bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of inert gas washout methods in a new numerical model based on an electrical analogy
Authors: Schmidt Christoph , Hatziklitiu Wasilios , Trinkmann Frederik , Cattaneo Giorgio , Port Johannes
Published: October 2024

Inert gas washout methods have been shown to detect pathological changes in the small airways that occur in the early stages of obstructive lung diseases such as asthma and COPD. Numerical lung models support the analysis of characteristic washout curves, but are limited in their ability to simulate the complexity of lung anatomy over an appropriate time period. Therefore, the interpretation of patient-specific washout data remains a challenge. A new numerical lung model is presented in which electrical components describe the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the lung as well as gas-specific properties. To verify that the model is able to reproduce characteristic washout curves, the phase 3 slopes (S3) of helium washouts are simulated using simple asymmetric lung anatomies consisting of two parallel connected lung units with volume ratios of

$$\frac{1.25}{\mathrm{0.75}}$$

1.25

0.75

,

$$\frac{1.50}{\mathrm{0.50}}$$

1.50

0.50

, and

$$\frac{1.75}{\mathrm{0.25}}$$

1.75

0.25

and a total volume flow of 250 ml/s which are evaluated for asymmetries in both the convection- and diffusion-dominated zone of the lung. The results show that the model is able to reproduce the S3 for helium and thus the processes underlying the washout methods, so that electrical components can be used to model these methods. This approach could form the basis of a hardware-based real-time simulator.

Graphical abstract
Investigating Hot corrosion, CMAS, and Thermal Shock Behaviour of Double-layer YSZ/La2Ce2O7 + YSZ Thermal Barrier Coatings
Authors: Pakseresht Amirhossein , Ariharan S , Sekar Anusha , Parchovianský Milan
Published: October 2024

In this work, new double-layer YSZ/La2Ce2O7 (LC) + YSZ coatings were developed using air plasma spraying (APS). The surface of the prepared coatings was relatively smooth and consisted of melted and partially melted areas. Their resistance to hot corrosion, CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 (CMAS), and thermal shock were examined. YSZ was added to the upper layer to enhance the lanthanum cerate (La2Ce2O7, LC) properties. During the hot corrosion tests, the corrosion salt reacted with the upper layer, and the CeO2 phase and new corrosion products were identified. The main phase was LaVO4, and the secondary phases were CeVO4 and YVO4. SEM confirmed the formation of new, cuboidal-shaped corrosion products. The infiltration of CMAS led to the formation of additional new products: Ca4MgxAl4Si(6-x-γ)O14 and Ca2.8(LaxCe1-x).6(SiO4)O6-4x. SEM revealed CMAS infiltration through the upper layer in the form of islands. Following the thermal shock resistance tests, the upper layer gradually peeled off, and the coating survived 67 cycles. Possible failure mechanisms were identified, and failure was attributed to the spallation of the upper layer from the surface layer by layer. After all tests, the top layer showed partial spalling and delamination. This was mainly caused by the reaction of corrosive salt or CMAS with the top layer, which changed its composition, leading to the formation and propagation of cracks and, ultimately, the separation of part of the upper layer. Peeling of the upper layer through mainly horizontal cracks was observed after hot corrosion, CMAS and thermal shocks. The NiCrAlY bond coat and YSZ interlayer remained undamaged.
Stress Echocardiography for Assessment of Diastolic Function
Authors: Laws J. Lukas , Maya Tania Ruiz , Gupta Deepak K.
Published: October 2024

Purpose of Review

Diastolic dysfunction is an important, though often underappreciated, cause for exertional dyspnea. Echocardiography enables noninvasive evaluation of diastolic function and filling pressure, but images acquired at rest may be insensitive for detection of exertional abnormalities. This review focuses on stress echocardiography to assess diastolic function, including traditional and novel techniques, with emphasis on specific patient sub-groups in whom this testing may be valuable.

Recent Findings

Emerging data informs patient selection for diastolic stress testing. Further, increasing literature provides considerations for performance and interpretation of diastolic metrics relevant to patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, athletes, and those with microvascular coronary dysfunction. Methods, such as speckle-tracking and multi-modality imaging, provide additional and complementary information for non-invasive diastolic assessment.

This review serves as a guide to optimally utilize existing and novel techniques of stress echocardiography for diastolic assessment across a broad range of patients.
Improving the diagnostic strategy for thyroid nodules: a combination of artificial intelligence-based computer-aided diagnosis system and shear wave elastography
Authors: Chen Ziman , Chambara Nonhlanhla , Lo Xina , Liu Shirley Yuk Wah , Gunda Simon Takadiyi , Han Xinyang , Ying Michael Tin Cheung
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Thyroid nodules are highly prevalent in the general population, posing a clinical challenge in accurately distinguishing between benign and malignant cases. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic performance of different strategies, utilizing a combination of a computer-aided diagnosis system (AmCAD) and shear wave elastography (SWE) imaging, to effectively differentiate benign and malignant thyroid nodules in ultrasonography.

