bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryogenic Solid Solubility Measurements for HFC-32 + CO2 Binary Mixtures at Temperatures Between (132 and 217) K
Authors: Sadaghiani Mirhadi S. , Siahvashi Arman , Arami-Niya Arash , Tsuji Tomoya , Yukumoto Atsuhiro , Seiki Yoshio , Al Ghafri Saif Z. S. , Stanwix Paul L. , May Eric F.
Published: August 2023

Accurate phase equilibrium data for mixtures of eco-friendly but mildly-flammable refrigerants with inert components like CO2 will help the refrigeration industry safely employ working fluids with 80 % less global warming potential than those of many widely-used refrigerants. In this work, a visual high-pressure measurement setup was used to measure solid–fluid equilibrium (SFE) of HFC-32 + CO2 binary systems at temperatures between (132 and 217) K. The experimental data show a eutectic composition of around 11 mol % CO2 with a eutectic temperature of 131.9 K at solid–liquid–vapour (SLVE) condition. Measured SLVE and solid–liquid equilibrium data were used to tune a thermodynamic model implemented in the ThermoFAST software package by adjusting the binary interaction parameter (BIP) in the Peng–Robinson equation of state. The tuned model represents the measured melting points for binary mixtures with a root mean square deviation (RMSD) of 3.2 K, which is 60 % less than achieved with the default BIP. An RMSD of 0.5 K was obtained using the tuned model for the mixtures with CO2 fractions over 28 mol % relative to an RMSD of 3.4 K obtained with the default model. The new property data and improved model presented in this work will help avoid solid deposition risk in cryogenic applications of the HFC-32 + CO2 binary system and promote wider applications of more environmentally-friendly refrigerant mixtures.
Approximation hierarchies for copositive cone over symmetric cone and their comparison
Authors: Nishijima Mitsuhiro , Nakata Kazuhide
Published: August 2023

We first provide an inner-approximation hierarchy described by a sum-of-squares (SOS) constraint for the copositive (COP) cone over a general symmetric cone. The hierarchy is a generalization of that proposed by Parrilo (Structured semidefinite programs and semialgebraic geometry methods in Robustness and optimization, Ph.D. Thesis, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 2000) for the usual COP cone (over a nonnegative orthant). We also discuss its dual. Second, we characterize the COP cone over a symmetric cone using the usual COP cone. By replacing the usual COP cone appearing in this characterization with the inner- or outer-approximation hierarchy provided by de Klerk and Pasechnik (SIAM J Optim 12(4):875–892, https://doi.org/10.1137/S1052623401383248, 2002) or Yıldırım (Optim Methods Softw 27(1):155–173, https://doi.org/10.1080/10556788.2010.540014, 2012), we obtain an inner- or outer-approximation hierarchy described by semidefinite but not by SOS constraints for the COP matrix cone over the direct product of a nonnegative orthant and a second-order cone. We then compare them with the existing hierarchies provided by Zuluaga et al. (SIAM J Optim 16(4):1076–1091, https://doi.org/10.1137/03060151X, 2006) and Lasserre (Math Program 144:265–276, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10107-013-0632-5, 2014). Theoretical and numerical examinations imply that we can numerically increase a depth parameter, which determines an approximation accuracy, in the approximation hierarchies derived from de Klerk and Pasechnik (SIAM J Optim 12(4):875–892, https://doi.org/10.1137/S1052623401383248, 2002) and Yıldırım (Optim Methods Softw 27(1):155–173, https://doi.org/10.1080/10556788.2010.540014, 2012), particularly when the nonnegative orthant is small. In such a case, the approximation hierarchy derived from Yıldırım (Optim Methods Softw 27(1):155–173, https://doi.org/10.1080/10556788.2010.540014, 2012) can yield nearly optimal values numerically. Combining the proposed approximation hierarchies with existing ones, we can evaluate the optimal value of COP programming problems more accurately and efficiently.
Aliasing Effect on Flux Ramp Demodulation: Nonlinearity in the Microwave Squid Multiplexer
Authors: Salum J. M. , Muscheid T. , Fuster A. , Garcia Redondo M. E. , Hampel M. R. , Ferreyro L. P. , Geria J. M. , Bonilla-Neira J. , Müller N. , Bonaparte J. , Almela A. , Ardila-Perez L. E. , Platino M. , Sander O. , Weber M.
Published: August 2023

A novel system formed by a Microwave Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) Multiplexer ($$\mu$$
μ
MUX) and a room temperature electronics employs frequency division multiplexing (FDM) technique to read out multiple cryogenic detectors. Since the detector signal is embedded in the phase of the SQUID signal, a Digital Quadrature Demodulator (DQD) is widely implemented to recover it. However, the DQD also generates a signal that aliases into the first Nyquist zone affecting the demodulated detector signal. In this work, we demonstrate how this spurious signal is generated and a mathematical model of it is derived and validated. In addition, we discuss different proposals to improve the attenuation of this undesired signal. Lastly, we implement one of the proposals in our readout system. Our measurements show an enhancement in the spurious signal attenuation of more than 35 dB. As a result, this work contributes to attenuate the spurious below the system noise.
Development and Characterization of New Environmentally Friendly Polylactide Formulations with Terpenoid-Based Plasticizers with Improved Ductility
Authors: Gomez-Caturla J. , Tejada-Oliveros R. , Ivorra-Martinez J. , Garcia-Sanoguera D. , Balart R. , Garcia-Garcia D.
Published: August 2023

