bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New York has new laws combatting addictive social media feeds
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2024

“Nation‐leading” legislation to combat addictive social media feeds and protect kids online was signed into law on June 20 by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, making the state the first in the nation to establish these types of protections to safeguard children on social media, especially given the youth mental health crisis.
Experimente sollen Schüler begeistern
Authors: Jäckel Klaus‐Peter , Kickelbick Guido
Published: July 2024

Die GDCh hat zusammen mit der Konferenz der Fachbereiche Chemie eine Initiative zur Stärkung des Chemieunterrichts gestartet.
Platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa antagonists in ischemic stroke patients without endovascular therapy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu Dongjun , Yang Cheng , Cao Wei , Zhang Xinyu , Yang Shucong , Shen Xuning , Xu Jun , Yu Huijie
Published: July 2024

Platelet glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa antagonists have been employed in selective patients after endovascular therapy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS), yet application in patients without EVT is debated. This meta‐analysis of randomized controlled studies on AIS patients without EVT assessed the effectiveness and safety of platelet GP IIb/IIIa antagonists compared with traditional antiplatelet or thrombolysis therapy. Articles were retrieved from databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane. The risk of bias and certainty level of evidence were assessed. Fifteen studies were included. GP IIb/IIIa antagonists increased the proportion of patients with modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–1 (odd ratio [OR] 1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–1.81, p = 0.03), mRS 0–2 (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.12–1.46, p = 0.0004), and Barthel Index (BI) 95–100 (OR 1.25, p = 0.005); decreased the proportion of stroke progression within 5 days (OR 0.66, p = 0.006); and lowered the mean mRS score at 90 days (mean difference [MD] −0.43, p = 0.002) and the National Institute of Health stroke scale score at 7 days (MD −1.64, p < 0.00001) compared with conventional treatment. Proportions of stroke recurrence within 90 days (OR 1.20, p = 0.60), any intracranial hemorrhage (aICH) (OR 1.20, p = 0.12), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) (OR 0.91, p = 0.88), and death (OR 0.87, p = 0.25) had no statistical difference between both groups. This meta‐analysis finds that compared with traditional antiplatelet or thrombolysis therapy, GP IIb/IIIa antagonists administered within 24–96 h of ischemic stroke onset significantly improve functional prognosis of patients with AIS not receiving EVT, as indicated by mRS and BI at 90 days, and do not increase the incidence of aICH, sICH, and death.
Kontrollierte Erzeugung von Greenberger‐Horne‐Zeilinger‐Photonen
Authors: Hansen Lena , Carosini Lorenzo , Giorgino Francesco , Walther Philip
Published: July 2024

Eine der wichtigsten Ressourcen für optische Quantencomputer und Quantenrepeater sind photonische Clusterzustände, die aus vielen, auf eine bestimmte Art miteinander verschränkten Lichtteilchen bestehen. Ein wesentlicher Baustein für die Erzeugung beliebig großer Clusterzustände und damit der Skalierbarkeit photonischer Quantencomputer sind sogenannte angekündigte Greenberger‐Horne‐Zeilinger‐(GHZ‐) Zustände mit drei verschränkten Photonen. Nun ist es an der Universität Wien zum ersten Mal gelungen, eben solche angekündigten GHZ‐Zustände zu erzeugen.
Anti‐windup compensation for model reference adaptive control schemes
Authors: Sofrony Jorge , Turner Matthew C. , Richards Christopher M.
Published: July 2024

Actuator constraints, particularly saturation limits, are an intrinsic and long‐standing problem in the implementation of most control systems. Model reference adaptive control (MRAC) is no exception and it may suffer considerably when actuator saturation is encountered. With this in mind, this paper proposes an anti‐windup strategy for model reference adaptive control schemes subject to actuator saturation. A prominent feature of the proposed compensator is that it has the same architecture as well‐known nonadaptive schemes, namely model recovery anti‐windup, which rely on the assumption that the system model is known accurately. Since, in the adaptive case, the model is largely unknown, the proposed approach uses an “estimate” of the system matrices for the anti‐windup formulation and modifies the adaptation laws that update the controller gains; if the (unknown) ideal control gains are reached, the model recovery anti‐windup formulation is recovered. The main results provide conditions under which, if the ideal control signal eventually lies within the control constraints, then the system states will converge to those of the reference model, that is, the tracking error will converge to zero asymptotically. The article deals with open‐loop stable linear systems and highlights the main challenges involved in the design of anti‐windup compensators for model‐reference adaptive control systems, demonstrating its success via a flight control application.
Photoelectrochemical Solution Gated Graphene Field‐Effect Transistor Functionalized by Enzymatic Cascade Reaction for Organophosphate Detection
Authors: Wang Hai‐Rui , Hou En‐Hui , Xu Na , Zhang Yu‐Feng , Wu Jian‐Feng , Yuan Wei‐Jian , Kong Zhi‐Guo , Nie Ping , Chang Li‐Min , Zhang Xue‐Lin , Xie Jian‐Wei
Published: July 2024

