bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interventions to improve the sleep of nurses: A systematic review
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Murphy Jennifer , Lammers‐van der Holst Heidi M. , Barger Laura K. , Lai Yun‐Ju , Duffy Jeanne F.
Published: September 2023

Nurses are at a high risk for short sleep duration and poor sleep quality due to irregular work schedules and high occupational stress. Considering the effect of nurses' sleep on the safety and health of themselves and their patients, it is important to promote healthy sleep for nurses. We sought to synthesize the published experimental and quasi‐experimental studies that address interventions to improve sleep in nurses. A systematic search was conducted for studies published in English up until May 15, 2023, using the databases PubMed, CINAHL, Academic Search Ultimate, and PsycINFO. In total, 38 articles were included, covering 22 experimental and 16 quasi‐experimental studies with sample sizes ranging from 9 to 207. Studies were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and considered as low to medium quality. Thirty‐six of the 38 studies reported positive findings for at least one sleep outcome. Intervention types included aroma therapy, dietary supplements, cognitive behavioral therapy, light therapy, mind‐body therapy, sleep education, exercise, napping, shift schedule modification, and multicomponent intervention, all of which showed moderate effectiveness in promoting sleep outcomes of nurses. Comparing and contrasting studies on specific interventions for improving sleep in nurses is sparse and often equivocal. With the variations of research methodology and outcome measures, it is difficult to make a conclusion about each intervention's effectiveness on specific sleep outcomes. Additional high‐quality research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to evaluate strategies for improving sleep in this unique, safety‐sensitive occupational group.
On the load bearing mechanisms of cemented granular material: A mesoscale FE approach
Authors: Komodromos Michail , Gorji Mahan , Düster Alexander , Grabe Jürgen
Published: September 2023

The numerical investigation of cemented granular material (CGM) is a demanding task that requires the combination of various scientific disciplines. At the mesoscale, CGM is decomposed into the constituents of particles, cement matrix and void pores. The combination of these constituents, as found in nature or in civil infrastructure projects, creates a highly heterogeneous structure, whose morphology defines the response of the CGM under mechanical loading. The composite internal structure is quantified by means of x‐ray Computed Tomography, which provides 16‐bit grayscale 3D images of the scanned microsamples. These images are decomposed into the three constituent materials to be investigated and modeled. Still, the ability of simple Cartesian grids to adequately carry information about curved geometries and provide accurate representations is questioned. In order to overcome staircase effect errors, the interfaces of the material inclusions are smoothed and re‐defined, making use of Gaussian blurred signed distance fields (SDF). These level‐set derived interfaces serve as a reference for the volume reconstruction of the image via tetrahedra. The comparison of the raw and the smoothened images to analytical geometry Standards suggests that the above reconstruction alleviates the grid's inherited uncertainities. In addition, a comparison between a non smoothed and a smoothed meshed image is performed in terms of mechanical response, utilizing the Finite Element (FE) Method. The results suggest that even a slight change in the granular contact fabric can alter the unfolding stress transmission mechanisms.
Formation of wrinkles on a coated substrate using manifold‐valued finite elements
Authors: Nebel Lisa Julia , Sander Oliver , Knapp André , Fery Andreas
Published: September 2023

This article treats finite element simulations of controlled wrinkle formation experiments of a soft bulk material with a thin, stiff layer on top. The wrinkling process is triggered by a stress mismatch between the bulk material and the thin layer. For the finite element simulations, we model the bulk material using a three‐dimensional hyperelastic material and the thin layer with a geometrically nonlinear elastic Cosserat shell. For the finite element simulations, we model the bulk material using a three‐dimensional hyperelastic material and the thin layer with a geometrically nonlinear elastic Cosserat shell. We use Lagrange finite elements for the bulk material and geodesic finite elements for the shell. The resulting minimization problem is nonlinear and nonconvex. We prove existence of minimizers in the continuous and the discrete function space. Finally, we solve the resulting nonconvex minimization problem numerically using a Riemannian trust‐region algorithm and compare our simulations to real experiments.
On the validity of the Reynolds equation for the simulation of wet grinding processes
Authors: Thunich Paul , Schömig Oliver , Tong Yan , Arafat Robar , Herrmann Christoph , Müller Michael
Published: September 2023

Wet grinding is a process with a complex interaction of individual sub‐processes such as fluid mechanics, continuum mechanics and thermodynamics and branched coupling of corresponding properties. In order to be able to represent these properties in a model, this paper develops a description of the hydrodynamic properties in the grinding gap as a building block for a simple but accurate model to describe the process of wet grinding. To this end, it is shown that the Reynolds equation, which is well‐established in the lubrication theory, is also suitable for describing an exemplary grinding wheel with abrasive grains or pores. This is done by demonstrating the feasibility of a calculation and by comparing the results with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations.
A historical review on porous‐media research
Authors: Ehlers Wolfgang
Published: September 2023

