bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Implementation of Reliability Centered Maintenance Framework in Large Organisations
Authors: Mhlungu Mesuli Percival , Daniyan Ilesanmi , Ramatsetse Boitumelo , Behrens Thembeka
Published: January 2025

Large organisations across the world constantly seek to ensure the optimal operation of their processes to remain competitive against their industry peers. This study seeks to help the organisation improve maintenance performance by developing a framework that can be adopted by the organisation in implementing Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM). This study develops a model to help companies to adopt RCM and to do that, a company were selected to test the model. A questionnaire was sent to a selected population to gather the views of people regarding maintenance within the selected organisation. This is achieved by first investigating the current maintenance regime in Company Y via a survey. Historical data relating to maintenance were obtained and analysed to highlight problem areas. Plant documents relating to maintenance policies were sought for the understanding of the status quo. The results obtained indicate that from 2016 to 2021, the organisation did not meet the maintenance target of 95% and there are major maintenance issues, which have affected the equipment availability and organisation’s productivity. Thus, a guideline for the implementation of RCM was developed for use. The guideline will be useful for organisations in their quest to achieve RCM for optimal productivity.
From Talk to Action: A Diagnosis of Drivers of Sustainable Logistics Practices in LATAM, a Collaborative Study Between Industry and Academia
Authors: Brandi Teresa , Romero Heidi , da Silva-Ovando Agatha Clarice , Ileana Ruiz-Cantisani M. , Soliz Jocabed Becerra , Pereira Leonardo Fuentes
Published: January 2025

Supply chains are estimated to produce more than 50% of the world’s CO2 (World Economic Forum, 2020). As climate change becomes more evident, raising awareness about sustainable supply chains is becoming a priority. This study focuses on the survey results on sustainable supply chains conducted in 2022 through a collaboration between universities in Latin America. More than a dozen universities collected a sample of over 400 surveys across ten countries. We applied the Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression model to respond to how the combination of a set of drivers and the characteristics of a company influence the level of commitment to sustainability, measured in terms of their existing measures, practices, and policies. As a result, we identified the level of understanding of sustainability for companies of different sizes and sectors and the drivers of businesses to design, implement, and control the outcomes of sustainable practices in their operations.
Corporate Climate Protection Measures to Improve the Carbon Footprint in Production: A Systematic Development of a Toolbox with Climate Protection Actions for the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Authors: Budde Felix , Kohl Holger
Published: January 2025

Individual climate protection measures are already being successfully implemented by many companies. But often, there is a lack of comprehensive information for selecting and implementing the right measures that fit the individual company’s emissions profile. This paper presents the systematic development of a toolbox of climate protection actions for small and medium-sized enterprises in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The development process followed a four-step methodological approach: conducting intensive research on climate protection measures in applied and practical literature, reducing and grouping the measures into their corresponding emission categories, structuring and categorizing the measures into specific types of areas, and providing detailed profiles and descriptions of each measure. The resulting list of climate protection actions follows underlying basic principles (i.e. improvement of the emission factor, reduction of emission-generating activities and behavioral changes) which allow an individual derivation of measures. In its final version, the toolbox provides small and medium-sized enterprises with a comprehensive and accessible resource for identifying and implementing effective climate protection actions according to their emissions profile.
Towards Sustainable Machining: Synthetic Data Generation for Efficient Optical Tool Wear Monitoring via Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Friedrich Markus , Ahmeti Engjëll , Dumler Jonas , Döpper Frank
Published: January 2025

To increase sustainability in the field of machining with regard to energy efficiency improvement and resource conservation, accurate tool wear classification is of a paramount importance. In particular, optical wear monitoring approaches that use artificial intelligence and computer vision techniques have shown enormous potential in the recent past. A critical point to these approaches is the requirement of a lage image dataset of worn tools. The generation of such dataset is associated with a waste of resources, since recording of the data has to be done elaborately during ongoing production and classified by an expert. In this paper, the possibilities of generating synthetic training images with the help of generative adversarial networks (GANs) were investigated. A limited set of images was acquired for training GANs which then were used to increase the number of images for the training of our tool wear classificator. The approach enables a resource-efficient approach for the training process such that the accuracy and robustness of tool wear classification systems through the use of GANs can be ensured.
Machining Cycle Detection Based Expert System for Improving Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing
Authors: Ioshchikhes Borys , Heller Paul , Weigold Matthias
Published: January 2025

