bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetoscopic Release of Amniotic Bands Based on the Evidence—A Systematic Review
Authors: Ferrer‐Marquez Fernando , Peiro Jose L. , Tonni Gabriele , Ruano Rodrigo
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the perinatal outcomes of fetuses who underwent fetal surgery for the management of Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS). A systematic review of studies reporting on the perinatal outcome of fetuses undergoing fetoscopic release of amniotic bands according to the (PRISMA) guidelines was performed. The MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched. In total, 17 studies reporting 37 cases of ABS that underwent amniotic band release by fetoscopy were included. The median gestational age at which fetal surgery was performed was 22 weeks (range 18–29 weeks). PPROM occurred in 51.3%, while fetal survival reached 89.2%. The success of fetal surgery was 75.7% in preserving and maintaining the functionality of the affected limb. Fetoscopic release of amniotic bands can preserve the affected limb and its function in cases of ABS and prevent fetal death in cases of ABS involving the umbilical cord. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal criteria for selecting patients who can benefit from fetal surgery, considering that it is an intervention that is not free of perinatal complications.
Nutritional status and neurodevelopmental levels in infants at high risk of cerebral palsy
Authors: Zhou Hongyu , Qiu Huiying , Wang Xiaoyue , Zhao Jingyi , Zhang Jingbo , Zhang Yuan , Peng Tingting , Yang Xubo , Cheng Yahui , Hou Qingfen , Yang Wen , Huang Xiaoyin , Qiu Shaihong , Ma Liying , Zheng Yuai , Tang Hongmei , He Lu , Xu Kaishou
Published: July 2024

Importance

Nutrition is associated with neurodevelopment. Infants at high risk of cerebral palsy (CP) usually suffer from undernutrition, yet the relationship between nutritional status and neurodevelopmental levels is unclear.

Objective

To describe the nutritional status characteristics of infants at high risk of CP, and to explore the relationship between neurodevelopmental levels and nutritional status.

Methods

This single‐center cross‐sectional study enrolled infants at high risk of CP, with corrected age from 0 days to 12 months. Weight and height were measured and calculated into z‐scores, which were used to classify the nutritional status based on the World Health Organization growth charts and American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition standards. The Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development were used to evaluate the developmental levels of gross motor, fine motor, cognition, receptive communication, and expressive communication.

Results

A total of 479 infants at high risk of CP were recruited, with 43.4% classified as undernutrition. Compared to those with normal neurodevelopment, the odds of moderate and severe undernutrition were about 1.8 and 3.9 times higher in gross motor delay, 2.2 and 3.1 times higher in fine motor delay, 2.5 and 9.4 times higher in cognition delay, 2.2 and 3.9 times higher in receptive communication delay, and 3.0 and 5.6 times higher in expressive communication delay. There were significant positive correlations between nutritional status and neurodevelopmental levels (P < 0.001).

Interpretation

Undernutrition and neurodevelopmental delays are prevalent among infants at high risk of CP. Worse nutritional status was correlated with lower neurodevelopmental levels.
Speech‐language performance and comorbid disorders in children with perisylvian syndrome induced by viral encephalitis
Authors: Sun Dianrong , Zhao Jianhui , Zhang Leihong , Yu Rong , Hou Mei
Published: July 2024

Importance

Viral encephalitis is one of the main causes of the perisylvian syndrome, which can cause damage to children's language‐speech, feeding, and swallowing functions. Comprehensive assessment of language‐speech and swallowing function and comorbidity research on these children will help children's rehabilitation workers to better understand the disease and strengthen the systematic management of comorbid disorders.

Objective

To describe speech and language pathology and the occurrence of comorbid disorders in children with perisylvian syndrome induced by viral encephalitis.

Methods

Twenty‐two children with acquired perisylvian syndrome were recruited in this study. Language and speech functions, including oral motor function, swallowing function, language ability, and dysarthria were assessed in these patients. Craniocerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroencephalogram examination, and intelligence evaluation were performed to determine brain lesions and comorbid disorders.

Results

All children exhibited different degrees of oral movement, dysphagia, and speech and language disorders. There was a significant difference between expressive and receptive language ability (P < 0.05). There were 10, 8, and 12 children who had an intellectual disability, limb disability, and epilepsy, respectively. In addition to the damage of the peri‐tegmental cortex found in MRI, thalamus lesions occurred in 19 cases and white matter involvement in six cases.

