bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1‐Lipschitz Neural Distance Fields
Authors: Coiffier Guillaume , Béthune Louis
Published: July 2024

Neural implicit surfaces are a promising tool for geometry processing that represent a solid object as the zero level set of a neural network. Usually trained to approximate a signed distance function of the considered object, these methods exhibit great visual fidelity and quality near the surface, yet their properties tend to degrade with distance, making geometrical queries hard to perform without the help of complex range analysis techniques. Based on recent advancements in Lipschitz neural networks, we introduce a new method for approximating the signed distance function of a given object. As our neural function is made 1‐Lipschitz by construction, it cannot overestimate the distance, which guarantees robustness even far from the surface. Moreover, the 1‐Lipschitz constraint allows us to use a different loss function, called the hinge‐Kantorovitch‐Rubinstein loss, which pushes the gradient as close to unit‐norm as possible, thus reducing computation costs in iterative queries. As this loss function only needs a rough estimate of occupancy to be optimized, this means that the true distance function need not to be known. We are therefore able to compute neural implicit representations of even bad quality geometry such as noisy point clouds or triangle soups. We demonstrate that our methods is able to approximate the distance function of any closed or open surfaces or curves in the plane or in space, while still allowing sphere tracing or closest point projections to be performed robustly.
Mesh Parameterization Meets Intrinsic Triangulations
Authors: Akalin Koray , Finnendahl Ugo , Sorkine‐Hornung Olga , Alexa Marc
Published: July 2024

A parameterization of a triangle mesh is a realization in the plane so that all triangles have positive signed area. Triangle mesh parameterizations are commonly computed by minimizing a distortion energy, measuring the distortions of the triangles as they are mapped into the parameter domain. It is assumed that the triangulation is fixed and the triangles are mapped affinely. We consider a more general setup and additionally optimize among the intrinsic triangulations of the piecewise linear input geometry. This means the distortion energy is computed for the same geometry, yet the space of possible parameterizations is enlarged. For minimizing the distortion energy, we suggest alternating between varying the parameter locations of the vertices and intrinsic flipping. We show that this process improves the mapping for different distortion energies at moderate additional cost. We also find intrinsic triangulations that are better starting points for the optimization of positions, offering a compromise between the full optimization approach and exploiting the additional freedom of intrinsic triangulations.
Distance‐Based Smoothing of Curves on Surface Meshes
Authors: Pawellek M. , Rössl C. , Lawonn K.
Published: July 2024

The smoothing of surface curves is an essential tool in mesh processing, important to applications that require segmenting and cutting surfaces such as surgical planning. Surface curves are typically designed by professionals to match certain surface features. For this reason, the smoothed curves should be close to the original and easily adjustable by the user in interactive tools. Previous methods achieve this desired behavior, e.g., by utilizing energy‐minimizing splines or generalizations of Bézier splines, which require a significant number of control points and may not provide interactive frame rates or numerical stability. This paper presents a new algorithm for robust smoothing of discrete surface curves on triangular surface meshes. By using a scalar penalty potential as the fourth coordinate, the given surface mesh is embedded into the 4D Euclidean space. Our method is based on finding geodesics in this lifted surface, which are then projected back onto the original 3D surface. The benefits of this approach include guaranteed convergence and good approximation of the initial curve. We propose a family of penalty potentials with one single parameter for adjusting the trade‐off between smoothness and similarity. The implementation of our method is straightforward as we rely on existing methods for computing geodesics and penalty fields. We evaluate our implementation and confirm its robustness and efficiency.
Cut‐Cell Microstructures for Two‐scale Structural Optimization
Authors: Tozoni Davi Colli , Huang Zizhou , Panozzo Daniele , Zorin Denis
Published: July 2024

Two‐scale topology optimization, combined with the design of microstructure families with a broad range of effective material parameters, is widely used in many fabrication applications to achieve a target deformation behavior for a variety of objects. The main idea of this approach is to optimize the distribution of material properties in the object partitioned into relatively coarse cells, and then replace each cell with microstructure geometry that mimics these material properties. In this paper, we focus on adapting this approach to complex shapes in situations when preserving the shape's surface is essential.

Our approach extends any regular (i.e. defined on a regular lattice grid) microstructure family to complex shapes, by enriching it with tiles adapted to the geometry of the cut‐cell. We propose a fully automated and robust pipeline based on this approach, and we show that the performance of the regular microstructure family is only minimally affected by our extension while allowing its use on 2D and 3D shapes of high complexity.
On shape design and optimization of gerotor pumps
Authors: Pareja‐Corcho J. C. , Bartoň M. , Pedrera‐Busselo A. , Mejia‐Parra D. , Moreno A. , Posada J.
Published: July 2024