Solution Gated Graphene Field‐Effect Transistors (SGGT) are eagerly anticipated as an amplification platform for fabricating advanced ultra‐sensitive sensors, allowing significant modulation of the drain current with minimal gate voltage. However, few studies have focused on light‐matter interplay gating control for SGGT. Herein, this challenge is addressed by creating an innovative photoelectrochemical solution‐gated graphene field‐effect transistor (PEC‐SGGT) functionalized with enzyme cascade reactions (ECR) for Organophosphorus (OPs) detection. The ECR system, consisting of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and CuBTC nanomimetic enzymes, selectively recognizes OPs and forms o‐phenylenediamine (oPD) oligomers sediment on the PEC electrode, with layer thickness related to the OPs concentration, demonstrating time‐integrated amplification. Under light stimulation, the additional photovoltage generated on the PEC gate electrode is influenced by the oPD oligomers sediment layer, creating a differentiated voltage distribution along the gate path. PEC‐SGGT, inherently equipped with built‐in amplification circuits, sensitively captures gate voltage changes and delivers output with an impressive thousandfold current gain. The seamless integration of these three amplification modes in this advanced sensor allows a good linear range and highly sensitive detection of OPs, with a detection limit as low as 0.05 pm. This work provides a proof‐of‐concept for the feasibility of light‐assisted functionalized gate‐controlled PEC‐SGGT for small molecule detection.
Dual Hole Transport Layers Heterojunction and Band Alignment Engineered Mo:BiVO4 Photoanodes for Efficient Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Guilin , Tang Tongxin , Ye Kai‐Hang , Ding Xin , Chen Junwei , Zou WenHao , Xiao Yushen , Li JieYu , Zhao Long , Chen Chaojie , Ge Sitong , Li Lei , Wei Xiujuan , Chen Chao , Cao Yang , Lin Zhan , Zhang Shanqing
Published: July 2024

BiVO4‐based photoanode is one of the most promising photoanodes for photoelectrocatalytic water splitting. However, the serious problem of interface charge recombination limits its further development. Here, a Mo:BiVO4/NiOx/CPF‐TCzB/NiCoBi photoanode is constructed with double hole transport layer and an energy level gradient to achieve an effective photo‐generated holes extraction and accumulation at the surface electrocatalyst. The conjugated polycarbazole framework CPF‐TCzB is used as hole transport layer to eliminate the charge recombination center between Mo:BiVO4 and NiCoBi electrocatalyst and realize the extraction and storage of photo‐generated hole; NiOx nanoparticles are further inserted between Mo:BiVO4 and CPF‐TCzB to form a gradient energy level, eliminating the energy level barrier and optimizing band alignment. As a result, Mo:BiVO4/NiOx/CPF‐TCzB/NiCoBi achieves a much higher photocurrent densities of 3.14 mA cm−2 than that of Mo:BiVO4 (0.42 mA cm−2) at 0.6 V versus RHE. This work provides an specific way to adjust the band structure of BiVO4‐based photoanodes and realize efficient hole extraction and storage for PEC water splitting.
Trifluoromethylation Enables Compact 2D Linear Stacking and Improves the Efficiency and Stability of Q‐PHJ Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Qiu Dongsheng , Xiong Shilong , Lai Hanjian , Wang Yunpeng , Li Heng , Lai Xue , Zhu Yiwu , He Feng
Published: July 2024

Compared to the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) devices, the quasiplanar heterojunction (Q‐PHJ) exhibits a more stable morphology and superior charge transfer performance. To achieve both high efficiency and long‐term stability, it is necessary to design new materials for Q‐PHJ devices. In this study, QxIC‐CF3 and QxIC‐CH3 are designed and synthesized for the first time. The trifluoromethylation of the central core exerts a modulatory effect on the molecular stacking pattern, leveraging the strong electrostatic potential and intermolecular interactions. Compared with QxIC‐CH3, the single crystal structure reveals that QxIC‐CF3 exhibits a more compact 2D linear stacking behavior. These benefits, combined with the separated electron and hole transport channels in Q‐PHJ device, lead to increased charge mobility and reduced energy loss. The devices based on D18/QxIC‐CF3 exhibit an efficiency of 18.1%, which is the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) for Q‐PHJ to date. Additionally, the thermodynamic stability of the active layer morphology enhances the lifespan of the aforementioned devices under illumination conditions. Specifically, the T80 is 420 h, which is nearly twice that of the renowned Y6‐based BHJ device (T80 = 220 h). By combining the advantages of the trifluoromethylation and Q‐PHJ device, efficient and stable organic solar cell devices can be constructed.
Cooperative Path Planning for Persistent Surveillance in Large‐Scale Environment with UAV‐UGV System
Authors: Wang Jiahui , Yang Kai , Wu Baolei , Wang Jun
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we consider the path planning problem of the Unmanned Air‐Ground Vehicle (UAV‐UGV) system for large‐scale environmental persistent surveillance. The goal is to acquire a set of periodically visited surveillance nodes while minimizing the traveling distance. Some expected key problems are the limitations of UAV speed, UGV speed, UAV endurance, and UAV field of view. To address this issue, the path planning of UAV‐UGV surveillance system is modeled as a TSP optimization problem based on multiple constraints, aiming to minimize the total path length of the system to perform the task. UAV is responsible for visiting the surveillance node and UGV serves as a mobile charging station. And a two‐layer chaotic aptenodytes forsteri optimization algorithm (Two‐CAFO) is proposed to solve this problem. Our solution has been tested in several simulated and real‐world environments. The results demonstrate that the proposed Two‐CAFO has superior performance compared to other state‐of‐the‐art algorithms in solving the path planning problem for large‐scale environmental persistent surveillance tasks of UAV and UGV. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Effects of nano‐TiO2 in configuration design and sound absorption of polyvinyl alcohol coated composite fabric structure
Authors: Zhu Shubing , Tang Xiaoning
Published: July 2024