Interpretation

Children with acquired perisylvian syndrome caused by viral encephalitis are characterized by persistent pseudobulbar dysfunction, speech and language impairment, and orofacial diplegia. They have a high probability of secondary epilepsy and are prone to motor and cognitive impairment, which need systematic management.
Reducing the moisture susceptibility of recycled hot‐mix asphalt mixture with composite modification technology
Authors: Xiong Jianping , Zeng Lihao , Yao Yuquan , Gao Jie , Yu Di
Published: July 2024

Styrene–butadiene–styrene block copolymer (SBS)‐modified asphalt is a key material for constructing recycled hot‐mix asphalt mixtures (RHMAs). However, these mixtures still risk insufficient moisture stability. To this end, this study investigates the feasibility of asphalt composite modification technology to enhance RHMA performance. SBS, high‐viscosity agent (HVA) and crumb‐rubber materials (CRM) were used to prepare SBS‐HVA‐ and SBS‐CRM‐modified asphalt, with SBS‐modified asphalt as the control group, and the adhesion properties of the asphalt were evaluated using surface free energy tests. RHMAs with 50% reclaimed asphalt pavement were then prepared with each type of modified asphalt. The moisture susceptibility of these mixtures was analyzed using moisture‐induced sensitivity, freeze–thaw splitting and immersion Marshall tests. It was found that HVA significantly enhanced the adhesion of SBS‐modified asphalt under dry conditions, while CRM had a minimal effect. Compared to RHMA with SBS‐modified asphalt, HVA and CRM additives are crucial for enhancing the moisture stability of RHMA in the immersion Marshall test. However, CRM does not improve the moisture stability of RHMA in the moisture‐induced sensitivity and freezing–thaw splitting tests. From the conducted study, it can be proposed that SBS and HVA composite‐modified asphalt can be utilized in RHMAs to achieve higher moisture stability. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mass Spectrometric and Artificial Intelligence‐Based Identification of the Secretome of Plasmodium falciparum Merozoites to Provide Novel Candidates for Vaccine Development Pipeline
Authors: Munjal Akshay , Rex Devasahayam Arokia Balaya , Garg Prachi , Prasad Thottethodi Subrahmanya Keshava , Mishra Sai Kumar , Malhotra Yuktika , Yadav Deepika , John Jerry , P. Preeti , Rawal Kamal , Singh Shailja
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Merozoites are the only extracellular form of blood stage parasites, making it a worthwhile target. Multiple invasins that are stored in the merozoite apical organelles, are secreted just prior to invasion, and mediates its interaction with RBC. A comprehensive identification of all these secreted invasins is lacking and this study addresses that gap.

Experimental Design

Pf3D7 merozoites were enriched and triggered to discharge apical organelle contents by exposure to ionic conditions mimicking that of blood plasma. The secreted proteins were separated from cellular contents and both the fractions were subjected to proteomic analysis. Also, the identified secreted proteins were subjected to GO, PPI network analysis, and AI‐based in silico approach to understand their vaccine candidacy.

Results

A total of 63 proteins were identified in the secretory fraction with membrane and apical organellar localization. This includes various MSPs, micronemal EBAs and rhoptry bulb proteins, which play a crucial role in initial and late merozoite attachment, and majority of them qualified as vaccine candidates.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

We, for the first time, report the secretory repertoire of merozoite and its status for vaccine candidacy. This information can be utilized to develop better invasion blocking multisubunit vaccines, comprising of immunological epitopes from several secreted invasins.
Form Invariance of Raychaudhuri Equation in the Presence of Inflaton‐Type Fields
Authors: Panda Arijit , Gangopadhyay Debashis , Manna Goutam
Published: July 2024

We show that the Raychaudhuri equation (RE) remains form invariant for certain solutions of scalar fields whose Lagrangian is non‐canonical and of the form , with and the potential. Solutions exist for both homogeneous and inhomogeneous fields that are like inflatons. Certain recent observations indicate that the cosmos is inhomogeneous and thus their results are in sync with latest observations. So the RE can accommodate primordial inhomogeneities as well as cosmologically relevant scenarios.
Superconductive Sodalite‐Like Clathrate Hydrides MXH12$\left(\text{MXH}\right)_{12}$ with Critical Temperatures of near 300 K under Pressures
Authors: Fan Yuxiang , Li Bin , Zhu Cong , Cheng Jie , Liu Shengli , Shi Zhixiang
Published: July 2024

Herein, a series of ternary hydride compounds crystallizing in the cubic structure as potential rare‐earth and alkaline‐earth superconductors are designed and investigated. First‐principles calculations are performed on these prospective superconductors across the pressure range of 50–200 GPa, revealing their electronic band structures, phonon dispersions, electron–phonon (e–) interactions, and superconducting properties. Several compounds are identified as dynamically stable, with ScYbH and LuYbH remaining stable at 70 GPa and at 100 GPa. Notably, Eliashberg theory and e– coupling calculations predict CaLuH to exhibit a remarkable of up to 294 K at 180 GPa. In these findings, ternary hydrides are unveiled as a promising class of high‐temperature superconductors and insights are provided for achieving superconductivity at lower or ambient pressures through material design and exploration.
Approximate solutions for diatomic molecules under combined potentials in a global monopole and Aharonov–Bohm flux field
Authors: Nayek Sujay Kumar , Dutta Barnali , Pradhan Bhumika
Published: July 2024

