bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ASIMO: Agent-centric scene representation in multi-object manipulation
Authors: Min Cheol-Hui , Kim Young Min
Published: June 2024

Vision-based reinforcement learning (RL) is a generalizable way to control an agent because it is agnostic of specific hardware configurations. As visual observations are highly entangled, attempts for vision-based RL rely on scene representation that discerns individual entities and establishes intuitive physics to constitute the world model. However, most existing works on scene representation learning cannot successfully be deployed to train an RL agent, as they are often highly unstable and fail to sustain for a long enough temporal horizon. We propose ASIMO, a fully unsupervised scene decomposition to perform interaction-rich tasks with a vision-based RL agent. ASIMO decomposes agent-object interaction videos of episodic-length into the agent, objects, and background, predicting their long-term interactions. Further, we explicitly model possible occlusion in the image observations and stably track individual objects. Then, we can correctly deduce the updated positions of individual entities in response to the agent action, only from partial visual observation. Based on the stable entity-wise decomposition and temporal prediction, we formulate a hierarchical framework to train the RL agent that focuses on the context around the object of interest. We demonstrate that our formulation for scene representation can be universally deployed to train different configurations of agents and accomplish several tasks that involve pushing, arranging, and placing multiple rigid objects.
Numerical investigation on effect of electromagnetic stirring on macrosegregation in continuously cast round bloom via three-phase solidification model
Authors: Yang Yuwei , Liu Chao , Luo Sen , Wang Weiling , Zhu Miaoyong
Published: June 2024

Based on our previously proposed three-phase solidification model, a comprehensive analysis on the impact of the only electromagnetic stirring (EMS) and combined EMS on the microscopic structure evolution and solute segregation behavior in a 500 mm diameter 42CrMo steel of continuously cast round bloom. The results indicate that M-EMS has a notable impact on expediting the dissipation of superheat, enhancing the initiation of grain formation, and enlarging the equiaxed region. The percentage of equiaxed grains increased from 59.26 to 63.37% with the increment in current intensities of M-EMS from 250 to 350 A. However, higher M-EMS current intensities were found to enhance local positive segregation in the transition zone between columnar and equiaxed grains. The impact of M-EMS on improving center positive segregation was minimal, as the ratio of center positive segregation remained consistently around 1.17. Furthermore, the implementation of F-EMS demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing center positive segregation. The ratio of center positive segregation decreased from 1.14 to 1.10, when the current intensity increases from 150 to 250 A. However, it should be noted that F-EMS alone did not contribute to the expansion of the equiaxed zone. On the other hand, when M-EMS was combined with F-EMS (referred to as combined EMS), it showed potential in mitigating center segregation during continuous casting round blooms. The benefits observed with M-EMS in terms of promoting grain nucleation and expanding the equiaxed grain zone were also evident in this combined EMS process. Furthermore, a notable enhancement in the equiaxed grain ratio up to 60.13% was observed combined EMS models were simultaneously employed during continuous casting of round blooms. And, there was a reduction in center segregation ratio for round blooms to as low as 1.09.
Synaesthesia is linked to differences in music preference and musical sophistication and a distinctive pattern of sound-color associations
Authors: Ward Jamie , Maciel Stacy , Rouw Romke , Simner Julia , Root Nicholas
Published: June 2024

Synaesthesia has often been linked to an artistic or creative temperament, but the nature of this link (and, hence, the possible underpinning mechanisms) are poorly understood. This study focusses primarily on people with synaesthesia who have visual experiences, including color, that are induced by music. We determine how this impacts their musical preferences and musical sophistication using previously validated self-report measures and contrast them against non-synaesthetes and synaesthetes with non-musical types. Our data show that people with music-color synaesthesia gravitate toward certain genres (e.g., Reflective and Complex) and show more active engagement with music relative to controls and other synaesthetes. However, synaesthesia as a whole is also linked to greater musical sophistication (e.g., perceptual abilities). A second study examines in detail the nature of associations from musical notes to colors in synaesthetes relative to non-synaesthetes. Synaesthetes have a distinctive way of associating colors with notes: They are more consistent over time, show a more sensitive pitch-luminance correspondence, and have a distinctive color palette (e.g., more browns, fewer greens). These indicative features can be used to determine the presence of this form of synaesthesia.
Modeling Recovery Housing Retention and Program Outcomes by Justice Involvement among Residents in Virginia, USA: An Observational Study
Authors: Sondhi Arun , Bunaciu Adela , Best David , Hennessy Emily A. , Best Jessica , Leidi Alessandro , Grimes Anthony , Conner Matthew , DeTriquet Robert , White William
Published: June 2024