A gerotor pump is a two‐piece mechanism where two rotational components, interior and exterior, engage each other via a rotational motion to transfer a fluid in a direction parallel to their rotational axes. A natural question arises on what shape of the gerotor is the optimal one in the sense of maximum fluid being pumped for a unit of time, given the constraint of a fixed material needed to manufacture the pump. As there is no closed‐formula to answer this question, we propose a new algorithm to design and optimize the shape of gerotor pumps to be as efficient as possible. The proposed algorithm is based on a fast construction of the envelope of the interior component and subsequent optimization. We demonstrate our algorithm on a benchmark gerotor and show that the optimized solution increases the estimated flowrate by 16%. We also use our algorithm to study the effect of the number of teeth on the cavity area of a gerotor.
Winding Number Features for Vector Sketch Colorization
Authors: Scrivener Daniel , Coldren Ellis , Chien Edward
Published: July 2024

Vector sketch software (e.g. Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape) and touch‐interactive technologies have long aided artists in the creation of resolution‐independent digital drawings that mimic the unconstrained nature of freehand sketches. However, artist intent behind stroke topology is often ambiguous, complicating traditional segmentation tasks such as coloring. For inspiration, we turn to the winding number, a classic geometric property of interest for binary segmentation in the presence of boundary data. Its direct application for multi‐region segmentation poses two main challenges: (1) strokes may not be consistently oriented to best identify perceptually salient regions; (2) for interior strokes there is no “correct” orientation, as either choice better distinguishes one of two neighboring regions. Thus, we form a harmonic feature space from multiple winding number fields and perform segmentation via Voronoi/power diagrams in this domain. Our perspective allows both for automatic fill region detection and for a semi‐automatic framework that naturally incorporates user hints and interactive sculpting of results, unlike competing automatic methods. Our method is agnostic to curve orientation and gracefully handles varying gap sizes in the sketch boundary, outperforming state‐of‐the‐art colorization methods on these “gappy” inputs. Moreover, it inherits the ability of winding numbers to specify “fuzzy” boundaries, leading to simple strategies for color diffusion and single‐parameter‐driven growing and shrinking of regions.
Primary cutaneous lymphoproliferations in the gray zone between marginal zone lymphoma and CD4+ small/medium T‐cell lymphoproliferative disease
Authors: Pálos Kata , Szakonyi József , Csomor Judit , Gremsperger Åsa , Zajta Erik , Marschalkó Márta , Szepesi Ágota
Published: July 2024

Background

Primary cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma (PCMZL) and primary cutaneous CD4+ small/medium T‐cell lymphoproliferative disease (CD4+ TLPD) are two distinct entities with excellent prognosis; however, they show profound clinical and histopathological similarities, leading to differential diagnostic uncertainty.

Aims

Our aim was to review and reanalyze cases of primary cutaneous lymphoproliferations diagnosed at Semmelweis University, featuring characteristics of PCMZL and CD4+ TLPD.

Materials and Methods

Cutaneous lymphoma biopsy specimens between 2018 and 2022 were collected and re‐evaluated. Medical history, clinical picture, imaging, and laboratory findings were collected. Immunohistochemical staining for CD20, CD3, BCL6, CD10, PD1, CD3, CD4, CD8, and PCR tests for IGH, IGK, TCRB, and TCRG were repeated in selected cases.

Results

Among 55 cases diagnosed as PCMZL (16) or CD4+ TLPD (39), 3 patients had been diagnosed with both LPDs at different time points of their disease course. Four additional patients were identified with single lesions featuring overlapping histopathological characteristics of both LPDs and both monoclonal IGH and TCR rearrangements. All patients are currently in complete remission with local treatment.

Conclusion

We propose that besides the overlapping histopathological, molecular, and clinical features, the subsequent appearance of PCMZL and CD4+ TLPD in a short timeframe in the same patients may suggest a common pathogenic background.
A comparison of mast cells in skin biopsies of cutaneous mastocytosis with other inflammatory dermatoses: A study of 33 cases
Authors: Parham Margaret M. , Krishnan Bhuvaneswari , Huttenbach Yve T.
Published: July 2024

Background

Histopathologic criteria for diagnosis of cutaneous mastocytosis include 20 mast cells per high‐power field or clusters of 15 mast cells. We aimed to determine the specificity of these criteria for cutaneous mastocytosis in comparison with inflammatory disorders of mast cell activation.

Methods

Twenty‐six cases of spongiotic dermatitis or urticaria were identified from 2021 to 2022. Recuts were stained with mast cell tryptase and slides were reviewed for the presence of 20 mast cells per high‐power field and for clusters of 15 mast cells. In addition, seven cases of mastocytosis were reviewed for the same criteria.

Results

Twelve of 26 cases (46.1%) of spongiotic dermatitis/urticaria had at least 20 mast cells per high‐power field. Three of 26 cases (11.5%) of spongiotic dermatitis/urticaria had a cluster of 15 mast cells. Six of seven cases (85.7%) of mastocytosis had at least 20 mast cells per high‐power field; four of seven cases (57.1%) of mastocytosis had a cluster of 15 mast cells.