The transformation of manufacturing companies towards a carbon-neutral economy requires energy transparency, energy analyses and the implementation of energy efficiency measures. Given the continuing skills shortage, the need for automated analysis methods to gain insights from measurement data is increasing. Expert systems that combine the knowledge of multiple experts, analyze load profiles, and derive energy efficiency measures are one approach to tackle this challenge. This paper presents an expert system that quantifies energy efficiency potentials based on the detection of machining cycles and derives promising measures. For this purpose, a new algorithm for the detection of machining cycles is introduced, which shows an accuracy between 76.7% and 94.3% on a representative production day for electrical load profiles of different types of production machines. Since the detected machining cycles are in a form impractical for further processing, information is extracted as energy performance indicators. The expert system utilizes this aggregated information to identify energetic hotspots and derive appropriate energy efficiency measures. The machining cycle detection based expert system is demonstrated on a typical production chain for the metalworking industry within the ETA research factory at the Technical University of Darmstadt.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: An Environmental Challenge
Authors: Fontana Francesco , Campana Giampaolo
Published: January 2025

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances are a group of synthetic aliphatic compounds containing one or more perfluoroalkyl moieties (CnF2n + 1-). Due to their unique surface-active properties and high chemical and thermal stability, they are used in various consumer products such as cosmetics, food packaging, furnishings, and textiles. Their use dates back to the 1940s. Despite their peculiar performances, recent scientific works investigate their sustainability and safety deriving from environmental ubiquity, persistence and bioaccumulation. Indeed, these chemicals are not metabolized in animals and are eliminated mainly through the kidneys, with a low excretion capacity in the case of humans. Many studies conducted worldwide have reported significant serum levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances in most of the general population, associating them with several health conditions, including hepatoxicity, dyslipidaemia, and endocrine and immunotoxicity outcomes. Besides, new sources of emissions due to degradation phenomena are continuously identified. Consequently, long-chain per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances have triggered supervising actions and restrictions that fostered research about possible alternatives. This article aims to screen current European scientific investigations conducted to evaluate the impact of these chemicals on the environment and human health, focusing on food packaging and textile production. Due to the paper’s length limitation, not all the scientific literature is described because of the need to leave space to discuss possible substitutes. Relevant studies are reported about implementing sustainability and safety/hazard assessment for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances. Eventually, the need to develop new and specific analysis methods is discussed.
A Circular Use of Oil by Double Separation Technology and Its Sustainable Impact Comparing to Conventional Industrial Oil Usage
Authors: Qiu Feng , Reimers Johanna , Iseback Annica , Alvarez Juan Ricardo
Published: January 2025

Currently industrial oil is considered as a consumable material and used in a linear way: it gets discarded and replaced with new oil when the oil degrades and often loses its desired properties. This is unsustainable and can have hidden, indirect costs relating to productivity and product quality caused by wear on machinery due to degraded industrial oil properties. SKF RecondOil Double Separation Technology (DST) enables regeneration and reuse of industrial oil by removing contaminants and thereby increasing the lifespan of the oil. Such circular use of oil makes industrial oil an asset and can generate monetary and environmental benefits. A lifecycle-based study has been carried out to map and compare the climate impact of the SKF RecondOil DST process to a conventional industrial oil cycle. The results show that a reduction of more than 96% percent of CO2-eq./m3 oil can be achieved. Furthermore, the results also show that the SKF RecondOil DST processes use less fossil resources during the life cycle compared to a conventional industrial oil cycle. This paper will introduce DST, its applications, and discuss its future development based on the results obtained.
PPLRC—Dialects Survey Handbook—Technical Standards
Authors:   Center for the Protection and Research of Language Resources of China at Beijing Language and Culture University
Published: January 2025

In principle, only one site will be surveyed for a county where Chinese is spoken (this includes both the “Chinese-speaking only county” and the “county where both Chinese and minority languages are spoken”).
PPLRC—Minority Languages Survey Handbook—Technical Standards
Authors:   Center for the Protection and Research of Language Resources of China at Beijing Language and Culture University
Published: January 2025

When multiple languages and their dialects are spoken in a minority area, at least one site must be surveyed for each language. When the dialects of a language vary greatly, one site for each dialect should be surveyed.
Photon conversion to axions and dark photons in magnetized plasmas: a finite-temperature field theory approach
Authors: Brahma Nirmalya , Schutz Katelin
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Some of the most stringent constraints on physics beyond the Standard Model (BSM) arise from considerations of particle emission from astrophysical plasmas. However, many studies assume that particle production occurs in an isotropic plasma environment. This condition is rarely (if ever) met in astrophysical settings, for instance due to the ubiquitous presence of magnetic fields. In anisotropic plasmas, the equations of motion are not diagonal in the usual polarization basis of transverse and longitudinal modes, causing a mixing of these modes and breaking the degeneracy in the dispersion relation of the two transverse modes. This behavior is captured by a 3 × 3 mixing matrix πIJ, determined by projecting the response tensor of the plasma Πμν into mode space, whose eigenvectors and eigenvalues are related to the normal modes and their dispersion relations. In this work, we provide a general formalism for determining the normal modes of propagation that are coupled to axions and dark photons in an anisotropic plasma. As a key part of this formalism, we present detailed derivations of Πμν for magnetized plasmas in the long-wavelength limit using the real-time formalism of finite-temperature field theory. We provide analytic approximations for the normal modes and their dispersion relations assuming various plasma conditions that are relevant to astrophysical environments. These approximations will allow for a systematic exploration of the effects of plasma anisotropy on BSM particle production.
Some aspects of symmetry descent
Authors: Etxebarria Iñaki García , Hosseini Saghar S.
Published: January 2025

