bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Customized Knit Membrane Deployable Hyperboloid Tower
Authors: Melnyk Virginia Ellyn
Published: January 2024

Deployable structures have become increasingly popular due to their ability to transform from a compact form into a larger structure. They are also typically lightweight, resulting in a lower carbon footprint than heavy permanent building methods. These structures are popular within the field of architecture, as well as in robotics, aerospace engineering, and other fields.

This paper explores the design and development of a deployable hyperboloid structure with a connected knitted membrane. The knitted material is specifically designed to stretch and fit the transforming geometry of the hyperboloid. This is achieved by manipulating the types of yarn used across the membrane, as well as the number of short rows in the knit material, to create a more specified material. The design for this material was developed using Rhino3d and Grasshopper. Throughout the design and fabrication process, there was a feedback loop between the digital design models and physical material test samples to ensure that the knit would fit the final hyperboloid structure. The result is a two-meter-tall structure when upright and a two-meter-diameter circle when collapsed, with a knit membrane that supports the structure and transforms seamlessly by stretching and shrinking to the different shapes of transformation.
A Parametric Wave Joint for Robotic Fabrication of Digital Stereotomy
Authors: Ye Wei , Gao Yingzhou , Xu Weiguo
Published: January 2024

This paper explores the potential of digital stereotomy in combination with robotic fabrication to increase the precision and complexity of stone processing. To enable the application of these techniques in outdoor environments, modular joints designed for robotic assembly are necessary. Additionally, the cutting process must be efficient and minimize material waste. To address these challenges, this research proposes a parametric wave joint design that enables rapid cutting and straightforward assembly by a robotic system. The joint contains motion space allowing it to slide into accurate assembly position, enabling the robot to complete the assembly without requiring highly precise vision or gripper in outdoor situations. Furthermore, the wave joint design eliminates the need for milling, reducing the processing time. The paper presents a robotic arm-cutting method for this joint and conducts experiments using foam and robotic arm hot-wire cutting to simulate stone cutting. The feasibility of the joint is tested through the assembly of a bent column, and finite element analysis is used to compare the stresses on two joint parts under shear force with different control parameters. The study confirms the feasibility of the wave joint design for robotic assembly and the efficiency of robotic arm cutting. The findings may inform the development of modular assemblies for robotic systems in stone processing applications.
Slack Pack: Fabrication System for the Dual Robotic Winding of Spatial Fiber Structures
Authors: Hildebrandt Harrison , He Mengxi , Chen Peng-An , Estrada Rebeca Duque , Zechmeister Christoph , Menges Achim
Published: January 2024

Advancements in technology are ushering in an era in architecture in which new design methods and tools are being developed that necessitate entirely new means of fabrication, and, inversely, novel innovations in fabrication require completely new ways of designing. Coreless filament winding is a contemporary fabrication method in which fiber reinforced polymers are robotically wound on frames. Even though research on the frame design has reached promising levels of adaptability and material efficiency, these frames limit fabrication flexibility and increase fabrication time and costs. This paper introduces Slack Pack, a novel fiber winding technique for the fabrication of deployable spatial structures. It eliminates the use of frames by introducing slack into the fabrication process through the controlled tensioning and un-tensioning of fibers. Slack Pack employs a cyber-physical fabrication system that combines a generative design workflow and a multi-agent robotic fabrication setup with a custom end effector. The proposed method is evaluated through a series of physical experiments and digital simulations, demonstrating its potential for the fabrication of spatial fiber structures.
On the Development of Timber Structures Based on 3D Interactive Vector-Based Graphic Statics (VGS)
Authors: Jasienski Jean-Philippe , Zastavni Denis , Rasneur Sylvain
Published: January 2024

The present contribution addresses the topic of how to design novel structures in timber with the aid of a computational tool based on vector-based graphic statics (VGS) in a research-by-design approach. The context, scope and theoretical framework allowing to design strut-and-tie models in timber is explained. An application (design task given to Eng. Arch. Students) is presented. The results concern the primary structure and joints, and are discussed regarding the initial objectives.
An Exploration on the Form Design of Movable Structures Based on Uniform Convex Polyhedral Expansion
Authors: Liu Mengman , Ding Chuhua , Wang Hui
Published: January 2024

5 kinds of regular polyhedra and 13 kinds of semi-regular polyhedra are taken as the main research objects in this paper to explore the form design method of polyhedral expansion through the rotation of polygon. Firstly, the expandable range of uniform convex polyhedra is defined and divided into two types of expansion. Then three solutions are proposed, namely, discarding polygonal faces, constructing rigid-foldable origami mechanisms and constructing scissor-like elements, so that the prior unexpandable uniform convex polyhedron can be expanded. These methods extend the range of expandable uniform convex polyhedron, and can provide new form design ideas for frontier fields such as movable furniture (toys), movable art installations, 3D kinetic facades and space architecture.
Biomimetic Form-Finding Study of Bone Needle Microstructure Based on Sponge Regeneration Behavior
Authors: He Xiaoxu , Sun Mingyu
Published: January 2024