Conclusions

In our study, the finding of 20 mast cells per high‐power field was nonspecific as a single criterion for cutaneous mastocytosis. The finding of clusters of 15 mast cells was more specific but not sensitive.
Brain MRI findings in paediatric genetic disorders associated with white matter abnormalities
Authors: Oikarainen Jaakko H. , Knuutinen Oula A. , Kangas Salla M. , Rahikkala Elisa J. , Pokka Tytti M.‐L. , Moilanen Jukka S. , Hinttala Reetta M. , Vieira Päivi M. , Uusimaa Johanna M. , Suo‐Palosaari Maria H.
Published: July 2024

Aim

To describe the specific brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) patterns of the paediatric genetic disorders associated with white matter abnormalities in Northern Finland.

Method

In this retrospective population‐based longitudinal study, brain MRI scans accumulated from 1990 to 2019 at Oulu University Hospital, Finland, were assessed. Inclusion criteria were defined as leukodystrophies or genetic diseases with significant white matter abnormalities that did not meet the criteria for leukodystrophy, at least one brain MRI, and age under 18 years at diagnosis.

Results

A total of 83 patients (48 males, 35 females) were found with 52 different diseases. The median age at the time of the brain MRI was 22 months (interquartile range [IQR] = 46 months). In 72 (87%) of the children, brain MRIs revealed abnormal findings, including cerebral white matter abnormalities (n = 49, 59%), brainstem signal abnormalities (n = 28, 34%), thinning of the corpus callosum (n = 30, 36%), delayed myelination (n = 11, 13%), and permanent hypomyelination (n = 9, 11%).

Interpretation

Symmetrical and bilateral white matter signal patterns of the brain MRI should raise suspicion of genetic disorders when the clinical symptoms are compatible. This study illustrates brain imaging patterns of childhood‐onset genetic disorders in a population in Northern Finland and improves the diagnostic accuracy of rare genetic disorders.
Moving from opportunity: Intergenerational mobility of rural–urban return migrants in Sweden, 1890s–1940s
Authors: Andersson Jonatan
Published: July 2024

Using a novel longitudinal dataset, we study the intergenerational mobility of rural–urban migrants who returned to the countryside in due course. By examining pairs of brothers during the entire migration lifecycle – from childhood until age 34 – we estimate the effect of temporarily relocating to an urban area on occupational income over the mature working ages of 35–44 between the 1890s and the 1940s in Sweden. The results show that rural–urban migrants who returned to the countryside were not failures who did not improve their social position, but instead experienced substantial gains compared with their non‐migrant brothers. These gains were similar to those of migrants who had permanently settled in urban areas. This pattern is mainly attributed to their capacities to leave farming and enter white‐collar positions to a greater extent than non‐migrants. The extent of temporary rural–urban migration, combined with the high levels of intergenerational mobility of return migrants in Sweden during the period examined, suggests that rural–urban migration to towns resulted in positive feedback effects for the countryside.
A pilot study investigating the effect of the BEGIN psychoeducation intervention for people at clinical high risk for psychosis on emotional and stigma‐related experiences
Authors: Mikelic Maxwell , Jusdanis Alexander , Bergson Zachary , DeLuca Joseph S. , Sarac Cansu , Dobbs Matthew F. , Shuster Sophia , Vaidya Shreya , Wyka Katarzyna , Yang Lawrence H. , Landa Yulia , Corcoran Cheryl M. , Herrera Shaynna N.
Published: July 2024

Aim

There is concern that the provision of the clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR) label is stigmatizing. Prior research suggests people have nuanced reactions to feedback involving the CHR label, including a positive experience receiving feedback and improvement in negative emotions (e.g., shame), while also exhibiting concerns about self‐perception and perceptions from others related to the label. The current pilot study aimed to evaluate whether individuals at CHR showed changes in emotional and stigma‐related experiences following a CHR psychoeducation intervention, BEGIN: Brief Educational Guide for Individuals in Need.

Method

Participants at CHR (N = 26) identified via the Structured Interview for Psychosis‐Risk Syndromes completed the Mental Health Attitudes Interview measuring symptom‐related and CHR label‐related stigma at pre‐ and post‐intervention.

Results

Stigma did not increase and participants had greater positive emotions (e.g., feeling hopeful and relieved), post‐BEGIN.

Conclusion

This study suggests that standardized CHR psychoeducation does not increase stigma in individuals at CHR.
Health indicator construction based on normal states through FFT‐graph embedding
Authors: Kim GwanPil , Jung Jason J. , Camacho David
Published: July 2024

Unexpected faults in rotating machinery can lead to cascading disruptions of the entire work process, emphasizing the importance of early detection of performance degradation and identification of the current state. To accurately assess the health of a machine, this study introduces an FFT‐based raw vibration data preprocessing and graph representation technique, which analyses changes in frequency bands to detect early degradation trends in vibration data that may appear normal. The approach proposes a methodology that utilizes a graph convolutional autoencoder trained using only normal data to extract health indicators using the differences in the vectors as degradation progresses. This approach has the advantage of using only normal data to detect subtle performance degradation early and effectively represent health indicators accordingly.
Couple relationship education content: What we have and what we are missing
Authors: Griffes Sarah E. , Hardy Nathan R. , Gregson Ty J. , Brosi Matthew W. , Gardner Brandt
Published: July 2024