Methods

A total of 126 thyroid nodules with pathological confirmation were prospectively included in this study. The AmCAD was utilized to analyze the ultrasound imaging characteristics of the nodules, while the SWE was employed to measure their stiffness in both transverse and longitudinal thyroid scans. Twelve diagnostic patterns were formed by combining AmCAD diagnosis and SWE values, including isolation, series, parallel, and integration. The diagnostic performance was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic curve and area under the curve (AUC). Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, missed malignancy rate, and unnecessary biopsy rate were also determined.

Results

Various diagnostic schemes have shown specific advantages in terms of diagnostic performance. Overall, integrating AmCAD with SWE imaging in the transverse scan yielded the most favorable diagnostic performance, achieving an AUC of 72.2% (95% confidence interval (CI): 63.0–81.5%), outperforming other diagnostic schemes. Furthermore, in the subgroup analysis of nodules measuring <2 cm or 2–4 cm, the integrated scheme consistently exhibited promising diagnostic performance, with AUCs of 74.2% (95% CI: 61.9–86.4%) and 77.4% (95% CI: 59.4–95.3%) respectively, surpassing other diagnostic schemes. The integrated scheme also effectively addressed thyroid nodule management by reducing the missed malignancy rate to 9.5% and unnecessary biopsy rate to 22.2%.

Conclusion

The integration of AmCAD and SWE imaging in the transverse thyroid scan significantly enhances the diagnostic performance for distinguishing benign and malignant thyroid nodules. This strategy offers clinicians the advantage of obtaining more accurate clinical diagnoses and making well-informed decisions regarding patient management.
Training Needs for School Staff Supporting Students Returning to School After a Psychiatric Hospitalization
Authors: Henderson Smith Lora , Hendrickson Natalie , Warren Emily , Tran Amy , Savina Elena
Published: October 2024

Supporting students returning to school after a mental health crisis often involves more training than many school staff members receive. With the increase in youth mental health diagnoses, there has also been an increase in the number of youth requiring psychiatric emergency department visits and hospitalizations. As such, this study employed a basic qualitative design to gather the perspectives of school staff who support students’ mental health about their experiences and training needs related to supporting youth returning to school after psychiatric hospitalization. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 school mental health professionals or administrators. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Three themes were identified: (1) most participants received minimal formal training in graduate school on hospital-to-school transition, (2) most participants learned about hospital-to-school transition on the job, and (3) participants made recommendations and identified specific training needs. Implications for training are discussed including a need for variety (e.g., some practitioners need basic training while others need more advanced training) and different format preferences (in-person may be preferred but online asynchronous is more convenient).
Non-invasive physiological assessment of coronary artery obstruction on coronary computed tomography angiography
Authors: Becker Leonie M. , Peper Joyce , van Nes Sophie H. , van Es Hendrik W. , Sjauw Krischan D. , van de Hoef Tim P. , Leiner Tim , Swaans Martin J.
Published: October 2024

Computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) enhances the specificity of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) to that of the most specific non-invasive imaging techniques, while maintaining high sensitivity in stable coronary artery disease (CAD). As gatekeeper for invasive coronary angiography (ICA), use of CT-FFR results in a significant reduction of negative ICA procedures and associated costs and complications, without increasing cardiovascular events. It is expected that CT-FFR algorithms will continue to improve, regarding accuracy and generalisability, and that introduction of new features will allow further treatment guidance and reduced invasive diagnostic testing. Advancements in CCTA quality and artificial intelligence (AI) are starting to unfold the incremental diagnostic and prognostic capabilities of CCTA’s attenuation-based images in CAD, with future perspectives promising additional CCTA parameters which will enable non-invasive assessment of myocardial ischaemia as well as CAD activity and future cardiovascular risk. This review discusses practical application, interpretation and impact of CT-FFR on patient care, and how this ties into the CCTA ‘one stop shop’ for coronary assessment and patient prognosis. In this light, selective adoption of the most promising, objective and reproducible techniques and algorithms will yield maximal diagnostic value of CCTA without overcomplicating patient management and guideline recommendations.
Advances in mechanotransduction and sonobiology: effects of audible acoustic waves and low-vibration stimulations on mammalian cells
Authors: del Rosario-Gilabert D. , Valenzuela-Miralles A. , Esquiva G.
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, research on mechanotransduction has advanced considerably, focusing on the effects of audible acoustic waves (AAWs) and low-vibration stimulation (LVS), which has propelled the field of sonobiology forward. Taken together, the current evidence demonstrates the influence of these biosignals on key cellular processes, such as growth, differentiation and migration in mammalian cells, emphasizing the determining role of specific physical parameters during stimulation, such as frequency, sound pressure level/amplitude and exposure time. These mechanical waves interact with various cellular elements, including ion channels, primary cilia, cell–cell adhesion receptors, cell–matrix and extracellular matrix proteins, and focal adhesion complexes. These components connect with the cytoskeletal fibre network, enabling the transmission of mechanical stimuli towards the nucleus. The nucleus, in turn, linked to the cytoskeleton via the linkers of the nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton complex, acts as a mechanosensitive centre, not only responding to changes in cytoskeletal stiffness and nuclear tension but also regulating gene expression through the transcriptional co-activator YAP/TAZ and interactions between chromatin and the nuclear envelope. This intricate chain of mechanisms highlights the potential of sonobiology in various fields, including dentistry, regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and cancer research. However, progress in these fields requires the establishment of standardized measurement methodologies and biocompatible experimental setups to ensure the reproducibility of results.
Textbook outcome and nomogram-guided approaches for enhancing surgical success in elderly HCC patients: Deciphering the influence of sarcopenia
Authors: Lanari Jacopo , Lupi Amalia , Billato Ilaria , Alessandris Remo , Crimì Filippo , Caregari Silvia , Pepe Alessia , D’Amico Francesco Enrico , Vitale Alessandro , Quaia Emilio , Cillo Umberto , Gringeri Enrico
Published: October 2024

