bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bridging the relationship between physical exercise and mental health in adolescents based on network analysis
Authors: Yang Mengbi , Si Shubin , Zhang Kechuang , Xi Min , Zhang Weixia
Published: April 2024

Although physical exercise has been recommended as a useful means of enhancing the mental health of adolescents, the exact mechanisms through which physical exercise plays a role are unclear. Both physical exercise and mental health are complex concepts with multiple facets, and traditional methods may constrain the manifestations of their mapping relationships. This research aimed to find the bridging connections between physical exercise and mental health. Mental health and physical exercise behaviors were assessed using the Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL‐90) and the Adolescent Physical Activity Questionnaire (PAQ‐A) in 9072 Chinese adolescents, respectively. Network analysis was utilized to construct the mental health‐physical exercise network and to analyze the relationships between individual physical exercise behaviors and mental health symptoms. Core and bridging nodes were identified based on expected influence (EI) and bridge expected influence (BEI). Gender differences were also examined. The results revealed specific and distinct pathways between physical exercise and mental health (e.g., winter sports–obsessive‐compulsive symptoms, winter sports–phobia). For both males and females, anxiety, depression, interpersonal sensitivity, ball sports, and evening activity were the most central symptoms/behaviors, reflecting their relative significance in their respective associations. The nodes with the highest BEI were obsessive‐compulsive symptoms and physical education, showing negative associations with nodes in the other community. Furthermore, in the male group, somatization and winter sports stood out as the most positive bridge nodes. Conversely, in the female group, interpersonal sensitivity and sports games were the most positive bridge nodes. These findings illuminate the pathways linking physical exercise and mental health, supporting the implementation of physical exercise in a more elaborate way.
Overcoming optical‐electrical grid design trade‐offs for cm2‐sized high‐power GaAs photonic power converters by plating technology
Authors: Helmers Henning , Oliva Eduard , Schachtner Michael , Mikolasch Gabriele , Ruiz‐Preciado Luis A. , Franke Alexander , Bartsch Jonas
Published: April 2024

The optimization of III‐V‐based photovoltaic cells involves addressing the trade‐off between optical losses due to grid shading and electrical losses due to series resistance. In this work, we overcome the boundary conditions of this optimization problem by increasing the grid line height. Contrary to a few micrometer high evaporated metal grid lines, distributed circuit modeling of 1‐cm2 GaAs photonic power converters suggests that 15‐μm high grid lines yield the best performances, especially for high‐current operation in the 1 to 10 A cm−2 range. We have successfully implemented a silver plating process into the fabrication scheme of these devices. Current–voltage measurements under intense illumination demonstrate fill factors above 80% at currents up to 35.8 A, highlighting the capability to extract such high currents without major series resistance losses. Under equivalent monochromatic input power of 62.6 W, this results in a maximum power output of 35.5 W from the 1‐cm2 single‐junction photovoltaic cell. This development enables optical power links with largely increased power densities, reducing the material demand of precious semiconductors and associated costs.
Registration of ‘Georgia‐23RKN’ peanut
Authors: Branch W. D. , Brenneman T. B.
Published: April 2024

‘Georgia‐23RKN’ (Reg. no. CV‐158, PI 704578) is a new high‐yielding, normal‐oleic, Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV)‐ and root‐knot nematode (RKN) [Meloidogyne arenaria (Neal) Chitwood race 1]‐resistant, medium‐large seeded, runner‐type peanut (Arachis hypogaea L. subsp. hypogaea var. hypogaea) cultivar that was released by the Georgia Agricultural Experiment Station in 2023. It was developed at the University of Georgia, Tifton Campus. Georgia‐23RKN originated from a cross made between ‘Tifguard’ × ‘Georgia Green’. Tifguard is a normal‐oleic, TSWV‐ and RKN‐resistant runner‐type peanut cultivar that was developed from a cross between ‘C‐99R’ and ‘COAN’. Georgia Green is a normal‐oleic, TSWV‐resistant runner‐type cultivar that was developed from a cross between ‘Southern Runner’ and ‘Sunbelt Runner’. Pedigree selection was practiced within the early segregating generations. Performance testing began in the F4:6 generation with the advanced pure‐line selection, GA 122544, the experimental designation of Georgia‐23RKN. During the past 3 years (2015–2017) and averaged over 29 multiple location tests without nematode pressure in Georgia, Georgia‐23RKN had significantly less TSWV and total disease incidence compared to Tifguard. Georgia‐23RKN was also found to have a larger runner seed size than the smaller runner‐type check cultivar, Georgia‐14N. Georgia‐23RKN combines high‐yield and TSWV‐ and RKN‐resistance with medium‐large seed size and the normal‐oleic trait preferred by large peanut butter manufacturers in the United States.
Outcomes of surgical treatment of tracheobronchomalacia in children
Authors: Mukharesh Lana , Krone Katie A. , Hamilton Thomas E. , Shieh Hester F. , Smithers Charles J. , Winthrop Zachary A. , Muise Eleanor D. , Jennings Russell W. , Mohammed Somala , Demehri Farokh R. , Zendejas Benjamin , Visner Gary A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) is characterized by excessive dynamic airway collapse. Severe TBM can be associated with substantial morbidity. Children with secondary TBM associated with esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF) and vascular‐related airway compression (VRAC) demonstrate clinical improvement following airway pexy surgery. It is unclear if children with severe primary TBM, without secondary etiologies (EA/TEF, vascular ring, intrinsic pulmonary pathology, or complex cardiac disease) demonstrate clinical improvement following airway pexy surgery.