Couple relationship education (CRE) has decades of research showing mixed results for participants. Various competing frameworks for CRE content have emerged in the development of the field, yet content has not been systematically investigated. Through an inductive content analysis of 15 different CRE programs, this study explored content themes and categories that are common across programs. Analysis found four themes throughout the programs: interactional skills, the self in the relationship, partner bonding, and relationship motivations. Categories for each theme were identified and are presented and discussed. Findings validate the primacy of teaching interactional skills within CRE including consistency in topics (e.g., communication training, conflict management). Other themes were also common (e.g., self in the relationship), though their categories were more diverse (e.g., self‐care, expectations, personality). Several factors that have emerged as more significant in relationship theory and research were not well‐represented in the content analysis (e.g., socioecological contexts, systemic patterns).
Climate change alters social‐ecological trade‐offs in achieving ocean futures' targets
Authors: Zeng Zeyu , Lam Vicky W. Y. , Sumaila U. Rashid , Cheung William W. L.
Published: July 2024

The effects of climate change on marine ecosystems are causing cascading impacts on livelihood, food security, and culture through fisheries. Such impacts interact and exacerbate the effects of overfishing on marine social‐ecological systems, complicating the rebuilding of ecosystems to achieve desirable and sustainable ocean futures. Developing effective pathways for ecosystem rebuilding requires consideration of the co‐benefits and trade‐offs between ecological and social dimensions and between fishing sectors. However, the effects of intensifying climate change on such co‐benefits or trade‐offs are yet to be well understood, particularly in regions where ecosystem rebuilding is urgently needed. We applied a numerical optimization routine to define the scope for improvement toward the Pareto‐frontier for ecological robustness and economic benefits of the northern South China Sea (NSCS) and the East China Sea (ECS) ecosystems. These two ecosystems were used to represent over‐exploited low‐ and mid‐latitude systems, respectively, and the optimization aimed to improve their status through fisheries management. We find that the ECS ecosystem has the possibility of increasing the economic benefits generated by the fisheries it supports under climate change by 2050 while increasing the uncertainty of achieving biodiversity objectives. Nevertheless, climate change is projected to reduce the scope to restore ecosystem structures and the potential economic benefits in the NSCS ecosystem. This study highlights the contrasting impacts of climate change on the co‐benefits/trade‐offs in ecosystem rebuilding and the benefits obtainable by different fishing sectors even in neighboring ecosystems. We conclude that consideration at the nexus of climate–biodiversity‐fisheries is a key to developing effective ecosystem rebuilding plan.
Calcium‐sensing receptor regulates the angiogenic differentiation of LPS‐treated human dental pulp cells via the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/Akt pathway in vitro
Authors: Yang Ting , Liu Peiqi , Qiu Zixin , Zhang Yuejiao , An Shaofeng
Published: July 2024

Aim

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of calcium‐sensing receptor (CaSR) in the angiogenic differentiation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐treated human dental pulp cells (hDPCs).

Methodology

The LPS‐induced hDPCs were cultured in the medium with different combinations of CaSR agonist R568 and antagonist Calhex231. The cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenic capacity were measured by Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8), scratch wound healing, and tube formation assays, respectively. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), and western blot were conducted to determine the gene/protein expression of CaSR, inflammatory mediators, and angiogenic‐associated markers. The activation of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (Akt) was assessed by western blot analysis.

Results

The cell proliferation was elevated in response to R568 or Calhex231 exposure, but an enhanced cell migration was only found in cultures supplemented with Calhex231. Furthermore, R568 was found to potentiate the formation of vessel‐like structure, up‐regulated the protein expression of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and stromal cell‐derived factor (SDF)‐1; comparable influences were also observed in R568‐stimulated cells in the presence of PI3K inhibitor LY294002. In contrast, Calhex231 obviously inhibited the tube formation and VEGF protein level, whereas promoted the production of IL‐6, TNF‐α, and eNOS; however, in the presence of LY294002, Calhex231 showed a significant promotion on the protein expression of CaSR, VEGF, and SDF‐1. In addition, R568 exhibited a promotive action on the Akt phosphorylation, which can be reversed by LY294002.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that CaSR can regulate the angiogenic differentiation of LPS‐treated hDPCs with an involvement of the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway.
Inventory rationing, admission control, and production capacity allocation in a make‐to‐stock/make‐to‐order manufacturing system
Authors: Kim Eungab
Published: July 2024

This paper considers a manufacturing system in which products are produced in both make‐to‐stock (MTS) and make‐to‐order (MTO) modes. Production of MTS and MTO products is done in batches, incurs a setup cost, and is non‐preemptive. The inventory of MTS products fulfills the demand of multiple classes, and each class demand can be satisfied or rejected. Customer orders for MTO production can be accepted or rejected, and their size is the same as the production batch. The primary goal of this paper is to study a policy that coordinates inventory rationing, admission control, and production capacity allocation to maximize the system's profit. We formulate the problem as a Markov decision process model and identify the structure of optimal control policies. We investigate the effect of inventory rationing on the profit by comparing its performance to that of the system with a first‐come‐ first‐serve policy to allocate inventory to multiple demand classes and study the extent to which the benefit of inventory rationing can be affected by system parameter changes. We also propose a heuristic that manages control decisions from linear threshold functions. Our test results from numerical examples show that the average percentage difference between the optimal and heuristic policies is within 1.2%.
Parauchenoglanis stiassnyae (Siluriformes: Auchenoglanididae): A new species of giraffe catfish from Mfimi‐Lukenie basin, central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Modimo Myriam Y. , Bernt Maxwell J. , Monsembula Iyaba Raoul J. C. , Mbimbi José J. M. M. , Liyandja Tobit L. D.
Published: July 2024