The concept of “nature-algorithm-structure” refers to a digital design method in architecture that draws inspiration from nature, extracting its mathematical and physical conceptual models to construct structural systems with parameters. This study aims to address the challenge of parametric form-finding in reticular tension structures. By observing the phenomenon of “sponge regeneration”, we further illustrate the generation and optimization of reticular tension structures through the hierarchical structures of “monomer”-“path”-“mesh”. Tensile structural systems are rebound forms, and their analytical models must account for their nonlinear characteristics and the existence of equilibrium self-course. Starting from the growth dynamics of “sponge regeneration behavior”, this paper extracts the logic behind it: sponge monomers combine randomly into partial units under the condition of shredding and discrete, forming a single organism through aggregation. The multi-dimensional bone needle serves as a structural component, enabling multi-axis reorganization, while the multi-directional mesh surface as a morphological component realizes multi-branch reproduction, forming a natural “network tension structure”. This study focuses on the biomimetic form-finding of bone needle microstructure, drawing inspiration from sponge regeneration behavior. By analyzing the growth dynamics of sponge regeneration, we aim to develop a better understanding of the principles behind the formation of bone needle microstructure. This finding provides significant reference for the development of modern structures and promotes the bioshape and optimization of tensile structures.
Semiclassical gravity beyond coherent states
Authors: Ahmed Shahnewaz , Lima Caroline , Martín-Martínez Eduardo
Published: January 2024

Abstract

We show that it is possible to still use semiclassical gravity together with quantum field theory beyond the regimes where the field state is coherent. In particular, we identify families of cat states (superposition of almost-distinguishable coherent states that have very non-classical features) for which the gravitational backreaction can be modeled by semiclassical gravity.
Dark sector effective field theory
Authors: Liang Jin-Han , Liao Yi , Ma Xiao-Dong , Wang Hao-Lin
Published: January 2024

Abstract

We introduce the effective field theory of two different light dark particles interacting with the standard model (SM) light states in a single vertex, termed dark sector effective field theory (DSEFT). We focus on the new light particles with spin up to 1 and being real in essence, namely, new real scalars ϕ and S, Majorana fermions χ and ψ, and real vectors Xμ and Vμ. In the framework of low energy effective field theory with QED and QCD symmetry, the DSEFT can be classified into six categories, including the scalar-scalar-SM (ϕS-SM), fermion-fermion-SM (χψ-SM), vector-vector-SM (XV-SM), scalar-fermion-SM (ϕχ-SM), scalar-vector-SM (ϕX-SM), and fermion-vector-SM (χX-SM) cases. For each case, we construct the effective operator basis up to canonical dimension 7, which will cover most interesting phenomenology at low energy. As a phenomenological example, we investigate the longstanding neutron lifetime anomaly through the neutron dark decay modes n → χϕ or χX from the effective interactions in the fermion-scalar-SM or fermion-vector-SM case. When treating the light fermion as a dark matter candidate, we also explore the constraints from DM-neutron annihilation signal at Super-Kamiokande. We find the neutron dark decay in each scenario can accommodate the anomaly, at the same time, without contradicting with the Super-Kamiokande limit.
Pseudospectra of holographic quasinormal modes
Authors: Areán Daniel , Fariña David García , Landsteiner Karl
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Quasinormal modes and frequencies are the eigenvectors and eigenvalues of a non-Hermitian differential operator. They hold crucial significance in the physics of black holes. The analysis of quasinormal modes of black holes in asymptotically Anti-de Sitter geometries plays also a key role in the study of strongly coupled quantum many-body systems via gauge/gravity duality. In contrast to normal Sturm-Liouville operators, the spectrum of non-Hermitian (and non-normal) operators generally is unstable under small perturbations. This research focuses on the stability analysis of the spectrum of quasinormal frequencies pertaining to asymptotically planar AdS black holes, employing pseudospectrum analysis. Specifically, we concentrate on the pseudospectra of scalar and transverse gauge fields, shedding light on their relevance within the framework of gauge/gravity duality.
The Singularities of Selberg- and Dotsenko–Fateev-Like Integrals
Authors: Sussman Ethan
Published: January 2024

We discuss the meromorphic continuation of certain hypergeometric integrals modeled on the Selberg integral, including the 3-point and 4-point functions of BPZ’s minimal models of 2D CFT as described by Felder & Silvotti and Dotsenko & Fateev (the “Coulomb gas formalism”). This is accomplished via a geometric analysis of the singularities of the integrands. In the case that the integrand is symmetric (as in the Selberg integral itself) or, more generally, what we call “DF-symmetric,” we show that a number of apparent singularities are removable, as required for the construction of the minimal models via these methods.
Computer-aided designed 3D-printed polymeric scaffolds for personalized reconstruction of maxillary and mandibular defects: a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Mattavelli Davide , Verzeletti Vincenzo , Deganello Alberto , Fiorentino Antonio , Gualtieri Tommaso , Ferrari Marco , Taboni Stefano , Anfuso William , Ravanelli Marco , Rampinelli Vittorio , Grammatica Alberto , Buffoli Barbara , Maroldi Roberto , Elisabetta Ceretti , Rezzani Rita , Nicolai Piero , Piazza Cesare
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To investigate the potential reconstruction of complex maxillofacial defects using computer-aided design 3D-printed polymeric scaffolds by defining the production process, simulating the surgical procedure, and explore the feasibility and reproducibility of the whole algorithm.

