators to assess the outcomes of transformative governance efforts.
Oblique corrections from leptoquarks
Authors: Albergaria Francisco , Lavoura Luís
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We present general formulas for the oblique-correction parametersS,T,U,V,W, andXin a model of New Physics having arbitrary numbers of scalar leptoquarks of the five permissible types. We allow for a general mixing among the scalars of the various electric charges, viz. −4/3, −1/3, 2/3, and 5/3. We then extend the formulas to the case of a New Physics model with additional scalars in any representations of the gauge group SU(2)×U(1), mixing arbitrarily among themselves.
Thermalization in the presence of a time-dependent dissipation and its impact on dark matter production
Authors: Chowdhury Debtosh , Hait Arpan
Published: September 2023

Abstract

In standard cosmological scenarios, a heavy meta-stable field dominates the energy density of the universe after inflation. The dissipation of this field continuously sources high-energy particles. In general, the dissipation rate of this meta-stable field can have a non-trivial time dependence. We study the impact of this time-dependent dissipation rate on the thermalization of the high-energy decay products of the meta-stable field. These energetic particles can contribute substantially to dark matter production in addition to the usual production from the thermal bath particles during reheating. We investigate the impact of this generalized dissipation on dark matter production in a model-independent way. We illustrate the parameter space that explains the observed dark matter relic abundance in various cosmological scenarios. We observed that dark matter having a mass larger than the maximum temperature attained by the thermal bath can be produced from the collision of the high-energy particles which are not yet thermalized.
Small-x factorization from effective field theory
Authors: Neill Duff , Pathak Aditya , Stewart Iain W.
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We derive a factorization theorem that allows for resummation of small-x logarithms by exploiting Glauber operators in the soft collinear effective field theory. Our analysis is carried out for the hadronic tensor Wμν in deep inelastic scattering, and leads to the definition of a new gauge invariant soft function Sμν that describes quark and gluon emission in the central region. This soft function provides a new framework for extending resummed calculations for coefficient functions to higher logarithmic orders. Our factorization also defines impact factors by universal collinear functions that are process independent, for instance being identical in small-x DIS and Drell-Yan.
Primordial black holes from strong first-order phase transitions
Authors: Lewicki Marek , Toczek Piotr , Vaskonen Ville
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We study the formation of primordial black holes (PBHs) in strongly super-cooled first-order phase transitions. The mechanism is based on the presence of remnants dominated by the false vacuum that scale slower with the expansion of the Universe than their surroundings where this energy was already converted into radiation. We compute the PBH formation from these remnants including the contribution from the false vacuum and the bubble walls, by estimating the collapse using the hoop conjecture and by considering both regions collapsing immediately when entering the horizon and sub-horizon regions that collapse as their compactness grows. We show that for exponential bubble nucleation rate, Γ ∝ eβt, the primordial black hole formation implies β/H ≳ 3.8, where H denotes the Hubble rate, if the potential energy of the false vacuum is ∆V ≲ (1012 GeV)4, as otherwise a too large abundance of long-lived PBHs forms. The observed dark matter abundance can be formed in asteroid mass PBHs if β/H ≃ 3.8 and 105 GeV ≲ ∆V1/4 ≲ 108 GeV. Finally, we consider also the effect of the second order correction to the exponential nucleation rate showing that the PBH abundance is mainly determined by the average radius of the true vacuum bubbles.
More on pure gravity with a negative cosmological constant
Authors: Benizri Lior , Troost Jan
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We identify an ambiguity in the Chern-Simons formulation of three-dimensional gravity with negative cosmological constant that originates in an outer automorphism of the Lie algebra $$ \mathfrak{sl} $$
sl
(2, ℝ). It has important consequences for the stability of the theory in a space-time with boundary. We revisit the classical equivalence of three-dimensional gravity with a boundary Liouville theory both on and off the mass shell. Moreover, we provide further details on the quantum equivalence, the gauge symmetry that renders the spectrum diagonal, as well as the relation between asymptotically AdS3 metrics and polar boundary conditions. We thus set the proposal that the Liouville conformal field theory serves as a definition of a unitary theory of pure gravity in three dimensions with negative cosmological constant on a more stable footing.
Unstable pelvic fractures in women: implications on obstetric outcome
Authors: Davidson Amit , Giannoudis Vasileios P. , Kotsarinis Georgios , Santolini Emmanuele , Tingerides Constantinos , Koneru Anish , Kanakaris Nikolaos K. , Giannoudis Peter V.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Obstetric outcomes in women following pelvic injuries requiring surgical fixation is not thoroughly known. We aimed to evaluate if radiographic measurements (RMs) can be used to provide information on delivery methods outcome after these injuries, and to evaluate if metal work removal is required prior to delivery.