This work addresses the potential of two biobased terpenoids, linalyl acetate and geranyl acetate, as environmentally friendly monomeric plasticizers for polylactide (PLA). Plasticized formulations of PLA containing 10 wt.% and 20 wt.% terpenoids were melt-compounded in a twin-screw co-rotating extruder and, subsequently, processed by injection moulding for further characterization. In addition, a reactive extrusion process (REX) was carried out on plasticized formulations containing 20 wt.% terpenoids with dicumyl peroxide to anchor the plasticizer molecules into the PLA backbone. Both terpenoids led to a remarkable plasticization effect on PLA, with a noticeable increase in ductile properties. In particular, the elongation at break of PLA, around 4.7%, was improved to values above 230% for all the plasticized formulations, even for low terpenoid concentration of 10 wt.%. Terpenoids also provide increased crystallinity because polymers chains have more mobility and are more readily arranged. This was observed by shifting the cold crystallization process to lower temperatures. As with other monomeric plasticizers, a clear decrease in the glass transition temperature from 61.5 °C (neat PLA), to values of around 40 °C for the plasticized formulations with 20 wt.% terpenoid was obtained. The obtained formulations show high potential since the plasticization efficiency of these terpenoids is very high, thus leading to new toughened-PLA formulations with improved ductility.
Job Satisfaction and Gender in Italy: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Piccitto Giorgio , Schadee Hans M. A. , Ballarino Gabriele
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to propose a reliable measurement model for the concept of job satisfaction in Italy and to test its measurement invariance across gender. We used the 2003 and 2009 Italian National Statistical Office (ISTAT) Family and Social Subjects (FSS) data, containing information on 8 dimensions of job satisfaction. The best-fitting model was a four-factor one, including the dimensions of intrinsic, rewards, timing and socio-contextual job satisfaction. Multi-group analysis supported the measurement invariance across gender. Additionally, we evaluated the role of several job and individual characteristics as determinants of job satisfaction for men and women. While for a number of them the patterns of association with job satisfaction were similar over genders, some differences also did emerge.
Random Lift of Set Valued Maps and Applications to Multiagent Dynamics
Authors: Capuani Rossana , Marigonda Antonio , Ricciardi Michele
Published: August 2023

We introduce an abstract framework for the study of general mean field games and mean field control problems. Given a multiagent system, its macroscopic description is provided by a time-depending probability measure, where at every instant of time the measure of a set represents the fraction of (microscopic) agents contained in it. The trajectories available to each of the microscopic agents are affected also by the overall state of the system. By using a suitable concept of random lift of set valued maps, together with fixed point arguments, we are able to derive properties of the macroscopic description of the system from properties of the set valued map expressing the admissible trajectories for the microscopical agents. The techniques used can be applied to consider a broad class of dependence between the trajectories of the single agent and the state of the system. We apply the results in the case in which the admissible trajectories of the agents are the minimizers of a suitable integral functional depending also from the macroscopic evolution of the system.
LC-HRMS method for study of pharmaceutical uptake in plants: effect of pH under aeroponic condition
Authors: Švecová Helena , Vojs Staňová Andrea , Klement Aleš , Kodešová Radka , Grabic Roman
Published: August 2023

Global climate changes cause water scarcity in many regions, and the sustainable use of recycled water appears crucial, especially in agriculture. However, potentially hazardous compounds such as pharmaceuticals can enter the food chain and pose severe risks. This paper aims to study the presence of selected pharmaceutical active compounds (PhACs) and their metabolites in crops grown in aeroponic conditions and evaluate the potential of PhAC plant uptake. A solvent extraction with an acidified mixture of acetonitrile and water followed by LC-HRMS was developed and validated for quantifying nine pharmaceuticals and their nine metabolites in three plants. We aimed for a robust method with a wide linear range because an extensive concentration range in different matrices was expected. The developed method proved rapid and reliable determination of selected pharmaceuticals in plants in the wide concentration range of 10 to 20,000 ng g−1 and limit of detection range 0.4 to 9.0 ng g-1. The developed method was used to study the uptake and translocation of pharmaceuticals and their metabolites in plant tissues from an aeroponic experiment at three different pH levels. Carbamazepine accumulated more in the leaves of spinach than in arugula. On the other hand, sulfamethoxazole and clindamycin evinced higher accumulation in roots than in leaves, comparable in both plants. The expected effect of pH on plants’ uptake was not significant.
Creep and ageing of granular materials under isotropic pressure
Authors: Jessen Belinda Anna-Maria , Cudmani Roberto , Vogt Stefan
Published: August 2023