Living in recovery housing can improve addiction recovery and desistance outcomes. This study examined whether retention in recovery housing and types of discharge outcomes (completed, “neutral,” and “negative” outcomes) differed for clients with recent criminal legal system (CLS) involvement. Using data from 101 recovery residences certified by the Virginia Association of Recovery Residences based on 1,978 individuals completing the REC-CAP assessment, competing risk analyses (cumulative incidence function, restricted mean survival time, and restricted mean time lost) followed by the marginalization of effects were implemented to examine program outcomes at final discharge. Residents with recent CLS involvement were more likely to be discharged for positive reasons (successful completion of their goals) and premature/negative reasons (e.g., disciplinary releases) than for neutral reasons. Findings indicate that retention for 6–18 months is essential to establish and maintain positive discharge outcomes, and interventions should be developed to enhance retention in recovery residents with recent justice involvement.
Authority Allocation Approach for the Human-Machine Co-Driving System in Crosswinds
Authors: Li Xueyun , Wang Yiping , Su Chuqi , Liu Xun
Published: June 2024

To improve driving safety and the stability of human-machine co-driving vehicles in crosswinds, a human-machine co-driving system to address the impact of crosswinds is developed. To reveal the relationship between crosswinds and tire cornering stiffness, the effect of tire load on cornering stiffness is analyzed based on the Magic Formula tire model. On this basis, the correction function of tire cornering stiffness is obtained. A human-machine co-driving system framework is introduced, which includes the driver model, controller, and authority allocation strategy. The controller is used to guarantee the stability of the system, which can remain robust to the uncertainty of tire cornering stiffness and vehicle velocity. The authority allocation strategy can adjust the authority level of the driver and controller according to the crosswind speed, working states of the vehicle, and driving feeling of drivers. The effectiveness of the proposed system is verified by simulation. The results show that the proposed system can improve the vehicle’s lane-keeping and obstacle-avoidance abilities in crosswinds. Further, the system can be compatible with drivers with different driving characteristics and achieve greater versatility. In addition, the impact of crosswinds on the trajectory tracking performance and driving stability of the vehicle, at different speeds and different tire cornering stiffnesses, can be weakened and the reliability of the system improved significantly.
Cognitive Workload Estimation in Conditionally Automated Vehicles Using Transformer Networks Based on Physiological Signals
Authors: Wang Ange , Wang Jiyao , Shi Wenxin , He Dengbo
Published: June 2024

Though driving automation promises to improve driving safety, drivers are still required to be ready to retake control in conditionally automated vehicles, which are defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) as SAE L3 vehicles. Thus, drivers’ states can still affect driving safety in SAE L3 vehicles. Previous research found that a high cognitive load may impair drivers’ takeover performance. Thus, it is still necessary to estimate drivers’ cognitive load in SAE L3 vehicles. However, existing driver cognitive load estimation algorithms mostly focus on vehicles with a lower level of driving automation (e.g., SAE L0), which may not be relevant when estimating driver states in SAE L3 vehicles, given that drivers’ responsibilities are different, and several commonly used measures (e.g., driving performance) are unavailable when drivers are not continuously controlling the vehicle. Further, previous driver cognitive load estimation algorithms rarely considered the temporal information in the input features. Thus, we proposed a deep-learning algorithm to estimate driver cognitive load in SAE L3 vehicles, which integrated multiple physiological features (i.e., electrocardiogram, electrodermal activity, respiration) and considered the temporal correlation of the data using a transformer-encoder-based network. The performance of our algorithm was compared with baseline models on an open data set. Results showed that our algorithm outperformed baseline models and achieved an accuracy of 94.4% using within-subject data partition (proportionally splitting data from the same subject into the training and testing data sets) and an accuracy of 89% using across-subjects data partition (dividing the training and testing data sets based on individual subjects).
Secondary Meniscectomy Rates and Risk Factors for Failed Repair of Ramp Lesions Performed at the Time of Primary ACL Reconstruction: An Analysis of 1037 Patients From the SANTI Study Group
Authors: Pioger Charles , Ayata Merwane , Pettinari Francesco , Ali Ahmad Abed , Alayane Ali , Campos Joao Pedro , Vieira Thais Dutra , Saithna Adnan , Sonnery-Cottet Bertrand
Published: June 2024

Background:

Studies evaluating secondary meniscectomy rates and risk factors for failure of ramp repair are sparse and limited by small numbers and heterogeneity.

Purposes/Hypothesis:

The purposes were to determine the secondary meniscectomy rate for failure of ramp repair performed using a posteromedial portal suture hook at the time of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and to identify risk factors for secondary meniscectomy. It was hypothesized that patients who underwent ACLR combined with a lateral extra-articular procedure (LEAP) would experience significantly lower rates of secondary meniscectomy compared with those undergoing isolated ACLR.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients undergoing primary ACLR and ramp repair between 2013 and 2020 were included in the study. Final follow-up for each patient was defined by his or her last appointment recorded in a prospective database (with a study end date of March 2023). The database and medical records were used to determine whether patients had undergone secondary meniscectomy for failure of ramp repair. Survivorship of ramp repair (using secondary meniscectomy as an endpoint) was determined using the Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate analysis was used to investigate possible risk factors.

Results:

A total of 1037 patients were included in the study. The secondary meniscectomy rate after ramp repair was 7.7% at a mean final follow-up of 72.4 months. Patients without combined ACLR + LEAP were >2-fold more likely to undergo a secondary medial meniscectomy compared with those with combined ACLR + LEAP (hazard ratio, 2.455; 95% CI, 1.457-4.135; P = .0007). Age, sex, preoperative Tegner score, and time between injury and surgery were not significant risk factors for failure.