Method

A retrospective study in a level 1 trauma centre of female patients with pelvic fractures treated operatively, aged 16–45 at the time of injury. Participants completed a questionnaire regarding their obstetric history. RM evaluating pelvic symmetry, displacement, and pelvimetry were conducted on postoperative radiographs and CT scans. Patients who gave birth after the injury were divided to two groups according to the delivery method: vaginal delivery (VD) and caesarean section (CS). These two groups RM were compared.

Results

Forty-four patients were included, comparison of the RM of patients who delivered by CS (9) and patients who had only VD (11) showed no significant difference between the groups. Two patients underwent a trial of VD who subsequently underwent urgent CS due to prolonged labour, their RM were below the average and their pelvimetry measurements were above the cut-off for CS recommendation. Eleven patients had uncomplicated VD, all had retained sacroiliac screws at the time of delivery and one patient had an anterior pubic plate.

Conclusion

Postoperative RM did not show an effect on delivery method of women after pelvic fracture fixation. A relatively high number of patients who underwent normal vaginal delivery had retained sacroiliac screws. These findings can form the foundation for larger cohort studies.
Polynomial Bounds for Chromatic Number. IV: A Near-polynomial Bound for Excluding the Five-vertex Path
Authors: Scott Alex , Seymour Paul , Spirkl Sophie
Published: September 2023

A graphGisH-freeif it has no induced subgraph isomorphic toH. We prove that a$$P_5$$P5-free graph with clique number$$\omega \ge 3$$ω≥3has chromatic number at most$$\omega ^{\log _2(\omega )}$$ωlog2(ω). The best previous result was an exponential upper bound$$(5/27)3^{\omega }$$(5/27)3ω, due to Esperet, Lemoine, Maffray, and Morel. A polynomial bound would imply that the celebrated Erdős-Hajnal conjecture holds for$$P_5$$P5, which is the smallest open case. Thus, there is great interest in whether there is a polynomial bound for$$P_5$$P5-free graphs, and our result is an attempt to approach that.
Zwischenfälle in der Notfallmedizin
Authors: Weilbacher Frank , Popp Erik , St. Pierre Michael , Neuhaus Christopher
Published: September 2023

Hintergrund

„Critical incident reporting systems“ (CIRS) dienen dazu, dass Organisationen auf bislang unbekannte und sicherheitsrelevante Ereignisse aufmerksam gemacht werden und dass Nutzer von den Zwischenfällen Einzelner erfahren und lernen können.

Fragestellung

Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchung war es, mithilfe von CIRS-Meldungen sicherheitsrelevante Ereignisse aus der Notfallversorgung im Rettungsdienst, der Notaufnahme und der Schockraumversorgung zu identifizieren und zu kategorisieren.

Material und Methoden

In einer retrospektiven Datenbankanalyse wurden alle Meldungen der anästhesiologischen CIRS-Datenbank CIRS-AINS (April 2010 – Juni 2019) inhaltlich analysiert. In die Auswertung wurden alle Meldungen aus der präklinischen Versorgung im Rettungsdienst oder der innerklinischen Versorgung in Schockraum oder Notaufnahme eingeschlossen. Die Elemente des Meldebogens sowie die Vollständigkeit der Meldung wurden deskriptiv erfasst und der Umfang der Freitextmeldungen analysiert. In einem iterativen Prozess wurden hierdurch häufig gemeldete Ereignisse identifiziert und die Meldungen kategorisiert.