With the rapid development of industrialization and population surge in modern society, noise pollution has been considered as a serious threat to human beings. In order to effectively reduce noise, the application of sound absorbing textile materials has gradually increased, also the rapid development of acoustic coating consists of conventional fiber layers and polymers. In this work, the surface morphology, micro‐structure and sound absorption properties of polyvinyl alcohol coated fabric and its composites were studied. It was found that the addition of nano‐TiO2 particles can obviously improve the sound absorption properties, and the absorption coefficient is related to fabric thickness. Furthermore, the surface of the coated fabric was compounded with melt‐blown nonwoven fabric, thus to fabricate composite sound absorber. This work indicates the good feasibility and promising application prospect of lightweight polyvinyl alcohol coated fabrics in noise reduction engineering.

Highlights

Combination of fiber layers and polymers for acoustic coating materials.

Adding inorganic nano‐TiO2 particles with different contents.

Different modification methods to improve the dispersion of coating.

Composite structure with reduced thickness and increased sound absorption.
Independence and Autonomy of Prosecutors in Europe: Opinion No. 16 (2021) of the Consultative Council of European Prosecutors (CCPE) of the Council of Europe
Authors: Noguera Antonio Vercher
Published: July 2024

Under the title “Consequences of decisions of International Courts and Treaty bodies on the practical independence of Prosecutors”, the Consultative Council of European Prosecutors (CCPE).
Public Prosecutor’s Offices, Decisions of the Court of Justice of The European Union, Jurisdiction and Risks of Misconceptions
Authors: Dá Mesquita Paulo
Published: July 2024

The title of this session “The position of the Public Prosecutor’s Office/the need for European rules on internal/external independence” is inseparable from one of the most curious paradoxes of the Public Prosecutor’s Office within Europe.
Supporting Judges Standing Up for Our European Rule of Law
Authors: Morijn John
Published: July 2024

Over the past decade at least two EU Member States, Poland and Hungary, have taken a notable nosedive in democracy rankings.
Sequents vs Hypersequents for Åqvist Systems
Authors: Ciabattoni Agata , Tesi Matteo
Published: July 2024

Enhancing cut-free expressiveness through minimal structural additions to sequent calculus is a natural step. We focus on Åqvist’s system $$\textbf{F}$$
F
with cautious monotonicity (CM), a deontic logic extension of $$\textbf{S5}$$

S
5

, for which we define a sequent calculus employing (semi) analytic cuts.The transition to hypersequents is key to develop modular and cut-free calculi for $$\mathbf{F + (CM)}$$

F
+
(
CM
)

and $$\textbf{G}$$
G
, also supporting countermodel construction.
A Cyclic Proof System for Guarded Kleene Algebra with Tests
Authors: Rooduijn Jan , Kozen Dexter , Silva Alexandra
Published: July 2024

Guarded Kleene Algebra with Tests ($$\texttt{GKAT}$$
GKAT
for short) is an efficient fragment of Kleene Algebra with Tests, suitable for reasoning about simple imperative while-programs. Following earlier work by Das and Pous on Kleene Algebra, we study $$\texttt{GKAT}$$
GKAT
from a proof-theoretical perspective. The deterministic nature of $$\texttt{GKAT}$$
GKAT
allows for a non-well-founded sequent system whose set of regular proofs is complete with respect to the guarded language model. This is unlike the situation with Kleene Algebra, where hypersequents are required. Moreover, the decision procedure induced by proof search runs in $$\textsf{NLOGSPACE}$$
NLOGSPACE
, whereas that of Kleene Algebra is in $$\textsf{PSPACE}$$
PSPACE
.
NeRF-FF: a plug-in method to mitigate defocus blur for runtime optimized neural radiance fields
Authors: Wirth Tristan , Rak Arne , von Buelow Max , Knauthe Volker , Kuijper Arjan , Fellner Dieter W.
Published: July 2024

Neural radiance fields (NeRFs) have revolutionized novel view synthesis, leading to an unprecedented level of realism in rendered images. However, the reconstruction quality of NeRFs suffers significantly from out-of-focus regions in the input images. We propose NeRF-FF, a plug-in strategy that estimates image masks based on Focus Frustums (FFs), i.e., the visible volume in the scene space that is in-focus. NeRF-FF enables a subsequently trained NeRF model to omit out-of-focus image regions during the training process. Existing methods to mitigate the effects of defocus blurred input images often leverage dynamic ray generation. This makes them incompatible with the static ray assumptions employed by runtime-performance-optimized NeRF variants, such as Instant-NGP, leading to high training times. Our experiments show that NeRF-FF outperforms state-of-the-art approaches regarding training time by two orders of magnitude—reducing it to under 1 min on end-consumer hardware—while maintaining comparable visual quality.
Artistic style decomposition for texture and shape editing
Authors: Reimann Max , Büßemeyer Martin , Buchheim Benito , Semmo Amir , Döllner Jürgen , Trapp Matthias
Published: July 2024