A new, distinctively short‐bodied giraffe catfish of Parauchenoglanis is described from the Ndzaa River, a small left‐bank tributary of the Mfimi‐Lukenie basin in the Central basin of the Congo River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The new species can be distinguished from all congeners by having 29 or fewer (vs. 33 or more) total vertebrae. It can further be distinguished from all congeners, except Parauchenoglanis zebratus Sithole et al., 2023 and Parauchenoglanis ngamensis (Boulenger 1911), by having 13 or 14 (vs. 16 or more) pre‐anal vertebrae. The species is endemic to the Mfimi River basin, where it has been collected mainly in blackwater tributaries.
Systematic review: risk prediction models for metachronous advanced colorectal neoplasia after polypectomy
Authors: Kang James H‐E , Levine Emma , Fleet Alex , Padilla Mc Stephen , Lee Jeffrey K , Harrison Hannah , Usher‐Smith Juliet A
Published: July 2024

Background and Aim

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer death globally. CRC surveillance is a common indication for colonoscopy, representing a considerable burden for endoscopy services. Accurate identification of high‐risk patients who would benefit from more intensive surveillance, as well as low‐risk patients suitable for less frequent follow‐up, could improve the effectiveness of surveillance protocols and resource use. Our aim was to identify and critically appraise published risk models for the occurrence of metachronous advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACN), defined here as CRC or advanced adenomas detected during surveillance colonoscopy.

Methods

We searched PubMed and EMBASE for primary research studies reporting the development and/or validation of multivariable models that predict metachronous ACN risk. Screening of studies for inclusion, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were conducted by two researchers independently.

Results

We identified nine studies describing nine risk models. Six models were internally validated and two were externally validated. No model underwent both internal and external validation. Good model discrimination (concordance index > 0.7) was reported for two models during internal validation and for one model during external validation. Calibration was acceptable when assessed (n = 4). Methodological limitations and a high risk of bias were observed for all studies.

Conclusions

Several published models predicting metachronous ACN risk showed some promise. However, adherence to methodological standards was limited, and only two models were externally validated. Head‐to‐head comparisons of existing models using populations independent from model development cohorts should be prioritized to identify models suitable for use in clinical practice.
Impact of Veterans Affairs Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Centers: Incubators of innovation in geriatrics
Authors: Farrell Timothy W. , Hogans Beth B. , Moo Lauren , Jump Robin , Markland Alayne , Alessi Cathy , Barczi Steven , Bej Taissa , Bonomo Robert A. , Butler Jorie , Eleazer G. Paul , Flinton Pamela , Rupper Randall W. , Supiano Mark A. , Shaughnessy Marianne ,   the GRECC Directors Association
Published: July 2024

Since their inception in 1975, the Department of Veterans Affairs Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Centers (GRECCs) have served as incubators of innovation in geriatrics. Their contributions to the VA mission were last reviewed in 2012. Herein, we describe the continuing impact of GRECCs in research, clinical, and educational areas, focusing on the period between 2018 and 2022. GRECC research spans the continuum from bench to bedside, with a growing research portfolio notable for highly influential publications. GRECC education connects healthcare professions trainees and practicing clinicians, as well as Veterans and their caregivers, to engaging learning experiences. Clinical advancements, including age‐friendly care, span the continuum of care and leverage technology to link disparate geographical sites. GRECCs are uniquely positioned to serve older adults given their alignment with the largest integrated health system in the United States and their integration with academic health centers. As such, the GRECCs honor Veterans as they age by building VA capacity to care for the increasing number of aging Veterans seeking care from VA. GRECC advancements also benefit non‐VA healthcare systems, their academic affiliates, and non‐Veteran older adults. GRECCs make invaluable contributions to advancing geriatric and gerontological science, training healthcare professionals, and developing innovative models of geriatric care.
Pathways to zero plastic waste landfill: Progress toward plastic circularity in South Africa
Authors: Olatayo Kunle Ibukun , Mativenga Paul T. , Marnewick Annlizé L.
Published: July 2024