Materials and Methods

The study cohort consisted of 73 children with severe primary TBM who underwent airway pexy surgery between 2013 and 2020 at Boston Children's Hospital. Pre‐ and postoperative symptoms as well as bronchoscopic findings were compared with Fisher exact test for categorical data and Student's t‐test for continuous data.

Results

Statistically significant improvements in clinical symptoms were observed, including cough, noisy breathing, prolonged respiratory infections, pneumonias, exercise intolerance, cyanotic spells, brief resolved unexplained events (BRUE), and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) dependence. No significant differences were seen regarding oxygen dependence, ventilator dependence, or respiratory distress requiring NIPPV. Comparison of pre‐ and postoperative dynamic bronchoscopy findings revealed statistically significant improvement in the percent of airway collapse in all anatomic locations except at the level of the upper trachea (usually not malacic). Despite some initial improvements, 21 (29%) patients remained symptomatic and underwent additional airway pexies with improvement in symptoms.

Conclusion

Airway pexy surgery resulted in significant improvement in clinical symptoms and bronchoscopic findings for children with severe primary TBM; however, future prospective and long‐term studies are needed to confirm this benefit.
Predicting abiraterone efficacy in advanced prostate cancer: Insights from marker of proliferation Ki67
Authors: Zhao Fengnian , Zhao Jinge , Wei Xinyuan , Shi Yifu , Xu Nanwei , Zhu Sha , Chen Junru , Sun Guangxi , Dai Jindong , Wang Zhipeng , Zhang Xingming , Liang Jiayu , Hu Xu , Liu Haoyang , Zhao Junjie , Liu Zhenhua , Nie Ling , Shen Pengfei , Chen Ni , Zeng Hao
Published: April 2024

Background

KI67 is a well‐known biomarker reflecting cell proliferation. We aim to elucidate the predictive role of KI67 in the efficacy of abiraterone for patients with advanced prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

Clinicopathological data of 152 men with metastatic PCa, who received abiraterone therapy were retrospectively collected. The KI67 positivity was examined by immunohistochemistry using the prostate biopsy specimen. The predictive value of KI67 on the therapeutic efficacy of abiraterone was explored using Kaplan–Meier curve and Cox regression analysis. The endpoints included prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) progression‐free survival (PSA‐PFS), radiographic PFS (rPFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

In total, 85/152 (55.9%) and 67/152 (44.1%) cases, respectively, received abiraterone at metastatic hormone‐sensitive (mHSPC) and castration‐resistant PCa (mCRPC) stage. The median KI67 positivity was 20% (interquartile range: 10%–30%). Overall, KI67 rate was not correlated with PSA response. Notably, an elevated KI67‐positive rate strongly correlated with unfavorable abiraterone efficacy, with KI67 ≥ 30% and KI67 ≥ 20% identified as the optimal cutoffs for prognosis differentiation in mHSPC (median PSA‐PFS: 11.43 Mo vs. 26.43 Mo, p < 0.001; median rPFS: 16.63 Mo vs. 31.90 Mo, p = 0.003; median OS: 21.77 Mo vs. not reach, p = 0.005) and mCRPC (median PSA‐PFS: 7.17 Mo vs. 12.20 Mo, p = 0.029; median rPFS: 11.67 Mo vs. 16.47 Mo, p = 0.012; median OS: 21.67 Mo vs. not reach, p = 0.073) patients, respectively. Multivariate analysis supported the independent predictive value of KI67 on abiraterone efficacy. In subgroup analysis, an elevated KI67 expression was consistently associated with unfavorable outcomes in the majority of subgroups. Furthermore, data from another cohort of 79 PCa patients with RNA information showed that those with KI67 RNA levels above the median had a significantly shorter OS than those below the median (17.71 vs. 30.72 Mo, p = 0.035).

Conclusions

This study highlights KI67 positivity in prostate biopsy as a strong predictor of abiraterone efficacy in advanced PCa. These insights will assist clinicians in anticipating clinical outcomes and refining treatment decisions for PCa patients.
A case study analysis of the impact of a new free tropospheric turbulence scheme on the dispersion of an atmospheric tracer
Authors: Mirza Andrew K. , Dacre Helen F. , Lo Chun Hay Brian
Published: April 2024

Most Lagrangian dispersion models represent free tropospheric turbulence as a homogeneous steady‐state process. However, intermittent turbulent mixing in the free troposphere may be a significant source of mixing. We test a new parametrization scheme that represents spatial‐ and temporal‐varying turbulence in the free troposphere in the Met Office's Numerical Atmospheric‐dispersion Modelling Environment. We use semi‐idealized emissions of radon‐222 (Rn) from rocks and soil in the United Kingdom to evaluate the impact of using a variable free tropospheric turbulence parameterization on the dispersion of Rn. We performed two experiments, the first using the existing steady‐state scheme and the second using the newly implemented spatio‐temporal‐varying scheme, for two case periods July 2018 and April 2021. We find that the turbulence in the varying scheme (represented by the vertical velocity variance) can range by two to three orders of magnitude (10 to 10 m s) when compared with the steady‐state scheme (10 m s). In particular, low‐altitude turbulence is enhanced when synoptic conditions are conducive to forming low‐level jets. This leads to a greater dispersion in the free troposphere, reducing the mean monthly Rn concentration above the boundary layer by 20–40% relative to the steady‐state scheme. We conclude that without a space–time‐varying free tropospheric turbulence scheme atmospheric dispersion may be significantly underestimated under synoptic conditions that are favourable for low‐level jet formation. This underestimation of dispersion may potentially result in inaccurate estimations of local emissions in top‐down greenhouse gas inventory studies.
Prediction of remaining surgery duration in laparoscopic videos based on visual saliency and the transformer network
Authors: Loukas Constantinos , Seimenis Ioannis , Prevezanou Konstantina , Schizas Dimitrios
Published: April 2024

Background

Real‐time prediction of the remaining surgery duration (RSD) is important for optimal scheduling of resources in the operating room.