While methods for generative image synthesis and example-based stylization produce impressive results, their black-box style representation intertwines shape, texture, and color aspects, limiting precise stylistic control and editing of artistic images. We introduce a novel method for decomposing the style of an artistic image that enables interactive geometric shape abstraction and texture control. We spatially decompose the input image into geometric shapes and an overlaying parametric texture representation, facilitating independent manipulation of color and texture. The parameters in this texture representation, comprising the image’s high-frequency details, control painterly attributes in a series of differentiable stylization filters. Shape decomposition is achieved using either segmentation or stroke-based neural rendering techniques. We demonstrate that our shape and texture decoupling enables diverse stylistic edits, including adjustments in shape, stroke, and painterly attributes such as contours and surface relief. Moreover, we demonstrate shape and texture style transfer in the parametric space using both reference images and text prompts and accelerate these by training networks for single- and arbitrary-style parameter prediction.
Mid- and late-life lifestyle activities as main drivers of general and domain-specific cognitive reserve in individuals with Parkinson’s disease: cross-sectional and longitudinal evidence from the LANDSCAPE study
Authors: Ophey Anja , Wirtz Kathrin , Wolfsgruber Steffen , Balzer-Geldsetzer Monika , Berg Daniela , Hilker-Roggendorf Rüdiger , Kassubek Jan , Liepelt-Scarfone Inga , Becker Sara , Mollenhauer Britt , Reetz Kathrin , Riedel Oliver , Schulz Jörg B. , Storch Alexander , Trenkwalder Claudia , Witt Karsten , Wittchen Hans-Ullrich , Dodel Richard , Roeske Sandra , Kalbe Elke
Published: July 2024

Background

Cognitive reserve (CR) is considered a protective factor for cognitive function and may explain interindividual differences of cognitive performance given similar levels of neurodegeneration, e.g., in Alzheimer´s disease. Recent evidence suggests that CR is also relevant in Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Objective

We aimed to explore the role of life-stage specific CR for overall cognition and specific cognitive domains cross-sectionally and longitudinally in PD.

Methods

The cross-sectional analysis with data from the DEMPARK/LANDSCAPE study included 81 individuals without cognitive impairment (PD-N) and 87 individuals with mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI). Longitudinal data covered 4 years with over 500 observations. CR was operationalized with the Lifetime of Experiences Questionnaire (LEQ), capturing the complexity of lifestyle activities across distinct life-stages. Cognition was assessed using a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery.

Results

Higher LEQ scores, particularly from mid- and late-life, were observed in PD-N compared to PD-MCI [F(1,153) = 4.609, p = .033, ηp2 = 0.029]. They were significantly associated with better cognitive performance (0.200 ≤ β ≤ 0.292). Longitudinally, linear mixed effect models (0.236 ≤ marginal R2 ≤ 0.441) revealed that LEQ scores were positively related to cognitive performance independent of time. However, the decline in overall cognition and memory over time was slightly more pronounced with higher LEQ scores.

Conclusions

This study emphasizes the association between complex lifestyle activities and cognition in PD. Data indicate that while CR might be related to a delay of cognitive decline, individuals with high CR may experience a more pronounced drop in overall cognition and memory. Future studies will have to replicate these findings, particularly regarding domain-specific effects and considering reverse causal mechanisms.
Factors of presenteeism and its association with detrimental effects among employees in Switzerland working in different sectors – a cross-sectional study using a multi-item instrument
Authors: Gerlach Maisa , Blozik Eva , Meichtry André , Hägerbäumer Miriam , Kilcher Gablu , Golz Christoph
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Presenteeism, the phenomenon of employees working despite illness, is a significant issue globally, impacting individual well-being and organizational efficiency. This study examines presenteeism among Swiss employees, exploring its occurrence, primary factors, reasons, and impact on employees’ health.

Methods

This study used cross-sectional data from 1,521 employees in different sectors in Switzerland. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear models for influencing factors and detrimental effects, such as burnout symptoms, job satisfaction, general health, and quality of life, were calculated for data analysis. Presenteeism was measured using the Hägerbäumer multi-item scale, ranging from 1 = “Never in case of illness” – 5 = “Very often in case of illness.”

Results

The employees reported that in case of illness, they rarely worked in the last 12 months M = 2.04 (SD = 1.00). A positive approach to presenteeism in the team was associated with less presenteeism (β = -0.07) and problematic leadership culture in dealing with presenteeism with increased presenteeism (β = 0.10). In addition to well-known factors, presenteeism was significant for burnout symptoms (β = 1.49), general health status (β = -1.5), and quality of life (β = -0.01).

Conclusion

The study offers insights into the phenomenon of presenteeism among Swiss employees in various sectors by applying a multi-item scale for presenteeism. The findings indicate that a positive team dynamic and organizational culture may significantly reduce presenteeism. Presenteeism behavior is a significant factor of adverse outcomes. This highlights the importance of acknowledging presenteeism in the context of occupational health.
Relationship of peak capillary blood lactate accumulation and body composition in determining the mechanical energy equivalent of lactate during sprint cycling
Authors: Meixner Benedikt Johannes , Nusser Valentin , Koehler Karsten , Sablain Mattice , Boone Jan , Sperlich Billy
Published: July 2024

Aim

A 15-s all-out sprint cycle test (i.e., νLamax-test) and the post-exercise change in capillary blood lactate concentration is an emerging diagnostic tool that is used to quantify the maximal glycolytic rate. The goal of this study was to determine the relation between 15 s-work, change in capillary blood lactate concentration (∆La) and body composition in a νLamax-test.