At the end of the 18th century, serious problems in dyke constructions in Northern Germany and the need to understand coupled solid‐water problems initiated first attempts to describe porous media. Many attempts followed until a sound Theory of Porous Media (TPM) was born on the basis of continuum mechanics of multi‐component materials with multi‐physical properties. The present article roughly describes the development of the TPM from its origins to contemporary applications, thus presenting a short historical review of porous‐media research.
(GγAγδβ)0$({}^{\rm G}{\gamma}{}^{\rm A}{\gamma}\delta\beta)^0$‐Thalassemia: Report of two cases in a family
Authors: Tomiyama Mana , Takayama Saki , Konno Hiroko , Murakoshi Takeshi , Koga Masafumi , Nakamura Momoko , Yamashiro Yasuhiro , Matsubayashi Tadashi
Published: September 2023

Case 1 presented with severe anemia and received an intrauterine blood cell transfusion at 33 weeks of gestation. The anemia spontaneously improved in early infancy. Case 2, the father of Case 1, had an uneventful birth with no evidence of anemia, though microcytic anemia was observed during childhood. The genetic analysis of the β‐globin gene cluster identified a novel heterozygous deletion of DNA extending from the Gγ‐globin gene downstream to the β‐globin gene, confirming a diagnosis of (GγAγδβ)0‐thalassemia. In cases where thalassemia is suspected based on blood tests, a genetic diagnosis should be performed for the sake of the offspring.
Enhancement of laser ignitibility of insensitive energetic materials (FOX‐7)
Authors: Fang Xiao , Stennett Christopher , Gaulter Sally
Published: September 2023

Experimental investigation into the feasibility of optically sensitising an insensitive explosive, FOX‐7 (1,1‐Diamino‐2,2‐dinitroethene) by the doping of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) has been conducted. The commercially available GNPs were specifically designed in their particle shape and size to strongly absorb at the wavelength of the igniting laser (808 nm). The laser ignitibility of FOX‐7 was significantly increased as the GNPs efficiently converted the absorbed energy into the heat. The laser ignitibility of such optically sensitised FOX‐7 and the detonation capability of the laser initiator devices designed for the study were evaluated. Based on the evaluation of the initiator's output in term of impact pressure, it was shown that an GNPs doped FOX‐7 based laser slapper initiator was able to detonate a secondary explosive.
Regular Charged Black Holes, Energy Conditions, and Quasinormal Modes
Authors: Balart Leonardo , Panotopoulos Grigoris , Rincón Ángel
Published: September 2023

Energy conditions and quasinormal modes (QNMs) for scalar perturbations of regular charged black holes within the framework of General Relativity coupled to non‐linear electrodynamics (NLE) are discussed. The frequencies are computed numerically adopting the WKB method, while in the eikonal limit an analytic expression for the spectra is obtained. The impact of the electric charge, the angular degree, and the overtone number on the spectra is investigated in detail. All frequencies are characterized by a negative imaginary part, and that each type of energy conditions imply a different quasinormal spectrum are found.
The February 2021 Winter Storm and its impact on Texas infrastructure: Lessons for communities, emergency managers, and first responders
Authors: Chand Melvina , McEntire David
Published: September 2023

This article explores why Texas infrastructure failed during the February 2021 winter storm and discusses the rippling effects it had on governments, emergency managers, first responders, and the public. A qualitative approach was used for this study and was based primarily on interviews that were conducted with 29 individuals to understand the nature of the disaster and discover subsequent actions that took place. Research also incorporated news articles that discussed firsthand accounts taken from members of the public along with government documents that evaluated the impact and response to the disaster. The research discusses ERCOT's efforts to keep infrastructure operational for the public and reveals that emergency managers and first responders were left with insufficient information and resources while Texas was under a state of emergency. The article conveys what was done at the local, state, and federal levels and it also highlights successes and failures of the response. The article offers insight on lessons learned about infrastructure and provides recommendations to mitigate and prepare for complex disaster situations that are likely occur in the future.
Dynamics of interdisciplinarity: a microlevel analysis of communication and facilitation in a group model‐building workshop
Authors: Zimmermann Nici , Curran Katherine
Published: September 2023

Participatory system dynamics is assumed to generate inter‐ and transdisciplinary understanding and whole‐system perspectives via scripted workshop structure, facilitation, and the use of visual boundary objects. However, there is little research into how exactly workshop activities and facilitators affect communication dynamics during a workshop and create an interdisciplinary perspective. Thus, we offer an innovative dynamic understanding via a rare microlevel analysis of facilitation and dynamics of communication and interdisciplinarity in a group model‐building workshop. We investigate how the conversation focus unfolds over time and examine in depth disciplinary transitions as well as the facilitator's role. We also analyse participants' perceptions of interdisciplinarity from the workshop and provide a research framework for workshop microlevel analysis. Based on the workshop's heritage science setting, we discuss the recursive nature of generating joint meaning and the use of participatory system dynamics for managing interdisciplinarity in a research project and make recommendations. © 2023 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
Recent Progress in Synthesis of Sulfonamides and N‐Acylsulfonamides, Biological Applications and Their Structure‐Activity Relationship (SAR) Studies
Authors: Berredjem Malika , Bouchareb Fouzia , Djouad Seif‐Eddine , Bouasla Radia , Bahadi Rania , Redjemia Rayenne , Boussaker Meriem , Dekir Ali
Published: September 2023