Methods

This a preclinical study to investigate feasibility, reproducibility and efficacy of the reconstruction algorithm proposed. It encompassed 3 phases: (1) scaffold production (CAD and 3D-printing in polylactic acid); (2) surgical simulation on cadaver heads (navigation-guided osteotomies and scaffold fixation); (3) assessment of reconstruction (bone and occlusal morphological conformance, symmetry, and mechanical stress tests).

Results

Six cadaver heads were dissected. Six types of defects (3 mandibular and 3 maxillary) with different degree of complexity were tested. In all case the reconstruction algorithm could be successfully completed. Bone morphological conformance was optimal while the occlusal one was slightly higher. Mechanical stress tests were good (mean value, 318.6 and 286.4 N for maxillary and mandibular defects, respectively).

Conclusions

Our reconstructive algorithm was feasible and reproducible in a preclinical setting. Functional and aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory independently of the complexity of the defect.
You do you: susceptibility of temporal binding to self-relevance
Authors: Muth Felicitas V. , Ebert Sophia , Kunde Wilfried
Published: January 2024

The self-prioritization effect suggests that self-relevant information has a processing advantage over information that is not directly associated with the self. In consequence, reaction times are faster and accuracy rates higher when reacting to self-associated stimuli rather than to other-related stimuli (Sui et al., Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance 38:1105–1117, 2012). This spurs the assumption that self-associated action–effects should also be perceived earlier than other-related outcomes. One way to measure this is temporal binding. Previous research indeed showed that the perceived temporal interval between actions and self-associated outcomes was reduced compared to friend- and other-associated outcomes. However, the employed method (interval estimations) and several experimental design choices make it impossible to discern whether the perceived shortening of the interval between a keypress and a self-relevant outcome is due to a perceptual shift of the action or of the action–effect or both. Thus, we conducted four experiments to assess whether temporal binding can indeed be modulated by self-relevance and if so where this perceptual bias is located. The results did not support stronger temporal binding for self- vs other-related action–effects. We discuss these results against the backdrop of the attentional basis of self-prioritization and propose directions for future research.
Predicting the impact of rare variants on RNA splicing in CAGI6
Authors: Lord Jenny , Oquendo Carolina Jaramillo , Wai Htoo A. , Douglas Andrew G. L. , Bunyan David J. , Wang Yaqiong , Hu Zhiqiang , Zeng Zishuo , Danis Daniel , Katsonis Panagiotis , Williams Amanda , Lichtarge Olivier , Chang Yuchen , Bagnall Richard D. , Mount Stephen M. , Matthiasardottir Brynja , Lin Chiaofeng , Hansen Thomas van Overeem , Leman Raphael , Martins Alexandra , Houdayer Claude , Krieger Sophie , Bakolitsa Constantina , Peng Yisu , Kamandula Akash , Radivojac Predrag , Baralle Diana
Published: January 2024

Variants which disrupt splicing are a frequent cause of rare disease that have been under-ascertained clinically. Accurate and efficient methods to predict a variant’s impact on splicing are needed to interpret the growing number of variants of unknown significance (VUS) identified by exome and genome sequencing. Here, we present the results of the CAGI6 Splicing VUS challenge, which invited predictions of the splicing impact of 56 variants ascertained clinically and functionally validated to determine splicing impact. The performance of 12 prediction methods, along with SpliceAI and CADD, was compared on the 56 functionally validated variants. The maximum accuracy achieved was 82% from two different approaches, one weighting SpliceAI scores by minor allele frequency, and one applying the recently published Splicing Prediction Pipeline (SPiP). SPiP performed optimally in terms of sensitivity, while an ensemble method combining multiple prediction tools and information from databases exceeded all others for specificity. Several challenge methods equalled or exceeded the performance of SpliceAI, with ultimate choice of prediction method likely to depend on experimental or clinical aims. One quarter of the variants were incorrectly predicted by at least 50% of the methods, highlighting the need for further improvements to splicing prediction methods for successful clinical application.
Mating system induced lags in rates of range expansion for different simulated mating systems and dispersal strategies: a modelling study
Authors: Morgan W. H. , Palmer S. C. F. , Lambin X.
Published: January 2024