Method

Fifty cyclists performed a 15 s all-out sprint test on a Cyclus2 ergometer twice after a previous familiarization trial. Capillary blood was sampled before and every minute (for 8 min) after the sprint to determine ∆La. Body composition was determined employing InBody720 eight-electrode impedance analysis.

Result

Simple regression models of fat-free mass (FFM) and also the product of FFM and ∆La showed similar ability to predict 15 s-work (R2 = 0.79; 0.82). Multiple regression combining both predictors explains 93% of variance between individuals. No differences between males and females were found regarding 15 s-work relative to the product of fat-free mass and ∆La. Considering pairs of similar FFM, a change 1 mmol/l of ∆La is estimated to be equal to 12 J/kg in 15 s-work (R2 = 0.85).

Discussion

Fifteen s-work is both closely related to FFM and also the product of ∆La and lactate-distribution space approximated by FFM. Differences in 15 s-work between males and females disappear when total lactate production is considered. Considering interindividual differences, the mechanical energy equivalent of blood lactate accumulation seems a robust parameter displaying a clear relationship between ∆La and 15 s-work relative to FFM.
Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Weak Foundations under Coal Pillars
Authors: Watson John , Canbulat Ismet , Wei Chunchen , Gao Min
Published: July 2024

In many underground coal mines, a seam is underlain by weak floor material, and the load-carrying capacity of a pillar may be limited not by its own strength but by the bearing capacity of the floor. It has been proposed that bearing capacity may be estimated by formulae such as those of Terzaghi for structural footings on soil, but that approach is generally not valid because, for the slip surfaces assumed in the derivations of the formulae, the rock rises out of the floor beneath adjacent pillars. In the limiting equilibrium analysis proposed here, the distance to the side of a pillar to which a slip surface extends can be constrained according to the roadway or bord width. Examples are shown of the computation of bearing capacities of both homogeneous and multilayer dry and fully saturated floors, and results compared with those of elastoplastic finite element analysis. An approximate comparison with bearing capacities according to Terzaghi's formula for a strip footing is also presented for the hypothetical cases of wider roadways for which the assumed slip surfaces do not extend under adjacent pillars. For the cases considered, there is satisfactory agreement with Terzaghi’s analysis and good agreement with the results of finite element analysis. However, only one finite element analysis was carried out, and it remains to be seen whether such agreement is consistently achieved for ranges of floor strength parameters and horizontal stress.
Accuracy of a novel method for IOP measurement without applying pressure on the cornea
Authors: Biran Amit , Sayar Mordehai , Lazzar Moshe , Mimouni Michael , Beiran Itzchak
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To assess the accuracy of a prototype novel instrument for intra ocular pressure (IOP) measurements not involving corneal pressure application.

Design

Prospective case control study.

Methods

An institutional study including 16 healthy volunteers without ocular pathology. IOP in both eyes of the participants was measured four times in different body positions with the novel prototype and reference instrument (Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT) or iCare (iCare Finland OY, Vantaa, Finland)). IOP results were compared between the prototype and the reference instruments in 116 pairs of measurement.

Results

Overall no statistically significant difference was found between the presented prototype and the reference instrument. Stratifying measurements by instrument used revealed no significant difference for GAT and statistical significant (yet clinically insignificant) difference for iCare.

Conclusions

The presented prototype demonstrates good clinical agreement of IOP measuring results with reference instruments Further large-scale studies assessing this instrument in glaucoma patients are warranted.
One Thousand Years of Mediterranean Silver Trade to the Levant: A Review and Synthesis of Analytical Studies
Authors: Eshel Tzilla , Erel Yigal , Yahalom-Mack Naama , Gilboa Ayelet
Published: July 2024

Silver exchanged by weight for its intrinsic value was the most important measure of value and means of payment in the southern Levant, starting from the Middle Bronze Age II–III through the Iron Age (~1700/1650‒600 BC). Since silver is not available locally in the Levant, its ongoing use as currency in the region triggered long-distance trade initiatives, and its availability or lack thereof had a direct impact on the economy. The continued use is evidenced in 40 silver hoards found in various sites across the region. A comprehensive study of lead isotopes and chemical analyses of samples obtained from 19 hoards enabled us to trace the origin of silver in the millennium during which it was extensively used as currency in the southern Levant and to identify constantly changing silver sources and concomitant trade routes. The results indicate that silver originated initially in Anatolia and Greece (~1700/1650–1600 BC) and shortly after from an unknown location in the Aegean/Carpathian/Anatolian sphere (~1600–1200 BC). After the collapse of Late Bronze Age Mediterranean trade routes, during Iron Age I (~1200–950 BC), there was a period of shortage. Silver trade was revived by the Phoenicians, who brought silver to the Levant from Sardinia and Anatolia (~950–900 BC), and later from Iberia (~900–630 BC). Further change occurred after the Assyrian retreat from the Levant, when silver was shipped from the Aegean (~630–600 BC). Following the devastation caused by the expanding Babylonian empire, silver consumption in the Levant practically ended for a century. Considering the isotopic results, combined with a detailed study of the context, chronology, and chemical composition, we demonstrate that all these factors are essential for the reconstruction of developments in the supply of silver in the southern Levant, and more generally. The changes in trade routes closely follow political and social transformations for over a millennium; exchange in this case was not only, not even mainly preconditioned by the environmental/geographic circumstances, as has often been argued for the Mediterranean. From an analytical point of view, we offer a protocol for the provenance of silver in general.
Global governance and a new social contract for education: Addressing power asymmetries
Authors: Sharma Gunjan , Sayed Yusuf
Published: July 2024