Bound state energy eigensolutions of nine different diatomic molecules, specifically, , TiH, , CO, NO, ScH, CrH, HCl and LiH, placed in a point‐like global monopole, have been calculated by solving the time‐independent Schrödinger equation (SE). The molecules are confined by the Aharonov–Bohm (AB) flux field and the interaction potential among the charged particles is governed by the combined screened modified Kratzer potential (SMKP) plus Hulthén potential model. Three other special cases of the interaction potential have also been discussed here. Asymptotic iteration method has been used for the mathematical calculations. It is difficult to solve the SE exactly for any non‐zero values of the azimuthal quantum number due to the presence of the centrifugal barrier term. The well‐known Pekeris approximation technique for the terms and has taken into consideration for the purpose of performing numerical computations connected to an arbitrary state. The outcomes of this study are in reasonable agreement with the results of previous research on SMKP, Kratzer‐Fues potential, and modified Kratzer potential in the Minkowski space. It is observed that the energy spectra of the diatomic molecules suffer considerable change due to the effects of the background AB‐flux field and topological defect parameter.
Output feedback finite‐time boundary control for an unstable heat PDE with spatially varying coefficients
Authors: Ghaderi Najmeh , Mojallali Hamed
Published: July 2024

This article studies the output feedback finite‐time boundary control for unstable heat systems with the spatially varying coefficient. First, a finite‐time observer with switched gains under a state‐dependent switching law is designed in order to estimate the states of the system in a finite‐time only exerting one displacement boundary measurement. Next, an observer‐based linear finite‐time control is planned. Namely, a linear switched control under a state‐dependent switching law is proposed to vanish every solution of an unstable heat partial differential equation with spatially varying coefficients in a finite time. We also present explicit forms for the proposed observer gains and output feedback finite‐time controller. Finally, some numerical simulations are provided to confirm the theoretical results.
From muscular to dexterous: A systematic review to understand the robotic taxonomy in construction and effectiveness
Authors: Gao Yifan , Shu Jiangpeng , Xia Zhe , Luo Yaozhi
Published: July 2024

This work presents an investigation of robotic technologies' effectiveness in construction activities. Sixty‐four highly relevant publications were identified from the database. By systematically reviewing the publications, the secondary data that are of interest to the review theme were retrieved and further evaluated. It is found that robotic technologies for automated construction is a growing field, where the taxonomy of robot was reflected in a diversified manner in the existing studies, ranging from the muscular guy—robotic manipulator—to the dexterous ones—unmanned aerial vehicle, autonomous mobile robot, automated guided vehicle, autonomous construction machinery and quadruped robot. In addition, the existing studies have provided substantial evidence to reveal the robotic technologies' effectiveness against traditional human methods in construction scenarios, and the measures for effectiveness consisted of productivity, precision, and success rate. With the evidence, it seems that the construction sector could benefit from robotic technologies to achieve intelligent workflows. Furthermore, based on the existing knowledge foundation in the current literature, a theoretical framework for future research direction is proposed. The framework envisages the integration of large models with construction robots to address operational inefficiencies, reduce costs, and simplify management.
Competing with the platform: Complementor positioning and cross‐platform response to entry
Authors: Kapacinskaite Aldona , Mostajabi Ahmadreza
Published: July 2024

Research Summary

This study contrasts traditional entry dynamics with platform owner entry into a complementor market and examines cross‐platform complementor response to competition with the platform. Generalists experience low repositioning cost and are more likely to shift effort away, while specialists focus their effort on the focal platform. We examine Apple's “Files” app entry and find support for our hypotheses: generalists shift effort toward the competing platform, while specialists double down on the focal platform. Moreover, empirically comparing Apple's entry with that of other large firms, we find that only the platform owner elicits a strong complementor response. This article contributes to the competitive and corporate strategy literatures, underscoring how complementor heterogeneity affects cross‐platform allocation of effort when the platform owner becomes a competitor in complementor spaces.

Managerial Summary

Given the growing managerial and regulatory interest in competitive arenas on digital platforms, we analyze how firms respond to competition with the platform owner. We hypothesize that platform‐enabled firms (complementors) with an outside option—those who also operate on a different platform—reposition, while firms only focused on a single platform double down. Examining the case of the “Files” app on Apple's App Store, we find support for these predictions. We also study other large firm entries on App Store (by Microsoft and SanDisk), but do not observe a meaningful response by complementors. We describe how market entry by the platform owner differs from traditional entry and argue stakeholders may benefit from a deeper understanding of the unique nature of competing with a platform.
Analytical solution of two non‐identical edge cracks in an infinite strip under anti‐plane shear wave
Authors: Panja Sourav Kumar , Alam Samim , Mandal Subhas Chandra
Published: July 2024

This article presents an extensive analytical solution addressing the interaction between two non‐identical edge cracks in an infinite orthotropic strip under anti‐plane shear waves. Most studies assume identical cracks or single edge crack in a strip, but this research breaks new ground by considering cracks of different sizes. By incorporating mixed‐type boundary conditions, the study derives dual integral equations. These equations are then transformed into a singular integral equation of Cauchy type with the aid of a trial solution and contour integration technique. The singular integral equation is further converted into a system of integral equations, which are solved numerically utilizing Jacobi polynomials. The obtained solutions are utilized to derive expressions for the stress intensity factor (SIF) and crack opening displacement (COD) at the crack tip using Krenk's interpolation formulae. The derived results are presented graphically and compared against existing solutions for single edge crack and symmetric edge cracks in static scenario.
Building Digital Capacity in the Face of Crisis: Exploring the Impact of Municipal Amalgamations in an Intergovernmental Context
Authors: Torfs Inke , Wayenberg Ellen
Published: July 2024