Methods

We focus on the intraoperative prediction of RSD from laparoscopic video. An extensive evaluation of seven common deep learning models, a proposed one based on the Transformer architecture (TransLocal) and four baseline approaches, is presented. The proposed pipeline includes a CNN‐LSTM for feature extraction from salient regions within short video segments and a Transformer with local attention mechanisms.

Results

Using the Cholec80 dataset, TransLocal yielded the best performance (mean absolute error (MAE) = 7.1 min). For long and short surgeries, the MAE was 10.6 and 4.4 min, respectively. Thirty minutes before the end of surgery MAE = 6.2 min, 7.2 and 5.5 min for all long and short surgeries, respectively.

Conclusions

The proposed technique achieves state‐of‐the‐art results. In the future, we aim to incorporate intraoperative indicators and pre‐operative data.
Adaptive composite learning control of a flexible two‐link manipulator with unknown spatiotemporally varying disturbance
Authors: Gao Hejia , Yu Zele , Hu Juqi , Sun Changyin
Published: April 2024

This article presents a novel adaptive composite learning (ACL) control strategy combining reinforcement learning and a disturbance observer (DOB) to address vibration issues in a flexible two‐link manipulator (FTLM) system affected by unknown spatiotemporally varying disturbances. Based on the assumed mode method, the FTLM system is initially transformed into an ordinary differential equation model, while effectively capturing the elastic deformation and vibration characteristics of the flexible link. A composite learning controller, based on the actor‐critic algorithm and DOB, is then developed to achieve trajectory tracking and vibration suppression in the FTLM system. The DOB in the controller compensates for unknown disturbances resulting in reduced system error. It is noting that the proposed optimal control strategy is continuously gathering system experience and evaluating the current policy's effectiveness. The stability and robustness of the closed‐loop system incorporating the composite controller are analyzed using Lyapunov's direct method, and the semi‐global uniform ultimate boundedness of the tracking and vibration errors are also demonstrated. To validate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed ACL controller, comparative simulations and experiments are conducted on the Quanser experimental platform.
A model free adaptive‐robust design for control of robot manipulators: Time delay estimation approach
Authors: Taefi Mohammad , Khosravi Mohammad A.
Published: April 2024

This paper addresses a new robust control scheme for tracking control of the robot manipulators. This algorithm employs time delay estimation (TDE) technique in combination with backstepping control strategy. The suggested control scheme has no dependency on the robot dynamic model and knowing the bound of the inertia matrix is enough to develop this controller. To develop the idea, at first the boundedness of the TDE errors is analyzed by Lyapunov‐Krasovskii approach. Next, the proposed TDE based adaptive backstepping nonsingular terminal sliding mode control (ABNTSMC) algorithm is developed. In this way, a novel adaptive‐robust term is employed to defeat the chattering phenomenon. Moreover, the closed‐loop stability of the system is proven through Lyapunov second approach. Fast transient response, supreme robustness, and chattering‐free as the premier specifications are gained employing the proposed control algorithm. The efficiency of the suggested control scheme is illustrated through some simulations on an industrial robot and the results are compared with some other control algorithms. Finally, the practical effectiveness of the proposed TDE based control algorithm is verified through some experiments on a parallelogram robot manipulator.
Toward sustainable consumption: Exploring the role of environmental innovation and international trade on consumption‐based carbon emissions in OECD countries
Authors: Zhang Menglu , Ali Shahid , Zhou Yun , Nassani Abdelmohsen A. , Usmanovich Burkhanov Aktam
Published: April 2024

Environmental degradation is a severe problem around the globe, which includes a range of worries such as weather extremes, biodiversity loss and heatwaves. The scientific community has widely recognized the urgent need to address these challenges and transition towards sustainable sustainability. One key aspect of sustainability is the concept of eco‐innovation, which involves the production processes that minimize ecological impact of productive activities. Businesses across the world are including eco innovation in their strategies, which have great impact on environmental performance. This study explores the linkage between eco innovation and environmental performance achieved by OECD nations over the period of 1990–2021. We investigate the impact that international trade, renewable energy consumption, and economic activity have on environmental performance. This study focuses on consumption‐based approach for measuring carbon emissions. Previous studies have focused on production‐based approach to measure carbon emissions. Using advanced econometric approaches, we find that eco innovation, exports and renewable energy consumption abate CO2 emissions, while imports and economic activities increase CO2 emissions.
Fabrication of Catechol Sensitized Hollow Microspheres ZnTiO3/TiO2/ZnO for the Photodegradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Yu Yan , Ma Wei , Li Chun , Chang Liangliang , Xu Shan , Yao Binghua , Cao Baoyue , Zhao Pei , Tian Fangyuan
Published: April 2024