UNESCO’s 2021 Report Reimagining our futures together: A new social contract for education calls for principled dialogue and laudable commitment to education as a common good. At its heart is the call for a new social contract for education. This article interrogates the governance implications of such a principled social contract in the contemporary global education policy context, marked by power asymmetries between various actors, including state actors, non-state actors, and international agencies. It identifies several governance challenges in realizing this new social contract in the current dominant global discourse and in the international educational cooperation architecture. In light of these analyses, this article argues for an alternative framing of the governance of such a social contract, based on the principles of recognition, redistribution, and representation. The elements of such an approach, while reflected in the report, are not consolidated. This framing is one way through which the called-for new social contact can gain significant policy traction for social justice and the right to quality education for all.
Overview of system study on recovery methods for reusable first stages of future European launchers
Authors: Dietlein Ingrid , Bussler Leonid , Stappert Sven , Wilken Jascha , Sippel Martin
Published: July 2024

The design of a reusable launch vehicle implies the need to provide for a means to safely retrieve the component to be re-used. Following economic considerations, reusable launch vehicle concepts tend to be designed such that large parts, like entire stages, are to be recovered. These are usually significant in size and weight and have acquired a considerable amount of energy during their primary mission. This poses the challenge of how to recover them in a way that makes it available for further re-uses. In the past and present, different methods were and are used. Depending on the selected recovery method, the system design is very different necessitating different technologies and competencies to be acquired for a successful design. Two major classes of recovery methods can be distinguished: those recovery methods ending with a vertical landing of the reusable stage and those ending with a horizontal landing. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks. In 2016, The German Aerospace Centre DLR has initiated a large in-house study with the aim of investigating, in a comparative manner on system level, both classes of recovery methods on a system level for two-stage-to-orbit launch vehicles with a reusable first stage and an expendable upper stage to be operated within a European context. Fuel choice and engine cycle were major design parameters that were considered during the study. The present paper presents the framework of this study describing the adopted study logic, providing an overview of the major findings obtained at the end of the first study phase and gives an outlook to the work of the second study phase. It ends with providing a view of a possible demonstrator and technology roadmap toward the realization of an operational two-stage-to-orbit launch system with a reusable first stage.
Abortion Attitudes Across Cultural Contexts
Authors: Adair Lora , Lozano Nicole , Ferenczi Nelli
Published: July 2024

Abstract: We explored between-country and within-country variability in abortion attitudes, using country-level factors (e.g., gender equality) and individual-level factors (e.g., gender role attitudes) as predictors. Participants from Mexico ( N = 215), India ( N = 215), the United States ( N = 215), and the United Kingdom ( N = 206) were recruited via Qualtrics Panels. Regression models and ANOVAs were used to assess whether estimates of gender inequality, gender role attitudes, motherhood norms, belief in big/moralizing gods, and sexual strategy were associated with abortion attitudes. As predicted, individuals living in countries with greater gender inequality, and more restrictive abortion policy, reported more restrictive abortion attitudes and stronger support for banning abortion. Furthermore, individuals who endorsed more traditional gender role ideologies, who reported belief in big/moralizing gods and who used long-term sexual strategies also reported more restrictive abortion attitudes and stronger support for banning abortion. Exploratory analyses highlight how these relationships vary as a function of cultural context. We can conclude that both contextual factors (e.g., local abortion legislation and gender inequality) as well as individual factors (e.g., gender role attitudes and religious/spiritual belief) shape people’s attitudes toward abortion. Implications regarding the bidirectional relationship between attitudes and policy in reproductive health are discussed.
Gendered Racism in Pregnancy and Stress Among Women in the United States During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Rehbein Emily , Levinson Amanda , Preis Heidi , Mahaffey Brittain , Lobel Marci
Published: July 2024

Abstract: High stress experienced during pregnancy increases risk for adverse birth outcomes such as low birthweight and preterm birth that occur disproportionately among women of color in the United States. Prior research has identified a distinct form of discrimination, gendered racism in pregnancy (GRiP), that likely elevates stress and is suspected to contribute to racial disparities in birth outcomes among American women. We investigated associations of GRiP experiences and distress with two types of stress, pregnancy related and pandemic related, among 2,995 pregnant women in the United States at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when health care restrictions, social contact limitations, and concerns about COVID-19 infection created added stress for pregnant women. Using data collected online during the second US pandemic surge (December 2020), we found that pregnant self-identified Hispanic/Latina ( n = 233), Non-Hispanic/Latina Black/African American ( n = 182), and Multiracial/Other ( n = 201) women experienced greater GRiP and greater stress of both types than Non-Hispanic/Latina White women. Structural equation modeling indicated a strong association of racial/ethnic identity with prenatal stress that was mediated by GRiP, independent of other contributors to prenatal stress. Focusing on the harmful impact of gendered racism coupled with culturally informed individual interventions and change at multiple societal levels and institutions may help reduce the poorer reproductive outcomes that are disproportionately common among communities of color in the United States. Addressing and alleviating discrimination can improve reproductive justice for all who choose to give birth throughout the world, regardless of their race, ethnicity, nationality, or other identities.
Stress Testing California's Hydroclimatic Whiplash: Potential Challenges, Trade‐Offs and Adaptations in Water Management and Hydropower Generation
Authors: Facincani Dourado Gustavo , Rheinheimer David E. , Abaztoglou John T. , Viers Joshua H.
Published: July 2024