Local governments play a crucial role in crisis response and policymaking, necessitating robust digital capacity to effectively tackle complex challenges. To meet the contemporary demand for building local capacity, especially in the digital domain and in anticipation of future crises, European countries are increasingly pursuing municipal amalgamations. Despite this prevalent trend, the impact of such amalgamations remains uncertain, lacking sufficient empirical research and neglecting intergovernmental relations. This chapter addresses this gap by (1) assessing the impact of municipal amalgamations on local digital capacity and (2) scrutinizing their intergovernmental context. Employing Jane Fountain’s Technology Enactment Framework, we propose a research model for an in-depth analysis of digital capacity evolution in a Flemish amalgamated municipality from 2017 to 2022. The results suggest that a municipal amalgamation can indeed serve as a valuable means to enhance local digital capacity, but sustained intergovernmental support remains essential. While various types of intergovernmental relations are feasible, respondents express a preference for a more centralized approach over the prevailing multilayered approach. This preference arises from an anticipation of swifter policy responses aligned with the dynamic evolution of technology and a more coordinated strategy that harmonizes local internal efforts with the intergovernmental initiatives.
Towards Place-Sensitive Crisis Management? Pandemic Policies in Five Nordic Countries
Authors: Baldersheim Harald , Haug Are Vegard
Published: July 2024

The policy issue in focus in this chapter is the local implementation of covid management policies during the pandemic 2020–2022 in the five Nordic countries. More specifically, we seek to determine the extent to which national policies were shaped and implemented in ways that took account of variations in local contexts, such as, for example, varying levels of contagion, different demographic structures, economic needs, access to medical treatment, et cetera. The analysis is based on data on how 411 mayors experienced the Covid policies of the Nordic countries and thus presents a bottom-up perspective on IGR in times of uncertainty and turbulence. The main hypothesis is that the mayors’ experiences of IGR significantly depend upon their access to national levels of decision-making. The hypothesis was largely confirmed, but the analysis also demonstrated that a series of other factors influenced IGRs as experienced by mayors, such as political affiliation or centre–periphery contrasts, while formal institutional variations did not matter as much as expected.
Intergovernmental Relations in Digitalization Policy: German Tax Administration Between Centralization and Decentralization
Authors: Wehmeier Liz Marla
Published: July 2024

Despite the high hopes associated with public sector digitalization, especially in times of crisis, it does not yet hold up to its potential. Both the negotiation and implementation of digitalization policy presents a challenge for all levels of government, requiring extensive coordination efforts. In general, there are conflicting views if more centralized or decentralized policy processes are more effective for coordination—a tension further exacerbated in the context of digitalization policy within multilevel systems, where the imperative of standardization collides with decentralization forces inherent in federalism.

Based on the analysis of expert interviews (n = 29), this chapter examines how digitalization policy in the context of the German federal intergovernmental relations context is located and negotiated, and how this relates to local policy implementation. Focusing on the decentralized German tax administration as a case study, the analysis reveals a shift from a conflicted to a multi-layered policy process, underpinned by a mechanism of “concentration without centralization.” Strategic and operational competencies are bundled in an institutionalized and legally regulated network for digitalization to achieve necessary standardization of digital infrastructure. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the influence of intergovernmental relations on local implementation and the associated challenges and opportunities.
Nutzung von Patentdaten zur Erfassung der wirtschaftlichen Verwertung von Forschung
Authors: Lippert Klaus , Förstner Konrad U.
Published: July 2024

Die Leistung medizinischer Forschungseinrichtungen lässt sich nicht nur aus dem Blickwinkel des Publikationsoutputs, sondern auch aus dem Blickwinkel der wirtschaftlichen Verwertbarkeit betrachten und bewerten. Um die wirtschaftliche Verwertbarkeit von Forschung zu messen können insbesondere daraus hervorgegangene Patente betrachtet werden.
Input-Output-Relationen – Zu den Voraussetzungen einer Effizienzmessung medizinischer Fakultäten anhand von Drittmitteln
Authors: Hartstein Judith
Published: July 2024