Designing new materials that can be used to treat environmental pollutants is one of the prime focuses of chemical science. Here, an unprecedented photocatalytic material with high activity of catechol sensitized ZnTiO3/TiO2/ZnO hollow microspheres was synthesized by hydrothermal method. The structure and properties of the composite photocatalyst were analyzed by various testing methods. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by using methylene blue (MB) as the target degradation substance. The results demonstrated that catechol (CA) sensitized ZnTiO3/TiO2/ZnO photocatalyst is a hollow microsphere with a diameter of 1–1.5 mm, the CA molecules are covalently bonded to the ZnTiO3/TiO2/ZnO surface, and the composite photocatalyst has good light absorption and carrier separation performance. Under the condition of irradiation for 90 min, the degradation rate of the composite photocatalyst for MB was higher than that of ZnTiO3/TiO2/ZnO. When the loading amount of CA was 0.6 wt%, the degradation rate of CA/ZnTiO3/TiO2/ZnO for MB was as high as 98.28 %, and the reaction rate constant was up to 4.35×10−2 min−1. A reasonable mechanism of photocatalytic degradation of pollutants by catechol as sensitizer on ZnTiO3/TiO2/ZnO was proposed. This study provides a theoretical reference for efficient photodegradation of pollutants in the environment.
Reduction of Methylene Blue Using Silica Nanoparticles Obtained from Waste ZrC
Authors: Abadian‐Naeini Fatemeh , Mohsennia Mohsen , Bagherzadeh Mojtaba
Published: April 2024

The study conducted an extraction of pure amorphous nano‐silica (SiO2 NP) from waste product at the ZrC factory. Various techniques such as TEM, SEM‐EDX, ICP, XRD, FTIR, BET, and DLS were utilized to synthesize and characterize the silica nanoparticle. The results showed successful production of pure amorphous silica, with no discernible difference in purity percentage between samples prepared with or without acidic pre‐treatment. It was found that the leaching temperature, process time, and reactant ratio all played a role in the production of nano‐silica. The ideal leaching temperature was determined to be 368 K, with an optimal process time of 2 h. The weight ratio of WPZF/NaOH that yielded the highest percentage of silica extraction was 9 : 10. Additionally, at pH 7, the nano‐silica exhibited the best specific surface area (BET) of 472.51 m2/g. The average size of the spherical nano‐silica, as determined by DLS, was approximately 38 nm. Furthermore, the produced nano‐silica was found to be an effective catalyst for the treatment of methylene blue (MB). MB could be degraded by more than 99 % of the initial concertation (10 mg/L) in the presence of NaBH4 within 16 min and rate constant of the catalytic reduction achieved as 0.134 min−1. These findings demonstrate the potential of amorphous nano‐silica as a valuable resource in various applications.
Synthesis and Anticancer Evaluation of Benzylated Indole Based Alkyl‐Substituted Pyrido[2,3‐d]Pyrimidines Targeting Thymidylate Synthase
Authors: Kumar Adarsh , Kumar Singh Ankit , Singh Harshwardhan , Narasimhan Balasubramanian , Kumar Pradeep
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer‐related deaths and the third most common cancer worldwide. Because of its importance in DNA biosynthesis, thymidylate synthase (TS) has gathered attention as a promising target for cancer therapy. Herein, we have designed and synthesized 12 novel 5‐(N‐Benzyl indol‐3‐yl) pyrido[2, 3‐d] pyrimidine based derivatives and assessed their anticancer activity against HCT 116, MCF‐7, Hep G2, and PC‐3 cell lines. For compounds 5 a and 5 f TS inhibitory activity was also performed along with in silico studies. Further, all the synthesized compounds exhibited anticancer activity, but particularly, compounds 5 a and 5 f were showed excellent anticancer activity having IC50 values of 1.09±0.61, 5.54±0.81, 6.44±0.91, and 5.12±0.65 μM and 1.03±0.96, 3.09±0.52, 4.12±0.59, and 7.06±0.60 μM respectively with control Raltitrexed (IC50 1.02±0.51, 1.88±0.61, 1.30±0.89, and 2.09±0.67 μM respectively) and hTS inhibitory activity with IC50 of 18.91±1.09 and 16.19±0.96 nM with control Raltitrexed (IC50 12.25±1.21 nM). Further, the mechanism of inhibition was revealed by molecular docking, which showed the binding pattern of 5 a and 5 f to the catalytic site of TS. Additionally, ADME characteristics were also in the acceptable range for these compounds. Based on the anticancer activity, SAR was also performed for lead optimization.
The Co‐UMO‐1 Metal Organic Framework: Solvothermal Synthesis of [Co3{μ3‐O}2(C14H8O6S)2(H2O)3(C2H5OH)] ⋅ 2H2O, Characterizations, and Application in Methylene Blue Removal
Authors: Mansour Manel , Guergueb Mouhieddinne , Missaoui Nadhem , Castillo Celia , Guitierrez Puebla Enrique , Ayed Brahim , Barhoumi Houcine , Demirci Umit B. , Kahri Hamza
Published: April 2024