Abstract

In many cases the symmetry structure of quantum field theories can be neatly encoded into their associated symmetry topological field theory (SymTFT), a topological field theory in one dimension higher. For geometrically engineered QFTs in string theory this SymTFT has been argued to arise from the background geometry, essentially by integration of the topological sector of string theory on the horizon of the geometry transverse to the QFT locus. In this paper we clarify some subtle aspects of this proposal. We take a higher dimensional approach, where the ten dimensional string theory fields to be integrated arise as edge modes of a topological field theory in eleven dimensions. The resulting construction provides a SymTFT generalisation of the descent procedure for anomalies.
Use of oral retinoids in the perioperative period by surgical specialty: a literature review
Authors: Truax Lauren , Hendrixson Morgann , Naqvi Jaree , Trevino Julian
Published: January 2025

This review examines the impact of oral retinoids, particularly isotretinoin, on incisional wound healing across surgical specialties. Commonly prescribed for dermatologic conditions, concerns persist regarding oral retinoids’ potential adverse effects on wound healing, prompting the widespread practice of discontinuing these medications before surgery. We performed a PubMed search and analyzed research published regarding the use of oral retinoids in a variety of surgical subspecialties: dermatologic, plastic, ophthalmologic, orthopedic, ENT/otologic, and maxillofacial. Contrary to conventional practices, our review challenges the necessity of discontinuing oral retinoids before surgery in many instances based currently available research. Our literature review underscores the need for individualized risk-benefit assessment when deciding whether to hold retinoid therapy prior to surgical intervention as well as the need for more data surrounding systemic retinoids and wound healing interactions. While encouraging a reevaluation of current practices, we advocate for evidence-based decision-making in perioperative care across various surgical specialties in collaboration between dermatologists and surgeons.
Virtual reality-based Harms tangent screen test for strabismus measurement
Authors: Wenner Yaroslava , Schneider Johann , Drisser Timo , Yang Yu Yi , Demeter Thilo , Fronius Maria , Lorenz Birgit , Kohnen Thomas , Müller Michael , Triesch Jochen
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Our study presents a virtual reality-based tangent screen test (VTS) to measure subjective ocular deviations including torsion in nine directions of gaze. The test was compared to the analogous Harms tangent screen test (HTS).

Methods

We used an Oculus Go® controller and head-mounted-display with rotation sensors to measure patient’s head orientation for the VTS. The software was developed with Unity®. We assessed subjective squint angles of adult patients with eye motility disorders of different origin in nine positions of gaze by means of HTS and VTS. We calculated mean difference, 95% limits of agreement and intraclass correlations (ICC) for horizontal, vertical and torsional deviations.

Results

We included 85 patients. Measured horizontal and vertical deviations showed very good agreement between the two methods in all gaze directions (horizontal and vertical ICC: 0.93–0.98). Agreement was lower for torsional deviations (ICC: 0.79–0.93). The mean difference in primary position was 1.5° (95% limits of agreement -3.5° to 6.5°) for horizontal, 0° (-2,7° to 2,7°) for vertical, and 0.3° (-4.0° to 3.0°) for torsional deviations. The average examination time was 6 min with the VTS compared to 15 min with the HTS.

Conclusions

Vertical and horizontal deviations showed good agreement between both tests measuring a slightly higher esodeviation with VTS probably due to an increased vergence demand. Measurement of torsional misalignment would benefit from a controller with more holding stability, such as a PC-mouse with central wheel, facilitating fine adjustments. VTS allowed automatic documentation, required less time and was easier to use than HTS.

Key messages

What is known

The incidence of neurogenic diplopia increases in the ageing population.

The Harms tangent screen test (HTS) reliably measures subjective ocular deviations in patients with diplopia.

The HTS requires staff well-trained in orthoptics limiting its use.

What is new

A novel virtual reality-based tangent screen test (VTS) enables measurement of horizontal, vertical and torsional ocular misalignment and shows a good comparability to the HTS.

VTS uses commercially available head-mounted-display and controller, and specifically developed software, requires less time than HTS and allows automatic documentation.