Mismatches between current and potential species distributions are commonplace due to lags in the response of populations to changing environmental conditions. The prevailing mating system may contribute to such lags where it leads to mating failure at the range edge, but how active dispersers might mitigate these lags using social information to inform dispersal strategies warrants greater exploration. We used an individual-based model to explore how different mating systems for species that actively search for habitat can impose a filter on the ability to colonise empty, fragmented landscapes, and explored how using social information during dispersal can mitigate the lags caused by more constrained mating systems. The mate-finding requirements implemented in two-sex models consistently led to slower range expansion compared to those that were not mate limited (i.e., female only models), even when mating was polygynous. A mate-search settlement strategy reduced the proportion of unmated females at the range edge but had little impact on rate of spread. In contrast, a negative density-dependent settlement strategy resulted in much faster spread, which could be explained by a greater number of long-distance dispersal events. Our findings suggest that even low rates of mating failure at the range edge can lead to considerable lags in range expansion, though dispersal strategies that favour colonising more distant, sparsely occupied habitat patches may effectively mitigate these lags.
Modeling the compressive strength of binary and ternary blended high-performance concrete mixtures using ensemble machine learning models
Authors: Murthy Madhu Narasimha , Amruth S. Kumar , Marulasiddappa Sreedhara B. , Naganna Sujay Raghavendra
Published: January 2024

In the present study, the compressive strength of binary and ternary blended high-performance concrete mixtures was modeled using different machine learning tools, such as artificial neural network (ANN), gradient tree boosting (GTB), and multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS). The compressive strength of binary and ternary blended concrete at 28 days of curing period was modeled using seven quantitative input parameters such as cement, blast furnace slag, fly ash, superplasticizer, water, coarse aggregate, and fine aggregate based on three different training and testing (Tr–Te) scenarios. The performance of the models developed was analyzed based on several statistical evaluation metrics, of error and efficiency. During the testing phase, the compressive strength estimates obtained via modeling using ANN, GTB, and MARS had Kling–Gupta efficiency (KGE) values of 0.8389, 0.8602, and 0.8423, respectively, for the first Tr–Te scenario; similarly, the KGE values were 0.8025/0.8830, 0.8541/0.8901, and 0.8434/0.8582, respectively, for the second/third Tr–Te scenarios. The estimation accuracy of the GTB model was relatively superior to that of the ANN and MARS models, taking into consideration both the error and efficiency indices. All three models perform relatively well for the first I/O combination compared to the other two combinations.
Knowledge and care regarding long-term cardiovascular risk after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and gestational diabetes
Authors: Pfaller Birgit , Busvine Constance , Rosenauer Alena , Schenzel Andreas , Fournier Camille , Aringer Ida , Lösch Alexander , Wiesholzer Martin , Schubert Susanne , Wichert-Schmitt Barbara
Published: January 2024

Background

Adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO), such as preeclampsia (PE) and gestational diabetes (GDM) are substantial risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) later in life. Identifying these high-risk female individuals during pregnancy offers the possibility of preventing long-term CVD and chronic kidney disease via a structured therapeutic and surveillance plan. We aimed to evaluate the current practice of postpartum care in women after APO and the impact on the women’s awareness about their future risk for CVD.

Methods

Women diagnosed with PE and GDM at the University Hospital of St. Poelten/Lilienfeld between 2015–2020 were identified and participated in a structured telephone interview about postpartum medical care and knowledge about the impact of APOs on long-term cardiovascular health.

Results

Of 161 out of the 750 women contacted, 29% (n = 46) were diagnosed with PE and 71% (n = 115) with GDM. One third of all women and up to 44% of women diagnosed with PE, were unaware that APOs are related to CVD. Women diagnosed with PE were less likely to receive postpartum care information than those with GDM (30.4% vs. 49.6%, p = 0.027), and only one third of all women after APOs were counselled by a physician or healthcare professional. Of the women 50% received recommendations regarding lifestyle changes after delivery; significantly more women with GDM than women with PE (54% vs. 37%, p = 0.05). Only 14% had at least one long-term follow-up.

Conclusion

This study identified a significant deficit of structured postpartum care and a lack of awareness among women after APO and their healthcare providers about the increased risk of long-term CVD.
Evaluating a shared care pathway intervention for people receiving chemotherapy to reduce post-treatment unplanned hospital presentations: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Fethney Judith , Kim Bora , Boustany Chantale , McKenzie Heather , Hayes Lillian , Cox Keith , Simpson Judy M. , Horvath Lisa G. , Vardy Janette L. , McLeod Jodi , Willcock Simon , Cook Natalie , Acret Louise , White Kate
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this randomised controlled trial (RCT) was to explore whether a community nursing intervention for outpatients receiving systemic therapy reduced unplanned hospital presentations and improved physical and psychosocial health outcomes over the first three cycles of treatment compared to a control group receiving standard care.

Methods

The number of and reasons for unplanned presentations were obtained for 170 intervention and 176 control group adult patients with solid tumours starting outpatient chemotherapy. Poisson regression was used to compare the number of presentations between the intervention and control groups. Patients self-completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Cancer Behavior Inventory and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) at the start of the first four cycles. Linear regression techniques were used to compare quality of life outcomes.

Results

The reduction in unplanned presentations in the intervention group relative to the control group was 12% (95% CI, − 25%, 37%; P = 0.48). At the start of cycle 4, there was no difference in anxiety (difference = 0.47 (95% CI, − 0.28, 1.22; P = 0.22)), depression (difference = 0.57 (95% CI, − 0.18, 1.31; P = 0.13)) or EORTC QLQ-C30 summary score (difference = 0.16 (95% CI, − 2.67, 3.00; P = 0.91)). Scores for self-efficacy as measured by the Cancer Behavior Inventory were higher in the intervention group (difference = 4.3 (95% CI, 0.7, 7.9; P = 0.02)).