The new Co‐based MOF (also called Co‐UMO‐1 MOF with structure of [Co3{μ3‐O}2(C14H8O6S)2(H2O)3(C2H5OH)] ⋅ 2H2O) is solvothermally synthesized in a mixture of water and ethanol at 170 °C for 3 days. The as‐recovered pink‐colored stick‐like crystals crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system P21/c (n° 13), which consists of three crystallographically independent Co(II) elements that adopt the octahedral coordination geometry. The MOF was also successfully characterized by FTIR, SEM, BET, Zeta potential and UV‐Vis spectroscopy, as well as TG and DSC analyses. At pH 7 and 25 °C, Co‐UMO‐1 MOF shows the maximum of its capacity of adsorption (31.5 mgr gr−1) of the methylene blue (MB) dye, which corresponds to an adsorption efficiency of 79 %. The adsorption of MB follows the pseudo‐second order kinetic model, and occurs via the formation of a monolayer onto the surface of the MOF, in line with the Langmuir isotherm model. Adsorption efficiencies higher than 79 % have not been achieved with Co‐UMO‐1 MOF because of electrostatic interactions between the MOF surface and the MB molecules, which has been confirmed by the Temkin isotherm model. In the aforementioned conditions, Co‐UMO‐1 MOF can be reused after regeneration, showing an adsorption efficiency of 76.2 % after five cycles, which is a promising result.
What philosophy can teach political economy about corruption: A non‐ideal theory
Authors: Juarez‐Garcia Mario I.
Published: April 2024

Scholars who study political corruption typically assume that it is a pathology. This assumption gives rise to certain problems. On the one hand, scholars who conceive corruption as a principal‐agent problem yield anti‐corruption policies with disappointing results. On the other hand, political economists who grasp the functionality of corruption within inefficient institutions are torn between embracing the functionality of corrupt actions and eradicating them. These issues result from the assumption that corruption is a pathology. Philosophy operates at the level of assumptions, offering a potential avenue for addressing these issues. This paper puts forward a non‐ideal theory of corruption, in which partial compliance with the law is not always seen as a pathology; sometimes corruption includes information about the quality of the law. A non‐ideal theory of corruption puts forward the idea that some cases of corruption result from defective laws rather than defective people.
Berücksichtigung einer exzentrischen Lasteinleitung im Beulnachweis nach der Methode der reduzierten Spannungen in EN 1993‐1‐5
Authors: Thomas Nadine , Ndogmo Joseph , Mensinger Martin
Published: April 2024

Teil 1 des vorliegenden Aufsatzes umfasst die Erläuterung der großmaßstäblichen Beulversuche unter biaxialer Belastung, die an der Technischen Universität München im Zuge von Projekten durchgeführt wurden, sowie deren Nachrechnung und Modellierung mit der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode. Das in Teil 1 beschriebene numerische Modell wurde für die nachfolgende Parameterstudie erweitert und geringfügig angepasst. Der Flansch wird in der Modellierung berücksichtigt, damit seine Einspannwirkung erhalten bleibt. Ohne Anschluss eines Bodenblechs oder Flanschs kann eine exzentrische Last nicht in das Stegblech eingeleitet werden, sodass eine gewisse Einspannwirkung unerlässlich ist und somit die Annahme einer Navierschen Lagerung des Rands der exzentrischen Lasteinleitung nicht zutrifft. Die Ergebnisse der numerischen Parameterstudie mit dem entwickelten Modell werden in diesem Teil 2 zunächst kurz zusammengefasst. Anschließend werden die aufnehmbaren Spannungen nach der Methode der reduzierten Spannungen gemäß DIN EN 1993‐1‐5:2019 mit denen der numerischen Berechnung verglichen und bewertet. Dieser Vergleich zeigt, dass bereits durch die Berücksichtigung eines Flanschs bei I‐Querschnitten ein enormes wirtschaftliches Potenzial für den Beulnachweis erschlossen werden kann. Daher wird ein Ansatz entwickelt und vorgestellt, der die Berücksichtigung einer exzentrischen Lasteinleitung im Beulnachweis ermöglicht und gleichzeitig die auftretenden Einspanneffekte konservativ berücksichtigt.
Neue Methoden für Nachweise zur Tragfähigkeit und zum Biegedrillknicken von Kranbahnträgern
Authors: Kindmann Rolf , Kraus Matthias , Seeßelberg Christoph , Tworek Jaroslaw
Published: April 2024