VTS administration does not require orthoptic training and can eventually be implemented in a clinical setting to provide a wider availability of subjective squint angle measurements.
ANN material modeling for SMA fibers enhanced with a physical constraint and its application to FE computations
Authors: Weber Patrick , Wagner Werner , Freitag Steffen
Published: January 2025

So-called shape memory alloys (SMAs) show intriguing multi-physical and history-dependent behavior. This includes most prominently the recovery of their initial shape after inelastic deformation, if the temperature is increased afterwards. This is known as the shape memory effect. The precise and reliable description of this and other SMA phenomena is crucial for industrial applications. Therefore, in addition to the wide range of analytical material models for SMA, we want to apply the material modeling strategy with artificial neural networks (ANN) to SMAs. We define an ANN material model in order to represent the SMA behavior with a feedforward ANN. Therefore, the correct setup of input and output vectors for rate-independent material behavior is investigated. The training is done based on synthetic data. The resulting SMA ANN material model is able to represent the SMA strain–stress behavior generally, for arbitrary strain and temperature fields. The resulting one-dimensional ANN material model is used within finite element computations. This increases the accuracy requirements due to the need for a material tangent. Therefore, we improve the performance of the ANN material model in terms of numerical stability by enforcing a material tangent related constraint during the ANN training process. In order to evaluate the performance of ANN material models during training reliably for these accuracy requirements, in depth studies on different target variables during the training process are done.
Chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP) after pediatric inguinal hernia repair—a retrospective analysis
Authors: Widder A. , Bucher H. , Reinhold A. K. , Maroske L. , Meyer T. , Wiegering A. , Lock J. F. , Germer C. -T. , Rittner H. L. , Schlegel N. , Meir Michael
Published: January 2025

Background

Surgical treatment of inguinal hernias in children is one of the most common operative procedures worldwide. During surgery for inguinal hernias in adults, chronic pain develops in approximately 10% of all cases. In children, there has been limited research to determine whether they may also develop this chronic postsurgical inguinal pain (CPIP). The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of CPIP in children after open inguinal hernia surgery and to identify possible risk factors and protective factors for the development of CPIP.

Methods

A single center retrospective analysis of patients aged 4 to 15 years who underwent inguinal hernia repair from 2020 to 2022 was performed. A detailed analysis based on the local database was used to analyze existing pre-existing conditions, perioperative information and the use of a cauda epidural block. A standardized follow-up questionnaire was used to evaluate the prevalence of CPIP and the duration of postoperative analgesic medication.

Results

A total of 176 cases were included in the detailed analysis. 3.4 % of the children complained CPIP 3 months after surgery with a mean follow-up period of 26.4 months. At the time of the survey, 50% of CPIP patients reported a resolving from chronic pain. Our analyzes showed a potential higher CPIP rate in females (83.3%; p=0.040), older children (8.3 years vs. 5 years; p=0.006) and chronic pain history (16.7% vs. 2.4%; p=0.038).Furthermore, Children mitght profit from a intraoperative cauda epidural block since we observed a lower rate of CPIP (66.7% (4/6) vs. 97% (164/170); p=0.019) in these patients.

Conclusion

We were able to identify initial risk factors such as female gender, older patient age and a history of chronic pain. In addition, we were able to obtain information on possible protective factors such as an intraoperative cauda epidural block and adequate postoperative analgesia. However, further studies are required to clarify the pathogenesis and to confirm predictors and protective factors in order to improve therapeutic approaches.
Market as a factor in soil erosion: the expansion of new and old crops into marginal Mediterranean lands
Authors: Nadal-Romero Estela , García-Ruiz José M.
Published: January 2025

The expansion of international markets for some agricultural products explains the growth in marginal areas of the surface occupied by subtropical crops (especially avocado and mango) and the rapid penetration of pistachio plantations in the Mediterranean regions of the world. The traditional Mediterranean crops (vineyards, and olive and almond orchards) have also experienced remarkable locational changes. In most cases, this expansion has taken place towards marginal slopes, generally very steep, many of them cultivated decades ago and already abandoned. The consequence is an increased risk of erosion, which can only be counteracted by planting herbaceous plants or native shrubs between the rows of trees. Thus, changes in international markets for agricultural products can have important environmental consequences in terms of runoff generation and sediment yield, as well as disturbances in the spatial organization of rural landscapes.
Recovery at 30: Integrating Lived Experience Expertise into Mental Health Research in Israel
Authors: Alfia-Burstein Shira , Oren Avi , Goldfarb Yael , Stengar-Elran Renana , Pinfold Vanessa , Roe David , Moran Galia S.
Published: January 2025