Conclusion

This RCT did not demonstrate a benefit in reducing unplanned presentations to hospital. The trial identified improved cancer-based self-efficacy in patients receiving the intervention.

Trial registration

Registered at Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12614001113640, registered 21/10/2014.
A spatiotemporal oscillator model for ENSO
Authors: Li Yaokun
Published: January 2024

A spatiotemporal oscillator model for El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is constructed based on the thermodynamics and thermocline dynamics. The model is enclosed by introducing a proportional relationship between the gradient in sea surface temperature (SST) and the oceanic zonal current and can be transformed into a standard wave equation that can be decomposed into a series of eigenmodes by cosine series expansion. Each eigenmode shows a spatial mode that oscillates with its natural frequency. The first spatial mode, that highlights SST anomaly (SSTA) contrast between the eastern and western Pacific—a fundamental characteristic of the eastern Pacific (EP) El Niño events, oscillates with a natural period of around 4.6 years, consistent with the quasi-quadrennial (QQ) mode. The second spatial mode, that emphasizes SSTA contrast between the central and the eastern, western Pacific—a basic spatial structure of the central Pacific (CP) El Niño events, oscillates with a natural period of 2.3 years that is half of the first natural period. It is also consistent with the quasi-biennial (QB) modes. The combinations of the eigenmodes with different weights can feature complex spatiotemporal variations in SSTAs. In open ocean that is far away from the coastlines, the model can predict waves propagating both eastward and westward. Besides, the net surface heating further complicates the temporal variations by exerting forced frequencies. The model unifies the temporal and spatial variations and may provide a comprehensive viewpoint for understanding the complex spatiotemporal variations of ENSO.
Safety and efficacy of bone marrow mononuclear cell therapy for ischemic stroke recovery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Tang Yanbing , Wang Zilan , Teng Haiying , Ni Hanyu , Chen Huiru , Lu Jiaye , Chen Zhouqing , Wang Zhong
Published: January 2024

Background

Cell-based therapy represents a potential treatment for ischemic stroke (IS). Here, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize the evidence provided by randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for the transplantation of bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) in patients with IS in any phase after stroke.

Methods

We searched several databases for relevant articles up to the 10th of March 2023, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Subgroup analyses were implemented to evaluate the dose and route of BMMNC administration. Statistical data were analyzed by Review Manager version 5.3 software.

Results

Six RCTs were included in this article, including 177 patients who were treated by the transplantation of BMMNCs and 166 patients who received medical treatment. The three-month National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score indicated a favorable outcome for the BMMNC transplantation group (standardized mean difference (SMD), − 0.34; 95% confidence interval (CI), − 0.57 to − 0.11; P = 0.004). There were no significant differences between the two groups at six months post-transplantation with regards to NIHSS score (SMD 0.00; 95% CI − 0.26 to 0.27; P = 0.97), modified Rankin Scale (risk ratio (RR) 1.10; 95% CI 0.75 to 1.63; P = 0.62), Barthel Index change (SMD 0.68; 95% CI − 0.59 to 1.95; P = 0.29), and infarct volume change (SMD − 0.08; 95% CI − 0.42 to 0.26; P = 0.64). In addition, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of safety outcome (RR 1.24; 95% CI 0.80 to 1.91; P = 0.33).

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis demonstrated that the transplantation of BMMNCs was safe; however, the efficacy of this procedure requires further validation in larger RTCs.
A modular cyber security training programme for the maritime domain
Authors: Oruc Aybars , Chowdhury Nabin , Gkioulos Vasileios
Published: January 2024

The global maritime industry is continuing the rapid digitization of systems and dependency on advancing technology, in a trend akin to other industrial domains. One of the main issues that this integration has brought is an increased vulnerability to a growing number of cyber threats. While several security measures are being implemented to prevent or respond to cyber attacks, the human element is still one of the main weaknesses. Many of today’s cyber attacks take advantage of human personnel’s lack of awareness, which makes cyber security awareness and training activities of critical importance. Unfortunately, current research is still limited in its offerings for cyber security training specific to maritime personnel. Moreover, such training programmes for the professionals should be developed role-based in accordance with the suggestions of many credited maritime organizations. For this reason, we developed a modular cyber security training programme for the maritime domain called Maritime Cyber Security (MarCy) by implementing Critical Events Model (CEM). Then, we evaluated the MarCy programme by utilizing the Delphi technique with the participation of 19 experts from academia and industry. In this study, we offer cyber security training for seafarers and office employees in shipping companies. We proposed eleven elective modules to improve the knowledge, skills, and attitude of learners against cyber risks. The MarCy programme can be implemented by universities, shipping companies, training institutes, and governmental organizations for maritime cyber security training purposes.
Multimorbidity patterns and disability and healthcare use in Europe: do the associations change with the regional socioeconomic status?
Authors: Zacarías-Pons Lluís , Turró-Garriga Oriol , Saez Marc , Garre-Olmo Josep
Published: January 2024