Kranbahnträger werden planmäßig durch zweiachsige Biegung und Torsion beansprucht. Aufgrund der Biegemomente My und des außermittigen Lastangriffs der vertikalen Einzellasten sind sie stabilitätsgefährdet, sodass Biegedrillknicken maßgebenden Einfluss auf die Tragfähigkeit hat. Da die Angaben in DIN EN 1993‐6 zur Durchführung der Tragfähigkeitsnachweise sehr knapp gehalten sind, bestehen bei vielen Anwendern Unklarheiten, wie Biegedrillknicknachweise sachgerecht und mit geringem Aufwand geführt werden können. Im Folgenden wird geklärt, welche Nachweisverfahren für Kranbahnträger geeignet und zweckmäßig sind. Darüber hinaus werden neue bzw. modifizierte Methoden vorgestellt, die spezifisch auf Tragfähigkeitsnachweise für Kranbahnträger zugeschnitten sind, und es wird gezeigt, dass bei baupraktischen Anwendungsfällen häufig nicht die Tragfähigkeitsnachweise für die Dimensionierung maßgebend sind, sondern andere Kriterien, wie z. B. Verformungsbeschränkungen.
Flat slab‐edge column connections subjected to outward and inward eccentricity: Numerical modeling and comparison with codes
Authors: Sanabria Díaz Rafael , de Albuquerque Nívea G. B. , de Almeida Luiz Carlos , Trautwein Leandro Mouta , Sales de Melo Guilherme
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the structural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) flat slabs supported on edge columns and the influence of eccentricity direction on their punching shear strength. For this purpose, code provisions were compared based on the ultimate capacities of experimental tests reported in the literature. The comparison included the approaches provided by the current Eurocode 2, fib Model Code 2010 and the final draft of the second generation of Eurocode 2 (FprEC2). Then, a numerical investigation was conducted in which full‐scale slabs tested by Albuquerque et al. (2016) were simulated. Numerical analyses were carried out in the software Diana using a total strain‐based crack model to simulate the concrete nonlinear behavior. The input parameters for the simulations were obtained through a stochastic calibration approach to account for uncertainties related to the concrete properties. A reasonable agreement was found between the calibrated numerical models and the experimental results regarding load‐deflection curves and crack patterns. Furthermore, important differences were identified in the failure mode of edge column‐slab connections subjected to inward and outward eccentricities. Finally, additional simulations were carried out to obtain a full shear‐moment interaction diagram and investigate the shear distribution at the control perimeters around the column. The proposed method in FprEC2 exhibited a good estimation with a relatively low scatter of the punching resistance of flat slab‐edge column connections analyzed in this work.
Exploring the impact of an intervention on pre‐service science teachers' attitudes and beliefs about gender and sexual diversity‐inclusive science teaching
Authors: Wright Gary William , Delgado Cesar , Mendoza K. Rende
Published: April 2024

Exploring how science teacher education programs can prepare science teachers to support gender and sexually diverse students remains an important area for research. A 5‐week intervention was designed for pre‐service science teachers' (PSSTs), addressing gender and sexual diversity (GSD). The effects of the intervention on PSSTs' attitudes and beliefs about GSD‐inclusive science teaching (GSDST) were explored using a multiple case study research design. In addition, the design elements of the intervention that were perceived as most significant were identified. Our results showed that the PSSTs were mostly supportive of measures indicative of GSDST prior to the intervention, and there was an overall trend in favor of GSDST with small effect sizes after the intervention, which did not reach statistical significance. Using thematic analysis, three themes were identified to characterize how their attitudes and beliefs changed throughout the intervention: GSDST is perceived as important for student safety; an “add LGBT and stir” approach to GSDST; and uncertainty of GSD language. Five design features of the intervention that were perceived as most impactful were group dialog; coherence to Ambitious Science Teaching; GSD terminology; knowledge of intersex, hormones, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer scientists; and relevant case studies. The findings contribute to understanding how science teacher education programs can impact PSSTs' attitudes, beliefs, and intended enactment of GSDST consistent, with recent calls for GSD equity in science education.
Awareness and cognitive rehabilitation in Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Salmon Eric , Lekeu Françoise , Quittre Anne , Godichard Vinciane , Olivier Catherine , Wojtasik Vinciane , Bastin Christine
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Awareness influences the evolution of neurodegenerative dementias. We gathered participants’ and caregivers assessments of dependence in daily activities and we studied how each score would be related to next year participant autonomy, independently of other explicative variables.

METHOD

We retrospectively analyzed data from mildly demented participants with a clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD, n = 186) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD, n = 29) and their relatives. A research tool was used to assess participant dependence in 98 daily activities and associated caregiver burden. A discrepancy score between the patient's and relative's judgment was calculated to evaluate awareness of dependence in activities at baseline. This dependence scores, as well as sex, age, education, and 1 year difference in Mini‐Mental State Examination were taken as possible explicative variables for dependence in activities adapted by therapists during a 1‐year cognitive rehabilitation program.

RESULTS

Patients with FTD showed less awareness for daily dependence (discrepancy 20.9% vs. 11.8% in AD). Both groups benefited from cognitive rehabilitation (25% decrease in dependence) and subjective burden of relatives was decreased in both groups. In the AD group, there was a significant positive relationship between both caregiver (P < 0.001) and participant's (P < 0.02) evaluation of dependence in daily activities at inclusion and dependence of participants in adapted activities after 1 year.

DISCUSSION

Awareness of impairment in daily activities is a clinical symptom that is more important at inclusion in FTD than in AD. However, in participants with AD who, as a group, significantly benefit from a cognitive rehabilitation program, not only caregiver's but also participant's assessment of dependence at baseline is correlated to subsequent, next year greater dependence in daily activities adapted by the therapists. Although discrepant, both caregiver and participant evaluations appear to be important variables to understand the evolution and the benefit of care in participants at early stages of dementia.
Religion and authoritarianism in the Maldives: Is another authoritarian reversal in the Maldives imminent?
Authors: Bhim Mosmi
Published: April 2024

The Maldives commenced its transition to democracy after its first multiparty elections in 2008. This was challenging due to the Maldives being a Muslim nation, its authoritarian legacy of monarchical rule before independence, and by dictatorship after independence. This article analyzes the postindependence rule periods of Ibrahim Nasir and Maumoom Abdul Gayoom, which were akin to one‐man dictatorships. The third autocratic president postindependence, Abdulla Yameen, was an electoral authoritarian as he implemented authoritarian measures in a multi‐party context. I assess if religion provided political legitimacy to these authoritarian leaders or if religion was exploited by leaders to gain political support and civic spaces. Theories of authoritarianism, religious populism, electoral authoritarianism, as well as concepts of the ulema‐state alliance and the rentier state are utilized. In addition to their authoritarian legacy, democratic presidents like Mohamed Nasheed and Mohamed Solih had grappled with politicians' manipulation of religion through political Islam, Islamic nationalism, and fundamentalism to derail democracy by equating it to Westernization. These events resonate with Samuel Huntington's description of the conflict between the West and Islam as a clash of civilizations. Crimes against liberal thinkers by Islamic extremists are an added challenge. There is a real danger of another authoritarian reversal in the Maldives.
Thermodynamics of the Einstein-Maxwell system
Authors: Miyashita Shoichiro
Published: April 2024