A major component of recovery is the inclusion of lived experience to transform the culture of Mental Health (MH) services. In Israel lived experience has been increasingly integrated into services through peer roles. However, lived experience knowledge and expertise has not been sufficiently nor systematically integrated into the design of mental health research. This paper documents an attempt to initiate change by convening multiple stakeholders (with and without lived experience) in a specialized workshop aiming to learn and discuss the potential role of lived experience for mental health research in Israel. Participants raised ideas and core questions on how lived experience can shape research and augment mental health practices and policies. They highlighted current challenges regarding self-disclosure facing lived experience researchers, as well as challenges for developing participatory research collaborations among consumers, family members and practitioners. By bringing to the fore-front the ‘insider perspective’ of MH system as experienced among service users and families, we expect a development of a research culture with reduced paternalism, increased coproduction and recovery-orientation. We hope this endeavor will inspire others and help develop a lived experience expertise-based research network of interested stakeholders.
AI utilization in primary mathematics education: a case study from a southwestern Chinese city
Authors: Li Mao , Manzari Elham
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in primary mathematics education, focusing on the influence of internal and external factors on AI utilization. Employing second-order Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with data collected from 516 primary mathematics teachers in a southwest city in China, the research explores the dynamics between teachers’ Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), attitudes towards technology, and the role of external environmental factors such as educational policies, technological infrastructure, and parental and community engagement. The findings reveal that internal factors, including teachers’ attitudes and TPACK, and external factors, notably institutional support and societal attitudes towards technology, significantly influence AI adoption and effective use in teaching and learning processes. The study confirms the necessity of a dual-faceted approach to AI integration, emphasizing the enhancement of educators’ internal capacities through professional development and the cultivation of a supportive external ecosystem. The research contributes to the knowledge of technology integration in education by providing empirical evidence of the critical interplay between internal capabilities and external supports in facilitating effective AI utilization in primary mathematics education. This study offers a pragmatic blueprint for educational stakeholders to navigate the complexities of educational innovation in the digital era, advocating for systemic approaches to foster both technological competencies and supportive infrastructures.
Taxonomy of Mediated Sociality: A Phenomenological Approach
Authors: Takakusa Ken
Published: January 2025

While phenomenologists have paid little attention to mediated sociality, the situation has recently been changing owing to the increasing dependence of social life on digital media. Alfred Schutz’s social phenomenology has gathered preeminent attention among phenomenological traditions as it reveals the structure of face-to-face and other types of social relationships. Although Shanyang Zhao’s concept of “consociated contemporaries” provided a reference point for the Schutzian studies of mediated sociality, he discarded the phenomenological aspects of Schutz’s ideas. To replace Zhao’s trichotomy of consociates, contemporaries, and consociated contemporaries with a more phenomenological taxonomy, this paper examines Schutz’s concepts of thou- and they-orientation. Emphasizing that my thou-orientation to you does not entail your thou-orientation to me and that the other-orientation is not always reciprocal, this paper argues that mediated sociality can be classified into five types: reciprocal thou-thou-orientation, reciprocal thou-they-orientation, reciprocal they-they-orientation, non-reciprocal thou-orientation, and non-reciprocal they-orientation. Reciprocal thou-they-orientation, such as the relationship between a streamer and viewers in online live streaming, is a form of sociality that has recently become conspicuous owing to high-speed and massive Internet communication. Finally, this paper adds some remarks on the implications for the phenomenological theory of online empathy.
Rights and Demands: A Response to Kamm
Authors: Gilbert Margaret
Published: January 2025

I respond to some questions raised by Frances Kamm with respect to my book Rights and Demands (2018). The book focuses on demand-rights and asks how we accrue them. In other words, how does one accrue the standing to demand an action of someone or rebuke them for non-performance? My response to Kamm emphasizes how I understand “directed duties” in this context. Contrary to the standard practice of rights theorists, I do not start from the assumption that directed duties are constituted by “plain” duties in the context of other factors (about which rights theorists disagree). Rather, I understand my duty to you as the correlative and equivalent of your standing to demand the action in question. I offer a number of further clarifications and conclude by distinguishing the targets of my discussion from other phenomena of interest to moral philosophers, such as complaining and blaming.
Videoconferencing Delivery of the Seoul Premarital Education Program During COVID-19: A Quasi-experimental Study Using Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighting
Authors: Park Jisu , Lee Jaerim
Published: January 2025