Multimorbidity, the concurrence of several chronic conditions, is a rising concern that increases the years lived with disability and poses a burden on healthcare systems. Little is known on how it interacts with socioeconomic deprivation, previously associated with poor health-related outcomes. We aimed to characterize the association between multimorbidity and these outcomes and how this relationship may change with socioeconomic development of regions. 55,915 individuals interviewed in 2017 were drawn from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe, a population-based study. A Latent Class Analysis was conducted to fit multimorbidity patterns based on 16 self-reported conditions. Physical limitation, quality-of-life and healthcare utilization outcomes were regressed on those patterns adjusting for additional covariates. Those analyses were then extended to assess whether such associations varied with the region socioeconomic status. We identified six different patterns, labelled according to their more predominant chronic conditions. After the “healthy” class, the “metabolic” and the “osteoarticular” classes had the best outcomes involving limitations and the lowest healthcare utilization. The “neuro-affective-ulcer” and the “several conditions” classes yielded the highest probabilities of physical limitation, whereas the “cardiovascular” group had the highest probability of hospitalization. The association of multimorbidity over physical limitations appeared to be stronger when living in a deprived region, especially for metabolic and osteoarticular conditions, whereas no major effect differences were found for healthcare use. Multimorbidity groups do differentiate in terms of limitation and healthcare utilization. Such differences are exacerbated with socioeconomic inequities between regions even within Europe.
The poor reliability of thermal conductivity data in the aerogel literature: a call to action!
Authors: Malfait Wim J. , Ebert Hans-Peter , Brunner Samuel , Wernery Jannis , Galmarini Sandra , Zhao Shanyu , Reichenauer Gudrun
Published: January 2024

Aerogels are an exciting class of materials with record-breaking properties including, in some cases, ultra-low thermal conductivities. The last decade has seen a veritable explosion in aerogel research and industry R&D, leading to the synthesis of aerogels from a variety of materials for a rapidly expanding range of applications. However, both from the research side, and certainly from a market perspective, thermal insulation remains the dominant application. Unfortunately, continued progress in this area suffers from the proliferation of incorrect thermal conductivity data, with values that often are far outside of what is possible within the physical limitations. This loss of credibility in reported thermal conductivity data poses difficulties in comparing the thermal performance of different types of aerogels and other thermal superinsulators, may set back further scientific progress, and hinder technology transfer to industry and society. Here, we have compiled 519 thermal conductivity results from 87 research papers, encompassing silica, other inorganic, biopolymer and synthetic polymer aerogels, to highlight the extent of the problem. Thermal conductivity data outside of what is physically possible are common, even in high profile journals and from the world’s best universities and institutes. Both steady-state and transient methods can provide accurate thermal conductivity data with proper instrumentation, suitable sample materials and experienced users, but nearly all implausible data derive from transient methods, and hot disk measurements in particular, indicating that under unfavorable circumstances, and in the context of aerogel research, transient methods are more prone to return unreliable data. Guidelines on how to acquire reliable thermal conductivity data are provided. This paper is a call to authors, reviewers, editors and readers to exercise caution and skepticism when they report, publish or interpret thermal conductivity data.

Graphical Abstract
The Relationship of Life-Changing Spiritual Experiences to Current Religious/Spiritual Attitudes and Practices: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cseh Orsolya , Karsai István , Szabo Attila
Published: January 2024

Positive life changes may be associated with spiritual/religious sources. This pilot study tested religiousness/spirituality in adults (N = 77; 21% men; Mage = 39.45, SD = 11.97 years) who answered demographic questions and completed the Brief Multidimensional Measure of Religiousness/Spirituality. Respondents who reported a major life-changing spiritual experience (72.7%) were compared to those who did not (27.3%). The former scored higher (p < .05) on all measures and had a higher proportion of religious (p = .04) and spiritual (p < .001) identity. At the same time, no differences in age, gender, education, or urban vs. rural location emerged. Among those who had experienced a significant life change, 42.9% had such experiences when they were 18 years or younger. Most (83.4%) were committed spiritually and attended religious services once or more weekly. The age at which the life-changing experience occurred correlated strongly (r = .70) with the strengthening of religious/spiritual practices. The results suggest that life-changing spiritual experiences fuel religious/spiritual attitudes and behaviors and that their impact may be more profound if experienced at a younger age.
The added worker effect: evidence from a disability insurance reform
Authors: Bernasconi Mario , Kantarcı Tunga , van Soest Arthur , van Sonsbeek Jan-Maarten
Published: January 2024