Ergebnisse

Von 6013 Fällen aus der CIRS-AINS-Datenbank erfüllten 198 die Einschlusskriterien für die vorliegende Auswertung. Die präklinische Versorgung (n = 79, 39,9 %) und die Schockraumversorgung (n = 77, 38,9 %) waren etwa gleich repräsentiert, Meldungen aus der Notaufnahme außerhalb des Schockraums machten einen etwas geringeren Anteil aus (n = 42, 21,2 %). Die häufigsten Gründe für CIRS-Meldungen waren Teamkonflikte/Kommunikationsprobleme (30,2 %), Zwischenfälle mit Medizinprodukten (26,4 %) und Schnittstellenprobleme (15,1 %). Am häufigsten wurden Probleme mit Monitor‑/Defibrillatoreinheiten oder Beatmungsgeräten/O2-Versorgung gemeldet.

Diskussion

Die Analyse liefert erste Erkenntnisse für die Gestaltung und Fokussierung von Fortbildungsmaßnahmen und Anwenderschulungen. Der geringe Anteil notfallmedizinischer Meldungen in CIRS-AINS unterstreicht die Notwendigkeit, die Nutzung von CIRS weiter zu verbreiten. Hierdurch könnte ein potenzieller Beitrag zur Steigerung der Patientensicherheit im Feld der Notfallmedizin geleistet werden.

Graphic abstract
Measuring the impact of haptic feedback in collaborative robotic scenarios
Authors: Rodríguez-Sedano Francisco J. , Conde Miguel Á. , Rodríguez-Lera Francisco J. , Chaparro-Peláez Julián
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the interaction of a human operator with teleoperated robotic systems has been much improved. One of the factors influencing this improvement is the addition of force feedback to complement the visual feedback provided by traditional graphical user interfaces. However, the users of these systems performing tasks in isolated and safe environments are often inexperienced and occasional users. In addition, there is no common framework to assess the usability of these systems, due to the heterogeneity of applications and tasks, and therefore, there is a need for new usability assessment methods that are not domain specific. This study addresses this issue by proposing a measure of usability that includes five variables: user efficiency, user effectiveness, mental workload, perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use. The empirical analysis shows that the integration of haptic feedback improves the usability of these systems for non-expert users, even though the differences are not statistically significant; further, the results suggest that mental workload is higher when haptic feedback is added. The analysis also reveals significant differences between participants depending on gender.
Decision making via generalized Bajraktarević means
Authors: Páles Zsolt , Pasteczka Paweł
Published: September 2023

We define decision-making functions which arise from studying the multidimensional generalization of the weighted Bajraktarević means. It allows a nonlinear approach to optimization problems. These functions admit several interesting (from the point of view of decision-making) properties, for example, delegativity (which states that each subgroup of decision-makers can aggregate their decisions and efforts), casuativity (each decision affects the final outcome except two trivial cases) and convexity-type properties. Beyond establishing the most important properties of such means, we solve their equality problem, we introduce a notion of synergy and characterize the null-synergy decision-making functions of this type.
Effects of MgO on Ni/Al2O3 catalysts for CO2 reforming of methane to syngas
Authors: Al-Baqmaa Yousef A. , Al-Fatesh Ahmed S. , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Bagabas Abdulaziz A. , Almubadde Fahad S. , Alromaeh Abdulaziz I. , Abu-Dahrieh Jehad K. , Abasaeed Ahmed E. , Fakeeha Anis H.
Published: September 2023