Sarcopenia, serving as a surrogate for frailty, is clinically significant in liver resection (LR) for elderly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. Our study aims to assess sarcopenia’s impact, measured by Psoas Muscle Index (PMI), on postoperative outcomes. We retrospectively studied patients aged ≥ 60 years who underwent LR for HCC between 2014 and 2018. PMI, derived from preoperative CT scans, and Textbook Outcome (TO) for LR were assessed. A nomogram predicting overall survival (OS) was developed via multivariable analysis. Of the 149 eligible HCC patients, the median PMI was 7.225 cm2/m2 in males and 4.882 cm2/m2 in females, with 37 (24.8%) patients identified as sarcopenic. Mortality was significantly associated with sarcopenia (HR 2.15; p = 0.032), MELD ≥ 10 (HR 3.13; p = 0.001), > 3 HCC nodules (HR 4.97; p = 0.001), and Clavien–Dindo ≥ 3 complications (HR 3.38; p < 0.001). Sarcopenic patients had a 5-year OS of 38.8% compared to 61% for non-sarcopenic individuals (p = 0.085). Achieving TO correlated with higher OS (p = 0.01). In sarcopenic cases, the absence of postoperative complications emerged as a limiting factor. Sarcopenic patients failing to achieve TO had worse OS compared to non-sarcopenic and TO-achieving counterparts (5-year OS 18.5%; p = 0.00039). Sarcopenia emerges as a prognostic factor for LR outcomes in elderly HCC patients. Postoperative complications in sarcopenic patients may compromise oncological outcomes.
Prediction intervals for future Pareto record claims
Authors: Empacher Christina , Kamps Udo , Schmiedt Anja Bettina
Published: October 2024

Stochastic models and methods for quantifying extreme events are of interest in numerous disciplines. Within this paper, statistical prediction of extreme claims or losses in insurance industry is considered based on upper record values, which describe successively largest observations in a sequence of data over time. The problem of predicting a future record value (here in particular, a future record claim) based on a sequence of previously observed record values (here, past record claims) is addressed by means of prediction intervals. For an underlying Pareto distribution, respective exact and approximate intervals from the literature are summarized and modified and new ones are developed. In a simulation study, these prediction intervals are evaluated and compared regarding coverage frequency and length. The impact of the number of observed record values as well as the choice of the Pareto distribution is discussed. In the case of a small number of record values, the use of k-th record values is considered as an option for statistical analyses to predict, e.g., second largest record claims. Selected prediction methods are applied to several real data sets, which turn out to perform well and to be able to capture the magnitude of future record claims, even for fairly small numbers of record observations. For comparison, generalized Pareto distributions are fitted to real data sets and a corresponding point predictor as well as a respective upper prediction interval for the next record to appear are derived and evaluated.
To What Extent are Food, Culture, Economics and the Natural Environment Reflected in the Language of the Australian and Brazilian Food-based Dietary Guidelines?
Authors: Midjord Natasha Hanssen , Bell Colin
Published: October 2024

Purpose of the Review

Our aim was to review literature describing language use in dietary guidelines and explore the extent to which food, culture, economics and the natural environment are reflected in the language of the Australian, compared to the Brazilian food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs).

Recent Findings

Australia’s FBDGs are based on the best available scientific evidence and claim to “form a bridge between research and evidence-based advice to address the major health challenge of improving Australians’ eating patterns”. Brazil’s FBDGs recognise reasons beyond health for people’s food choices.