Conclusion:

The rate of secondary meniscectomy after ramp repair performed through a posteromedial portal at the time of primary ACLR was low. Patients who underwent isolated ACLR (rather than ACLR + LEAP) were >2-fold more likely to undergo a secondary medial meniscectomy for failure of ramp repair. Additional risk factors for failure of ramp repair were not identified.
Latent Profiles of Acute Symptoms, Cognitive Performance, and Balance in Sport-Related Concussions
Authors: Simons Mary U. , McCrea Michael A. , Broglio Steven , McAllister Thomas W. , Nelson Lindsay D. , Benjamin Holly , Brooks Alison , Buckley Thomas , Cameron Kenneth , Clugston Jay , DiFiori John , D’Lauro Chris , Eckner James , Alejandro Feigenbaum Luis , Giza Christopher , Hazzard Jr Joseph , Kaminski Thomas , Kelly Louise , Kontos Anthony , Master Christina , Mihalik Jason , Miles Christopher , Port Nicholas , Putukian Margot , Susmarski Adam
Published: June 2024

Background:

A sport-related concussion (SRC) is a common injury that affects multiple clinical domains such as cognition, balance, and nonspecific neurobehavioral symptoms. Although multidimensional clinical assessments of concussion are widely accepted, there remain limited empirical data on the nature and clinical utility of distinct clinical profiles identified by multimodal assessments.

Purpose:

Our objectives were to (1) identify distinct clinical profiles discernible from acute postinjury scores on the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT), composed of a symptom checklist, a cognitive assessment (Standardized Assessment of Concussion), and a balance assessment (Balance Error Scoring System), and (2) evaluate the clinical utility of the identified profiles by examining their association with injury characteristics, neuropsychological outcomes, and clinical management–related outcomes.

Study Design:

Cohort study (Prognosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Up to 7 latent profiles were modeled for 1885 collegiate athletes and/or military cadets who completed the SCAT at 0 to 12 hours after an injury. Chi-square tests and general linear models were used to compare identified profiles on outcomes at 12 to 72 hours after the injury. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to investigate associations between clinical profiles and time to return to being asymptomatic and to return to play.

Results:

There were 5 latent profiles retained: low impairment (65.8%), high cognitive impairment (5.4%), high balance impairment (5.8%), high symptom severity (16.4%), and global impairment (6.5%). The latent profile predicted outcomes at 12 to 72 hours in expectable ways (eg, the high balance impairment profile demonstrated worse balance at 12 to 72 hours after the injury). Time to return to being asymptomatic and to return to play were different across profiles, with the high symptom severity and global impairment profiles experiencing the longest recovery and the high balance impairment profile experiencing an intermediate-length recovery (vs low impairment profile).

Conclusion:

An SRC is a heterogeneous injury that presents in varying ways clinically in the acute injury period and results in different recovery patterns. These data support the clinical prognostic value of diverse profiles of impairment across symptom, cognitive, and balance domains. By identifying distinct profiles of an SRC and connecting them to differing outcomes, the findings support more evidence-based use of accepted multimodal clinical assessment strategies for SRCs.
Long-Term Advantages of Adolescent Optimism: Nonlinear Associations With Adult Outcomes and its Protective Role in Buffering Socioeconomic Risk
Authors: Tetzner Julia , Becker Michael
Published: June 2024

This study examined whether optimism in early adolescence predicts occupational and psychosocial outcomes in early adulthood and explored the functional form of this relation. We also investigated whether these associations continue to hold after accounting for concomitant factors and whether optimism acts as a protective factor that helps early adolescents deal with socioeconomic adversity. We followed a large sample of German seventh graders ( N = 1596; 63.8% females; baseline M age = 12.9) at two measurement points over a period of 18 years and estimated latent regression models. Optimism in early adolescence predicted several adult outcomes, including occupational prestige, social integration, psychosocial symptoms, and depression. Analyses with social integration, depression, and life satisfaction revealed a nonlinear association: Optimism promoted life outcomes, but this positive association reached a plateau in above-average ranges of optimism and a minimum value in below-average optimism ranges. Moreover, optimism in early adolescence buffered the negative effects of low parental socioeconomic status on occupational prestige, job satisfaction, and psychosomatic symptoms in adulthood. The findings offer increased knowledge about the long-term significance of optimism and underscore the necessity of considering these effects from a more comprehensive and interactional point of view.
The dilemma of King David: Reading Josephus’ Antiquities against the grain through the lens of Greco-Roman tyrant typologies
Authors: Edwards David R.
Published: June 2024