Abstract

At first glance, thermodynamic properties of gravity with asymptotically AdS conditions and those with box boundary conditions, where the spatial section of the boundary is a sphere of finite radius, appear similar. Both exhibit a similar phase structure and Hawking-Page phase transition. However, when we introduce a U(1) gauge field to the system, discrepancies in thermodynamic properties between the two cases has been reported in [7] (JHEP 11 (2016) 041). In this paper, by accepting the assumption that all Euclidean saddles contribute to the partition function, I found that these discrepancies are resolved due to the contribution from the “bag of gold (BG),” which is the class of Euclidean geometries whose area of bolt is bigger than that of the boundary. As a result, the Hawking-Page phase structure is restored, with the unexpected properties that the upper bound of thermodynamic entropy is always larger than the boundary area divided by 4G when the chemical potential is non-zero, and that such high entropy states are realized at sufficiently high temperature.
Zukunft durch Beteiligung – landwirtschaftliche Tierhaltung im Dialog
Authors: von Meyer-Höfer Marie , von Gall Philipp , Bardusch Bea , Faletar Ivica , Mergenthaler Marcus , Luy Jörg , Christoph-Schulz Inken
Published: April 2024

Dieser Beitrag stellt die Zukunftswerkstatt Landwirtschaftliche Tierhaltung vor, die im Rahmen von SocialLab II innovative Methoden zur Beteiligung von Interessengruppen an der politischen Transformation der Tierhaltung entwickelt und zur Anwendung bringt. Die Zukunftswerkstatt untersucht, welche Entwicklungen für die landwirtschaftliche Nutztierhaltung aus Sicht der Interessengruppen erstrebenswert sind. Es werden die Interessen des Tier-, Umwelt- und Klimaschutzes ebenso berücksichtigt wie ökonomische und praktische Anforderungen der Unternehmen. Die Herausforderung bei Dialogen im Bereich der Tierhaltung ist die schiere Anzahl unterschiedlicher Ansprüche gesellschaftlicher Gruppen an die Transformation. Zum einen melden immer mehr Interessengruppen, wie z.B. beim Klimaschutz, neue Ansprüche an. Zum anderen diversifizieren sich vormals homogene Interessengruppen, wie die aus der Landwirtschaft und aus dem Tierschutz, immer weiter hinsichtlich der Ziele, Strategien und Wertvorstellungen. Tiere werden zunehmend als von der Politik betroffene Gruppe mit eigenen Ansprüchen anerkannt, wobei ihre politische Vertretung noch kaum geregelt ist. Die in diesem Beitrag präsentierten Ergebnisse umfassen die methodischen Merkmale der Zukunftswerkstatt landwirtschaftliche Tierhaltung, die identifizierten Zielbilder für die landwirtschaftliche Tierhaltung, effektive Ansätze des Stakeholder-Dialogs und Einsichten zu den Aspekten Wertschätzung und Kommunikation im Dialog unter Akteuren. Aus einer Vielzahl von Positionen und Eingaben wurden 3 zentrale Zukunftsbilder für die landwirtschaftliche Nutztierhaltung in Deutschland identifiziert: (i) höhere Standards, (ii) Systemwechsel und Reduktion und (iii) Alternativen zur Tierhaltung. Politikmaßnahmen sowie Dialogformate im Bereich der landwirtschaftlichen Nutztierhaltung sollten künftig offenlegen, wo sie sich in diesem Spektrum der Zielbilder verorten. Allianzen und Kompromisse zwischen den Zukunftsbildern sind in unterschiedlichen Kombinationen möglich. Besonders dringlich erscheint die Einigung über rechtliche Mindestanforderungen im Tierschutz, da diese den Ausgangspunkt der Debatte bilden. Dialogformate sollten künftig stärker offenlegen, auf welchen Beitrag zur Debatte sie fokussieren, wobei drei Funktionsbereiche von Dialogformaten unterschieden werden können.
Markov and Division Inequalities on Algebraic Sets
Authors: Bialas-Ciez Leokadia , Calvi Jean-Paul , Kowalska Agnieszka
Published: April 2024

A compact set $$E\subset \mathbb {C}^N$$

E
⊂

C

N

satisfies the Markov inequality if the supremum norm on E of the gradient of a polynomial p can be estimated from above by the norm of p multiplied by a constant polynomially depending on the degree of p. This inequality is strictly related to the Bernstein approximation theorem, Schur-type estimates and the extension property of smooth functions. Additionally, the Markov inequality can be applied to the construction of polynomial grids (norming sets or admissible meshes) useful in numerical analysis. We expect such an inequality with similar consequences not only on polynomially determining compacts but also on some nowhere dense sets. The primary goal of the paper is to extend the above definition of Markov inequality to the case of compact subsets of algebraic varieties in $$\mathbb {C}^N$$

C

N

. Moreover, we characterize compact sets satisfying such a Markov inequality on algebraic hypersurfaces as well as on certain varieties defined by several algebraic equations. We also prove a division inequality (a Schur-type inequality) on these sets. This opens up the possibility of establishing polynomial grids on algebraic sets. We also provide examples that complete and ilustrate the results.
Frankfurt concept of early inpatient rehabilitation after cochlear implant treatment
Authors: Bruschke Stefanie , Zeh Roland , Baumann Uwe , Helbig Silke , Stöver Timo
Published: April 2024

Background

The Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF) clinical practice guideline on cochlear implant (CI) treatment, which was updated in 2020, defined the entire process of CI care for the first time. In the present study, the feasibility and results of very early rehabilitation were examined.