The Netherlands reformed its disability insurance (DI) scheme in 2006. Reintegration incentives for employers became stronger, access to DI benefits became more difficult, and benefits became less generous. Using administrative data on all individuals who fell sick shortly before and after the reform, we study the impact of the reform on labor participation of individuals who fell sick and their spouses. Difference-in-differences estimates show, among other things, that the reform led to an increase of labor participation of the individuals who fell sick only if these individuals had a permanent job, whereas spouses responded to the DI reform in other cases, where the individuals reporting sick had a temporary job or were unemployed. More generally, the spouses respond when the sick individual’s labor market position is weak and the individual him- or herself has trouble finding or retaining employment. The effects are persistent during the 10 years after the reform. The effect on the spouse can be seen as an “added worker effect,” where additional earnings of the spouse compensate for the sick individual’s income loss so that both partners share the burden of a more stringent DI scheme. Comparing individuals reporting sick with and without partner provides further support for the notion that the responses of couples to the reform are joint decisions of the two partners.
HBV Reactivation in Patients Receiving Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (BTKIs): a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Azzam Ahmed , Khaled Heba , Ashry Basem Osama , Hussein Sarah Mohamed , Osama Manar , Ahmed Ameer , Yousef Omar , Hjazeen Anees , Allam Ahmed A. , Kamel Gellan Alaa Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKIs) are immunosuppressive cancer therapies approved for the treatment of various mature B-cell malignancies. Hepatitis B virus reactivation (HBVr) is a known complication in patients with chronic or past HBV infection undergoing immunosuppressive chemotherapy. The present work aims to establish the correlation between HBVr and patients receiving BTKIs.

Recent Findings

This review included 18 studies. The overall incidence of HBVr was found to be 6.6% in patients with past HBV infections who received ibrutinib. Fourteen cases of HBVr were associated with ibrutinib (two occult hepatitis B infections and twelve past HBV infections). One case of HBV past infection was associated with zanubrutinib, and three cases were recorded for acalabrutinib (one chronic HBV and two past HBV). Most incidents occurred in males older than 60 years within the first year after initiating BTKIs. Three reported cases documented HBVr after discontinuing ibrutinib and zanubrutinib. Two deaths caused by HBVr in patients with past HBV infections were recorded (one for each of acalabrutinib and ibrutinib). Remarkably, HBV antiviral treatment normalized liver functions and eliminated serum HBV in most cases. It was reported that false negativity of HBsAg following reactivation occurred in two cases: one case was attributed to HBsAg escape mutations, and the other to the hook effect.

Our findings show that HBVr risk is intermediate in patients with past HBV infections who receive ibrutinib. Universal anti-HBV prophylaxis before initiating ibrutinib may be an option.
Bile acids induce liver fibrosis through the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and the mechanism of FXR inhibition of NLRP3 activation
Authors: Feng Shu , Xie Xingming , Li Jianchao , Xu Xu , Chen Chaochun , Zou Gaoliang , Lin Guoyuan , Huang Tao , Hu Ruihan , Ran Tao , Han Lu , Zhang Qingxiu , Li Yuanqingxiao , Zhao Xueke
Published: January 2024

Background

Altered patterns of bile acids (BAs) are frequently present in liver fibrosis, and BAs function as signaling molecules to initiate inflammatory responses. Therefore, this study was conducted to uncover the notably altered components of BAs and to explore the pathway of altered BA induced inflammation in the development of liver fibrosis.

Methods

Bile acids were quantified by ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (UPLC‒MS/MS). Cell Counting Kit-8 assays were used to determine the proliferative capacity of HSCs. Transwell assays and wound healing assays were used to determine the migratory capacity of LX2 cells. Protein expression was evaluated by western blotting.

Results

Plasma bile acid analysis showed higher levels of GCDCA, TCDCA, GCA and TCA in patients with liver fibrosis than in normal controls. The AUC of GCDCA was the highest. Western blotting showed that GCDCA treatment increased the expression of NLRP3-related proteins and collagen1 in vitro and significantly increased LX2 cells proliferation and migration. Furthermore, knockdown of NLRP3 or overexpression of FXR in LX2 cells decreased the expression of the above proteins, and FXR inhibited NLRP3 (ser 295) phosphorylation in vitro and vivo. In vivo, HE, Masson’s trichrome, and Sirius Red staining showed that GCDCA increased collagen fibers in the mouse liver, and the expression of NLRP3-related proteins, collagen 1, and α-SMA in the liver increased significantly. However, the knockout of NLRP3 reversed these patterns.

Conclusion

(1) Primary conjugated bile acids increased in patients with liver fibrosis; (2) GCDCA induce hepatic fibrosis via the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway; (3) FXR inhibits NLRP3 activity by restraining its phosphorylation; (4) knockdown or knockout of NLRP3 may relieve the onset of hepatic fibrosis.
Impact of Systemic Therapy on Fertility in Women with Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Natsuhara Kelsey H. , Chien A. Jo
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

Fertility concerns are common among young women diagnosed with breast cancer, as systemic therapy increases the risk of premature ovarian insufficiency and delays family planning. Here, we review the impact of systemic therapies, including chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, HER-2 directed therapy, PARP inhibitors, and immunotherapy, on ovarian reserve.

Recent Findings

With an improved understanding of disease biology, fewer women are treated with gonadotoxic chemotherapy. There are limited data on the fertility impact of novel targeted treatments and immunotherapy, though preclinical and preliminary studies suggest an impact on fertility is possible. Notably, a recent study investigated the outcomes in women who interrupted adjuvant endocrine therapy to attempt pregnancy.