Medizinische Fakultäten in Deutschland müssen ihre strategischen Kalkulationen auf mehrere Wettbewerbe beziehen. Der vorliegende Beitrag greift die intra-fakultäre Perspektive heraus und versteht die Sicherstellung von Effizienz als zentrale Aufgabe des Controllings durch Dekanate. Empirisch wird untersucht, ob an die an den Fakultäten gehaltenen Daten für die Betrachtung von Effizienz geeignet sind, also des mengenmäßigen Outputs in Bezug auf den Input. Die Voraussetzungen der Effizienzmessung werden dafür als Modellannahmen für die lineare Regression verstanden und exemplarisch diskutiert. Neben den etablierten Variablen wissenschaftliche Beschäftigte (Input) und Publikationen (Output), werden jüngst auch Drittmittel sowohl als Input- als auch als Outputvariablen vorgeschlagen. Aber wäre für die Effizienzmessung eine Perspektive auf Drittmittel als Input möglich und sinnvoll? Und welche Drittmitteldarstellung wäre als Output-Parameter am geeignetsten? Die Diskussion der Ergebnisse der Untersuchungen mündet in Empfehlungen zu den Voraussetzungen einer Effizienzmessung an medizinischen Fakultäten.
Qualitätsmaße zur Evaluierung medizinischer Forschung – Erkenntnisse und Empfehlungen aus dem Projekt QuaMedFo
Authors: Peters Isabella , Biesenbender Sophie
Published: July 2024

Das Verbundprojekt QuaMedFo widmete sich insbesondere der Erforschung der praktischen Verwendung und Eignung von verschiedenen, in Evaluationskontexten der deutschen medizinischen Fakultäten und Universitätskliniken verwendeten Indikatoren. Dabei wählte das Projekt einen forschungsinformationsbasierten Ansatz, der verschiedene Daten bzw. Datenzugänge analysierte und ihre methodisch-theoretische wie auch praktische Nutzbarkeit für verschiedene Anwendungskontexte überprüfte. Dieser Beitrag fasst die zentralen Ergebnisse von QuaMedFo zusammen, beschreibt die Herausforderungen für die Evaluation medizinischer Forschung und formuliert Erkenntnisse und Empfehlungen für die zukünftige Evaluierungspraxis.
Corrosion
Authors: Rincent Jean-Jacques Henri
Published: July 2024

The Swiss standard SAI 267/1 (2013) leads to validate the quality of tie rod insulation. This test is carried out to determine whether the tie rod can be re-tensioned.
Static Tests
Authors: Rincent Jean-Jacques Henri
Published: July 2024

The static tests must be analyzed in taking into account the corrosion links with different parts of the anchor’s head. A slight over evaluation of the tension force.
Health literacy in physical trauma patients
Authors: Christ Alexandra , Bamer Oskar , Seilern und Aspang Jesse , Aldrian Silke , Herold Johannes , Haider Thomas
Published: July 2024

Background

Health literacy (HL) refers to the ability to understand and process information provided by the healthcare system and depends on various factors, such as language comprehension, education, and social environment. Low HL was recently associated with increased readmission, morbidity, and mortality. Little is known about HL levels in physical trauma patients. The aim of this study was to determine general HL in physical trauma patients in an outpatient setting and to evaluate possible differences based on demographic characteristics.

Material and methods

A total of 100 physical trauma patients were recruited in the outpatient trauma facility of the Medical University of Vienna. All recruited patients completed the German Short Test of Functional Health Literacy (S-TOFHLA).

Results

The evaluated HL index ranged between 20 and 36 points (highest achievable score: 36 points), with the mean value calculated at 34.3 (adequate). Out of 100 participants, 97 patients (97%) showed adequate HL and 3 patients (3%) reached a score corresponding to a marginal understanding. No patient showed inadequate HL utilizing the S‑TOFHLA tool. No significant differences were found between different demographic categories, including age, education level, native language, and injury location.

Conclusion

In this study, included outpatient trauma patients demonstrated an overall adequate understanding of healthcare related information. Age, sociodemographic background, and/or educational status did not influence performance, which leads to the question as to whether the German version of the S‑TOFHLA is valid to representatively measure HL in these patients. Furthermore, regarding the obvious shortcomings of the S‑TOFHLA, the education standard of the respective population should be taken into consideration when choosing an appropriate testing tool.
Endo- and exothermal mechanocaloric response in rubbers
Authors: Matsuo Takasuke , Takajo Daisuke
Published: July 2024

We investigated mechanocaloric properties of two silicone rubbers using an in-house made apparatus. Tension $$f$$
f
and temperature change $$\Delta T$$

Δ
T

of the rubber samples in the form of tapes were measured as they were extended up to a normalized length $$\lambda \approx 2$$

λ
≈
2

at a constant rate. Endothermal and exothermal components of the thermal response were observed and separated. The engineering stress and (decrease of) the entropy density derived from the data were analyzed. The number densities of the partial chains and the coefficients of the positive (endothermal) entropy contribution were determined as material constants of the rubbers. Non-idealities were revealed by the large difference between the work done on the rubber for the extension and the heat that evolved in the process. It decreased to a considerable extent when the heat was corrected for the endothermal effect arising from the above-mentioned endothermal entropy contribution. This may be understood as an indication of hidden near-ideality of silicone rubbers. Dissipation of the work into heat is quantified using the difference between the temperature changes on extension and contraction.
Strategic Bureaucracy: The Convergence of Bureaucratic and Strategic Management Logics in the Organizational Restructuring of Universities
Authors: Woelert Peter , Stensaker Bjørn
Published: July 2024