King David is the ideal Jewish monarch for Josephus no less than in the Hebrew Bible. Yet, the scriptural stories of David’s life are punctuated by dark episodes which subsequent writers and readers have struggled to integrate with their elevated vision of a noble king. In this study, I argue that the difficulties of persuading Josephus’ readers in Antiquities that the famed dynastic founder was noble, virtuous, and an ideal leader were even more exacerbated. Reading Josephus’ David against the grain of his authorial cues reveals the danger that lay beneath the apologetic veneer: a figure that a Greco-Roman audience could potentially identify as a tyrant. I analyze Josephus’ account of King David under the rubric of four common Greco-Roman typologies of the stock tyrant, showing that several stories of David conform in many respects to the tyrannical stereotype. Even Josephus’ own alterations, omissions, and additions to the scriptural accounts of David could, at times, have unintentionally worked counter to his apologetic agenda and reinforced a reading of David as a tyrannical figure. Survey of tyrants in Greco-Roman literature confirms my reading as a real possibility, while parallels between David and Herod in Antiquities cement the threat of Josephus’ readers parting ways with his apologetic efforts to present David as the most admirable of kings.
A record of change in oyster environment through high-resolution geochemical analysis of Late-Holocene sediments from Coastal Ghana
Authors: Mahu Edem , Leng Melanie J , Andrews Luke , Englong Apichaya , Marchant Robert
Published: June 2024

The near-coast environments where oysters occur are among the most impacted by humans globally, especially during the Late-Holocene. Yet, in West Africa, there is no documented historical record of change in these environments. We provide insight into the changing geochemical conditions of two oyster environments through high-resolution analysis of total organic carbon (C), total nitrogen (N), carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios (δ13C, δ15N), and trace elements, in two cores retrieved from the Densu estuary and the Anyanui (Keta) Creek in Ghana. Drastic shifts in sedimentation rate occurred in the Keta and Densu cores around 1996 CE and 960 CE respectively. At these times, comparatively, low levels of C and N were found in the Densu core. Increasing C and N levels and decreasing δ13C upcore aligned with the observed shift in sedimentation rate in the Keta core. The C/N ratios in the Keta core suggest allochthonous organic matter (OM) dominance in the creek. The Densu core showed periodic changes in C/N ratios from very high values (>20) between 1918 BCE and 1321 BCE, to values between 20 and 11 between 1321 BCE and 1977 CE and below 10 from the late 1970s CE to the present day, suggesting a varying degree of transformation in the catchment basin. Extremely high Sulfur (S) and moderate to significant Iron (Fe) increases suggest reducing conditions in the Keta sediments. Moderate Calcium (Ca), Zinc (Zn), and Strontium (Sr) concentrations in the upper part of the Densu core suggest a stronger influence of marine processes in the Densu in recent times. The findings reflect the impacts of catchment basin modification on the health of the two coastal environments, likely to impact the growth, productivity, and sustainability of the fishery of the West African mangrove Oyster.
Exploring local and regional vegetation compositional changes during the Neolithic (5th–3rd millennium BC): A case study on the forager impact on vegetation in north-east Europe
Authors: Alenius Teija Helena , Marquer Laurent , Nordqvist Kerkko
Published: June 2024

This research explores the vegetation compositional changes between the fifth and third millennium BC on the Karelian Isthmus (north-west Russia). Special emphasis is placed on studying the timing and magnitude of the impact of hunter-fisher-gatherers on the vegetation. First, we reconstruct the local vegetation around Lake Bolshoye Zavetnoye by using the Landscape Reconstruction Algorithm modelling. The application of different scenarios to the relevant source area of pollen is used to assess the local vegetation around Lake Bolshoye Zavetnoye (BZL) at specific distances from 500 to 3000 m. The regional vegetation reconstruction is assessed by using the REVEALS model. Second, we present new pollen and charcoal data from adjacent Lake Ikmenlampi (LI). Third, we calculate indices of vegetation change for BZL, LI and the region. We further explore the potential causes for these differences between the spatial scales and compare all these outcomes with local and regional archaeological data. The results show that foragers actively manipulated their environment. A shift towards more heliophilous conditions is shown by ca 4800 BC. Between 4000 and 3000 BC, an increase in archaeological material suggests intensive resource procurement and landscape management activities, particularly near settlements. Around the BZL site a local decrease in birch is observed from 4100 BC, coinciding with an increase in the rate of vegetation changes. Additionally, a decline in tree species (spruce, hazel, Alder) from 3500 to 3300 BC suggests human activities. The high fire frequency recorded between 4090 and 3150 BC further supports the presence of local human disturbances by the deliberate use of fire to create favourable living conditions. The results from the LI site go in the same direction with fluctuating abundances of spruce and the presence of pollen from Cannabis, Hordeum, Urtica and Plantago lanceolata from ca 4000 to 3600 BC, indicating the use of spruce-dominated forests and an early, incipient cultivation.
Constrained Assortment Optimization Under the Cross-Nested Logit Model
Authors: Le Cuong , Mai Tien
Published: June 2024