Single- and multi-stage isotropic creep tests including bender element and acoustic emission measurements are carried out to investigate the relationship between ageing and creep in dense silica sand. In the considered pressure range, the experimental results show an inversely proportional relationship between ageing and creep: the small-strain shear modulus increases with decreasing isotropic pressure,, while the axial creep strain and the acoustic emissions show the opposite pressure dependence. In the multi-stage creep test, the small-strain shear modulus increases monotonically, while the rates of axial strain, number of acoustic emissions and small-strain shear modulus decrease with time according to a power law. In the single-stage creep tests, the ageing and creep indicators initially evolve as in the multi-stage creep test, but then the small-strain shear modulus reaches a peak value and decreases with time thereafter. At the same time, the rates of axial strain, number of acoustic emissions and small-strain shear modulus deviate from the power law. A conceptual model assuming a time-dependent behaviour of the normal and shear forces at the particle contacts in order to explain the experimental observations qualitatively is proposed. Accordingly, an increase in small-strain shear modulus results from homogenisation of the force chains, while a decrease in small-strain shear modulus results from a temporary formation followed by a time-delayed collapse of strong force chains.
Sarcopenic Obesity and Cardiometabolic Health and Mortality in Older Adults: a Growing Health Concern in an Ageing Population
Authors: Wannamethee Sasiwarang Goya , Atkins Janice L.
Published: August 2023

Purpose of Review

Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is a growing public health problem in older adults. Whether SO confers higher risk of cardiometabolic disease and mortality than obesity or sarcopenia alone is still a matter of debate. We focus on recent findings on SO and cardiometabolic health and mortality in older adults.

Recent Findings

SO is associated with increased mortality compared to non-sarcopenic obesity, but similar mortality risk compared to sarcopenia without obesity. SO is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, and physical disability than obesity or sarcopenia alone. SO, in the presence of diabetes, is associated with the highest risk of CVD and chronic kidney disease. A definition and diagnostic criteria for SO has recently been proposed (ESPEN and EASO).

SO is associated with more adverse outcomes overall than sarcopenia or obesity alone. Future research is required to assess the impact of the new SO definition on health outcomes.
Dual Endothelin Antagonism with Aprocitentan as a Novel Therapeutic Approach for Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Heidari Nejad Sayeh , Azzam Omar , Schlaich Markus P.
Published: August 2023

Purpose of Review

Resistant hypertension (RH) defined as uncontrolled blood pressure despite the use of a combination of a renin-angiotensin system blocker, a calcium channel blocker, and a diuretic at maximally tolerated doses is associated with a substantially increased risk of cardiovascular and renal events. Despite targeting relevant pathophysiological pathways contributing to elevated blood pressure, approximately 10–15% of hypertensive patients remain above recommended blood pressure targets. Further optimization of blood pressure control is particularly challenging in patient populations who frequently present with RH such as elderly and patients with chronic kidney disease, due to the unfavorable safety profile of the recommended fourth-line therapy with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. This review explores the potential role of endothelin antagonists as an alternative fourth-line therapy.

Recent Findings

Despite the well-described role of the endothelin pathway in the pathogenesis of hypertension, it is currently not targeted therapeutically. Recently however, main outcome data from the PRECISION study, a randomized placebo-controlled phase 3 trial, in patients with RH on guideline-recommended standardized single-pill background therapy convincingly demonstrated the safety and blood pressure-lowering efficacy of the dual endothelin antagonist Aprocitentan.

Findings from the phase 3 PRECISION study could signify a turning point in the utilization of endothelin receptor antagonists as a standard treatment for patients with RH.
Advances, challenges and perspective in modelling the functioning of karst systems: a review
Authors: Jourde Hervé , Wang Xiaoguang
Published: August 2023

We present a discussion of the state-of-the art on modelling geometrical characteristics, hydrogeological behavior and geochemical evolution of karst aquifers of meteoric origin. The considered key karst processes include: (1) the recharge processes, (2) the various hydrodynamic processes in the vadose and phreatic zones, (3) the related transport processes and (4) the speleogenesis processes. Different types of approaches for modelling geometrical characteristics of karst conduit networks are summarized. Integrated numerical studies on hydrogeological behavior of karst aquifers with functional and physically based models are then reviewed. Challenging issues in karst modelling are further discussed based on previous modelling progresses. The paper finally offers recommendations for advancing the modelling of hydrogeological behavior of karst systems and lists several open questions for future research.
Shed skin as a source of DNA for genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) in reptiles
Authors: Brekke Thomas D , Shier Liam , Hegarty Matthew J , Mulley John F
Published: August 2023

Over a fifth of reptile species are classified as ‘Threatened’ and conservation efforts, especially those aimed at recovery of isolated or fragmented populations, will require genetic and genomic data and resources. Shed skins of snakes and other reptiles contain DNA; are a safe and ethical way of non-invasively sampling large numbers of individuals; and provide a simple mechanism by which to involve the public in scientific research. Here we test whether the DNA in dried shed skin is suitable for reduced representation sequencing approaches, specifically genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). Shed skin-derived libraries resulted in fewer sequenced reads than those from snap-frozen muscle samples, and contained slightly fewer variants (70,685 SNPs versus 97,724), but this issue can easily be rectified with deeper sequencing of shed skin-derived libraries. Skin-derived libraries also have a very slight (but significantly different) profile of transitions and transversions, most likely as a result of DNA damage, but the impact of this is minimal given the large number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) involved. SNP density tends to scale with chromosome length, and microchromosomes have a significantly higher SNP density than macrochromosomes, most likely because of their higher GC content. Overall, shed skin provides DNA of sufficient quality and quantity for the identification of large number of SNPs, but requires greater sequencing depth, and consideration of the GC richness of microchromosomes when selecting restriction enzymes.
The correlation between primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and gut microbiota: a pilot study towards predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine
Authors: Chen Si , Wang Nan , Xiong Siqi , Xia Xiaobo
Published: August 2023