Inter‐annual precipitation in California is highly variable, and future projections indicate an increase in the intensity and frequency of hydroclimatic “whiplash.” Understanding the implications of these shocks on California's water system and its degree of resiliency is critical from a planning perspective. Therefore, we quantify the resilience of reservoir services provided by water and hydropower systems in four basins in the western Sierra Nevada. Using downscaled runoff from 10 climate model outputs, we generated 200 synthetic hydrologic whiplash sequences of alternating dry and wet years to represent a wide range of extremes and transitional conditions used as inputs to a water system simulation model. Sequences were derived from upper (wet) and lower (dry) quintiles of future streamflow projections (2030–2060). Results show that carryover storage was negatively affected in all basins, particularly in those with lower storage capacity. All basins experienced negative impacts on hydropower generation, with losses ranging from 5% to nearly 90%. Reservoir sizes and inflexible operating rules are a particular challenge for flood control, as in extremely wet years spillage averaged nearly the annual basins' total discharge. The reliability of environmental flows and agricultural deliveries varied depending on the basin, intensity, and duration of whiplash sequences. Overall, wet years temporarily rebound negative drought effects, and greater storage capacity results in higher reliability and resiliency, and lesser volatility in services. We highlight potential policy changes to improve flexibility, increase resilience, and better equip managers to face challenges posed by whiplash while meeting human and environmental needs.
A Deep Learning‐Based Data Assimilation Approach to Characterizing Coastal Aquifers Amid Non‐Linearity and Non‐Gaussianity Challenges
Authors: Cao Chenglong , Zhang Jiangjiang , Gan Wei , Nan Tongchao , Lu Chunhui
Published: July 2024

Seawater intrusion (SI) poses a substantial threat to water security in coastal regions, where numerical models play a pivotal role in supporting groundwater management and protection. However, the inherent heterogeneity of coastal aquifers introduces significant uncertainties into SI predictions, potentially diminishing their effectiveness in management decisions. Data assimilation (DA) offers a solution by integrating various types of observational data with the model to characterize heterogeneous coastal aquifers. Traditional DA techniques, like ensemble smoother using the Kalman formula (ESK) and Markov chain Monte Carlo, face challenges when confronted with the non‐linearity, non‐Gaussianity, and high‐dimensionality issues commonly encountered in aquifer characterization. In this study, we introduce a novel DA approach rooted in deep learning (DL), referred to as ESDL, aimed at effectively characterizing coastal aquifers with varying levels of heterogeneity. We systematically investigate a range of factors that impact the performance of ESDL, including the number and types of observations, the degree of aquifer heterogeneity, the structure and training options of the DL models. Our findings reveal that ESDL excels in characterizing heterogeneous aquifers under non‐linear and non‐Gaussian conditions. Comparison between ESDL and ESK under different experimentation settings underscores the robustness of ESDL. Conversely, in certain scenarios, ESK displays noticeable biases in the characterization results, especially when measurement data from non‐linear and discontinuous processes are used. To optimize the efficacy of ESDL, attention must be given to the design of the DL model and the selection of observational data, which are crucial to ensure the universal applicability of this DA method.
Consistency analysis of two fingertip capillary blood sampling methods for complete blood count
Authors: Hongxiang Xie , Shiyu Lv , Yanying Zhang , Wanju Xu , Sumei Wang
Published: July 2024

This study was performed to analyze fingertip capillary blood sampling in pediatric patients using microcapillary blood collection tubes and microhematocrit tubes and to compare the blood cell analysis results obtained via these two blood collection methods. Finger capillary blood was collected from 110 outpatients using microcapillary blood collection tubes and microhematocrit tubes and complete blood count analysis was performed with a Sysmex XS-900i hematology analyzer and manual microscopy for blood cell morphology. Paired data was evaluated for agreement and bias using the microhematocrit samples as the reference group and the samples from the microcapillary blood collection tubes as the observation group. The two blood collection methods demonstrated good agreement for measuring red blood cell (RBC) parameters (i.e., RBC, Hb, Hct, MCV, MCH and MCHC), wherein the relative bias was > allowable total error (TEa) in 0.91%, 1.82%, 11.82%, 1.82%, 0.91% and 8.18% of the parameter measures, respectively. According to industry requirements, the proportion of samples meeting the acceptable bias level should be > 80%. Additionally, the estimated biases at each medical decision level were within clinically acceptable levels for RBC, Hb, Hct, and MCV. However, the proportion of WBC and PLT counts with relative bias > TEa was 25.45% and 35.45%, respectively. Furthermore, the relative bias of the WBC count at the medical decision level of 0.5 × 109/L and that of the PLT counts at the medical decision levels of 10 × 109/L and 50 × 109/L were clinically significant. Bland–Altman analysis further showed a mean bias of 0.66 × 109/L (95% LoA, − 0.79 to 2.11) for the WBC count and 39 × 109/L (95% LoA, − 46 to 124) for the PLT count from the blood samples collected in the microcapillary blood collection tubes compared with the counts of those collected in the microhematocrit tubes. Neutrophil, monocyte, lymphocyte, eosinophil, and PLT counts increased significantly in the microcapillary blood collection tubes compared with those in the microhematocrit tubes, along with an elevated number of instrument false alarms (P < 0.05). The two capillary blood collection devices exhibit performance differences. Therefore, clinicians should pay attention to the variation in results caused by different blood collection methods.
Non-equilibrium molecular dynamics study of heat transfer parameters in two-dimensional Yukawa systems under uniform magnetic field
Authors: Djienbekov N. E. , Bastykova N. Kh. , Ramazanov T. S. , Kodanova S. K.
Published: July 2024