Carbon dioxide reforming of methane (CRM) converts CH4 and CO2 greenhouse gases into syngas over nickel-based catalysts. We performed CRM in a tubular microreactor at 700 °C by using 5.0 wt.% NiO catalyst, supported over mixtures of γ-Al2O3 + x MgO (x = 20, 30, 63, and 70 wt.%). The process of impregnation was used to prepare the catalysts. For characterization, N2-physisorption, XRD, H2-TPR, TGA, and Raman spectroscopy techniques were employed. Among the examined catalysts, 5Ni/Al2O3 + 63%MgO was found the most active, where it showed ≅ 72% CH4 conversion, 73% CO2 conversion, and 0.82 H2/CO mole ratio over 7 h of reaction. The MgO modifier was the primary component, which favorably affected both Ni dispersion and stability, for the good interaction between NiO and γ-alumina. The mono-supported samples displayed the lowest total hydrogen consumption. In TGA, the 5Ni/Al2O3 + 63%MgO exhibited a significant weight decrease (40%), reflecting its activity. Furthermore, the Raman spectroscopy analysis showed that the crystallinity of the carbon over this catalyst was more pronounced than the others.
Evaluation of Digitalisation in Healthcare and the Quantification of the “Unmeasurable”
Authors: Cresswell Kathrin , Anderson Stuart , Montgomery Catherine , Weir Christopher J. , Atter Marek , Williams Robin
Published: September 2023

Evaluating healthcare digitalisation, where technology implementation and adoption transforms existing socio-organisational processes, presents various challenges for outcome assessments. Populations are diverse, interventions are complex and evolving over time, meaningful comparisons are difficult as outcomes vary between settings, and outcomes take a long time to materialise and stabilise. Digitalisation may also have unanticipated impacts. We here discuss the limitations of evaluating the digitalisation of healthcare, and describe how qualitative and quantitative approaches can complement each other to facilitate investment and implementation decisions. In doing so, we argue how existing approaches have focused on measuring what is easily measurable and elevating poorly chosen values to inform investment decisions. Limited attention has been paid to understanding processes that are not easily measured even though these can have significant implications for contextual transferability, sustainability and scale-up of interventions. We use what is commonly known as the McNamara Fallacy to structure our discussions. We conclude with recommendations on how we envisage the development of mixed methods approaches going forward in order to address shortcomings.
An Integrated Approach to Control and Manage Potato Black Dot Disease: A Review
Authors: Sanzo-Miró Marta , Simms Daniel M. , Rezwan Faisal I. , Terry Leon A. , Alamar M. Carmen
Published: September 2023

Potato black dot is a foliar and tuber blemish disease that has become an increasingly economic problem in recent years. Black dot is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum coccodes and is characterised by silver/brown lesions on the tuber skin leading to lower aesthetic quality of potatoes destined for the pre-pack market. Given the consumers’ growing demand for washed and pre-packed potatoes, skin blemish diseases (such as black dot and silver scurf), once considered of minor importance, are now serious challenges for the fresh potato industry. The management of C. coccodes is far from satisfactory at either pre- or postharvest stages: firstly, the disease symptoms have not been consistently described on potato plant foliage; and secondly, black dot disease is often confounded with other tuber blemishes during postharvest storage. Good field managing practices in combination with improved postharvest strategies and an accurate detection support tool can be a useful integrated approach to manage potato black dot disease. This review aims to evaluate and critically discuss different novel approaches for better management and detection of potato black dot disease.
Bezahlte Nächstenliebe. Ein wissenschaftliches Gespräch
Authors: Bock Karin , Kessl Fabian , Rauschenbach Thomas , Gängler Hans , Rudolph Martin
Published: September 2023

In der Rubrik „Nachgefragt/Wiederentdeckt“ steht der Artikel „Bezahlte Nächstenliebe. Zur Struktur sozialpädagogischen Handelns“ (1984) von Thomas Rauschenbach im Zentrum eines wissenschaftlichen Gesprächs.
Fire-Resistant Bio-based Polyurethane Foams Designed with Two By-Products Derived from Sugarcane Fermentation Process
Authors: Capêto Ana Paula , Amorim Manuela , Sousa Sérgio , Costa Joana R. , Uribe Braian , Guimarães Ana Sofia , Pintado Manuela , Oliveira Ana L. S.
Published: September 2023