We study the assortment optimization problem under general linear constraints, where the customer choice behavior is captured by the cross-nested logit model. In this problem, there is a set of products organized into multiple subsets (or nests), where each product can belong to more than one nest. The aim is to find an assortment to offer to customers so that the expected revenue is maximized. We show that, under the cross-nested logit model, the unconstrained assortment problem is NP-hard even when there are only two nests, and the problem is generally NP-hard to approximate to any constant factors. To tackle this challenging problem, we develop a new discretization mechanism to approximate the problem by a linear fractional program with a performance guarantee of [Formula: see text], for any accuracy level [Formula: see text]. We then show that optimal solutions to the approximate problem can be obtained by solving mixed-integer linear programs. We further show that our discretization approach can also be applied to solve a joint assortment optimization and pricing problem, as well as an assortment problem under a mixture of cross-nested logit models to account for multiple classes of customers. Our empirical results on a large number of randomly generated test instances demonstrate that, under a performance guarantee of 90% (i.e., expected revenues are guaranteed to be at least 90% of the optimal revenue), the percentage gaps between the objective values obtained from our approximation methods and the optimal expected revenues are no larger than 1.2%.
The Mediating Effect of Emotion Regulation Between Intensive Parenting Attitudes and Parental Anger
Authors: Long Haiying , Prikhidko Alena
Published: June 2024

Previous research has yielded mixed results about the relationships between intensive parenting attitudes and parental emotions. Further, very few studies have investigated the indirect effects of intensive parenting attitudes on parental anger through parental emotion regulation. In this study, we aim to understand the direct and indirect relationships among these variables, particularly focusing on essentialism and fulfillment and orientation to a child's emotions and emotional lack of control. Results from 654 parents with diverse racial backgrounds indicated that essentialism and fulfillment were significant predictors of parents' use of two dimensions of emotion regulation and that both dimensions were significant predictors of parental anger expression. While emotional lack of control was a significant predictor of parental anger experience, orientation was not. Mediation analyses showed that orientation was a positive mediating emotion regulation between essentialism and anger expression but a negative mediating emotion regulation between fulfillment and anger expression. Emotional lack of control was a positive mediating emotion regulation between essentialism and two anger dimensions but a negative mediating emotion regulation between fulfillment and two anger dimensions. We discussed all these results under the counseling context of helping parents regulate their anger.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Cancer Occurrence and Outcomes in Rural United States: A Scoping Review
Authors: Njoku Anuli , Sawadogo Wendemi , Frimpong Princess
Published: June 2024

Background

Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the United States. Most studies have reported rural versus urban and Black versus White cancer disparities. However, few studies have investigated racial disparities in rural areas.

Objective

We conducted a literature review to explore the current state of knowledge on racial and ethnic disparities in cancer attitudes, knowledge, occurrence, and outcomes in rural United States.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed and Embase was performed. Peer-reviewed articles published in English from 2004-2023 were included. Three authors independently reviewed the articles and reached a consensus.

Results

After reviewing 993 articles, a total of 30 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the present review. Studies revealed that underrepresented racial and ethnic groups in rural areas were more likely to have low cancer-related knowledge, low screening, high incidence, less access to treatment, and high mortality compared to their White counterparts.

Conclusion

Underrepresented racial and ethnic groups in rural areas experienced a high burden of cancer. Improving social determinants of health may help reduce cancer disparities and promote health.
Contact problem for an interface crack under action of a moving punch
Authors: Kudish Ilya I , Sahakyan Avetik , Hakobyan Vahram , Amirjanyan Harutyun
Published: June 2024

Nowadays coatings are used in many applications to reduce contact friction, reduce energy losses, improve wear and pitting resistance, and so on in various machine parts. In some cases, coating applications are limited due to coating delamination. The latter is caused by a crack growth due to cyclic loading along a coating interface with the substrate. This paper is focused on modeling and analyzing the behavior of interface cracks between a coating and a substrate. A flat rigid punch subjected to normal and tangential loading is slowly moving along the solid surface. The solid is represented by an elastic half-plane covered by two elastic layers bonded to each other and to the substrate. The elastic materials of the coatings and the substrate are homogeneous but different. The thickness of the layer adjacent to the substrate is considered to be (significantly) smaller than the one above it. This thin layer plays the role of the interface between the other one and the substrate. The interface layer has a crack parallel to its surface and located in the middle of it. The crack surfaces are free from friction and can partially open/close or completely open/close. Some numerical results for the crack stress intensity factors and other solution parameters are presented for cracks small and comparable in size with the punch contact region.
Histoplasmosis in domestic cats: new minimally invasive diagnostic techniques
Authors: Palha de Brito Jardim Mariana , Hanzlicek Andrew S , Cid Gabriela C , Makita Mario T , Souza Heloisa JM
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to evaluate minimally invasive diagnostic techniques, such as the semi-quantitative indirect IgG antibody enzyme immunoassay (EIA) using blood serum and the urinary lateral flow assay (LFA), for the detection of Histoplasma capsulatum in cats with histoplasmosis.

Methods

Eight client-owned domestic cats diagnosed with histoplasmosis were selected based on cytological, histopathological, mycological, molecular or antigenic techniques. The blood serum of these animals was tested in a semi-quantitative indirect IgG antibody EIA for the detection of H capsulatum. Urine samples were tested for H capsulatum antigen using LFA.