The accumulation of waste in landfill is currently a challenge globally and in South Africa. The primary motivation of this research was to contribute to identifying and evaluating pathways for diverting plastic waste from landfill and advancing the plastics circular economy. This study assessed, for South Africa, key measures implemented by selected countries to promote recycling in order to divert waste from the landfill. The National Waste Management Strategy of 2020 for South Africa mandates successive waste reduction targets toward zero waste landfill by 2050. Material flow analysis (MFA) was extended from previous studies and used to map plastic flows over three successive intervals to assess progress made toward diversion of plastic waste from landfill. The percentage of plastic materials sent to landfill for South Africa were 74%, 78%, and 39% in 2017, 2019, and 2021, respectively. Potential pathways were identified as strategies for the South African to accelerate the reduction of plastic waste to landfill. These were modeled as single and as combined actions, through sensitivity analysis on the MFA‐derived Sankey diagram and used to assess their impact on waste to landfill reduction. The scenario analysis highlighted improved waste collection and waste sorting as key measures and enablers that should be developed and a priority for reduction of plastic waste to landfill before the 2050 target year. The paper presents a new generic approach that combines MFA, Sankey diagrams, and scenario analysis to explore and evaluate solution spaces for transition to a circular economy.
Industrial Chain Leader System for green governance: Evidence from a Chinese resource‐based city
Authors: Li Yingbo , Hong Zhisheng , Lin Ziqiu , Zhao Tianyi
Published: July 2024

The Chain Leader System (CLS) is a novel concept of industrial development proposed by the Chinese local government. Initially, it was aimed at chain extension, supplementation, and advancement to address the impact of external uncertainties. However, there has been debate about whether political power from CLS will lead to inefficiencies in green governance. This study aims to formalize industrial CLS for green governance. A survey was conducted to assess public acceptance and the validity of CLS in a resource‐based city. The results indicate that CLS, when aligned with green governance goals, effectively corresponds with market rationality and public value. It is evident that CLS represents a collective effort toward effective governance rather than simply extending industrial chains or enhancing resilience. The efficiency of green governance within CLS is influenced by the factors including communication platform, enterprises' carbon sinks and green clustering, citizens' adoption of green transportation, and communication among different stakeholders. This study provides valuable insights for the governments seeking to establish an efficient CLS that aligns with both market principles and well‐functioning government.
Enhanced skin regeneration and therapeutic delivery using novel diamond‐augmented zinc oxide
Authors: Zhang Xinge Diana , Teng Claudia , Bai Xuefei , Teng Joyce , Chilukuri Suneel , Lewis Amy , Gold Michael H.
Published: July 2024

Background

Recent advancements in dermatological therapeutics have highlighted the need for treatments that enhance skin regeneration and healing. Diamond‐Augmented Zinc Oxide (ND‐ZnO) technology combines zinc oxide with diamond particles in a unique core‐shell structure, offering a multifaceted approach to overall skin health.

Aims

This study evaluates the efficacy of ND‐ZnO in promoting human dermal fibroblast migration and growth, enhancing total collagen synthesis, and improving transdermal delivery of active ingredients as a daily comprehensive skin regeneration topical therapy.

Patients/Methods

In vitro assays assessed wound healing, collagen production, and skin absorption. Human Dermal Fibroblasts (HDFs) were used in scratch wound assays. Collagen synthesis was quantified using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Permeation tests were performed on reconstructed human epidermal tissues to evaluate niacinamide absorption. Clinical case studies validated ND‐ZnO efficacy in post‐CO₂ laser treatments and Actinic Keratosis removal recovery.

Results

ND‐ZnO increased HDF migration by 198% compared to controls. Collagen synthesis assays showed a 71.3% restoration of collagen production in aged HDFs. Skin permeation studies revealed a 203% increase in niacinamide skin absorption with ND‐ZnO. Clinical case studies demonstrated faster and more effective healing post‐ablative CO₂ laser and significant improvements in Actinic Keratosis recovery.

Conclusions

ND‐ZnO technology enhances wound healing, collagen synthesis, and active ingredient delivery, offering substantial benefits for daily skin regeneration and other dermatological applications. This innovative approach holds promise for advancing dermatological therapeutics, providing comprehensive skin care solutions that address both protective and regenerative needs.
The effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on urban and rural hospital profitability
Authors: McFadyen Laura , Gurzenda Susie , Pink George , Malone Tyler , Reiter Kristin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

There are long‐standing differences in profitability between rural and urban hospitals. Prior to the COVID‐19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), rural hospital profitability was decreasing, while urban hospital profitability was increasing. During the PHE, the Federal Government provided billions of dollars of support to hospitals. Given the prepandemic differences in trends in profitability, it is likely that the PHE funding had different effects on rural hospitals and urban hospitals.

Methods

This study uses 2015–2023 Medicare cost report data from acute‐care hospitals to assess the impact of COVID‐19 PHE funding on hospital profitability. We employ descriptive Kruskal–Wallis and chi‐square tests and an interrupted time series analysis to evaluate the effect of PHE funding on operating margins for a stratified sample of rural prospective payment system (PPS), urban PPS, and critical access hospitals (CAHs).

Results

We found that the PHE funding was associated with significant increases in operating margins, with rural PPS hospitals experiencing similar increases compared to urban PPS hospitals, and CAHs surpassing both rural and urban PPS hospitals in their margin values. However, if PHE funding had not been provided, our evidence suggests operating margins for all hospitals in 2022–2023 would have been below prepandemic levels.