There is a growing interest in replacing conventional fossil-based polymers and composites with waste-based materials and fillers for environmental sustainability. This study designed water-blown polyurethane rigid foams using two by-products from the Amyris fermentation process of producing β-farnesene. The distillation residue (FDR) served as the main polyol component in the foam’s formulation (PF), supplemented with 4.5% sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) as a fire-retardant filler (PFA). The study assessed the impact on foam properties. Based on the analysis of all compiled data (foam structure, mechanical, and thermal properties), it can be inferred that ash particles acted as nucleating points in the reaction media, leading to a reduction in foam density (from 134 to 105 kg/m3), cell size (from 496 to 480 nm), and thermal conductivity. The absence of chemical interaction between the ash filler and the polyurethane matrix indicates that the ash acts as a filler with a plasticizing effect, enhancing the polymer chain mobility. As a result, the glass transition temperature of the foam decreases (from 74 to 71.8 ºC), and the decomposition onset temperature is delayed. Although, the incorporation of 4.5% SCBA (grain size below 250 μm) was ineffective in the increment of the compressive strength, that small amount was enough to increase the foam’s specific strength from 1009 to 1149 m2/s2 suggesting that other factors (e.g. polyol feedstock, grain size, ash packing, etc.) are yet to be accounted. The flammability test results indicate that sugarcane bagasse ash improved the foam performance, reducing burning time from 251 to 90 s, time of extinguishment from 255 to 116 s, and burning length from 132 to 56.7 mm, meeting the fire protection standard UL 94, class HB. Despite the need for further improvement and detailed flammability evaluation, the results support the notion that polyurethane foams from renewable waste by-products offer a sustainable alternative to both edible and fossil-based sources. Additionally, sugarcane bagasse ash can be a suitable silica source for reinforcing composites with reduced flammability, potentially replacing harmful halogenated chemicals used for the same purpose.

Graphical Abstract
Interactive steering on in situ particle-based volume rendering framework
Authors: Kawamura Takuma , Hasegawa Yuta , Idomura Yasuhiro
Published: September 2023

The development of supercomputers and multi-scale computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models based on adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) enabled fast, large-scale, and high fidelity CFD simulations. Interactive in situ steering is an effective tool for debugging, searching for optimal solutions, and analyzing inverse problems in such CFD simulations. We propose an interactive in situ steering framework for large-scale CFD simulations on GPU supercomputers. This framework employs in situ particle-based volume rendering (PBVR), in situ data sampling, and a file-based control that enables interactive and asynchronous communication of steering parameters, compressed visualization particle data, and sampled monitoring data between supercomputers and user PCs. The parallelized PBVR is processed on the host CPU to avoid interference with CFD simulations on the GPU. We apply the proposed framework to a real-time plume dispersion analysis code CityLBM, which computes the lattice Boltzmann method on the block AMR grid using GPU supercomputers. In the numerical experiment, we address an inverse problem to find a pollutant source from the observation data at monitoring points and demonstrate the effectiveness of the human-in-the-loop approach via the in situ steering framework.

Graphical abstract
Reconstruction of Maxillary Defects Using Virtual Surgical Planning and Additive Manufacturing Technology: A Tertiary Care Centre Experience
Authors: Kudva Adarsh , Srikanth G. , Singh Anupam , Chitra A. , Suryanarayan Ramya K. , Francis Mugdha
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Maxillary reconstruction is often a challenging task for the surgeons because of the complex anatomy. However, with the advances in virtual surgical planning (VSP) and 3D printing technology there is a new avenue for the surgeons which offers a suitable alternative to conventional flap-based reconstructions.

Patients and Methods

In this article, we have described 4 case scenarios which were managed with the help of VSP and additive manufacturing technology for complex maxillary reconstruction procedures. Use of the technologies aided the clinician in achieving optimal outcomes with regards to form, function and esthetics.

Discussion

Virtual surgical planning (VSP) has gained a lot of impetus in past 1 decade. These aides the surgeon in determining the extent of disease and also carry out the treatment planning. In addition to VSP, the concept of additive manufacturing provides a viable alternative to the conventional reconstruction modalities for maxillary defect rehabilitation. Increased accuracy, rehabilitation of normal anatomical configuration, appropriate dental rehabilitation, decreased intra-operative time and post-operative complications are some of the advantages. In addition, patient-specific implants eliminate the need for a separate donor site. Apart from the treatment of pathologies, they also can be used for reconstruction of post-traumatic defect, where endosteal implant placement is not possible.