In recent years, sulfonamide and N‐acylsulfonamide have emerged as prominent areas of scientific research across multiple fields, including chemistry, biology, and medicine. The large number of drugs and lead compounds reported in recent literature evidences the growing interest in these derivatives. Chemists are increasingly intrigued by these molecules owing to their seemingly limitless potential to serve as preferred molecules for numerous applications. Consequently, powerful activities are needed to think of new efficacious therapeutic agents, and it is imperative to discover novel synthetic analogs towards bacterial targets. Advancements in medicinal chemistry have focused on the development of novel sulfonamide and NAS‐bearing analogs that are less harmful, exhibit minimum side‐effort and enhanced dynamic properties. These advanced research areas are currently at the forefront of scientific inquiry. This present review elucidates the contemporary advancements in sulfonamide and N‐acylsulfonamide derivatives, which exhibit diverse and promising pharmacological activities. The different aspects of structure‐activity relationship (SAR) were discussed.
Enhanced Photoluminescence Quantum Yield of Metal Halide Perovskite Microcrystals for Multiple Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Tang Haitao , Jia Zhenglin , Xu Yalun , Liu Yong , Lin Qianqian
Published: September 2023

Recently, metal 1halide perovskites have shown compelling optoelectronic properties for both light‐emitting devices and scintillation of ionizing radiation. However, conventional lead‐based metal halide perovskites are still suffering from poor material stability and relatively low X‐ray light yield. This work reports cadmium‐based all‐inorganic metal halides and systematically investigates the influence of the metal ion incorporation on the optoelectronic properties. This work introduces the bi‐metal ion incorporation strategy and successfully enhances the photoluminescence quantum yield (98.9%), improves thermal stability, and extends the photoluminescence spectra, which show great potential for white light emission. In addition, the photoluminescent decay is also modulated with single metal ion incorporation, the charge carrier lifetime is successfully reduced to less than 1 µs, and the high luminescent efficiency and X‐ray light yield (41 000 photons MeV−1) are maintained. Then, these fast scintillators are demonstrated for high‐speed light communication and sensitive X‐ray detection and imaging.
Perovskite Solar Cells Based on Polymerized Chlorophyll Films as Environmentally Friendly Hole‐Transporting Layers
Authors: Liu Ziyan , Zhang Chao , Yang Lin , Xiang Tianfu , Li Na , Li Aijun , Sun Yuting , Ren Hangchen , Sasaki Shin‐ichi , Miyasaka Tsutomu , Wang Xiao‐Feng
Published: September 2023

Hole‐transporting layers (HTLs) play a crucial role in the performance of inverted, p‐i‐n perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Chlorophylls (Chls) are naturally abundant organic photoconductors on earth, with good charge carrier mobility and appropriate Fermi energy levels that make them promising candidates for use in photovoltaic devices. However, Chls films prepared using the solution method exhibit lower carrier mobility compared to other organic polymer films, which limits their application in PSCs. To address this issue, Chls molecules are chemically linked to reduce the charge transfer barrier, thus the transfer of charges between molecules is transformed to intramolecular charge transfer. This study synthesizes and characterizes two polymerized Chl films, PolyCuChl and PolyNiChl, as HTLs of CH3NH3PbI3‐based PSCs. PSCs based on the electrochemical polymerization of PolyChl HTLs demonstrate an enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) of up to 19.0%, which is the highest efficiency among devices based on Chl materials. Furthermore, these devices demonstrated exceptional long‐term stability. These results highlight the potential of polymerized Chl films as a viable alternative to conventional HTLs in PSCs. The approach utilizes abundant, environmentally friendly, and versatile Chl derivatives, and can be extended to develop next‐generation HTL materials for improved PSC performance.
Novel Strategy Toward Light Absorption Enhancement of Organic Solar Cells Using M13 Bacteriophage
Authors: Jun Minju , Nguyen Thanh Mien , Kim Sung-Jo , Kim Na-Yeong , Lee Ah Young , Kim Jong H. , Oh Jin-Woo , Seo Ji-Youn
Published: September 2023