This study examined whether the Seoul Premarital Education Program (S-PEP) was effective when it was delivered via videoconferencing (VC) during the early COVID-19 period. S-PEP is a city-wide educational program designed to prevent marital distress by enhancing premarital readiness and relationship quality for couples. Because a randomized controlled trial was not realistic due to the pandemic, we recruited an intervention group and a no-intervention comparison group independently, who completed both the pre- and posttests. We then employed inverse probability of treatment weighting to derive two comparable groups. The weighted samples of 291 women and 228 men were analyzed separately using linear mixed models. The results showed that S-PEP via VC was effective in increasing levels of marital readiness for both women and men and in enhancing relationship confidence and satisfaction for women. Our findings suggest that VC can be a promising delivery strategy for curriculum-based group interventions for couples.
Early health technology assessment of diagnostic cardiology technology for reperfusion VF prediction of STEMI patients indicated for PCI
Authors: Gorelova Marija , Donin Gleb , Kneppo Peter
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The study deals with eHTA of new technology for STEMI patients indicated for PCI treatment, which contains diagnostic of rVF risks and medication to prevent rVF in at-risk patients above standard approved procedure. Due to the recommended medication procedure for STEMI patients with identified high rVF risks during PCI and its effectiveness have not been established the goal is to find out what level of medication effectiveness which will be sufficient for the cost-effectiveness of the new technology.

Methods

Scenarios where the effectiveness of rVF protecting medication administered to predisposed STEMI patients undergoing PCI varies from 5 to 95% were analyzed. Cost-effectiveness was evaluated by the CEA.

Results

The determined minimum effectiveness of rVF protecting medication to achieve the technology and procedure cost-effectiveness is 7.54%. Even if medication efficacy is at least 39.58%, the technology is “dominant” and the ICER is in the South-east [SE] quadrant.

Conclusions

Cost-effectiveness analysis show that for all scenarios modeled, except the 5% medication effectiveness scenario, the technology appears to be cost-effective. so such new technology will probably be very attractive for investors.
Algorithmic Fairness and Feasibility
Authors: Erman Eva , Furendal Markus , Möller Niklas
Published: January 2025

The “impossibility results” in algorithmic fairness suggest that a predictive model cannot fully meet two common fairness criteria – sufficiency and separation – except under extraordinary circumstances. These findings have sparked a discussion on fairness in algorithms, prompting debates over whether predictive models can avoid unfair discrimination based on protected attributes, such as ethnicity or gender. As shown by Otto Sahlgren, however, the discussion of the impossibility results would gain from importing some of the tools developed in the philosophical literature on feasibility. Utilizing these tools, Sahlgren sketches a cautiously optimistic view of how algorithmic fairness can be made feasible in restricted local decision-making. While we think it is a welcome move to inject the literature on feasibility into the debate on algorithmic fairness, Sahlgren says very little about what are the general gains of bringing in feasibility considerations in theorizing algorithmic fairness. How, more precisely, does it help us make assessments about fairness in algorithmic decision-making? This is what is addressed in this Reply. More specifically, our two-fold argument is that feasibility plays an important but limited role for algorithmic fairness. We end by offering a sketch of a framework, which may be useful for theorizing feasibility in algorithmic fairness.
Unified Test Procedures and Sample Size Determinations for Probing Negligible Interaction Effects in Factorial Designs
Authors: Shieh Gwowen
Published: January 2025

A vital problem in factorial analysis of variance is testing for interactions. Traditional procedures mainly aim to establish the existence of substantial effects. However, the interaction effects may be so minor that they should be considered clinically or practically unimportant. Note that the current method for assessing negligible interaction only applies to the two-way interaction of balanced designs. This paper presents test procedures to ascertain the negligibility of interactions in multi-factor studies. A unified approach is proposed to appraise the lack of interaction that applies to higher-order factorial designs and unbalanced schemes. A viable procedure is also described when the assumption of homogeneous variances is untenable. The corresponding sample size procedures and computer algorithms are also developed to facilitate planning factorial designs. Both numerical examples and simulation studies are utilized to explain the usefulness and accuracy of the proposed procedures for assessing interactions in factorial studies.
Dibohemamines I–O from Streptomyces sp. GZWMJZ-662, an endophytic actinomycete from the medicinal and edible plant Houttuynia cordata Thunb.
Authors: Wang Dong-Yang , Li Ming-Xing , Xu Yan-Chao , Fu Peng , Zhu Wei-Ming , Wang Li-Ping
Published: January 2025

A chemical investigation of Streptomyces sp. GZWMJZ-662, an endophytic actinomycete isolated from Houttuynia cordata Thunb., has yielded eleven bohemamine dimers (1–11). Notably, the newly identified dibohemamines I–O (1–7) have not been previously reported. Their structures were elucidated through detailed spectroscopic analysis, encompassing high-resolution electrospray ionization mass, nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared radiation, ultraviolet–visible, and electronic circular dichroism spectroscopy. Dibohemamine I (1) exhibited selective cytotoxic effects against the cancer cell lines 786-O and GBC-SD among the 18 cell lines evaluated, with the half-inhibitory concentration values of 3.24 ± 0.20 and 7.36 ± 0.41 μM, respectively.