The present study explores the effect of a magnetic field on the thermal conductivity of two-dimensional (2D) Yukawa systems in a wide range of system parameters using the non-equilibrium molecular dynamic method (NEMD). We consider an external magnetic field with $$\Omega =\omega _c/\omega _p\le 1$$

Ω
=

ω
c

/

ω
p

≤
1

(with $$\Omega$$
Ω
being the ratio of the cyclotron frequency to plasma frequency) and the coupling parameter values in the range $$1\le \Gamma \le 100$$

1
≤
Γ
≤
100

(with $$\Gamma$$
Γ
being the ratio of the Coulomb interaction energy at mean inter-particle distance to the thermal energy of particles). The results show that an external uniform magnetic field results in the reduction of the thermal conductivity at the considered values of the coupling parameter $$\Gamma$$
Γ
. Additionally, we found that the effect of the magnetic field on thermal conduction is weaker at larger values of the system coupling parameter. To ensure that calculated results for the thermal conductivity are accurate and reliable, we performed a detailed investigation of the convergence of the results with respect to simulation parameters in NEMD with a strong external magnetic field. We believe that the presented results will serve as useful benchmark data for the theoretical models of (2D) Yukawa systems.
Malnutrition contribution to the functional status and health related quality of life after COVID-19, a correlational follow-up study
Authors: Mejía Alonso Laura Alejandra , Espinosa-Poblano Eliseo , de Regil López Sarahi , Lemus Eslava Verónica , Serrano Sánchez Jesús Guadalupe , Paredes-Manjarrez Carlos , Balderas-Chairéz Andrés Tlacaelel , Anda-Garay Juan Carlos , Miguel-Puga José Adán , Jáuregui-Renaud Kathrine
Published: July 2024

To assess malnutrition contribution to the functional status and health related quality of life after hospitalization due to COVID-19 pneumonia, 66 selected adults referred for physical rehabilitation accepted to participate in the study; none of them required oxygen supply or had history of lung/musculoskeletal/neurological/immune/rheumatic disease or trauma, or contraindication for respiratory-function tests. At three evaluations, with 3 months in-between, assessments included: self-report of functional status, the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, spirometry, the 6-min-walk-test, the MRC-scale, the 30-s sit-to-stand-test, the timed-up-and-go-test, nutritional status, and ultrasound imaging (vastus medialis and diaphragm). At referral, patients had nutritional deficits with protein deficiency, which gradually improved; while muscle thickness (of both vastus medialis and diaphragm) increased, along with muscle strength and mobility (ANOVA, p < 0.05). Contrarywise, the distance covered during the 6-min-walk-test decreased (ANOVA, p < 0.05), with a negative influence from excess body mass. During rehabilitation, health-related quality of life and functional status improved, with negative influence from a history of tobacco use and referral delay, respectively. After hospitalization due to COVID-19, early diagnosis of both protein deficiency and decrease of skeletal muscle thickness could be relevant for rehabilitation, while pondering the negative impact of excess body mass on submaximal exercise performance.
An increase of serum CA-125 to two times of nadir level strongly predicts the image-identified relapse of serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Du Kaiwen , Li Qian , Huang Jin , Chan David Wai , Li Jinjin , Chang Xiaoxia , Wang Hanjie , Tang Junying , Yang Qiyu
Published: July 2024

Using 70 U/ml or 35 U/ml as CA125 routine abnormal threshold may result in omissions in the relapse detection of Ovarian cancer (OvCa). This study aimed to clarify the association between a biochemical relapse (only the elevation of CA125) and an image-identified relapse to predict the relapsed lesions better. 162 patients who achieved complete clinical response were enrolled from women diagnosed with stage I-IV serous ovarian, tubal, and peritoneal cancers from January 2013 to June 2019 at our center. The CA125 level of 2 × nadir was defined as the indicator of image-identified relapse (P < 0.001). Compared to CA125 level exceeding 35 U/ml, the 2 × nadir of CA125 improve the sensitivity of image-identified relapse (84.9% vs 67.4%, P < 0.001); the 2 × nadir value can act as an earlier warning relapse signal with a longer median time to image-identified relapse (2.7 vs. 0 months, P < 0.001). Of the relapsed population, there was no difference of CA125 changing trend between the neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and primary debulking surgery (PDS) group after initial treatment. Compared with 35 U/ml, CA125 reaching 2 × nadir during the follow-up process might be a more sensitive and early relapse signal in patients with serous OvCa. This criterion may help guide patients to be recommended for imaging examination to detect potential relapse in time.