Background

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Emerged evidence has shown that glaucoma is considered an immune system related disorder. The gut is the largest immune organ in the human body and the gut microbiota (GM) plays an irreversible role in maintaining immune homeostasis. But, how the GM influences glaucoma remains unrevealed. This study aimed at investigating the key molecules/pathways mediating the GM and the glaucoma to provide new biomarkers for future predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine.

Methods

Datasets from the primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients (GSE138125) and datasets for target genes of GM/GM metabolites were downloaded from a public database. For GSE138125, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between healthy and POAG samples were identified. And the online Venn diagram tool was used to obtain the DEGs from POAG related to GM. After which GM-related DEGs were analyzed by correlation analysis, pathway enrichment analysis, and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Human trabecular meshwork cells were used for validation, and the mRNA level of hub genes was verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in the in vitro glaucoma model.

Results

A total of 16 GM-related DEGs in POAG were identified from the above 2 datasets (9 upregulated genes and 7 downregulated genes). Pathway enrichment analysis indicated that these genes are mostly enriched in immune regulation especially macrophages-related pathways. Then 6 hub genes were identified by PPI network analysis and construction of key modules. Finally, RT-qPCR confirmed that the expression of the hub genes in the in vitro glaucoma model was consistent with the results of bioinformatics analysis of the mRNA chip.

Conclusion

This bioinformatic study elucidates NFKB1, IL18, KITLG, TLR9, FKBP2, and HDAC4 as hub genes for POAG and GM regulation. Immune response modulated by macrophages plays an important role in POAG and may be potential targets for future predictive, preventive, and personalized diagnosis and treatment.
Scientific experiments beyond surprise and beauty
Authors: Kozlov Anatolii
Published: August 2023

Some experimental results in science are productively surprising or beautiful. Such results are disruptive in their epistemic nature: by violating epistemic expectations they mark the phenomenon at hand as worthy of further investigation. Could it be that there are emotions beyond these two which are also useful for the epistemic evaluation of scientific experiments? Here, I conduct a structured sociological survey to explore affective experiences in scientific experimental research. I identify that learning the results of an experiment is the high emotional point in the experimenting process. Thus, experimental results can be challenging, beautiful, or boring, and they can worry, amuse, make one sad, and so on. They can also drive meta-cognitive evaluations as well as motivate specific research-related actions. From this, I advance two claims: that emotions beyond surprise and disruptive beauty are epistemically useful in empirical research, and that emotions help to overcome specific challenges of reasoning about new experimental results.
Spatiotemporal patterns of water hyacinth dynamics as a response to seasonal climate variability in Lake Tana, Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Takele , Awoke Berhan Gessesse , Nega Worku
Published: August 2023

Lake Tana, which is the largest Lake in Ethiopia, has been invaded by water hyacinths since 2011. Although the government and the community have devoted considerable time and energy over a long period to removing the invasive weed mechanically and manually, the weed has been increasing significantly. Accurate, reliable, and timely information on the spatiotemporal distribution and extent of water hyacinth is crucial to determine its evolution, propagation, and potentially vulnerable areas of the Lake. Therefore, comprehensive information on the spatial distribution of water hyacinths and their annual and seasonal variability is essential for Lake Tana’s water resource planning, development, and management. This study aims to evaluate the spatiotemporal pattern of water hyacinth and its dynamics with seasonal climate variability and impact on evapotranspiration. Landsat 7 ETM+, Landsat 8 OLI, and Sentinel 2 and meteorological datasets were employed. Supervised and manual digitization image classification methods were applied to prepare Land-use/ Land-cover in the Lake. The Mann–Kendall trend test and Pearson correlation coefficient were used to evaluate the trend of water hyacinth and the impact of climate variability on water hyacinth distribution respectively. Besides, the evapotranspiration and water losses were estimated using the FAO-56 Penman–Monteith method. The surface extent of the water hyacinth in Lake Tana has increased by 96% in 2019 from 2011. However, the surface area of the Lake has declined. That means 1603 ha of water surface area has been changed to land surface from 2011 to 2019. The average volume of water loss in Lake Tana was 0.21% of the volume of the Lake from September 2016 to December 2018.
Spatiotemporal Event Studies for Environmental Data Under Cross-Sectional Dependence: An Application to Air Quality Assessment in Lombardy
Authors: Maranzano Paolo , Pelagatti Matteo
Published: August 2023