Not a lot of attention has been paid to language use in dietary guidelines. The reviewed studies suggest that language in dietary guidelines should be unambiguous for consumers and evolve with national nutrition priorities. A notable difference between Australian and Brazilian FBDGs was that Australia centralised individuals and individual food groups, whereas Brazil placed people in an ecosystem. Inclusion of words that speak to how food is prepared and eaten, to expressions of culture and community, and to strategies people use for enhancing and protecting livelihoods and planetary health may enhance the relevance of future dietary guidelines.
A class of evolutionary history-dependent variational-hemivariational inequalities with strong and weak solutions
Authors: Migórski Stanisław , Dudek Sylwia
Published: October 2024

In this paper we examine the well-posedness of evolutionary variational-hemivariational inequalities involving a constraint set and history-dependent operators. The strong and weak formulations of such inequalities are studied. First, the existence and uniqueness of solutions to both formulations are proved, and results on the dependence of solution on functional parameters are delivered. Next, the well-posedness is established for a general form of history-dependent variational-hemivariational inequalities with constraints by using a fixed point theorem. Finally, the results are applied to a dynamic frictional contact problem in viscoelasticity in which the contact is described by Signorini-type unilateral boundary condition with a nonmonotone Clarke’s relation.
Planning, emphasis and proposal for implementation of gravimetric control network in Israel
Authors: Even-Tzur Gilad , Ghanayim Alaa
Published: October 2024

This study outlines the planning, emphases, and proposed implementation of a gravimetric control network for Israel. The establishment of a comprehensive and accurate gravimetric control network is crucial for various geodetic applications, including geoid determination, gravity field modelling, vertical datum establishment, and geophysical studies. This study aims to provide a framework for the development and implementation of such a network in Israel. The proposed network is divided into two orders. The first order, also known as the absolute order or zero order, comprises four stations situated in geologically stable and tranquil locations. The second order, referred to as the first order, is established through relative gravimetric measurements. This order will encompass 29 stations positioned in areas that are both stable and secure. The zero and first order stations will be evenly distributed throughout the country to ensure homogeneous coverage. The proposed gravimetric network is in conjunction with the requirements to improve the geoid undulation model of Israel. Through the establishment of a small gravimetric network and the implementation of relative gravimetric measurements, we were able to determine the optimal control point density and establish a well-structured methodology for measurement, analysis, and the adjustment process.
Estimation of added effects and their frequency dependence in various fluid–structure interaction problems
Authors: Urban Ondřej , Pochylý František , Habán Vladimír
Published: October 2024

This paper focuses on a fluid–structure interaction topic—the determination of added effects caused by fluid forces acting on a body, considering the standard linear equation of motion. We present various problems that assume small-displacement oscillations of single and multiple bodies in inviscid irrotational (potential) flow or viscous incompressible flow in both closed domain and external flow. For inviscid flow, effects of geometric parameters on the added effects were studied. The presented results extend results known from the literature. For viscous flow, frequency dependence of the added effects was studied for a wide range of frequency. The added effects were computed from data from numerical simulations of fluid flow, where the body oscillations were modeled using the dynamic mesh approach. Effects of the phase shift caused by the dynamic mesh were addressed. The added mass was compared with the corresponding value determined for inviscid flow where applicable. The results show strong dependence of the added effects on many parameters, making their proper computation challenging even for simplified cases.
Association between statin usage and mortality outcomes in aging U.S. cancer survivors: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Ding Shan , Yang Fengling , Lai Pan , Jiang Weiwen , Chen Minze , Ge Yijun , Zhou Liting , Chen Shaozhuang , Zhang Jiaqi , Ye Yanrong
Published: October 2024

Background

The population of Aging cancer survivors in the United States has surged to over 16.9 million. Research on the relationship between statin usage and post-cancer survival rates remains limited.

Aims

This study aims to investigate the association between statin use and various causes of mortality among aging cancer survivors.

Methods

We analyzed NHANES data from 1999 to 2018, Statin usage, both hydrophilic and lipophilic, was derived from NHANES prescription records. We utilized Cox proportional hazards models to associate statin utilization with mortality, differentiating causes of death according to statin type and patterns of use.

Results

Within a cohort of 2,968 participants, statin usage was categorized into non-users (1,738), hydrophilic statin users (216), and lipophilic statin users (982). Compared to those who did not use statins, individuals prescribed hydrophilic statins did not show a reduced risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.72–1.41; P = 0.960), as outlined in Model 3. In contrast, the group receiving lipophilic statins exhibited a notable decrease in all-cause mortality risk (adjusted HR, 0.77; P = 0.003). Nonetheless, both hydrophilic and lipophilic statins were effective in diminishing the risk associated with cancer from its onset until death, with hydrophilic statins showing a greater level of efficacy.

Discussion

The potential of statins to reduce cancer-related mortality may provide avenues for targeted clinical interventions and management strategies.

Conclusions

Our study reveals that the use of lipophilic statins is significantly associated with lower all-cause and cancer-cause mortality risks among aging cancer survivors.
Long-term outcome of Graves’ orbitopathy following treatment with sirolimus
Authors: Comi Simone , Cosentino Giada , Lanzolla Giulia , Menconi Francesca , Maglionico Maria Novella , Posarelli Chiara , Latrofa Francesco , Rocchi Roberto , Figus Michele , Santini Ferruccio , Marinò Michele
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Sirolimus was found to be associated with a better outcome of Graves’ orbitopathy (GO) at 24 weeks compared to methylprednisolone. We conducted a retrospective study to investigate its efficacy and safety over a longer period.