Discussion

This preliminary analysis portrays the importance of the PHE government funding in supporting hospitals during the pandemic, and shows declining profitability trends without the funds. Rural PPS hospitals fare the worst suggesting continued need for financial support if the trend continues.
Collocation in the Mind: Investigating Collocational Priming in Second Language Speakers of Italian
Authors: Fioravanti Irene , Siyanova‐Chanturia Anna , Lenci Alessandro
Published: July 2024

Collocational priming is a priming effect induced by collocationally related words; it has been taken to explain the cognitive reality of collocation. Collocational priming has largely been observed in first language (L1) speakers, whereas work on the representation of collocation in a second language (L2) is still limited. In the present study, we sought to investigate this phenomenon in L1 and L2 speakers of Italian. We used a lexical decision task to explore collocational priming in verb–noun and noun–adjective collocations differing in frequency and collocational strength. Both L1 and L2 speakers were found sensitive to the frequency of collocations. Importantly, exposure to L2 Italian was found to play a role. The results suggest that collocational priming occurs both in L1 and L2 speakers, and that the mechanisms associated with collocation processing and representation in L1 and L2 speakers may be comparable.
Realising Person‐Centredness: Transitioning to a Clustered Domestic Model of Aged Residential Care for People With and Without Dementia
Authors: Shannon Kay , Cook Catherine , Neville Stephen
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Many older people who cannot live independently live in aged residential care facilities to obtain support with social and healthcare needs. Despite old age being a precious time for people to live well, many facility residents have limited access to activities that promote their well‐being and connectedness. In New Zealand, one provider of aged residential care developed a village inspired by de Hogeweyk in the Netherlands, where resident engagement in valued activities supports continuing lifelong identities.

Methods

The study aimed to explain the transition from a traditional Aged Residential Care facility to a clustered domestic model of care. A critical realist theoretical perspective underpinned case study research. Data comprised transcripts of interviews with key informants, facility staff, residents and their families, records of observation of residents' daily lives, organisational documents, photographs and the first author's study journal.

Results

The intersection of philosophical workplace change to support delivery of person‐centred care and a change in the physical environment enabled realisation of the organisational vision of residents living normal lives.

Conclusion

Policy makers and practitioners must be aware that while a domestic‐scale environment provides cues to normal living, staff who know residents and what is important to them enable participation in community and valued activities.

Implications for Practice

Innovative living arrangements are a synthesis of philosophical aspirations, architectural and design vision, dedicated leadership and committed teamwork.
Is teasing meant to be mean or nice? Retrospective reports of adolescent social experiences and teasing attitudes
Authors: Andrews Naomi C. Z. , Pakkal Oya , Dawes Molly
Published: July 2024

Peer teasing has contradictory conceptualizations, including teasing that is playful, and teasing that is akin to bullying. In addition to individuals potentially having different conceptualizations of teasing, and despite the inherently social nature of teasing, little is known about the social correlates of teasing attitudes. The current study aimed to examine multifaceted teasing attitudes (i.e., aggressive, affectionate, or romantic interest teasing), and to assess how past social experiences (victimization, popularity, social satisfaction/self‐concept) relate to teasing attitudes. Young adults (N = 437, 17–25 years old, 65% female) reported on multifaceted teasing attitudes on a Teasing Attitudes Scale developed for this study. Participants also reported retrospectively on adolescent social experiences. Findings validated the Teasing Attitudes Scale, showing that young adults have distinct attitudes toward teasing as aggressive, affectionate, and indicating romantic interest. Participants who reported victimization by bullying, lower popularity (girls only), social satisfaction, and social self‐concept were more likely to view teasing as aggressive. Participants who had been victims of non‐bullying aggression viewed teasing as affectionate, and those with high social satisfaction and self‐concept viewed teasing as for romantic interest purposes. Implications for understanding the complexities of teasing and its associations with individual attitudes and adolescent social experiences will be discussed.
Melanoma classification using generative adversarial network and proximal policy optimization
Authors: Ju Xiangui , Lin Chi‐Ho , Lee Suan , Wei Sizheng
Published: July 2024

In oncology, melanoma is a serious concern, often arising from DNA changes caused mainly by ultraviolet radiation. This cancer is known for its aggressive growth, highlighting the necessity of early detection. Our research introduces a novel deep learning framework for melanoma classification, trained and validated using the extensive SIIM‐ISIC Melanoma Classification Challenge‐ISIC‐2020 dataset. The framework features three dilated convolution layers that extract critical feature vectors for classification. A key aspect of our model is incorporating the Off‐policy Proximal Policy Optimization (Off‐policy PPO) algorithm, which effectively handles data imbalance in the training set by rewarding the accurate classification of underrepresented samples. In this framework, the model is visualized as an agent making a series of decisions, where each sample represents a distinct state. Additionally, a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) augments training data to improve generalizability, paired with a new regularization technique to stabilize GAN training and prevent mode collapse. The model achieved an F‐measure of 91.836% and a geometric mean of 91.920%, surpassing existing models and demonstrating the model's practical utility in clinical environments. These results demonstrate its potential in enhancing early melanoma detection and informing more accurate treatment approaches, significantly advancing in combating this aggressive cancer.
Salmon lice biology, environmental factors, and smolt behaviour with implications for the Norwegian salmon farming management system: A critical review
Authors: van Nes Solveig , Imsland Albert Kjartan Dagbjartarson , Jones Simon R. M.
Published: July 2024