In organic photovoltaics (OPVs), the development of efficient light‐harvesting organic donor and acceptor materials and the design of a device structure with appropriate visible light transmittance play an important role in increasing their power conversion efficiency. Light manipulation strategies in OPV are widely used to improve photovoltaic performance. One of the most popular technologies is antireflective coating (ARC), which enhances light utilization in devices. However, ARC has been investigated less in OPV cells than in organic silicon solar cells. Herein, a novel approach that employs the natural biomaterial M13 bacteriophage (M13) as an intermediate layer with a thickness of a few nanometers between the hole transport layer (HTL) and indium tin oxide is investigated. The functional surface hydrophilicity, obtained by genetic manipulation of M13, improves the light transmittance by more than 84% over the visible wavelength range of the OPV cells. Furthermore, it enhances the coherence between the HTL and the photoactive layer. Therefore, the photocurrent density and power conversion efficiency significantly increase, producing a high photovoltaic performance. The proposed approach of using natural biomaterials is the basis for a novel, low‐cost, and eco‐friendly design for light manipulation in solar cells.
Global research on nuclear energy in the context of health and environmental risks, considering economic interests
Authors: Klingelhöfer Doris , Braun Markus , Oremek Gerhard M. , Brüggmann Dörthe , Groneberg David A.
Published: September 2023

The question of whether nuclear energy—as a source with relatively low carbon dioxide emissions—can be classified as a sustainable energy source has come into focus in connection with climate change. There is a controversy over securing independence from fossil fuels and gas supplies from other countries through a revival of nuclear energy. On the other hand, some viewpoints are critical: the handling of nuclear waste and the still unclear risks to human health and the environment, especially in light of recent perils from Russian military attacks on Ukrainian nuclear plants. To evaluate the worldwide publications on nuclear energy under health and environmental aspects, socio‐economic parameters were included to provide an informed background for all stakeholders, from scientists to decision‐makers. The correlation between the number of nuclear power plants and the publication output of the countries is proven to be highly significant. Thus, the operating countries publish the most. It has been shown that the development and economic use of nuclear energy are major stimuli for scientific endeavors. Reactor accidents have also spurred research. Mathematical risk modeling has been the area with the highest citation rate to date, but environmental and health aspects have become more important, especially after major accidents. The results show the importance of economic interests in research on nuclear energy from health and environmental aspects. Against the background of transnational hazards, global research participation should be encouraged. Moreover, the international debate should not ignore the reality of threats and their possible impacts.

This article is categorized under:

Policy and Economics > Research and Development

Policy and Economics > Security

Human and Social Dimensions > Energy and Climate Justice
Quantifying beta cell function in the preclinical stages of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Galderisi Alfonso , Carr Alice L. J. , Martino Mariangela , Taylor Peter , Senior Peter , Dayan Colin
Published: September 2023

Clinically symptomatic type 1 diabetes (stage 3 type 1 diabetes) is preceded by a pre-symptomatic phase, characterised by progressive loss of functional beta cell mass after the onset of islet autoimmunity, with (stage 2) or without (stage 1) measurable changes in glucose profile during an OGTT. Identifying metabolic tests that can longitudinally track changes in beta cell function is of pivotal importance to track disease progression and measure the effect of disease-modifying interventions. In this review we describe the metabolic changes that occur in the early pre-symptomatic stages of type 1 diabetes with respect to both insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, as well as the measurable outcomes that can be derived from the available tests. We also discuss the use of metabolic modelling to identify insulin secretion and sensitivity, and the measurable changes during dynamic tests such as the OGTT. Finally, we review the role of risk indices and minimally invasive measures such as those derived from the use of continuous glucose monitoring.

Graphical Abstract
Reactivity of alloxydim herbicide: force and reaction electronic flux profiles
Authors: Villaverde Juan J. , Sandín-España Pilar , Alonso-Prados José L. , Alcamí Manuel , Lamsabhi Al Mokhtar
Published: September 2023

The reaction force profile and the electronic reaction flux concepts were explored for the herbicide alloxydim and some of its derivatives at B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) level of theory. The exploration was achieved by rotating the oxime bond which is the most reactive region of the molecule. The main objective is to understand how the rotation of this bond influences the properties of the molecule and induces an electronic reorganization. The results show that the rotation of the dihedral angle triggers alloxydim to go through three transition states. The first step of the transformation begins by the rupture of the hydrogen bond and is characterized by a pronounced structural reorganization. In the last step of the process the electronic reorganization is more important.
Spotting ethylene in forest soils—What influences the occurrence of the phytohormone?
Authors: Lang Verena , Schneider Veronika , Puhlmann Heike , Schengel Alexander , Seitz Steffen , Schack-Kirchner Helmer , Schäffer Jürgen , Maier Martin
Published: September 2023