Methods

Data from 40 consecutive patients with moderate-to-severe, active GO, 20 treated with sirolimus and 20 with methylprednisolone, were collected. Primary outcome: overall outcome (composite evaluation) of GO at 48 weeks. Secondary outcomes: (1) GO outcome at 24 weeks, and, at 24 and 48 weeks: (2) outcome of single eye features; (3) quality of life (GO-QoL); (4) TSH-receptor antibodies; (5) GO relapse at 48 weeks; (6) adverse events.

Results

The overall GO outcome at 48 weeks did not differ between the two groups (responders: 55% vs 55%). At 24 weeks, prevalence of responders was greater in sirolimus group (65% vs 25%; P = 0.01). A reduction ≥ 1 point in clinical activity score (CAS) was more frequent in sirolimus patients at 24 (85% vs 40%; P = 0.005) and 48 weeks (75% vs 60%; P = 0.03). The proportion of GO-QoL responders (appearance subscale) at 24 weeks was greater in sirolimus group (62.5% vs 26.3%; P = 0.03). No difference was observed for the remaining outcome measures.

Conclusions

Treatment with sirolimus is followed by a greater overall response of GO compared with methylprednisolone at 24 weeks, but not at 48 weeks, when only CAS is affected. A more prolonged period of treatment may be required for a better outcome to be observed over a longer period.
Lattice sums of I-Bessel functions, theta functions, linear codes and heat equations
Authors: Hasegawa Takehiro , Saigo Hayato , Saito Seiken , Sugiyama Shingo
Published: October 2024

We extend a certain type of identities on sums of I-Bessel functions on lattices, previously given by G. Chinta, J. Jorgenson, A. Karlsson and M.  Neuhauser. Moreover we prove that, with continuum limit, the transformation formulas of theta functions such as the Dedekind eta function can be given by I-Bessel lattice sum identities with characters. We consider analogues of theta functions of lattices coming from linear codes and show that sums of I-Bessel functions defined by linear codes can be expressed by complete weight enumerators. We also prove that I-Bessel lattice sums appear as solutions of heat equations on general lattices. As a further application, we obtain an explicit solution of the heat equation on $${\textbf{Z}}^n$$

Z

n

whose initial condition is given by a linear code.
An insight about roll damping within the second generation intact stability criteria
Authors: Petacco Nicola , Pollicardo Andrea , Gualeni Paola
Published: October 2024

Despite the recognized complexity to estimate the damping influence on ship roll motion, some efficient semi-empirical methodologies have been developed along the years to this purpose. CFD methods, in principle the most appropriate tools to predict roll damping, are not a favorite option in preliminary design at present due to their implications in terms of complexity and computational time. In this paper, an integration of the semi-empirical Ikeda’s simplified method has been formulated with modification of the bilge keels and lift components, following a contribution found in the literature and relevant for Ro–Ro ships. Moreover, with focus on damping evaluation, the second generation intact stability criteria (SGISc) have been investigated: the second-level vulnerability criteria for dead ship condition and parametric roll have been applied to a Ro–Ro passenger ship. Both the consolidated and the new proposed roll damping prediction methods have been implemented in order to appreciate their effects on the final outcome.
Self-presenting in Front of a Friendly Female Audience Increases Young Men Risk-taking in the Iowa Gambling Task
Authors: Ponzi Davide , Kraft Jacob , DeMond Grant
Published: October 2024

Purpose

During intersex interactions heterosexual men show a temporary cognitive impairment and an increase in risky behaviors. These effects have been interpreted as caused by the negative emotion and stress experienced by men attempting to produce a positive impression of themselves. Under this line of reasoning men’s cognitive performance during a heterosexual interaction is maladaptive and perhaps it could be improved when the audience or target of men’s public performance express positive, supportive feedback.

Methods

Fifty-eight heterosexual young males were asked to provide a self-presentation and to perform a difficult arithmetical task in front of two female confederates. One group of men interacted with a negative unsupportive audience while the other group interacted with a friendly and supportive audience. We tested men’s decision making in the Iowa Gambling Task after they engaged in this public performance task.

Results

We found that men self-presenting in front of a friendly female audience engaged in more risky decision making during the last two blocks of the Iowa Gambling Task. There were no differences in parameters of cardiovascular reactivity and no differences of perceived judge’s attractiveness between the two groups. Men exposed to the unfriendly female audience perceived the female judge as more interested in them.