Materials and methods

The intervention group (IG) comprised 54 patients in whom rehabilitation was initiated within 14 (maximally 28) days after implantation. Patients with a significantly longer waiting time were included in the control group (CG, n = 21). In addition to the start and duration of rehabilitation, the speech intelligibility achieved with CI was recorded at different timepoints within a 12-month period. In addition, questionnaires were used to assess the effort of fitting the CI processor and the patients’ satisfaction with the outcome as well as the timing of the start of rehabilitation.

Results

Median waiting time between implantation and start of rehabilitation was 14 days in the IG and 106 days in the CG; 92.6% of IG patients were able to start rehabilitation within 14 days. The effect of rehabilitation in the IG was 35 and in the CG 25 percentage points (Freiburg monosyllabic test). After 6 and 12 months of CI use, both groups showed comparable results in the test condition in quiet (IG/CG 6 months: 70%/70%; 12 months: 70%/60%, Freiburg monosyllabic test) and in noise (IG/CG 6 months: −1.1 dB SNR/–0.85 dB SNR; 12 months: −0.65 dB SNR/+0.3 dB SNR, Oldenburg sentence test). Hearing quality assessment scores collected by SSQ (Speech, Spatial and Qualities of Hearing Scale) questionnaire showed better scores in the IG at 6 months, which converged to CG scores at 12 months. The IG was significantly more satisfied with the timing of the start of rehab than the CG. All other data obtained from questionnaires showed no differences between the two groups.

Conclusion

A very early start of inpatient rehabilitation after cochlear implantation was successfully implemented. The rehabilitation was completed within 7 weeks of CI surgery. Comparison of speech recognition test results before and after rehabilitation showed a significant improvement. A clear rehabilitation effect can therefore be demonstrated. Inclusion of CI rehabilitation in the German catalog of follow-up treatments is thus scientifically justified and therefore strongly recommended.
Dynamic mechanical properties of selective laser-melted AlSi10Mg lattice structures: experimental and numerical analysis with emphasis on Johnson-Cook model parameters
Authors: Caliskan Mustafa , Hafizoglu Hakan , Babacan Nazim
Published: April 2024

Additively manufactured lattice structures are extensively utilized because of their unique characteristics, including lightweight design, high energy absorption capabilities, and exceptional specific strength. This study focuses on accurately simulating the dynamic mechanical behavior of AlSi10Mg lattice structures produced using selective laser melting (SLM). A series of experimental studies has been conducted to establish the parameters of the J–C hardening and damage model for additively manufactured AlSi10Mg alloys. The lattice structures, featuring face-centered cubic (FCC) and diamond topologies with a 25% designed relative density, underwent scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for geometrical precision assessment. Dynamic compressive behavior was investigated via split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) tests. Numerical simulations in Ls-Dyna, utilizing the identified J–C parameters, were employed to replicate SHPB tests. Findings indicate that the specific strength and the specific energy absorption values of FCC lattice samples have higher than those of diamond samples at strain rates of 750 and 1100 s−1. While the overall strains and deformation modes were well predicted by numerical analyzes, a deeper insight into local stress concentrations under dynamic loads was achieved. Consequently, the obtained J–C model parameters offer valuable insight into characterizing the dynamic behavior of AlSi10Mg lattice structures produced by SLM.
Home screening of taste and oral trigeminal function: a feasibility study
Authors: Green Tomer , Mastinu Mariano , Wolf Anne , Oleszkiewicz Anna , Aronis Anna , Hummel Thomas , Pepino M. Yanina , Niv Masha Y.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

gustatory ability is a marker of health not routinely tested in the medical practice. The current study wants to assess whether taste strips can be useful to monitor taste function from home.

Methods

we performed simple sensory tests in lab setting vs. unassisted testing at home, and compared the results with self-reports ability to taste and smell. Using paper strips impregnated with sweet, bitter, salty, or sour tastants, and with two trigeminal stimuli (capsaicin, tannins) in high and low concentrations, we assessed gustatory and trigeminal function in 74 participants (47 women) in the lab, where paper strips were administered by an experimenter, and in 77 participants (59 women) at home, where they self-administered the test.

Results

we found that high (but not low) concentration taste strips are correctly identified by vast majority of participants. On average, taste identification, intensity and pleasantness scores did not differ for the 8 taste strips, while identification of capsaicin was significantly better in the lab. Taste identification scores correlated with intensity ratings in both settings (r = 0.56, in the lab, r = 0.48, at home, p < 0.005). Self-rated taste ability correlated with self-rated smell ability (r = 0.68, and r = 0.39, p ≤ 0.005), but not with scores in the strips test.

Conclusion

home testing with impregnated taste strips is feasible, and can be used for telemedical purposes.