Graphical Abstract
Biomimetic Micro-Nanostructured Evaporator with Dual-Transition-Metal MXene for Efficient Solar Steam Generation and Multifunctional Salt Harvesting
Authors: Xu Ruiqi , Cui Hongzhi , Wei Na , Yu Yang , Dai Lin , Chen Xiaohua
Published: January 2025

Solar-driven interfacial evaporation is one of the most attractive approaches to addressing the global freshwater shortage. However, achieving an integrated high evaporation rate, salt harvesting, and multifunctionality in evaporator is still a crucial challenge. Here, a novel composite membrane with biomimetic micro-nanostructured superhydrophobic surface is designed via ultrafast laser etching technology. Attractively, the double‐transition‐metal (V1/2Mo1/2)2CTx MXene nanomaterials as a photothermal layer, exhibiting the enhanced photothermal conversion performance due to elevated joint densities of states, which enables high populations of photoexcited carrier relaxation and heat release, provides a new insight into the photothermal conversion mechanism for multiple principal element MXene. Hence, the (V1/2Mo1/2)2CTx MXene-200 composite membrane can achieve a high evaporation rate of 2.23 kg m−2 h−1 under one sun, owing to the enhanced “light trap” effect, photothermal conversion, and high-throughput water transfer. Synergetically, the membrane can induce the directed precipitation of salt at the membrane edge, thus enabling salt harvesting for recycling and zero-emission of brine water. Moreover, the composite membrane is endowed with excellent multifunctionality of anti‐/de‐icing, anti-fouling, and antibacterial, overcoming the disadvantage that versatility is difficult to be compatible. Therefore, the evaporator and the promising strategy hold great potential for the practical application of solar evaporation.
Elevating the public realm: a framework for designing resilient urban green spaces in hyperdense cities
Authors: Ehab Ahmed , Burnett Gary , Heath Tim
Published: January 2025

This study examines the critical role of elevated urban spaces in fostering urban resilience and enhancing public well-being in the post-pandemic era. Through a detailed literature review and contextual analysis, the research explores how these spaces address the evolving needs for social interaction, public health, and mental wellness in urban design. Focusing on London, with comparisons to international examples such as Singapore, the study presents findings from sixty-six semi-structured walk-along interviews conducted at the Sky Garden and Crossrail Place Roof Garden. Data analysis reveals both the challenges and guiding principles for designing resilient elevated urban spaces. Key areas for improvement include accessibility, circulation, aesthetic integration, and management strategies. The findings emphasise the value of these green spaces in densely populated cities, as they provide vital recreational areas that support the mental and physical health of residents. This research offers a structured framework for embedding elevated green spaces into high-density urban environments, enhancing both resilience and liveability. The study delivers actionable insights for urban planners and policymakers, outlining a nuanced approach to designing sustainable, adaptable green spaces.
Sino-Arab Free Trade Agreements, AI Diplomacy, and the Realisation of AI and Sustainability Goals in the Middle East
Authors: Truby Jon
Published: January 2025

Sino-Arab Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) have remained elusive over two decades of increasing economic relations and trade negotiations. Nevertheless, substantial investments and trade demonstrate the Arab region’s strategic importance to China. Recent strategic drivers of China’s engagement with the Middle East have evolved from an original energy security focus, to more recently integrating technological investments into partnerships, such as artificial intelligence and renewable energy infrastructure—complicating progress towards an FTA. Such measures can help progress achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and offer economic development opportunities, but negotiations may be hindered by concerns ranging from technological dependency to trade competition. Examining opportunities and challenges in the developing China–Arab relations, the article explores legal and policy obstacles and opportunities towards securing an FTA. With a focus on recent developments in AI and sustainability partnerships, the article analyses legal strategies and international law best practices for a model FTA for Arab countries.
Going commando as part of a multifaceted intervention to reduce CAUTIs in critically ill children
Authors: Linam Matthew , Wannemacher Lisette , Powell Kathryn , Calamaro Christina , Walson Karen
Published: January 2025

This project was initiated in a large pediatric intensive care unit to reduce catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). Implementing removal of diapers and a urine collection device that prevented urine backflow in March 2021 decreased the rate from 3.3 to 0.9 CAUTIs/1000 catheter-days. These interventions could augment CAUTI prevention strategies.
Foreign asset expropriation and sovereign bond ratings in the developing world
Authors: Biglaiser Glen , Lee Hoon , Yoo Seong Hun
Published: January 2025