Further research is needed to characterize the fertility impact of novel therapies in breast cancer. Individualized fertility counseling should be offered to all women to discuss the possible impact of therapy on ovarian reserve and options for fertility preservation and timing of pregnancy.
A new three-dimensional rock strength criterion based on shape function in deviatoric plane
Authors: Gao Xiangsen , Wang Min , Li Cui , Zhang Mingming , Li Zhihong
Published: January 2024

Rock strength criteria are the theoretical grounding of geotechnical design and stability estimation, the Mohr–Coulomb (MC) and Hoek–Brown (HB) criteria are the widely accepted criteria at present, due to their reasonability and unambiguous concept, however they overlook the effect of intermediate principal stress, and contain six singular corners in π plane. Aimed at overcoming those limitations, the MC and normal parabolic criterion (NPC) were improved to their 3D versions that lead to smooth and convex for a wide range of strength parameters. The extended 3D strength criteria coincide with corresponding original forms in the triaxial compression and triaxial extension states, which not only take intermediate principal stress into account, but also provide great convenient in numerical calculation. Multigroup of poly-axial strength datasets gathered from the references are used to check the prediction accuracy of the proposed 3D criteria by the least absolute deviation method. Research proved that the 3D NPC criterion has a relatively larger deviation on poly-axial strength data prediction, but the proposed 3D MC criterion can describe peak strength with low misfit for soft or hard rocks. Peak strength σ1 increases first and then decreases with the increase of σ2, whether increasing or decreasing σ2, both will result in rock failure. Moreover, the 3D MC can fit the poly-axial strength data well for lower or higher values of σ3, which strongly suggests the proposed 3D MC criterion is adequate. Applicability of the proposed strength criterion will be discussed in further research.
Cost evaluation of a nurse coordinated outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) program
Authors: Deng Huiwen , Gross Alan E. , Trotter Andrew B. , Touchette Daniel R.
Published: January 2024

A structured, nurse-driven outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) program within an academic healthcare system was associated with reduced odds of 60-day unplanned OPAT readmissions and costs after hospital discharge. These findings may facilitate justifying additional resources for OPAT programs to improve care while decreasing costs.
A nationwide survey of Antimicrobial Stewardship in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: implementation notes from the Brazilian underground
Authors: Krummenauer Eliane Carlosso , Ziembowicz Henrique , Gonçalves Mara Rubia Santos , Costa Magda Machado de Miranda , Assis Mariana Portela de , Dias Viviane Maria de Carvalho Hessel , Vidal Cláudia Fernanda de Lacerda , Menezes Rochele Mosmann , Renner Jane Dagmar Pollo , Carneiro Marcelo
Published: January 2024

A multicenter diagnostic study was conducted to investigate the implementation of an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in Brazilian Pediatric Intensive Care Units. The analysis unveiled the main implementation impediments of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program such as the lack of professionals and resources available to the program.
STRONG MEASURE ZERO SETS ON FOR INACCESSIBLE
Authors: CHAPMAN NICK STEVEN , SCHÜRZ JOHANNES PHILIPP
Published: January 2024

We investigate the notion of strong measure zero sets in the context of the higher Cantor space

$2^\kappa $

for

$\kappa $

at least inaccessible. Using an iteration of perfect tree forcings, we give two proofs of the relative consistency of

$$\begin{align*}|2^\kappa| = \kappa^{++} + \forall X \subseteq 2^\kappa:\ X \textrm{ is strong measure zero if and only if } |X| \leq \kappa^+. \end{align*}$$

Furthermore, we also investigate the stronger notion of stationary strong measure zero and show that the equivalence of the two notions is undecidable in ZFC.
Sedimentological and geochemical traces of metallurgical activity in the Świślina River valley (central Poland) at the Doły Biskupie site
Authors: Przepióra Paweł , Kalicki Tomasz
Published: January 2024

Prehistoric and historic iron metallurgy in the Holy Cross Mountains in central Poland developed along with human Przeworsk Culture activity (during the Roman period) and within the boundaries of the Old-Polish Industrial District (OPID) during the Middle Ages and during recent centuries. At the Świślina catchment, there are many archaeological sites showing intense prehistoric metallurgical activity. The later medieval and modern iron industry was significantly smaller. At the Doły Biskupie site, slags and microscopic iron spherules (hammerscales) were found in alluvia. The microscopic spherules separation method (MSS) enabled analysis of these small artefacts created during iron ore smelting and forging. Iron spherules were detected in floodplain sediments, which are characterized by increased content of trace elements. The presence of these artefacts in shallow sediment layers in the confluence section of the river may be an indicator of archaeologically confirmed prehistoric metallurgical activity in the catchment area. Study of these residues enabled an attempt to reconstruct the river valley environment during the prehistoric and historical period. The MSS method can be used to detect iron spherules in alluvia in other river catchments, confirming the presence of yet-undiscovered bloomery sites.
Reflection: Firms, Rules, and Global Capitalism
Authors: Abdelal Rawi
Published: January 2024

Every organization of the world economy has been unstable. Each system is necessarily composed of trade-offs. Opportunities emerge, and disappointments abound. Nothing lasts; nothing is finished; and nothing is perfect.