We propose a twofold adjustment for Event Studies considering spatiotemporal data in a multivariate time series framework where the data are characterized by spatial and temporal dependence. The first adjustment consists of modeling the spatiotemporal dynamics of the data by implementing several geostatistical models capable of handling both spatial and temporal components, as well as estimating the relationship between the response variable and a set of exogenous factors. With the second adjustment, we propose to use cross-sectional-adjusted test statistics directly accounting for spatial cross-correlation. The proposed methods are applied to the case of NO$$_2$$

2

concentrations observed in Northern Italy during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The key findings are as follows. First, all the considered geostatistical models estimate larger reductions in the major metropolitan and congested areas, while smaller reductions are estimated in rural plains and in the mountains. Second, the models are nearly equivalent in terms of fitting and are capable of identifying the true event window. Third, by using spatiotemporal models we ensure the residuals are uncorrelated across space and time, thus allowing Event Studies test statistics to provide reliable and realistic estimates. Fourth, as expected, all test statistics show significant reductions in NO$$_2$$

2

concentrations starting from the first few days of lockdown. Supplementary materials accompanying this paper appear online.
Psidium guajava L. phenolic compound-reinforced lamellar scaffold for tracheal tissue engineering
Authors: Amaral Venâncio A. , de Souza Juliana Ferreira , Alves Thais F. R. , de Oliveira Junior José M. , Severino Patrícia , Aranha Norberto , Souto Eliana B. , Chaud Marco V.
Published: August 2023

The aim of this work was to develop a dense lamellar scaffold, as a biomimetic material with potential applications in the regeneration of tracheal tissue after surgical tumor resection. The scaffolds were produced by plastic compression technique, exploiting the use of total phenolic compounds (TPC) from Psidium guajava Linn as a potential cross-linking agent in a polymeric mixture based on collagen (COL), silk fibroin (SF), and polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirmed the chemical interactions between the polymers and the cross-linking of TPC between COL and SF. Morphological analyses showed scaffolds with porosity, interconnectivity, and a porous surface structure with a gyroid-like geometry. The analysis of the anisotropic degree resulted in anisotropic structures (0.1% TFC and 0.3% TFC) and an isotropic structure (0.5% TFC). In the mechanical properties, it was evidenced greater resistance for the 0.3% TFC formulation. The addition of TPC percentages did not result in a significant difference (p > 0.05) in swelling capacity and disintegration rate. The results confirmed that TPC were able to modulate the morphological, morphometric, and mechanical properties of scaffolds. Thus, this study describes a potential new material to improve the regeneration of major tracheal structures after surgical tumor removal.

Graphical Abstract
Factors Associated with COVID-19 Testing, Vaccination, and Use of Digital Contact Tracing Apps among Black and Latinx MSM (BLMSM) in Los Angeles
Authors: Wang Yan , Beltran Raiza M. , Cumberland William G. , Young Sean D.
Published: August 2023

This study examines the factors associated with COVID-19 testing, vaccination intent (both individually and jointly), and willingness to use contact tracing digital apps among a cohort of Black and Latinx men who have sex with men (BLMSM) living in Los Angeles during the initial peak (July 2020) of the COVID-19 pandemic. A questionnaire detailing participants COVID-19 experiences was sent to 300 primarily BLMSM after the first state-wide COVID-19 lockdown. Logistic regression models with random cluster effects were used for analyses. Forty-two percent (42%) tested for COVID-19, 27% were willing to get vaccinated, and about 45% reported willingness to use contact tracing digital apps. Controlling for intervention participation, age, education, marital status, employment, health, tobacco, binge drinking, and self-reported anxiety, those who were depressed had 33% (95% CI: 0.13 to 0.82) odds of using a prevention strategy (either test for COVID-19 or vaccination intent) as the group who were not depressed. Those who had high school diploma or less had 23% (95% CI: 0.11 to 0.48) odds to use digital contact tracing apps as the group with education level of at least Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. Without considering the format of the test kits, vaccine side effects, and ease of use for digital contact tracing apps, participants appeared to still be hesitant in using COVID-19 prevention strategies at the initial height of the pandemic. Our findings suggest the need for further investigation into this hesitancy to better inform and prepare for future epidemics.
Berücksichtigung psychischer Belastung in der betriebsärztlichen Praxis
Authors: Nolle Inga , Häberle Nicola , Lincke Hans-Joachim , Beck David
Published: August 2023

Hintergrund

Betriebsärzt:innen haben den Auftrag, Arbeitgeber:innen bei der Beurteilung von Arbeitsbedingungen und beim Schutz der Gesundheit der Beschäftigten zu beraten und zu unterstützen. Das gilt auch für die Gefährdung durch psychische Arbeitsbelastungen. Während sich diese Erwartung klar aus den entsprechenden Bestimmungen ergibt, ist dagegen weniger klar, wie sich die betriebsärztliche Praxis tatsächlich gestaltet.

Methodik

Mithilfe einer Literaturrecherche sowie 6 leitfadenstrukturierten Interviews mit praktisch tätigen Betriebsärzt:innen wurde 2021 exploriert, welchen Stellenwert die psychische Belastung in der arbeitsmedizinischen Vorsorge und Beratung hat, welcher Zugang zur Gefährdungsbeurteilung vorliegt und welche Voraussetzungen, förderlichen Bedingungen und Hemmnisse die Arbeit auf diesem Feld prägen.