Results

Five cats were seropositive on IgG EIA (5/8, with diagnostic sensitivity equal to 62.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 24.5–91.5) and five cats were positive on H capsulatum antigen LFA (5/7, with diagnostic sensitivity equal to 71.4%; 95% CI 29.0–96.3). The combined diagnostic sensitivity when interpreted in parallel was 87.5% (7/8, 95% CI 47.3–99.7). The specificity for the anti- Histoplasma IgG EIA was 100% (95% CI 71.5–100) and for the H capsulatum antigen LFA it was also 100% (95% CI 71.5–100).

Conclusions and relevance

The semi-quantitative indirect IgG antibody EIA for the detection of H capsulatum in blood serum and the urinary LFA for the detection of the same agent emerge as new minimally invasive diagnostic techniques that can assist in the approach to disseminated and pulmonary feline histoplasmosis, especially when both techniques are considered together.
Investigation of bending behavior of two and three-dimensional honeycomb and auxetic sandwich beams
Authors: Yazıcı Mustafa Enes , Kanber Bahattin , Dağlı Salih
Published: June 2024

The bending behavior of two (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) sandwich beams that have a negative Poisson’s ratio (auxetic) and conventional honeycomb was investigated for different geometries, sheet thicknesses, and cell thicknesses. The re-entrant and solid specimens were produced with a stereolithographic (SLA) 3D printer and subjected to a three-point bending test under the conditions specified in the ASTM C393 standard. The data obtained from the tests were used to verify finite element analysis (FEA) results. The radius of curvatures was calculated for each specimen depending on the load step. In addition, Poisson’s ratio was calculated for each auxetic sample. As a result, the 3D arrowhead beam, with a cell thickness of 1 mm and a sheet thickness of 2 mm, exhibits peak force values that are 497.340% and 461.500% higher than re-entrant and missing rib beams, respectively. Besides, the maximum strain energy values of same 3D arrowhead specimens (596.120 mJ) are higher than re-entrant (101.032 mJ) and missing rib (108.201 mJ) specimens. It was determined that the arrowhead is the most durable structure compared to other auxetic structure geometries. Therefore, when arrowhead and honeycomb 3D beams are compared, it was observed that the maximum strain energy of arrowhead specimens was higher in both horizontal (84.310%) and perpendicular (131.910%) positioned specimens. Comparing the arrowhead and honeycomb 2D beams with the highest maximum strain energy, it can be concluded that the arrowhead beam absorbs 20.000% more energy.
Cost comparison of four venous catheters: Short peripheral catheter, Long peripheral line, Midline, and PICC for peripheral infusion
Authors: Meto Elise , Cabout Elise , Rosay Hervé , Espinasse Florence , Lot Anne-Sophie , Hajjam Mostafa El , Gnamien Clermont Sabine , Launois Robert
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

The use of midline catheters for patients requiring a peripheral IV infusion is sometimes limited by their cost. Although decision trees allow them to be positioned in relation to short peripheral cannulas (SPC), Midlines, and PICCs, their economic impact has not yet been evaluated. A study was conducted to estimate and compare the actual costs of using the three types of catheters for durations of 7, 14, and 21 days.

Methods:

A budget impact analysis compared midlines or mini-midlines/long peripheral cannulas (LPCs) with SPCs and PICCs for typical medical indications excluding indications requiring central line (infusion of irritant or vesicant drugs): treatment of peritonitis over 7 days, cystic fibrosis infection over 14 days, and meningitis over 21 days. A micro-costing study identified resources used during catheter care procedures (consumables, medical/nursing care, examinations, mechanical complications). The cost of remote systemic complications was estimated from the French national cost study. Literature review compared data based on published complication frequencies.

Results:

Midline is more economic than the SPC (saving of 39€ over 7 days and 174€ over 14 days), and than the PICC (saving of 102€ over 14 days and 95€ over 21 days).

Discussion:

Despite a much higher acquisition cost of the Midline than a SPC, the cost of using a Midline is lower. Although this approach cannot be the only argument for choosing a medical device, it can contribute to it in a tense economic context. The micro-costing has been performed in a center placing PICCline using fluoroscopy for catheter tip positioning. The implantation of a PICC with ECG technique does not require an interventional radiology facility and involves significantly lower logistical and personnel costs. This factor is a limitation in this study. However, even with the use of EGC, the cost difference is in favor of Midline.
Where do ICU trainees really look? An eye-tracking analysis of gaze patterns during central venous catheter insertion
Authors: Buehler Philipp K , Wendel-Garcia Pedro David , Müller Mattia , Schmidt Marc T , Schuepbach Reto A , Lohmeyer Quentin , Hofmaenner Daniel A
Published: June 2024

Background:

There is limited knowledge about gaze patterns of intensive care unit (ICU) trainee doctors during the insertion of a central venous catheter (CVC). The primary objective of this study was to examine visual patterns exhibited by ICU trainee doctors during CVC insertion. Additionally, the study investigated whether differences in gaze patterns could be identified between more and less experienced trainee doctors.