Over recent decades, one can identify two key narratives associated with changes in university organization and governance. The first narrative focuses on the administrative consequences of an off-loading state relinquishing direct control over some of universities’ internal operations while at the same time driving bureaucratization at the institutional level. The second narrative focuses on the emergence of an increasingly competitive and uncertain environment driving universities to transform into strategically managed organizations. In this paper, we argue that while the organizational logics associated with these two narratives imply differently accentuated forms of legitimation, they converge and combine with respect to key dimensions of universities’ internal organizing, ultimately giving rise to a hybrid form of organizational governance we label ‘strategic bureaucracy’. Such strategic bureaucracy, we illustrate, is characterized by a strong focus on strategic leadership and the associated management techniques while also intensifying organizational features traditionally associated with bureaucratic governance such as formalization and hierarchical authority.
Non-thermal obliteration of critically ranked carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and its resistance gene in a batch atmospheric plasma reactor
Authors: Mosaka Thabang B. M. , Unuofin John O. , Daramola Michael O. , Tizaoui Chedly , Iwarere Samuel A.
Published: July 2024

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been implicated as direct key reservoir of both antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) associated with human infection, as high concentrations of ARBs and ARGs have been detected in recycled hospital wastewater. Among the ARBs, the carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii has been ranked as priority 1 (critical) pathogen by the World Health Organization (WHO), due to its overwhelming burden on public health. Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating non-thermal plasma (NTP) technology as an alternative disinfection step to inactivate this bacterium and its ARGs. Culture-based method and PCR were employed in confirming the carbapenem resistance gene blaNDM-1 in A. baumannii (BAA 1605). Suspension of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (24 h culture) was prepared from the confirmed isolate and subjected to plasma treatment at varying time intervals (3 min, 6 min, 9 min, 12 min, and 15 min) in triplicates. The plasma-treated samples were evaluated for re-growth and the presence of the resistance gene. The treatment resulted in a 1.13 log reduction after 3 min and the highest log reduction of ≥ 8 after 15 min, and the results also showed that NTP was able to inactivate the blaNDM-1 gene. The log reduction and gel image results suggest that plasma disinfection has a great potential to be an efficient tertiary treatment step for WWTPs.
Harnessing Immersive Virtual Reality: A Comprehensive Scoping Review of its Applications in Assessing, Understanding, and Treating Eating Disorders
Authors: Di Natale Anna Flavia , Pizzoli Silvia Francesca Maria , Brizzi Giulia , Di Lernia Daniele , Frisone Fabio , Gaggioli Andrea , Rabarbari Elisa , Oasi Osmano , Repetto Claudia , Rossi Chiara , Scerrati Elisa , Villani Daniela , Riva Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Background

Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) has shown promise in the assessment, understanding, and treatment of eating disorders (EDs), providing a dynamic platform for clinical innovation. This scoping review aims to synthesize the recent advancements and applications of IVR in addressing these complex psychological disorders.

Methods

This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Protocols, focusing on studies published in the past five years. It included peer-reviewed papers that used IVR for ED assessment, examination, or treatment. A comprehensive database search provided a selection of relevant articles, which were then methodically screened and analyzed.

Results

Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria, with a primary focus on Anorexia Nervosa (AN), Bulimia Nervosa (BN), and Binge Eating Disorder (BED). The application of IVR was categorized into three areas: assessment, understanding, and treatment. IVR was found to be an effective tool in assessing body image distortions and emotional responses to food, providing insights that are less accessible through traditional methods. Furthermore, IVR offers innovative treatment approaches by facilitating exposure therapy, modifying body-related biases, and enabling emotional regulation through embodied experiences. The studies demonstrate IVR’s potential to improve body image accuracy, reduce food-related anxieties, and support behavioral changes in ED patients.

Conclusion

IVR stands out as a transformative technology in the field of EDs, offering comprehensive benefits across diagnostic, therapeutic, and experiential domains. The IVR’s ability to simulate the brain’s predictive coding mechanisms provides a powerful avenue for delivering embodied, experiential interventions that can help recalibrate distorted body representations and dysfunctional affective predictive models implicated in EDs. Future research should continue to refine these applications, ensuring consistent methodologies and wider clinical trials to fully harness IVR’s potential in clinical settings.
The Role of Social Categories and the Social Climate for the Development of Well-Being in Elementary School Students
Authors: Trauernicht Mareike , Oppermann Elisa , Rubach Charlott , Simpkins Sandra , Lazarides Rebecca
Published: July 2024