Ergebnisse

Es gibt für Betriebsärzt:innen klare Empfehlungen und Leitfäden zur Befassung mit psychischer Belastung bei der Arbeit. Den (wenigen) verfügbaren Studien zufolge werden psychische Belastungen in der arbeitsmedizinischen Praxis jedoch nicht systematisch adressiert. Auch die Interviews mit den Expert:innen deuten auf eine schwache Kopplung von Empfehlung und Umsetzung hin. Das „Ob und Wie“ der Beschäftigung mit psychischen Belastungen zeigt sich stark vom Selbstverständnis des einzelnen Betriebsarztes/der einzelnen Betriebsärztin abhängig.

Diskussion

Die Interviews und Literatur lassen vermuten, dass das Potenzial der arbeitsmedizinischen Beratung und Vorsorge für das Thema „psychische Belastung“ (noch) nicht systematisch erschlossen und genutzt wird. Die vorgelegten Studienergebnisse können weitere Forschung anstoßen und über das bessere Verstehen betriebsärztlicher Haltungen dazu beitragen, praktische Maßnahmen wie die Gefährdungsbeurteilung weiter zu etablieren.
Optimizing the Production of Test Vehicles Using Hybrid Constrained Quantum Annealing
Authors: Glos Adam , Kundu Akash , Salehi Özlem
Published: August 2023

Optimization of pre-production vehicle configurations is one of the challenges in the automotive industry. Given a list of tests requiring cars with certain features, it is desirable to find the minimum number of cars that cover the tests and obey the configuration rules. In this paper, we model the problem in the framework of satisfiability and solve it utilizing the newly introduced hybrid constrained quadratic model (CQM) solver provided by D-Wave. The problem definition is based on the “Optimizing the Production of Test Vehicles” use-case given in the BMW quantum computing challenge. We formulate a constrained quadratic model for the problem and use a greedy algorithm to configure the cars. We benchmark the results obtained from the CQM solver with the results from the classical solvers like coin-or branch and cut and Gurobi solver. We conclude that the performance of the CQM solver is comparable to the classical solvers in optimizing the number of test vehicles, given the noise-prone quantum hardware. However, the CQM solver takes much more time, which prohibits obtaining useful quantum advantages. As an extension to the problem, we describe how the scheduling of the tests can be incorporated into the model.
“We Are not into Politics, but Politics Is into Us”: The Politicization of the Ghana Armed Forces Through Patronage Exchanges between Political Elites and Military Leaders
Authors: Agyekum Humphrey Asamoah
Published: August 2023

Throughout Ghana’s political history, soldiers have inspired socio-political change. Based on fieldwork with the Ghanaian military, this article contributes to literature on militaries and civil-military relations in Africa. Agyekum analyzes how the politicization of the military impacts dynamics within the barracks, while highlighting how the country’s political class endeavors to diminish the armed forces’ societal and political influence as a way to gain control over the institution through patronage exchanges. Since the early 2000s, the elite’s strategy entices individual soldiers as well as the whole institution through the politicization of promotions and appointments, recruitment, better service conditions, and infrastructural projects in the barracks.
The egg-thief architect: experimental oviraptorosaur nesting physiology, the possibility of adult-mediated incubation, and the feasibility of indirect contact incubation
Authors: Hogan Jason D.
Published: August 2023

Numerous, high-quality reproduction-related oviraptorosaur fossils have been described. However, oviraptorosaur-style nests are unknown among extant animals, and their curious construction makes nesting behavior difficult to interpret. Experiments were undertaken to better understand oviraptorosaur nesting strategies. A surrogate was constructed and placed atop mock-oviraptorosaur nests built from sand and 36 infertile emu eggs (as Macroolithus approximations) arranged according to the most current nest reconstructions. Thermometers, placed within each egg and throughout the experimental area, recorded energy flow from the surrogate dinosaur into the nesting microenvironment. One experiment examined a basic open nest warmed from above; the second, a fully buried clutch warmed from above; and the third, a nest open like the first but with heating elements (representing hindlimbs) extending down into the nest. It was found that egg temperatures in each scenario surpassed ambient temperatures without requiring excessive energy input. Final clutch temperatures were below most avian values, closer to crocodilian incubation, but are likely conservative, considering experimental parameters. These results may support the idea that an oviraptorosaur could use adult-generated energy to warm a clutch above ambient conditions. Additionally, egg tiers would be warmer and more uniform in temperature if heated by elements within the nest, such as hindlimbs, instead of solely from above. Results from the second experiment indicate that an endothermic adult could possibly warm a clutch fully buried beneath itself despite a barrier. Although not likely a behavior exhibited by oviraptorosaurs, such results suggest an important evolutionary step bridging guarded subterranean eggs and contact-incubated subaerial eggs.
Spacetime Conventionalism Revisited
Authors: Tasdan Ufuk I. , Thébault Karim P. Y.
Published: August 2023