Conclusion

When heterosexual men self-present and perform in front of a supportive and friendly female audience their risk-taking in the Iowa Gambling Task increases but the exact mechanism leading to this behavior requires further study.
Uncertainty of climate models and policy implications: a European perspective
Authors: Greiner Alfred
Published: October 2024

In this paper we show that both climate models and economic models studying the effects of climate change are characterized by high uncertainty. Hence, far reaching policy implications such as the net zero goal lack a definite scientific foundation. Nevertheless, it cannot be excluded that the continued global warming will go along with high damages in the future. Therefore, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions could be justified due to the precautionary motif. However, there are strong signals from non-European economic regions that they definitely put a higher weight on economic growth rather than on greenhouse gas mitigation. The reduction of greenhouse gases in the European Union cause tremendous costs without influencing the climate on earth. Further, these investments do not raise the aggregate stock of productive capital nor do they lead to factor augmenting technical progress. Therefore, the net zero goal of the Green Deal of the European Union is to be seen sceptical.
Design for steel structures deconstruction: an analytics system for construction waste minimization in a circular economy through BIM technology
Authors: Mohammed Alaa , Ghannam Mohamed , Elmasoudi Islam
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on shifting from traditional demolition methods to more sustainable deconstruction procedures in the steel structures building sector, specifically through Design for Deconstruction (DfD) techniques. The aim is to identify factors for BIM for deconstruction (BIMfD) implementation in Egypt’s construction industry and create a BIM-based Deconstructability Assessment Score (BIM-DAS). A literature review is conducted to determine the design principles for effective building deconstruction, the performance evaluation of DfD, and existing views on BIM implementation. The development of the BIM-DAS & SP includes mathematical modelling rooted in material demand planning. The model was implemented in Building Information Modelling (BIM) environment and it was tested using a case study design. Custom parameters related to deconstruction are added and used in the mathematical model to calculate DAS and salvage performance (SP), followed by a questionnaire and analytical hierarchy process analysis. These findings highlight demountable connections and reusable components as crucial drivers of DfD. Also, the results show that the key variables affecting BIMfD deployment include the availability and acceptance of BIM tools for deconstruction technology among industry professionals, and collaboration between project design and deconstruction teams through integrated platforms. This study demonstrates the usefulness of BIM-DAS and SP as indicators of efficient disassembly of buildings. This study will benefit all stakeholders in designing steel structure deconstruction by providing baseline specifications and a hierarchical model for implementing the BIMfD using current software tools. The results provide the needed technological support for developing tools for BIM-compliant DfD tools in Egypt to encourage deconstruction.
Carbon fiber and carbon fiber composites—creating defects for superior material properties
Authors: Nitai Ashis Sutradhar , Chowdhury Tonny , Inam Md Nafis , Rahman Md Saifur , Mondal Md Ibrahim H. , Johir M. A. H. , Hessel Volker , Fattah Islam Md Rizwanul , Kalam Md Abul , Suwaileh Wafa Ali , Zhou John L. , Zargar Masoumeh , Ahmed Mohammad Boshir
Published: October 2024

Recent years have seen a rise in the use of carbon fiber (CF) and its composite applications in several high-tech industries, such as the design of biomedical sensor components, 3D virtual process networks in automotive and aerospace parts, and artificial materials or electrodes for energy storage batteries. Since pristine CF have limited properties, their properties are often modified through a range of technologies, such as laser surface treatment, electron-beam irradiation grafting, plasma or chemical treatments, electrophoretic deposition, carbonization, spinning-solution or melt, electrospinning, and sol–gel, to greatly improve their properties and performance. These procedures cause faulty structures to emerge in CF. The characteristics and performances of CF (thermo-electric conductivity, resistivity, stress tolerance, stiffness and elasticity, chemical resistivity, functionality, electrochemical properties, etc.) vary greatly depending on the modification technique used. Thus, the purpose of this review is to demonstrate how the insertion of faults can result in the production of superior CF. The characteristics of CF defects were examined using a variety of analytical techniques, such as defect-forming chemistry, molecular organization, and ground-level chemistries like their crystallinities. Finally, some future work is also included.

Graphical abstract
Entrepreneurship teaching exercises: integrating generative AI
Authors: Darnell Jamey A. , Gopalkrishnan Shalini
Published: October 2024

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) software has recently increased exponentially. Generative AI capabilities have moved from fiction to fact. This technology is changing the way we engage in Entrepreneurship, research it, and teach it. The significant impact on Entrepreneurship teaching is the focus of this paper. Any instructor, regardless of tech background, can and should be integrating AI into their courses right now. We describe and discuss our experience with this process and our deliberative approach to creating value for students. We also provide several templates of Entrepreneurship exercises that will appeal to a variety of students and can be integrated in virtually any Entrepreneurship course.
The asymptotic-numerical method for the post-buckling response of curvilinearly stiffened panels
Authors: Foligno P.P. , Yan C.A. , Vescovini R.
Published: October 2024