Methods:

In a real-life, prospective observational study conducted at the interdisciplinary ICU at the University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, ICU trainee doctors underwent eye-tracking during CVC insertion in a real ICU patient. Using mixed-effects model analyses, the primary outcomes were dwell time, first fixation duration, revisits, fixation count, and average fixation time on different areas of interest (AOI). Secondary outcomes were above eye-tracking outcome measures stratified according to experience level of participants.

Results:

Eighteen participants were included, of whom 10 were inexperienced and eight more experienced. Dwell time was highest for CVC preparation table ( p = 0.02), jugular vein on ultrasound image ( p < 0.001) and cervical puncture location ( p < 0.001). Concerning experience, dwell time and revisits on jugular vein on ultrasound image ( p = 0.02 and p = 0.04, respectively) and cervical puncture location ( p = 0.004 and p = 0.01, respectively) were decreased in more experienced ICU trainees.

Conclusions:

Various AOIs have distinct significance for ICU trainee doctors during CVC insertion. Experienced participants exhibited different gaze behavior, requiring less attention for preparation and handling tasks, emphasizing the importance of hand-eye coordination.
Rapid Targeted Assembly of the Proteome Reveals Evolutionary Variation of GC Content in Avian Lice
Authors: Grant Avery R , Johnson Kevin P , Stanley Edward L , Baldwin-Brown James , Kolenčík Stanislav , Allen Julie M
Published: June 2024

Nucleotide base composition plays an influential role in the molecular mechanisms involved in gene function, phenotype, and amino acid composition. GC content (proportion of guanine and cytosine in DNA sequences) shows a high level of variation within and among species. Many studies measure GC content in a small number of genes, which may not be representative of genome-wide GC variation. One challenge when assembling extensive genomic data sets for these studies is the significant amount of resources (monetary and computational) associated with data processing, and many bioinformatic tools have not been optimized for resource efficiency. Using a high-performance computing (HPC) cluster, we manipulated resources provided to the targeted gene assembly program, automated target restricted assembly method (aTRAM), to determine an optimum way to run the program to maximize resource use. Using our optimum assembly approach, we assembled and measured GC content of all of the protein-coding genes of a diverse group of parasitic feather lice. Of the 499 426 genes assembled across 57 species, feather lice were GC-poor (mean GC = 42.96%) with a significant amount of variation within and between species (GC range = 19.57%-73.33%). We found a significant correlation between GC content and standard deviation per taxon for overall GC and GC3, which could indicate selection for G and C nucleotides in some species. Phylogenetic signal of GC content was detected in both GC and GC3. This research provides a large-scale investigation of GC content in parasitic lice laying the foundation for understanding the basis of variation in base composition across species.
A tour into untouched land: Enacting wilderness through relational engagements
Authors: Kotašková Eva
Published: June 2024

Drawing upon an ethnographic study of guided tours in Svalbard, in this article I explore how is the wilderness enacted as a situational and contextual outcome of more-then-human relations, emerging from engagements with the environment. As the engagements during the guided tours contest the often expected ‘purity’ of wilderness, I further investigate in detail when and how nature-culture dichotomy is both contested and re-produced in the enactment of wilderness. I argue that the nature-culture dichotomy constituting wilderness on Svalbard shifts from the idea of human-less nature to life in harmony with nature in which some human traces are present. This dichotomy then emerges from more-than-human relations. Further, I show that the character of wilderness is also emerging from different situations and contexts, where temporality, knowledge and dependency on self or others influence the engagements and more-than-human relations.
Crip curation and the aesthetics of the undeliverable
Authors: Cachia Amanda
Published: June 2024

In this article, the author argues how the conceptual curatorial work of Lucy Lippard imbued similar qualities to those that are embodied in the curatorial work of the ‘aesthetics of the undeliverable’. The aesthetics of the undeliverable is a new genre of disability curating that centers the realities of disability and access within curatorial and artistic practice, alongside exhibition design. The line that runs through both styles of curatorial practice, that is, Lippard’s work, and the aesthetics of the undeliverable, is political intent, where the behind-the-scenes labor of the curator is revealed. Specifically, in Lippard’s projects, errors, gaps, and professional time-frames were revealed, whilst the aesthetics of the undeliverable points out inequities towards disabled artists and audiences, yet insisting on time-lines that defy normative frameworks. The author examines these generative comparisons through Lippard’s ‘numbers’ exhibitions curated in the 1960s–1970s, alongside a case study of the exhibition, Undeliverable, curated by artist Carmen Papalia, which was held at Tangled Art + Disability Gallery in Toronto, followed by the Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa, Ontario in 2021. In doing this, she aims to show how the aesthetics of the undeliverable is a form of institutional critique within disability arts and culture that has its roots in the proponents of conceptual art of the 1960s and Lippard, to which crip curating is aligned through its oppositional handling of curatorial norms. This dovetails powerfully with a call by Disability Studies scholars to move towards crip methodology, and this article will show how crip curation and the aesthetics of the undeliverable heeds this call.
Multi-objective early-stage design optimization of multifamily residential projects
Authors: Bilge Eymen Çağatay , Yaman Hakan
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to find a building form and plan layout that can be used in the early stages of architectural design, where criteria such as daylight, view, sun-hour, sales area, and cost are optimized according to the different expectations of different housing type users. This study proposes a multi-objective early-stage design optimization for a real estate development project based on the NSGA2 genetic algorithm, considering weighted user preferences for different housing types. The framework is implemented using the platforms Rhino and Grasshopper; Wallacei is used for NSGA2, and Viktor.ai is used to deploy the app. Tested on six sample plots, the model was able to find architecturally optimized results that respond to different user expectations. While the model successfully demonstrated responsiveness to parameters, its focus on Pareto-optimal solutions limited the diversity of unit mixes generated. The model has been tested by professionals on a sample plot and is found to be important for architects and investors to generate ideas at an early stage of architectural design.
Penciling: An Anonymization Method for Social Media Images
Authors: Taylor Nicole , VandenBroek Angela
Published: June 2024