Due to the rapid microbial degradation, ethylene (ethene; C2H4) detection in most soils is difficult. The knowledge about factors favoring the occurrence of C2H4 is mainly based on laboratory experiments which are not necessarily representative for real field conditions in forest soils. We report results from a total of 24 measuring plots in southwest Germany and more than 50,000 gas samples, including long-term forest monitoring sites and other study sites involving liming, artificial soil compaction, and temporary waterlogging. Many of the patterns and influencing factors identified in the laboratory were confirmed. In well-aerated forest soils, C2H4 was detected in 1.3% of the gas samples. C2H4 detection was higher at oxygen (O2) concentrations below 10% in the soil. The effect was positively correlated with bulk density in compacted soils and CO2, CH4, and N2O concentrations—factors that indicate reduced microbial activity and thus also facilitate the detection of C2H4. It could be detected 3.5 times more often in spruce than in beech stands, indicating that plant species plays a role and was not found to follow any distinct spatial or temporal pattern with the exception of seemingly random spatio-temporal clusters of root-born C2H4 near large roots of spruce trees. The long observation period and large dataset of this field study allowed valuable insights into C2H4 occurrence in forest soils under natural conditions supporting the theory that the plant hormone C2H4 is produced as a warning for anaerobic soil areas that are limiting root growth.
Future climate change in the Northern Indian Ocean as simulated with a high-resolution regional earth system model
Authors: Sein Dmitry V. , Martyanov Stanislav D. , Dvornikov Anton Y. , Cabos William , Ryabchenko Vladimir A. , Mishra Alok K. , Limareva Natalia , Alekseeva Evgenia , Jacob Daniela , Kumar Pankaj
Published: September 2023

This study examines the future climate change in the South Asia region during 2070–2099 with respect to the historical period (1975–2004) under RCP8.5 scenario using a high-resolution regional earth system model. We found substantial changes in the key climatic parameters over the South Asia region including ocean biological productivity, however, the magnitude of response varies spatially. A substantial increase (> 2.5 °C) in the projected annual-mean sea surface temperature (SST) was found over the Indian Ocean with the highest increase (~ 3.4 °C) locally in the northern part of the Arabian Sea and in the Persian Gulf, SST changes being significant throughout the study area with 95% confidence level. The changes in the sea surface salinity showed strong spatial variability with the highest freshening over northern Bay of Bengal and highest salinity in the Persian Gulf followed by northern Arabian Sea. The amount of annual-mean precipitation will substantially increase over the eastern coast of the Bay of Bengal (up to 1.5–2.0 mm/day) and along the equator in the band 10° S–10° N (0.5–1.5 mm/day), while it will decrease over the western part of the Bay of Bengal and in the northern states of India (− 0.5 to 1.0 mm/day). The most pronounced increase of precipitation rate in the future climate will occur over India (3–5 mm/day) and the eastern coasts of the Bay of Bengal (> 5 mm/day) during the monsoon period, and over the equatorial band (2–3 mm/day) during the post-monsoon period, with all precipitation changes indicated above being significant at 95% confidence level.
Health and performance effects of 12 weeks of small-sided street football training compared to grass football training in habitually active young men
Authors: Randers Morten B. , Hagman Marie , Christensen Jesper F. , Póvoas Susana , Nielsen Jens Jung , Krustrup Peter
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the health and exercise performance effects of street football training on very small pitches surrounded by boards in young habitually active men in comparison to small-sided football training on grass.

Methods

Thirty-nine habitually active men (30.7 ± 6.7 years, 90.9 ± 16.6 kg, 183.8 ± 4.5 cm, 39.6 ± 6.0 mL/min/kg) were randomly assigned to a street football training group (ST) or grass football group (GR) playing small-sided games for 70 min, 1.5 and 1.7 times per week for 12 weeks, respectively, or an inactive control group (CO). Intensity during training was measured using heart rate (HR) and GPS units. Pre- and post-intervention, a test battery was completed.

Results

Mean HR (87.1 ± 5.0 vs. 84.0 ± 5.3%HRmax; P > 0.05) and percentage of training time above 90%HRmax (44 ± 28 vs. 34 ± 24%; P > 0.05) were not different between ST and GR. VO2max increased (P < 0.001) by 3.6[95% CI 1.8;5.4]mL/min/kg in GR with no significant change in ST or CO. HR during running at 8 km/h decreased (P < 0.001) by 14[10;17]bpm in ST and by 12[6;19]bpm in GR, with no change in CO. No changes were observed in blood pressure, resting HR, total body mass, lean body mass, whole-body bone mineral density, fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, plasma insulin, total cholesterol(C), LDL-C or HDL-C. Moreover, no changes were observed in Yo-Yo IE2 performance, 30-m sprint time, jump length or postural balance.

Conclusion

Small-sided street football training for 12 weeks with 1–2 weekly sessions led to improvements in submaximal exercise capacity only, whereas recreational grass football training confirmed previous positive effects on submaximal exercise capacity as well as cardiorespiratory fitness.
The unmet information needs, quality of life, and care experiences of patients with neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) at follow-up: 6 months from diagnosis
Authors: Guccione Lisa , Gough Karla , Drosdowsky Allison , Price Timothy , Pavlakis Nick , Wyld David , Ransom David , Michael Michael , Schofield Penelope
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To identify changes in the healthcare preferences, patient experiences, and quality of life of patients with NETs at 6-month follow-up, informing the design of supportive care services.

Methods

This study presents 6-month follow-up data of a mixed-methods multi-site study. Demographic, clinical, and patient-reported outcome questionnaire data was collected.