In the present work, the asymptotic-numerical method is applied in conjunction with the Ritz method as a powerful mean for analysing the post-buckling response of panels with variable stiffness skin and curvilinear stringers. Main advantage of the proposed approach is the reduced computational time. The Ritz method guarantees an excellent ratio between accuracy and required degrees of freedom; the asymptotic-numerical method requires just one matrix inversion throughout the solution process. Moreover, the complete analytical representation of the non-linear equilibrium path is obtained, as opposed to the point-by-point representation of predictor-corrector algorithms. Several test cases are presented and compared with standard Newton-Raphson computations and commercial finite element simulations. The results show noticeable saving of computational time. For the test cases investigated, the asymptotic-numerical method requires about one third of the time required by a standard Newton-Raphson routine. These results demonstrate that the combination between Ritz and the asymptotic-numerical method is an excellent strategy for investigating the post-buckling response of innovative curvilinearly stiffened panels.
Reverse Strategic Litigation by Governments? Negotiating Sovereignty and Migration Control before the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Wessels Janna
Published: October 2024

Embedded in mutually reinforcing processes of “humanrightization” in law, politics, and everyday practice,1 the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg (ECtHR, or Strasbourg Court) has become a central actor and forum for conflicts around the inclusion and exclusion of migrants in Europe. The Strasbourg Court has derived specific protections for migrants from the originally “migration-blind” norms of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), such as the prohibition of torture, and respect for family and private life, for example.2 This extension of the ECHR to migrants means that migration control is no longer purely within the discretion of states.
Respiratory virus infections in symptomatic and asymptomatic children upon hospital admission: new insights
Authors: Most Zachary M. , Perl Trish M. , Sebert Michael
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Describe and compare the prevalence of symptomatic and asymptomatic or recently resolved respiratory infections in hospitalized children.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Three hospital primary-to-quaternary care pediatric healthcare system.

Patients:

People less than 22 years old who underwent admission screening for respiratory viruses using a multitarget polymerase chain reaction (PCR) panel from August 2020 through April 2022.

Methods:

The symptom status of each patient was recorded by the ordering provider. The prevalence of each virus was described comparing symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Results for each virus were stratified by age group and trends were examined over time.

Results:

Of the 32,812 eligible PCR panels collected, 12,965 (39.5%), 18,651 (56.8%), and 1,196 (3.6%) were obtained from patients who were symptomatic, asymptomatic, or had missing or unknown symptom status, respectively. Symptomatic patients were much more likely to test positive for a respiratory virus (67.3% vs 27.0%). The most common viruses detected in asymptomatic patients were rhinovirus/enterovirus (18.0%), SARS-CoV-2 (3.6%), and parainfluenza viruses (2.3%). The odds ratio of testing positive when symptomatic was significantly greater than unity for all viruses but varied by virus and age group. The proportion of positive tests for each virus was dynamic and changed with intermittent epidemics, or viral “waves.”

Conclusions:

More than one-quarter of children without respiratory symptoms admitted to a pediatric healthcare system had PCR-detectable respiratory viruses. Children with symptoms of a respiratory infection are nevertheless much more likely to have a respiratory virus detected by PCR.
Importance of risk adjusting central line-associated bloodstream infection rates in children
Authors: Srinivasan Lakshmi , Oliver Ashley , Huang Yuan-shung V , Shu Di , Donnelly Kait M , Harrison Cecelia , Roberts Amy L. , Keren Ron
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is one of the most prevalent pediatric healthcare-associated infections and is used to benchmark hospital performance. Pediatric patients have increased in acuity and complexity over time. Existing approaches to risk adjustment do not control for individual patient characteristics, which are strong predictors of CLABSI risk and vary over time. Our objective was to develop a risk adjustment model for CLABSI in hospitalized children and compare observed to expected rates over time.

Design and Setting:

We conducted a prospective cohort study using electronic health record data at a quaternary Children’s Hospital.

Patients:

We included hospitalized children with central catheters.

Methods:

Risk factors identified from published literature were considered for inclusion in multivariable modeling based on association with CLABSI risk in bivariable analysis and expert input. We calculated observed and expected (risk model-adjusted) annual CLABSI rates.

Results:

Among 16,411 patients with 520,209 line days, 633 patients experienced 796 CLABSIs. The final model included age, behavioral health condition, non-English speaking, oncology service, port catheter type, catheter dwell time, lymphatic condition, total parenteral nutrition, and number of organ systems requiring ICU level care. For every organ system receiving ICU level care the odds ratio for CLABSI was 1.24 (95% CI 1.12–1.37). Although not statistically different, observed rates were lower than expected rates for later years.