Penciling, a technique used to anonymize images for both human and machine vision, offers an opportunity to reduce technical traceability and retain visual data for online and social media research contexts. Drawing on methods for creating composite narrative and visual accounts to preserve participant anonymity, penciling enables researchers to edit images across a spectrum from photo-like quality to pencil sketch dependent on their ethical and methodological needs. Further, penciling reduces recognition to the naked eye and renders the image completely unrecognizable to search engine queries. We describe tested procedures for employing penciling and address benefits and challenges of the technique.
The tension fluctuation and packaging quality control of nonwoven winding
Authors: Li Yong , Xia Tengteng , Li Lei , Wang Haowei , Jian Li , Zhang Hongzhou
Published: June 2024

In order to improve the package quality of nonwoven and reduce the defects in the nonwoven production process, the tension fluctuation in the winding process is studied. A winding device is built to package nonwoven, and the measured data of tension fluctuation is obtained. The tension fluctuation characteristic of the measured data is analyzed, and different tension fluctuation simulation curves have been set. Under different simulation curves, the corresponding package stress distribution is calculated, and the influence of tension fluctuation on package quality is analyzed. Accordingly, a fuzzy proportional integral differential (PID) control strategy is proposed to optimize the winding device to improve nonwoven product quality. Matlab establishes the PID and fuzzy PID simulation models, proving that fuzzy PID can significantly improve the system control performance.
A Modification to the Brand Transfer for Claw Hand: The Four-Tailed Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis to Lateral Band Transfer
Authors: Wessel Lauren E. , Jain Nirbhay S. , Paulson Ambika E. , Bettlach Carrie , Pet Mitchell A. , Moore Amy M.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Claw deformity is a devastating consequence of low ulnar nerve palsy, resulting in loss of finger function. Traditionally, the Brand transfer is a favored intervention but requires lengthy grafts and bulky tenorrhaphies, risking adhesions in the lumbrical canal. We present a modified Brand tendon transfer, which extends the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) into 4 tails for individual grafting into the lateral band, decreasing adhesion risk and graft length need.

Methods:

Nine consecutive patients with claw hand were examined in detail to confirm the diagnosis and appropriateness for claw-correction surgery by the senior author. All patients underwent our modified Brand transfer. Follow-up for a minimum of 6 months was pursued for each patient, with range of motion, grip strength, and pinch strength recorded at that time.

Results:

Treated patients demonstrate maintained grip and pinch strength, coordinated grasp, and improvement in metacarpophalangeal posture. One patient required reoperation for extensive scarring and underwent tenolysis of the tendon grafts and revision grafting for the small finger.

Conclusion:

We concluded that our modified weave of a 4-tailed tendon graft through the ECRB is a synergistic transfer that maintains acceptable hand strength in the setting of a chronic low ulnar nerve palsy with a lower risk of tendon adhesion and length of grafting, offering an additional tool in the armamentarium of the hand surgeon approaching the ulnar nerve–injured hand.
Applying Ethics in the Handling of Dual Use Research: The Case of Germany
Authors: Jakob Una , Kraemer Felicitas , Kraus Florian , Lengauer Thomas
Published: June 2024

With regard to the handling of dual use research, the dominant approach in Germany aimed at mitigating dual use risks emphasizes the freedom of research and the strengthening of academic self-regulation. This article presents this approach as one example for a framework for handling security-relevant research, underlines the need for awareness-raising about risks of security-relevant research, and, more generally, highlights some of the dilemmas researchers and legislators face when dealing with security-relevant research. The article furthermore presents the key questions developed by the German Joint Committee on the Handling of Security-Relevant Research to provide guidance for researchers and institutions when they address possible research of concern. It applies these key questions in a case study of a well-publicized experiment in which artificial intelligence and drug discovery technologies were used to determine their dual use potential in identifying highly toxic chemical substances. Moreover, it discusses the utility of the framework applied in Germany and concludes that this approach is practicable. Given the strong emphasis on the researchers’ own responsibility, however, awareness of dual use risks and risk mitigation strategies should be further enhanced and an academic culture of responsible handling of security-relevant research should be promoted.