Results

High percentages of suboptimal experiences of care were reported. Patients reported less positive experiences with being involved in decisions about their care and treatment; their family or someone close to them having the opportunity to talk to their cancer doctor, or having their family or someone close to them receive all the information they need to help care for them at home. Patients also reported negative experiences for on the information about their cancer accessible online and the usefulness of the information they accessed. Differences between baseline and follow-up scores were mostly not significant apart from anxiety and sleep disturbance scales,

Conclusions

Patients with NETs report difficulties in accessing and understanding written information that is persistent over time.

Practice implications

Outcomes will inform the design and development of an informational resource aimed at facilitating improved understanding for patients with NETs.
Developing an antibiogram for empiric antibiotic prescribing for adult non-spinal orthopaedic infections in a developing world setting
Authors: Arakkal Ashley , Centner Chad M. , Hilton Thomas , Nortje Marc , Held Michael , Roche Stephen , Brink Adrian J. , Mendelson Marc , Laubscher Maritz
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Empiric antibiotic strategies in the treatment of fracture-related infections, chronic osteomyelitis, prosthetic joint infection, and septic arthritis should be based on local microbiological antibiograms. This study aims to describe the microbiology and review the antibiogram profiles of bacterial isolates from patients undergoing surgical treatment for non-spinal orthopaedic infections, to identify the most appropriate empiric antibiotic strategy.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all cases of non-spinal orthopaedic infections treated surgically from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2018. The National Health Laboratory Service microbiology database was used to identify all intra-operative microbiological specimens obtained from orthopaedic patients, and data were correlated with the orthopaedic surgical database. Cases were divided into fracture-related infections, chronic osteomyelitis, prosthetic joint infection, and septic arthritis. Antibiotic susceptibility data were used to predict the efficacy of different empiric antibiotic regimens.

Results

A total of 107 cases were included in the study; 184 organisms were cultured. Overall, the most common organism cultured wasStaphylococcus aureus(25%) followed byAcinetobacter baumannii(9%),Enterococcus faecalis(7%) andEnterobacter cloacae(5%). Across all categories the oral antibiotic combination with the highest effectiveness (81%) would have been a combination of co-trimoxazole, ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin. The most effective intravenous antibiotic combination would have been either piperacillin–tazobactam, amikacin and vancomycin or meropenem and vancomycin; 90% of tested isolates were susceptible to either of these combinations.

Conclusion

Antibiogram profiles can serve to guide to empiric antibiotic choice in the management of different categories of non-spinal orthopaedic infections.
Positioning of epidural electrode for motor cortex stimulation in general anesthesia based on intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring to treat refractory trigeminal neuropathic pain
Authors: Malinova Vesna , Abboud Tammam , Rohde Veit , Mielke Dorothee
Published: September 2023

Background

Motor cortex stimulation (MCS) represents a treatment option for refractory trigeminal neuralgia (TGN). Usually, patients need to be awake during surgery to confirm a correct position of the epidural electrode above the motor cortex, reducing patient’s comfort.

Method

Epidural cortical mapping (ECM) and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were intraoperatively performed for correct localization of motor cortex under general anesthesia that provided comparable results to test stimulation after letting the patient to be awake during the operation.

Conclusion

Intraoperative ECM and MEPs facilitate a confirmation of correct MCS-electrode position above the motor cortex allowing the MCS-procedure to be performed under general anesthesia.
Longitudinal relations between teacher self-efficacy and student motivation through matching characteristics of perceived teaching practice
Authors: Hettinger Katharina , Lazarides Rebecca , Schiefele Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Theoretically, teacher self-efficacy relates to student outcomes through teaching behavior. However, underlying pathways through which specific teacher self-efficacy facets longitudinally relate to student motivation and emotion in classrooms remain unclear. This study aims to overcome this research gap by investigating whether student- and teacher-reported classroom discipline and social relatedness explain the longitudinal relations between teacher self-efficacy for classroom management and for emotional support and student self-efficacy and enjoyment. Multilevel analyses were carried out with data from 959 students and their 50 teachers. Results revealed that teacher self-efficacy for classroom management at the beginning of Grade 9 (T1) related indirectly to student enjoyment in the middle of Grade 10 (T3) through student-perceived class-level discipline at the beginning of Grade 10 (T2). Teachers’ self-efficacy for emotional support (T1) related positively to teacher- and student-reported social relatedness (T2); the latter related to student enjoyment (T3). Implications for future teacher motivation research are discussed.
Improved compact growth habit of Viola × wittrockiana through Rhizobium rhizogenes transformation
Authors: Desmet Siel , De Keyser Ellen , Leus Leen , Van Huylenbroeck Johan , Geelen Danny , Dhooghe Emmy
Published: September 2023