Conclusions:

Failure to adjust for patient factors, particularly acuity and complexity of disease, may miss clinically significant differences in CLABSI rates, and may lead to inaccurate interpretation of the impact of quality improvement efforts.
Boundary crossing problems and functional transformations for Ornstein–Uhlenbeck processes
Authors: Ahari Aria , Alili Larbi , Tamborrino Massimiliano
Published: October 2024

We are interested in the law of the first passage time of an Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process to time-varying thresholds. We show that this problem is connected to the laws of the first passage time of the process to members of a two-parameter family of functional transformations of a time-varying boundary. For specific values of the parameters, these transformations appear in a realisation of a standard Ornstein–Uhlenbeck bridge. We provide three different proofs of this connection. The first is based on a similar result for Brownian motion, the second uses a generalisation of the so-called Gauss–Markov processes, and the third relies on the Lie group symmetry method. We investigate the properties of these transformations and study the algebraic and analytical properties of an involution operator which is used in constructing them. We also show that these transformations map the space of solutions of Sturm–Liouville equations into the space of solutions of the associated nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Lastly, we interpret our results through the method of images and give new examples of curves with explicit first passage time densities.
When more is less: the impact of multimorphemic words on learning word meaning
Authors: Omar Niveen , Banai Karen , Nir Bracha
Published: October 2024

Monomorphemic words have been found to influence category formation, as they encode one general category and thus activate it more than other related categories in the same lexical network. On the other hand, multimorphemic words can encode multiple categories from the same network by the multiple forms they combine. Superordinate categories are encoded by sub-lexical forms (e.g., affixes), while the entire words encode lower categories in the hierarchical structure. In the present study, we asked whether sub-lexical forms influence the learning of the meaning encoded by the entire word they underlie. We used Semitic-like words where sub-lexical forms (syllabic patterns) encode superordinate categories of manner-of-motion, and the entire words encode lower-level categories (moving characters). In our main experiment, a word-learning test showed that a shared syllabic pattern had a negative effect on the learning of the moving characters encoded by the entire word. This effect was revealed mainly in dimensions related to the superordinate category encoded by the pattern. The effect and its direction are beyond the expectations of enhanced category representations suggested in previous literature. We conclude that the effect of word-form is beyond the specific category they encode and can have different directions at different hierarchical levels.
Uncovering echoic mechanisms in verbal irony comprehension
Authors: Cao Ningning , Zhou Ling , Zhang Shaojie
Published: October 2024

Whereas some studies suggest that ironic praise necessitates a longer processing time than ironic criticism, others posit that the two are processed at comparable speeds. We hypothesize that the presence of an echoic antecedent within the preceding context may at least partially account for these conflicting findings. To investigate this matter, we analyzed reading times and accuracy stemming from two types of contexts: echoic and non-echoic. Our results demonstrate that ironic criticism was judged to be more ironic in both echoic and non-echoic contexts, while ironic praise was rated as more ironic in an echoic context than in a non-echoic context. Additionally, echoing contexts facilitate the comprehension of ironic criticism, but cause ironic praise to be processed more slowly. There was also an observed asymmetry between the two forms of irony. Ironic criticism demonstrated high accuracy and was rated as more ironic than ironic praise. Furthermore, ironic criticism was read faster in an echoic context, whereas performance was similar in a non-echoic context for both types. These findings suggest that echoing context affects ironic criticism and ironic praise differently, implying that distinct mechanisms may be at work in understanding irony in echoic and non-echoic contexts.
Walking in Parallel: Roman Catholicism and Protestant Christianity in Korea, 1899–1945
Authors: SHIN SEUNGYOP
Published: October 2024

In the early twentieth century, Korean Catholic and Protestant Churches found themselves in a period of significant power transition, from a neo-Confucian dynasty to a colonial regime. Imperial Japan and Christianity thus posed a mutual challenge: church leaders worked to sustain and increase their Evangelical mission field within Korea's new socio-political environment, while, simultaneously, the Japanese depended on the cooperation of the Korean Christian communities to fulfil their colonial project. In this dynamic of State-Church relations, Catholics and Protestants constantly vied for ascendancy. This article examines how the two Christian denominations engaged with each other and with Korea's coloniser, as imperial Japan's policies varied and its international status fluctuated.
Spatio-temporal distributions of COVID-19 vaccine doses uptake in the Netherlands: a Bayesian ecological modelling analysis
Authors: Wang Haoyi , Varol Tugce , Gültzow Thomas , Zimmermann Hanne M. L. , Ruiter Robert A. C. , Jonas Kai J.
Published: October 2024

In the transitioning era towards the COVID-19 endemic, there is still a sizable population that has never been vaccinated against COVID-19 in the Netherlands. This study employs Bayesian spatio-temporal modelling to assess the relative chances of COVID-19 vaccination uptake – first, second, and booster doses – both at the municipal and regional (public health services) levels. Incorporating ecological regression modelling to consider socio-demographic factors, our study unveils a diverse spatio-temporal distribution of vaccination uptake. Notably, the areas located in or around the Dutch main urban area (Randstad) and regions that are more religiously conservative exhibit a below-average likelihood of vaccination. Analysis at the municipal level within public health service regions indicates internal heterogeneity. Additionally, areas with a higher proportion of non-Western migrants consistently show lower chances of vaccination across vaccination dose scenarios. These findings highlight the need for tailored national and local vaccination strategies. Particularly, more regional efforts are essential to address vaccination disparities, especially in regions with elevated proportions of marginalized populations. This insight informs ongoing COVID-19 campaigns, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions for optimizing health outcomes during the second booster phase, especially in regions with a relatively higher proportion of marginalized populations.