We provide five rearticulations of the thesis that the structure of spacetime is conventional, rather than empirically determined, based upon variation of the structures that are empirically underdetermined and modal contexts in which this underdetermination occurs. Three of the five formulations of conventionalism will be found to fail. Two are found to open up new interesting problems for researchers in the foundations of general relativity. In all five cases, our analysis explores the interplay between geometric identities, symmetry, conformal structure, and the dynamical content of physical theories with the conventionalism dialectic deployed as a tool of explication, clarification, and exploration.
Everyday Pain in Middle and Later Life: Associations with Daily and Momentary Present-Moment Awareness as One Key Facet of Mindfulness
Authors: Pauly Theresa , Nicol Anna , Lay Jennifer C. , Ashe Maureen C. , Gerstorf Denis , Graf Peter , Linden Wolfgang , Madden Kenneth M. , Mahmood Atiya , Murphy Rachel A. , Hoppmann Christiane A.
Published: August 2023

This study investigated everyday associations between one key facet of mindfulness (allocating attention to the present moment) and pain. In Study 1, 89 community-dwelling adults (33–88 years; Mage = 68.6) who had experienced a stroke provided 14 daily end-of-day present-moment awareness and pain ratings. In Study 2, 100 adults (50–85 years; Mage = 67.0 years) provided momentary present-moment awareness and pain ratings three times daily for 10 days. Multi-level models showed that higher trait present-moment awareness was linked with lower overall pain (both studies). In Study 1, participants reported less pain on days on which they indicated higher present-moment awareness. In Study 2, only individuals with no post-secondary education reported less pain in moments when they indicated higher present-moment awareness. Findings add to previous research using global retrospective pain measures by showing that present-moment awareness might correlate with reduced pain experiences, assessed close in time to when they occur.
Empirical support for a model of risk and resilience in children and families during COVID-19: A systematic review & narrative synthesis
Authors: Shoychet Gillian , Kimber Melissa , Weiss Jonathan , Honest Olivia , Prime Heather
Published: August 2023

Background.

The COVID-19 Family Disruption Model (FDM) describes the cascading effects of pandemic-related social disruptions on child and family psychosocial functioning. The current systematic review assesses the empirical support for the model.

Methods.

Study eligibility: 1) children between 2–18 years (and/or their caregivers); 2) a quantitative longitudinal design; 3) published findings during the first 2.5 years of COVID-19; 4) an assessment of caregiver and/or family functioning; 5) an assessment of child internalizing, externalizing, or positive adjustment; and 6) an examination of a COVID-19 FDM pathway. Following a search of PsycINFO and MEDLINE in August 2022, screening, full-text assessments, and data extraction were completed by two reviewers. Study quality was examined using an adapted NIH risk-of- bias tool.

Results.

Findings from 47 studies were summarized using descriptive statistics, tables, and a narrative synthesis. There is emerging support for bidirectional pathways linking caregiver-child functioning and family-child functioning, particularly for child internalizing problems. Quality assessments indicated issues with attrition and power justification.

Discussion.

We provide a critical summary of the empirical support for the model, highlighting themes related to family systems theory and risk/resilience. We outline future directions for research on child and family well-being during COVID-19. Systematic review registration. PROSPERO [CRD42022327191].
Spreading dynamics of a diffusive epidemic model with free boundaries and two delays
Authors: Chen Qiaoling , Tang Sanyi , Teng Zhidong , Wang Feng
Published: August 2023

A delayed reaction-diffusion system with free boundaries is investigated in this paper to understand how the bacteria spread spatially to larger area from the initial infected habitat. Under the assumptions that the nonlinearities are of monostable type and the initial values satisfy some compatible condition, we show that the free boundary problem is well-posed and discuss the long-time behaviour of solution (including spreading and vanishing) in terms of the spatial-temporal risk index. Furthermore, to determine the spreading speed of free boundaries when spreading occurs, we first study the distribution of roots of a transcendental equation containing a polynomial of degree four and then establish the existence and uniqueness of monotone solution to a delay-induced nonlocal semi-wave problem by employing the approximation method, lower-upper solutions technique and Schauder fixed point theorem. It is shown that time delays slow down the spreading of bacteria.
Investigating the impact of adjunctive priming repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in late-life depression: a pilot single-blind randomized control study
Authors: Vidya Kote L. , Srivastava Shrikant , Singh Bhupendra , Kar Sujita K.
Published: August 2023

Background

Conventional treatment methods have limited effectiveness in addressing late-life depression (LLD) that does not respond well. While a new approach called priming repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has shown promise in treating depression in adults, its effectiveness in LLD has not been explored. This study aimed to investigate the impact of priming rTMS on LLD.

Methods

This study investigated the effectiveness of priming rTMS in 31 patients with LLD who did not improve after an adequate trial of antidepressants. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either active priming rTMS or sham priming rTMS. Active priming rTMS was delivered over the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for 10 sessions, lasting 31 minutes each, over a period of 2 weeks.