Compactness is an important breeding goal in the improvement of garden pansy varieties (Viola × wittrockiana Gams.). The desired compact stature is primarily obtained through the use of chemical growth retardants. Recently, an alternative strategy for creating compact ornamentals was proposed based on transformation by wild type rhizogenic agrobacteria and the regeneration of transformed hairy roots. Here, we report on the successful transformation and creation of compact garden pansy lines. The most efficient hairy root induction was obtained by Rhizobium rhizogenes strain ATCC15834. Shoot regeneration from hairy roots was obtained using 3 mg L−1 2iP and 0.3 mg L−1 2,4-D. The presence of R. rhizogenes T-DNA genes was confirmed in the regenerated lines. These lines displayed a varying degrees of dwarfed growth. Most notably the shoot length was reduced up to 49%. Other phenotypic traits that were induced include reduced peduncle length and smaller, wrinkled flowers. Several of these Ri lines with promising compactness have been selected for further breeding towards compact garden pansy varieties that are less dependent on chemical growth regulation.

Graphical abstract
Emergency department pathology order support tool (ED POST): a protocol using qualitative inquiry to inform design and development of a prototype to reduce low value care
Authors: Thomas Judith , Li Julie , Scowen Craig , Eigenstetter Alex , Georgiou Andrew
Published: September 2023

Laboratory tests have an important role in informing diagnosis and aiding in the determination of appropriate courses of management and/or treatment in the Emergency Department setting. Over-ordering of laboratory tests can lead to increased costs and/or unnecessary patient procedures, whilst under-ordering can lead to patient safety concerns and/or diagnostic error. Reducing over/under ordering through appropriate use of pathology has the potential to improve patient safety and/or reduce healthcare costs. As a dynamic electronic decision support tool, the Emergency Department Pathology Order Support Tool (ED POST) aims to facilitate effective ordering of pathology tests. This protocol details the methodological approach to be undertaken during the design and development of ED POST, commencing from the outset of the initial development of a prototype design. The research will undertake qualitative methods (interviews, focus group, and think-aloud observations) to develop business process models through collaboration with Emergency Department clinicians. The pre-development research will constitute stage 1 of the approach, with stage 2 focussed on evaluating the utility, usability and business process impact of the prototype to refine the prototype’s design. The collaborative and qualitative multi-method approach aims to elucidate an in-depth understanding of existing laboratory test ordering and decision-making processes in the Emergency Department, serving to inform the development of a relevant and practicable solution. Health researchers and digital health developers can draw on this approach to inform research planning activities for health information technology intervention design projects and can follow the developmental journey of ED POST as its outcomes are reported in the literature.
An improved deep learning-based optimal object detection system from images
Authors: Yadav Satya Prakash , Jindal Muskan , Rani Preeti , de Albuquerque Victor Hugo C. , dos Santos Nascimento Caio , Kumar Manoj
Published: September 2023

Computer vision technology for detecting objects in a complex environment often includes other key technologies, including pattern recognition, artificial intelligence, and digital image processing. It has been shown that Fast Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with You Only Look Once (YOLO) is optimal for differentiating similar objects, constant motion, and low image quality. The proposed study aims to resolve these issues by implementing three different object detection algorithms—You Only Look Once (YOLO), Single Stage Detector (SSD), and Faster Region-Based Convolutional Neural Networks (R-CNN). This paper compares three different deep-learning object detection methods to find the best possible combination of feature and accuracy. The R-CNN object detection techniques are performed better than single-stage detectors like Yolo (You Only Look Once) and Single Shot Detector (SSD) in term of accuracy, recall, precision and loss.
Practical Blind Image Denoising via Swin-Conv-UNet and Data Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Kai , Li Yawei , Liang Jingyun , Cao Jiezhang , Zhang Yulun , Tang Hao , Fan Deng-Ping , Timofte Radu , Gool Luc Van
Published: September 2023

While recent years have witnessed a dramatic upsurge of exploiting deep neural networks toward solving image denoising, existing methods mostly rely on simple noise assumptions, such as additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN), JPEG compression noise and camera sensor noise, and a general-purpose blind denoising method for real images remains unsolved. In this paper, we attempt to solve this problem from the perspective of network architecture design and training data synthesis. Specifically, for the network architecture design, we propose a swin-conv block to incorporate the local modeling ability of residual convolutional layer and non-local modeling ability of swin transformer block, and then plug it as the main building block into the widely-used image-to-image translation UNet architecture. For the training data synthesis, we design a practical noise degradation model which takes into consideration different kinds of noise (including Gaussian, Poisson, speckle, JPEG compression, and processed camera sensor noises) and resizing, and also involves a random shuffle strategy and a double degradation strategy. Extensive experiments on AGWN removal and real image denoising demonstrate that the new network architecture design achieves state-of-the-art performance and the new degradation model can help to significantly improve the practicability. We believe our work can provide useful insights into current denoising research. The source code is available at https://github.com/cszn/SCUNet.
Experimental assessment of SDR-based 5G positioning: methodologies and insights
Authors: Palamà Ivan , Bartoletti Stefania , Bianchi Giuseppe , Blefari Melazzi Nicola
Published: September 2023