Conclusion

These modalities show promising results for reconstruction of complex maxillary defects.
Keys to Responsive Feeding in Early Education: Systematic Observation of Pikler-Lóczy’s Educators’ Behaviour During Breakfast
Authors: Belza Haizea , Herrán Elena , Anguera M. Teresa
Published: September 2023

The responsive feeding style has been researched to date using indirect techniques, mainly in family contexts. This style supports children’s capacity for self-regulation, which is why the present study aims to directly and systematically observe the method in a school context, focusing specifically on the behaviour of two educators working at the Emmi Pikler Nursery School during breakfast time with two different groups. The observation instrument used was a field format created ad hoc that measures two basic dimensions in said behaviour: instrumental and relational. A total of 25 sessions were recorded and a lag sequential analysis was performed to detect behavioural patterns during the care activity. The results reveal a common pattern shared by both educators in both dimensions (instrumental and relational) that includes key elements of group-based responsive feeding.
Repurposing existing drugs for monkeypox: applications of virtual screening methods
Authors: Li Vladimir , Lee Youngho , Lee Chul , Kim Heebal
Published: September 2023

Background

Monkeypox is endemic to African region and has become of Global concern recently due to its outbreaks in non-endemic countries. Although, the disease was first recorded in 1970, no monkeypox specific drug or vaccine exists as of now.

Methods

We applied drug repositioning method, testing effectiveness of currently approved drugs against emerging disease, as one of the most affordable approaches for discovering novel treatment measures. Techniques such as virtual ligand-based and structure-based screening were applied to identify potential drug candidates against monkeypox.

Results

We narrowed down our results to 6 antiviral and 20 anti-tumor drugs that exhibit theoretically higher potency than tecovirimat, the currently approved drug for monkeypox disease.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that selected drug compounds displayed strong binding affinity for p37 receptor of monkeypox virus and therefore can potentially be used in future studies to confirm their effectiveness against the disease.
Healthcare Experiences of African American Women with the Fragile X Premutation
Authors: King Andrew P. , Ali Nadia , Bellcross Cecelia , Ehivet Fabienne , Hipp Heather S. , Vaughn Jessica , Allen Emily G.
Published: September 2023

This study aims to understand the healthcare experiences of African American women with a fragile X premutation (PM). PM carriers are at risk for fragile X-associated conditions, including primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI) and neuropsychiatric disorders (FXAND). There is no racial/ethnic association with carrying a PM, but African American women historically experience barriers receiving quality healthcare in the USA. Obstacles to care may increase mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Eight African American women with a PM were interviewed to explore disparities in receiving healthcare and to learn about psychosocial experiences during and after their diagnoses. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and independently coded by two researchers. A deductive-inductive approach was used, followed by thematic analysis to determine prominent themes. The average participant age was 52.3 ± 8.60 years, with a mean age at premutation diagnosis of 31 ± 5.95 years. Seven participants had children with FXS. Themes from interviews included healthcare experiences, family dynamics, and emotional/mental health after their diagnosis. Participants reported concerns about not being taken seriously by providers and mistrust of the medical institutions. Within families, participants reported denial, insensitivity, and isolation. Participants reported a high incidence of anxiety and depression. Both are symptoms of FXAND and stresses of systemic racism and sexism. The reported family dynamics around the news of a genetic diagnosis stand apart from other racial cohorts in fragile X research: interventions like family counseling sessions and inclusive support opportunities from national organizations could ease the impacts of a PM for African American women.
Matter and image: the pharmacology of architecture
Authors: Spuybroek Lars
Published: September 2023