Results

The group receiving active priming rTMS demonstrated greater improvements in scores on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (p < 0.037; partial η2 0.141) and the Geriatric Depression Rating Scale (p < 0.045; partial η2 0.131) compared to the sham priming group, with a mild effect size. At the end of the second and fourth weeks, the priming rTMS group achieved a response rate of 50%, while the sham priming group had response rates of 26.7% and 6.7%, respectively. No adverse effects requiring intervention were observed.

Conclusion

Priming rTMS is well-tolerated for the treatment of LLD and not only reduces the severity of depression but also maintains the achieved response over time.
Musical Live Coding in Relation to Interactivity Variations
Authors: Diapoulis Georgios
Published: August 2023

This article explores the similarities and differences between live coding and traditional music performances. The focus is on how bodily movements are expressed and whether pre-reflective processes may be activated during a live coding performance. While reports from practitioners vary on percepts of embodiment, the community is missing a theoretical background that reflects on practice. Understanding pre-reflective processes in live coding can benefit performance practices and tool development. As a live coder, I reflect on personal experiences and explore what I call ‘interactivity variations’, a term to denote different gestural manners of interactions during a performance. I observe patterns of embodiment among various live coders who use diverse performance systems from online videos. Out of 11 examples of performance systems, two cases demonstrate interactivity variations that can activate pre-reflective processes while another exploits direct manipulation. I present some implications for the patterns of bodily movement during a live coding performance and discuss how descriptive and prescriptive notation can be important and potentially influence our sensorimotor network. The article contributes a first account of a sensorimotor theory on live coding performances, reflecting on practice and embodied music cognition by presenting an aesthetic analysis of 11 online video examples.
Alternative monetary policies and wealth and income inequality: the monetary instrument problem revisited
Authors: Turnovsky Stephen J. , Gokan Yoichi
Published: August 2023

This paper compares the impact of setting the money growth rate versus pegging the interest rate on aggregate real variables and their distributions. In either case, the monetary policy, in isolation, requires the price level to jump to ensure intertemporal solvency but has no real dynamic effects. The choice of monetary instrument has consequences for wealth and income inequality, doing so in potentially conflicting ways. Following real shocks, the accompanying monetary policy will influence the ensuing transition. For real variables, this operates entirely through its impact on the speed of convergence and is negligible. For financial variables, the impact also depends upon the initial jump in the price level. These effects vary more substantially between policies and have more significant distributional consequences. Overall, the impact on inequality is dominated by the real shocks themselves, rather than the accompanying monetary policy. Finally, we compare these two policies to inflation targeting, which is shown to be the least favorable for reducing wealth inequality, but the most favorable for reducing income inequality.
An audit of the dissemination strategies and plan included in international food-based dietary guidelines
Authors: Yoong Sze Lin , Turon Heidi , Wong Carrie K , Bayles Lyndal , Finch Meghan , Barnes Courtney , Doherty Emma , Wolfenden Luke
Published: August 2023

Objective:

Food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) are an important resource to improve population health; however, little is known about the types of strategies to disseminate them. This study sought to describe dissemination strategies and content of dissemination plans that were available for FBDG.

Design:

A cross-sectional audit of FBDG with a published English-language version sourced from the United Nations FAO repository. We searched for publicly available dissemination strategies and any corresponding plans available in English language. Two authors extracted data on strategies, which were grouped according to the Model for Dissemination Research Framework (including source, audience, channel and message). For guidelines with a dissemination plan, we described goals, audience, strategies and expertise and resources according to the Canadian Institute for Health Research guidance.

Setting:

FBDG from fifty-three countries mostly from high-income (n 28, 52·8 %), and upper-middle income (n 18, 34 %) areas were included.

Participants:

n/a.

Results:

The source of guidelines was most frequently health departments (79·2 %). The message included quantities and types of foods, physical activity recommendations and 88·7 % included summarised versions of main messages. The most common channels were infographics and information booklets, and the main end-users were the public. For twelve countries (22·6 %), we were able to source an English-language dissemination plan, where none met all recommendations outlined by the Canadian Institute for Health Research.

Conclusions:

The public was the most frequently identified end-user and thus most dissemination strategies and plans focused on this group. Few FBDG had formal dissemination plans and of those there was limited detailed provided.
Cannibalizing Bach: Villa-Lobos in Europe, 1936
Authors: SATO EDUARDO
Published: August 2023

During the 1930s, Heitor Villa-Lobos concentrated his efforts on coordinating Brazilian musical education. As such, he changed his compositional style and did not travel to Europe again until 1936. This article examines Villa-Lobos's trip to Europe in 1936, drawing on Florencia Garramuño's call to ‘incorporate avant-garde voyages as founding moments’ for an autochthonous national character in music. During his journey, Villa-Lobos represented Brazil in different settings: as a deputy at the International Congress of Music Education in Prague and as a composer in under-the-radar political negotiations with Nazi Germany in Berlin. Considering the authoritarian Vargas Regime, Brazilian modernism, and the dialectical relation between nationalism and internationalism, I argue that this trip served as a catalyst for a new creative phase, culminating in the series of Bachianas brasileiras, a resignification of J. S. Bach's music and legacy in the context of his interpretation of Brazilian Antropofagia (cultural cannibalism).