While GPS has traditionally been the primary positioning technology, 3GPP has more recently begun to include positioning services as native, built-in features of future-generation cellular networks. With Release 16 of the 3GPP, finalized in 2021, a significant standardization effort has taken place for positioning in 5G networks, especially in terms of physical layer signals, measurements, schemes, and architecture to meet the requirements of a wide range of regulatory, commercial and industrial use cases. However, experimentally driven research aiming to assess the real-world performance of 5G positioning is still lagging behind, root causes being (i) the slow integration of positioning technologies in open-source 5G frameworks, (ii) the complexity in setting up and properly configuring a 5G positioning testbed, and (iii) the cost of a multi-BS deployment. This paper sheds some light on all such aspects. After a brief overview of state of the art in 5G positioning and its support in open-source platforms based on software-defined radios (SDRs), we provide advice on how to set up positioning testbeds, and we demonstrate, via a set of real-world measurements, how to assess aspects such as reference signal configurations, localization algorithms, and network deployments. Our contribution further includes an assessment of the efficacy of utilizing measurements obtained from a single-link limited-size testbed to forecast localization performance in more elaborate (and hence more expensive) multi-node network settings. We posit that our methodological insights can assist in lowering the entry cost barriers associated with conducting 5G positioning experiments and, consequently, promote additional experimental research in this domain.
Potentials of a friction-induced recycling process to improve resource and energy efficiency in manufacturing technology
Authors: Borgert T. , Milaege D. , Schweizer S. , Homberg W. , Schaper M. , Tröster T.
Published: September 2023

Efforts to enhance sustainability in all areas of life are increasing worldwide. In the field of manufacturing technology, a wide variety of approaches are being used to improve both resource and energy efficiency. Efficiency as well as sustainability can be improved by creating a circular economy or through energy-efficient recycling processes. As part of the interdisciplinary research group "Light—Efficient—Mobile" investigations on the energy-efficient friction-induced recycling process have been carried out at the department of Forming and Machining Technology at Paderborn University. E.g. using the friction-induced recycling process, different formless solid aluminum materials can be direct recycled into semi-finished products in an energy-efficient manner. The results of investigations with regard to the influence of the geometrical shape and filling rate of the aluminum particles to be recycled as well as the rotational speed of the continuously rotating wheel are explained in this paper. In addition to the recycling of aluminum chips, aluminum particles like powders from the field of additive manufacturing are processed. Based on these results, the future potentials of solid-state recycling processes and their contribution to the circular economy are discussed. The main focus here is on future interdisciplinary research projects to achieve circularity in the manufacturing of user-individual semi-finished products as well as the possibility to selectively adjust the product properties with the continuous recycling process.
The differential impact by gender of the Covid-19 pandemic on the labor outcomes of older adults
Authors: Depalo Domenico , Pereda-Fernández Santiago
Published: September 2023

We study the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic during the first semester of 2020 on the labor market outcomes of elderly workers, using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. We measure the gender gap in the conditional mean of the probability of experiencing a job interruption, of changing the number of hours worked, and of working from home. We control for a rich set of observable characteristics, including several measures of cognitive and non-cognitive ability. We apply decomposition methods to distinguish, on the one hand, the part of the gap that is due to gender differences in the endowments of the determinants of the outcome in question and, on the other, to gender differences in the effects of these determinants. We find that there is no gender gap in the probability of experiencing a job interruption nor in the probability of working fewer hours than before the pandemic. In contrast, there were significant differences in the probability of increasing the amount of worked hours or working remotely, which were larger for females in both cases. For the latter variable, the difference is largely attributable to different endowments between men and women. However, the gap in the probability of working longer hours is mostly attributable to the coefficients component.
Introspection Dynamics in Asymmetric Multiplayer Games
Authors: Couto Marta C. , Pal Saptarshi
Published: September 2023

Evolutionary game theory and models of learning provide powerful frameworks to describe strategic decision-making in social interactions. In the simplest case, these models describe games among two identical players. However, many interactions in everyday life are more complex. They involve more than two players who may differ in their available actions and in their incentives to choose each action. Such interactions can be captured by asymmetric multiplayer games. Recently, introspection dynamics has been introduced to explore such asymmetric games. According to this dynamics, at each time step players compare their current strategy to an alternative strategy. If the alternative strategy results in a payoff advantage, it is more likely adopted. This model provides a simple way to compute the players’ long-run probability of adopting each of their strategies. In this paper, we extend some of the previous results of introspection dynamics for 2-player asymmetric games to games with arbitrarily many players. First, we derive a formula that allows us to numerically compute the stationary distribution of introspection dynamics for any multiplayer asymmetric game. Second, we obtain explicit expressions of the stationary distribution for two special cases. These cases are additive games (where the payoff difference that a player gains by unilaterally switching to a different action is independent of the actions of their co-players), and symmetric multiplayer games with two strategies. To illustrate our results, we revisit several classical games such as the public goods game.