In 2017, a new regulatory management system, the traffic light system (TLS), was implemented to estimate the effects of salmon lice from Norwegian salmon aquaculture on marine survival of wild Atlantic salmon and forms the basis of aquaculture capacity regulation. The TLS relies on observational data and a set of models to estimate the risk for negative impact on wild salmon populations. This review of the literature that forms the basis for the TLS as well as other relevant studies is presented in the context of the currently practiced TLS and suggestions are made for immediate and long‐term improvements. The main findings of this review are that: (1) assumed timing and duration of smolt migration contribute to unreliable observational and modelled data and overestimates of infection pressure; (2) production of lice larvae from farmed salmon is overestimated; (3) TLS model systems rely on or are calibrated by the same potentially flawed data; (4) lice‐associated mortality in wild salmon smolts may be overestimated; and (5) lice infection levels on farms are not associated with measurable effects on wild salmon. Recommendations to improve the accuracy and reliability of the TLS, and hence its environmental efficiency include the more complete use of available biological and physical environmental variables, adjusting the time period that observational data are registered and modelled data are integrated, adjusting the interpretation of data including recognition of uncertainty in model outcomes, and use of more realistic assumptions concerning lice‐induced mortality thresholds.
Mapping Queer Berlin: The potential of virtual reality pedagogy for the language classroom
Authors: DeSocio Domenic
Published: July 2024

Immersive virtual reality (iVR) is a novel form of computer technology that promises to transform not only the delivery of language and cultural instruction but also how students produce language. The existing, yet limited, scholarship on the applications of iVR in the language classroom suggests affective and cultural benefits (e.g., increased student motivation and enthusiasm and bringing inaccessible locations and cultures to students) and a positive impact on vocabulary acquisition and speaking proficiencies, but evidence of iVR's effect on listening comprehension, reading, writing, and grammar instruction as well as higher‐level cognition remains scarce and inconclusive. The project presented in this article, “Mapping Queer Berlin,” targets this scholarly gap by investigating how iVR can improve students’ reading and listening proficiencies and promote advanced research and communication skills. The explanation of the project design and the learning process and outcomes aims to guide instructors on how to integrate iVR into their classrooms, including its technological constraints and pedagogical pitfalls. Drawing on the instructor's and students’ reflections, the article concludes that iVR is currently not mature enough to facilitate significant improvements in students’ language proficiencies beyond an elementary level but shows potential for transforming language curricula with future developments.
DEVELOPMENT OF A COMPUTER PROGRAMME FOR THE DESIGN OF MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITIES Part 6: Sludge Thickening and Blending Facility
Authors: Demun Amat Sairin
Published: July 2024

The first sludge proc essing unit in a municipal wastewater treatment plant is sludge blending tank and sludge thickener before the sludge flow into sludge stabilization unit. A computer programme was developed using FORTRAN to design sludge blendin g tank and sludge thickening facility. The design include determining the size and hydraulic profile in the sludge thickener and in sludge blending tank. The influent and effluent structure is also designed using the same method in the secondary clarifier. The' input data to this computer programme is mainly the quantity of sludge effluent from the primary sedimentation bas ins and from the secondary or final clarifiers. These values are computed in a separate subroutine which analyze the material mass balance in the treatment plant. The thickened sludge withdrawal rate and the effluent quality from the sludge thickener are also computed . The results are easy to interpret and automatically appear on the computer screen or in an output file.
PERFORMANCE OF AERATED FLOATING AQUATIC PLANT SYSTEM IN WASTEWATER TREATMENT
Authors: Mohd Said Mohd Ismid , Lakshamanan Seethadevi
Published: July 2024

A simple lab-scale experiment was conducted to study the performance of aerated and non-aerated water hyacinth systems in treating domestic wastewater, The aerated water hyacinth = system showed higher removalÂ efficiencies than the non-aerated water hyacinth. system. This may be due to aeration induced mixingofwater which allow a greater portion of the wastewater to contact the root zone of ihe plant, arid also increase in microbial activities.
PHOSPHORUS LOADINGS ESTIMATION AND EUTROPIDCATION STATUS OF SUNGAI LAYANG RESERVOIR USING VOLLENWEIDER MODEL
Authors: Shamsudin Supiah
Published: July 2024

The study dealt with Phosphorus loadings estimation and lake eutrophication status using Vollenweider Steady-State Empirical Model. The phosphorus loadings predicted by Vollenweider's Model indicated that Sungai Layang Reservoir is an eutrophic lake. The mean hydraulics residence time obtaine was 0.86 year and phosphorus loadings estimated was about 2.02 tons/year. Alternative methods of controlling phosphorus loading is briefly discussed.