Abstract: School well-being is shaped by person- and context-specific factors and is a target criterion of educational processes. However, only little is known about the development of students’ school well-being during elementary school, including the role of (intersecting) social categories and the social context. The present study examines changes in elementary students’ school well-being (liking to go to school), the link to students’ gender and immigrant background, their intersection, and the perceived class climate. The sample included data from 2,395 third- and fourth-graders (48 % girls; MAgeT1 = 9.31 years, SDAgeT1 = 0.47) from a German longitudinal study. Linear growth curve models demonstrated a significant decline in school well-being over time. Boys without an immigrant background reported particularly low school well-being; class climate was positively related to students’ well-being. The study contributes to a better understanding of the intersectionality of various social categories and contextual influences related to developmental changes in elementary students’ school well-being.
Intersectional Discrimination in the Transition to Vocational Education and Training
Authors: Hufnagl Julia
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Racial background and gender are considered relevant social categories in research on transitions to vocational education and training (VET). Given the contradictory empirical results and opposing theoretical expectations regarding their interaction, this study deals with perceived racial discrimination and investigates (1) differences between groups of origin, (2) gender differences in racial discrimination, and (3) gender differences in racial discrimination in various ethnic origin groups. Logistic regression models and marginal effects were calculated using data from the National Educational Panel Study’s (NEPS) Starting Cohort 4 ( N = 1,421). The results show that adolescents with Turkish immigrant backgrounds perceive more personal discrimination in the search for an apprenticeship than those of Polish, ex-Yugoslav, and ex-Soviet origin. Interaction analyses show that individuals’ experiences of discrimination may vary based on gender, with women being the disadvantaged group. The article discusses the suitability of the selected quantitative approach for intersectional inquiries compared to other possible study designs for intersectional research.
Metallic Nodules Create Oxygen in the Ocean’s Abyss
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: July 2024

These nodules, a focus of seabed mining interests, could be natural “geobatteries” and play a larger-than-expected role in the deep-sea ecosystem.
Validation and assessment of the self-injurious behavior scale for tic disorders (SIBS-T)
Authors: Szejko Natalia , Schlarmann Heike große , Pisarenko Anna , Haas Martina , Brandt Valerie , Jakubovski Ewgeni , Müller-Vahl Kirsten R.
Published: July 2024

Self-injurious behavior (SIB) is a well-known phenomenon in patients with chronic tic disorders (CTD). To investigate prospectively symptomatology of SIB in adults with CTD, we developed and validated the self-injurious behavior scale for tic disorders (SIBS-T). Patients completed the SIBS-T and a variety of assessments for tics and comorbidities. We investigated SIB frequency, internal consistency of the SIBS-T, and carried out an exploratory factor analysis (EFA). We enrolled n = 123 adult patients with CTD. SIB was reported by n = 103 patients (83.7%). The most frequently reported SIB were beating/pushing/throwing and were found in 79.6% of cases. Patients with SIB had significantly higher tic severity measured with the Adult Tic Questionnaire (ATQ) (p = 0.002) as well as higher severity of psychiatric comorbidities such as obsessive–compulsive symptoms (OCS) (p < 0.001,), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (p < 0.001,), and anxiety (p = 0.001). In addition, patients with SIB had significantly lower quality of life (p = 0.002). Pearson correlations demonstrated significant associations between SIB and severity of tics (p < 0.001), depression (p = 0.005), ADHD (p = 0.008), and borderline personality traits (p = 0.014). Consequently, higher SIBS-T also correlated with greater impairment of quality of life (p < 0.001). The internal consistency of the SIBS-T was good (α = 0.88). The EFA confirmed a single factor underlying the SIBS-T.
Design of a microstrip Wilkinson power divider using a low pass filter with the particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Mohammadi Milad , Karimi Gholamreza , Sarabi Hesam Ghitasy
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a microstrip Wilkinson power divider (MWPD) based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is designed, simulated, and fabricated using novel resonators. In addition, attenuators and open-ended stubs are incorporated to generate a broad cut-off band and reduce unwanted harmonics. The proposed power divider has a central frequency of 1 GHz. The performance of each used resonator is analyzed based on lumped-element circuit models.TheLandCparameters of the equivalent circuit of the used resonators are predicted and optimized with the assistance of the PSO method. The subsequent phase was the fabrication of the proposed MWPD, after which its performance was evaluated in the light of the results obtained from the simulation. It was discovered that there was a high degree of concordance between the two. On the other hand, the fabricated circuit has several benefits, including a suitable S12of − 3.15 dB, a high return loss of less than − 24 dB at the operating frequency, a compact size of 0.058$${\varvec{\lambda}}_{{\varvec{g}}}$$λg × 0.064$${\varvec{\lambda}}_{{\varvec{g}}}$$λg, and the ability to remove undesired harmonics. The results show a high level of suppression of the unwanted harmonics (up to the 16th harmonic) and a great responsiveness in the passband, while having very low ripple. As a result, the proposed circuit may be used in a wide variety of electronic devices, such as radar transmitter and receiver circuits, and many other high-frequency systems.
Code smells analysis for android applications and a solution for less battery consumption
Authors: Gupta Aakanshi , Suri Bharti , Sharma Deepanshu , Misra Sanjay , Fernandez-Sanz Luis
Published: July 2024