In the history of technologies and materials the transfer from soft to hard plays a central role. From a dialectic point of view it seems to be a clear-cut matter of one overpowering the other, yet conceptually things are more convoluted. What we call the chiastic model of history is driven by the exchange of empowerings where the one inhabits the other. By taking the most antithetical examples of materiality from architectural history, the plastic and the lithic, we begin to understand the psychological aspects of this exchange: a history of dreams, imagination and even hallucination. The technologies involving the plastic offer an enormous array of such imagery, which we start to analyze as part of a fundamental aspect of technology itself. Using the notion of the pharmakon, as developed by Derrida and Stiegler, we study its ambiguities: technology by its nature is both remedy and poison, cure and addiction. Accepting this ambivalence is the explicit goal of pharmacology, which makes the history of soft and hard one of prosthetic extension as much as of mimetic absorption. We will be guided by two architectural fantasists to investigate the what we call the pharmacology of architecture, J. G. Ballard’s fantasy of a house automaton in the case of the plastic, and G. B. Piranesi’s hallucinations of a reversed archeology in that of the lithic.
Style, Method and Philosophy in Wittgenstein
Authors: Pichler Alois
Published: September 2023

Wittgenstein said, 'really one should write philosophy only as one writes a poem'. This Element provides a comprehensive explanation of what he possibly meant by the statement, and why the statement is a correct description of Wittgenstein's philosophy. It connects the statement with Wittgenstein's idea of philosophical clarification, the methods he uses in it and the masters he acknowledges as the sources for his ways of 'moving his thought'. The Element introduces distinctions that are essential for approaching the multilayered complex of Wittgenstein's oeuvre. One is the distinction between writing philosophical clarifications for himself on the one hand and forming philosophical books for his reader on the other. While poetry was central to both activities, it was mandatory for the second. Indeed, for creating the perfect philosophical book, Wittgenstein thought he lacked precisely what some of his masters possessed: poetic genius.
Sustaining fecundity: artistic creation as care for life
Authors: Weber Andreas
Published: September 2023

Art is as old as human culture. For most of the time, art was part of an exchange between humans and the cosmic order. Art was meant as a gift to nourish the fecundity of life. Art was communication with ancestral creational powers — the invocation of a poetic space from which creation entered the material realm. This paper explores art as a way of tapping into the invisible forces of reality. I argue that humans can experience these forces as aliveness (joy/desire to give) and can transmit them by poetic creation. Through art, humans have a capacity to nourish life, in parallel to how natural productivity unfolds from the unseen into the embodied domain. This capacity is a source of artistic creation. It is a crucial means to participate in a life-giving cosmos. Although the Western understanding of art is far from this attitude, art has remained the domain where aliveness is accommodated not with empirical, but with imaginational means. In the current global crisis of life, it is crucial to remember the potential of art not only to relate but to contribute to aliveness. Programs in environmental education should build on the direct perception and expressive imagination of aliveness.
Numerical investigation of the drag reduction effect in turbulent channel flow by superhydrophobic grooved surfaces
Authors: Safari Ali , Saidi Mohammad Hassan , Salavatidezfouli Sajad , Yao Shuhuai
Published: September 2023

Superhydrophobic surfaces (SHSs) are considered to be a promising technology for achieving skin-friction drag reduction. Development of more efficient techniques for simulating the turbulent boundary layer on SHSs continues to be a subject of interest. In this study, numerical simulations were carried out to capture near-wall behaviours due to the effect of the SHS on wall-bounded flows. To achieve this, high- to intermediate-fidelity turbulence models including Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes, detached eddy simulation and large eddy simulation were utilized. With regard to slip conditions, the well-known Navier slip velocity method was used over the SHS. For validating the numerical solutions, the slip velocity and skin friction over the SHS were compared with the experimental output. Results showed that the velocity profile and Reynolds stresses on the SHS were comparable to the reported results. Then, the developed models were further extended to investigate the drag reduction effect of SHSs with rectangular grooves. The subsequent results showed that the combination of superhydrophobicity and rectangular grooves led to a better performance with a maximum drag reduction of 46.1%. This is due to the surface slip caused by the SHS and the secondary vortex effect created by the grooves. Our results revealed that Reynolds stresses of the slippery grooved surface were higher than those of the case in which a shear-free condition was employed for the grooved surface. More importantly, the numerical results indicate the previous assumption of the shear-free condition is inaccurate for the geometrically simplified grooved SHSs. Therefore, geometry modifications rather than an overly simplified shear-free boundary condition should be applied in computational fluid dynamics simulations for SHSs with grooves or other complex structures.