Research shows that foreign asset expropriation narrows long-term bond spreads, resulting in lower borrowing costs. However, no empirical studies have investigated the effects of expropriation on sovereign bond ratings. Bondholders and sovereign bond issuers track ratings by credit rating agencies because they impact interest rates and capital costs. Using up to 59 developing countries from 1996 to 2016, we find that expropriation signals lower bond repayment, as asset confiscation blatantly violates international rule of law and discourages foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, reducing bond ratings. Mediation analysis also indicates that FDI and the rule of law mediate the relationship between expropriation and bond ratings. Further, we distinguish between direct and indirect expropriation and observe that direct expropriation has a greater probability of decreasing ratings. Our research suggests that expropriation holds economic consequences for developing countries, indicating how expropriation negatively affects sovereign bond issuers in the financial and investment community.
Generative AI in public administration in light of the regulatory awakening in the US and EU
Authors: Weerts Sophie
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the regulatory awakening regarding generative AI (GenAI) in the United States and European Union (EU) institutions with the release of ChatGPT. Based on a thematic analysis of regulatory documents, it investigates how governments have approached the deployment and use of this emerging technology within their classic government activities. The analysis shows several layers of regulatory approaches, ranging from command-and-control to an experimental approach, combined with risk- and management-based approaches. It also reveals different perspectives. The EU institutions have notably adopted more restrictive guidelines on the use of publicly available Large Language Models (LLMs) - a type o GenAI that is trained on vast amounts of text data to understand, generate, and respond in human-like language. This approach reflects greater caution about data security and confidentiality and the risks of foreign interference. However, the American and EU documents share a common concern about the risk of reinforcing discrimination and the protection of human rights. Interestingly, considering the administrative environment, neither the administrative activities in which GenAI may be used nor the key legal principles embedded by the rule of law are explicitly used for guiding administration in their development and use of GenAI. In this context, the paper calls for future research that could help contribute to the renewal of administrative law theory in the context of the digital transformation of public administration.
Private ordering, generative AI and the ‘platformisation paradigm’: What can we learn from comparative analysis of models terms and conditions?
Authors: Edwards Lilian , Szpotakowski Igor , Cifrodelli Gabriele , Sangaré Joséphine , Stewart James
Published: January 2025

Large or “foundation” models are now being widely used to generate not just text and images but also video, music and code from prompts. Although this “generative AI” revolution is clearly driving new opportunities for innovation and creativity, it is also enabling easy and rapid dissemination of harmful speech and potentially infringing existing laws. Much attention has been paid recently to how we can draft bespoke legislation to control these risks and harms; however, private ordering by generative AI providers, via user contracts, licenses and privacy policies, has so far attracted less attention. Drawing on the extensive history of study of the terms and conditions (T&C) and privacy policies of social media companies, this paper reports the results of pilot empirical work conducted in January–March 2023, in which T&C were mapped across a representative sample of generative AI. With the focus on copyright and data protection, our early findings indicate the emergence of a “platformisation paradigm,” in which providers of generative AI attempt to position themselves as neutral intermediaries. This study concludes that new laws targeting “big tech” must be carefully reconsidered to avoid repeating past power imbalances between users and platforms.
Generative AI and data protection
Authors: Ruschemeier Hannah
Published: January 2025

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has catapulted into the legal debate through the popular applications ChatGPT, Bard, Dall-E and others. While the predominant focus has hitherto centred on issues of copyright infringement and regulatory strategies, particularly in the context of the AI Act, a critical but often overlooked issue lies in the friction between generative AI and data protection laws. The rise of these technologies highlights unresolved tension between safeguarding fundamental protection rights and and the vast, almost universal, of scale of data processing required for machine learning. Large language models, which scrape nearly the whole Internet rely on and may even generate personal data falling under the GDPR. This tension manifests across multiple dimensions, encompassing data subjects’ rights, the foundational principles of data protection and the fundamental categories of data protection. Drawing on ongoing investigations by data protection authorities in Europe, this paper undertakes a comprehensive analysis of the intricate interplay between generative AI and data protection within the European legal framework.
Navigating China’s regulatory approach to generative artificial intelligence and large language models
Authors: Zou Mimi , Zhang Lu
Published: January 2025

The rapid development of generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems, particularly those fuelled by increasingly advanced large language models, has raised concerns of their potential risks among policymakers globally. In July 2023, Chinese regulators enacted the Interim Measures for the Management of Generative AI Services (“the Measures”). The Measures aim to mitigate various risks associated with public-facing generative AI services, particularly those concerning information content safety and security. China’s approach to regulating AI to date has sought to address the risks associated with rapidly advancing AI technologies while fostering innovation and development. Tensions between these policy objectives are reflected in the provisions of the Measures. As Beijing moves towards establishing a comprehensive legal framework for AI governance, there will be growing interest in how China’s approach may influence AI governance and regulation at a global level.