In the digitization era, the battery consumption factor plays a vital role for the devices that operate Android software, expecting them to deliver high performance and good maintainability.The study aims to analyze the Android-specific code smells, their impact on battery consumption, and the formulation of a mathematical model concerning static code metrics hampered by the code smells. We studied the impact on battery consumption by three Android-specific code smells, namely: No Low Memory Resolver (NLMR), Slow Loop (SL) and Unclosed Closable, considering 4,165 classes of 16 Android applications. We used a rule-based classification method that aids the refactoring ideology. Subsequently, multi-linear regression (MLR) modeling is used to evaluate battery usage against the software metrics of smelly code instances. Moreover, it was possible to devise a correlation for the software metric influenced by battery consumption and rule-based classifiers. The outcome confirms that the refactoring of the considered code smells minimizes the battery consumption levels. The refactoring method accounts for an accuracy of 87.47% cumulatively. The applied MLR model has an R-square value of 0.76 for NLMR and 0.668 for SL, respectively. This study can guide the developers towards a complete package for the focused development life cycle of Android code, helping them minimize smartphone battery consumption and use the saved battery lives for other operations, contributing to the green energy revolution in mobile devices.
People follow motivation-structural rules when they react to synthetised sounds
Authors: Korcsok Beáta , Faragó Tamás , Ferdinandy Bence , Miklósi Ádám , Korondi Péter , Gácsi Márta
Published: July 2024

Emotionally expressive vocalizations can elicit approach-avoidance responses in humans and non-human animals. We investigated whether artificially generated sounds have similar effects on humans. We assessed whether subjects' reactions were linked to acoustic properties, and associated valence and intensity. We generated 343 artificial sounds with differing call lengths, fundamental frequencies and added acoustic features across 7 categories and 3 levels of biological complexity. We assessed the hypothetical behavioural response using an online questionnaire with a manikin task, in which 172 participants indicated whether they would approach or withdraw from an object emitting the sound. (1) Quieter sounds elicited approach, while loud sounds were associated with avoidance. (2) The effect of pitch was modulated by category, call length and loudness. (2a) Low-pitched sounds in complex sound categories prompted avoidance, while in other categories they elicited approach. (2b) Higher pitch in loud sounds had a distancing effect, while higher pitch in quieter sounds prompted approach. (2c) Longer sounds promoted avoidance, especially at high frequencies. (3) Sounds with higher intensity and negative valence elicited avoidance. We conclude that biologically based acoustic signals can be used to regulate the distance between social robots and humans, which can provide an advantage in interactive scenarios.
Advanced differential evolution for gender-aware English speech emotion recognition
Authors: Yue Liya , Hu Pei , Zhu Jiulong
Published: July 2024

Speech emotion recognition (SER) technology involves feature extraction and prediction models. However, recognition efficiency tends to decrease because of gender differences and the large number of extracted features. Consequently, this paper introduces a SER system based on gender. First, gender and emotion features are extracted from speech signals to develop gender recognition and emotion classification models. Second, according to gender differences, distinct emotion recognition models are established for male and female speakers. The gender of speakers is determined before executing the corresponding emotion model. Third, the accuracy of these emotion models is enhanced by utilizing an advanced differential evolution algorithm (ADE) to select optimal features. ADE incorporates new difference vectors, mutation operators, and position learning, which effectively balance global and local searches. A new position repairing method is proposed to address gender differences. Finally, experiments on four English datasets demonstrate that ADE is superior to comparison algorithms in recognition accuracy, recall, precision, F1-score, the number of used features and execution time. The findings highlight the significance of gender in refining emotion models, while mel-frequency cepstral coefficients are important factors in gender differences.
Comment on “Dynamics and rheology of vesicles under confined Poiseuille flow” by Z. Gou, H. Zhang, A. Nait-Ouhra, M. Abbasi, A. Farutin and C. Misbah, Soft Matter, 2023, 19, 9101
Authors: Coupier Gwennou , Podgorski Thomas
Published: July 2024

Red blood cells circulating in microchannels exhibit a complex structure that cannot be reproduced by simplified two-dimensional models, nor can its associated rheology.
Effects of polyurethane hardness on the propagation of acoustic signals from partial discharge
Authors: Samad Abdul , Siew W. H. , Given Martin , Liggat John , Timoshkin Igor
Published: July 2024

Polymeric insulation is a critical component of high voltage systems. However, exposure to high electric stress can cause partial discharges (PDs) to occur and may result in the deterioration of insulation and lead to dielectric failure. These PD events are accompanied by the production of acoustic pressure impulses in the polymer. Detection of these acoustic pressure impulses can reveal the presence of PDs and locate their source. However, analysing the detected acoustic emission (AE) signal is challenging. The acoustic pressure source's nature and the propagating medium's properties, such as density, viscosity, and elasticity, significantly affect the propagating AE signal. The effects of the hardness of the polyurethane (PU) on the propagating AE signal are reported by the authors based on results obtained from laboratory experiments. It was observed that the decay rate in the magnitude of the acoustic impulse was high in PU at all hardness levels following an exponential behaviour. The analysis of the frequency spectra indicates that the higher frequency components attenuate more strongly with distance. These laboratory results can be valuable for engineers and industries as they provide valuable insight into how the physical characteristics of a material affect the propagation characteristics of AE signals during the detection and location of PD source using the AE detection technique.