bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D printing continuous natural fiber reinforced polymer composites: A review
Authors: Cheng Ping , Peng Yong , Wang Kui , Le Duigou Antoine , Ahzi Said
Published: November 2023

With the growing prominence of environmental conservation awareness, there has been a notable surge in the exploration of renewable materials, particularly in the realm of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites. This heightened focus is underscored by the recent advancements in additive manufacturing techniques dedicated to continuous natural fiber reinforced composites (CNFRCs), which have inherently opened unprecedented avenues for the holistic customization of CNFRCs with meticulously tailored properties. This work reviewed the advanced techniques for 3D printing CNFRCs and addressed their challenges and perspectives in the future. First, the 3D printing processes of CNFRCs were reviewed, and the use of reinforcement and matrix phases was classified in detail. Then, CNFRCs were discussed in terms of their mechanical performances and novel function of shape‐changing. Further, performance optimization and prediction methods of 3D printed CNFRCs were discussed. In conclusion, a perspective on future study opportunities of 3D printed CNFRCs was provided from design, manufacturing, prediction to application.
Targeted theranostics agent based on polydopamine/hyaluronic acid nanoparticles for MRI and photothermal therapy
Authors: Orangi Saeid , Delavari H. Hamid , Davaran Soodabeh , Poursalehi Reza , Ranjbar Mehdi
Published: November 2023

Theranostics based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and photothermal therapy can provide high‐resolution imaging with the minimum side effect of cancer treatment. In this research, polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA‐NPs) are synthesized and functionalized with hyaluronic acid (HA) as a cancer‐targeting theranostics agent. The synthesis of PDA‐NPs with an average size of 25 nm is confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscope, and the functionalization of PDA‐NPs with HA is confirmed by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The highest longitudinal relaxation rate (r1) is observed at the Fe to PDA weight ratio of 0.25 by MRI analysis. MTT results confirm that the PDA/HA‐NPs to Fe ion concentration of 6 μg mL−1 are not toxic (cell viability, 80%–95%). The result of immunocytochemistry analysis shows the binding of 78% of PDA/HA‐NPs to the human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells with CD44 antigens. Finally, PDA/HA‐NPs are irradiated by an 808 nm laser to investigate their photothermal property. The specific absorption rate of PDA/HA‐NPs at a concentration of 0.4 mg mL−1 with an iron ratio of 0.25 is determined as 107.95 W g−1 when irradiated with a laser of 500 mW cm−2 power density.
SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination response in pediatric oncology patients
Authors: D'Souza Amber Marie , Thomas Maria , Gnanamony Manu , Nguyen Thu Hien , de Alarcon Pedro A.
Published: November 2023

Background

There remains limited knowledge about the immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccination in pediatric oncology patients, which is essential to provide counseling and risk adaptation in this vulnerable population. The goal of this study was to understand immunogenicity after vaccination in pediatric oncology patients, and determine if certain clinical factors impacted response.

Methods

Patients 0–25 years of age with a diagnosis of cancer and actively receiving therapy were enrolled on study. We excluded patients who were completely vaccinated prior to their cancer diagnosis. Blood samples were collected pre‐vaccination, as well as 2, 4–6, and 8–12 weeks after vaccination. Healthy children who were fully vaccinated enrolled as controls. Clinical data and complete blood counts around time of vaccination were collected. To study B‐ and T‐cell immunity, we measured neutralizing antibodies by enzyme‐linked immunoassay and interferon gamma secretion by enzyme‐linked immunospot, respectively.

Results

Twenty‐six patients enrolled on study, for which 11 were evaluable oncology patients and seven were healthy controls. Adequate B‐cell response was seen in 36.4% of patients, and adequate T‐cell response in 77.8% of patients. Numbers were too small to detect differences based on malignancy type. There was no differences in immunity based on absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) or intensity of therapy.

Conclusion

Pediatric oncology patients have a suboptimal immune response to SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination. Booster doses will be imperative to provide optimal protection against COVID‐19; however, blood counts may not be a useful guide to optimize the time of administration.
Effect of fillers and weave architecture hybridization on the impact performance of 3D woven hybrid green composites
Authors: Safdar Muhammad Mubeen , Khan Muhammad Imran , Ullah Tehseen , Shaker Khubab , Nawab Yasir , Rizwan Zahid , Asghar Muhammad Ayub , Umair Muhammad
Published: November 2023

The eco‐friendly characteristics of green composites not only make them economically and technically viable but also contribute to the reduction of pollution. Green composites are developed by combining degradable fibers (primarily cellulosic materials) with natural resins. A disadvantage of green composites is their lower mechanical strength. To address this issue, 3D woven reinforcement along with fillers can be used to enhance the mechanical properties of green composites. In the current study, three different types of novel 3D woven hybrid structures, that is, hybrid through the thickness (HB‐1 (TT), novel woven layer‐to‐layer structure (HB‐2 (LL)), and layer‐to‐layer structure with double warp yarn (HB‐3 (LL)) were developed. Composites were fabricated using the compression molding technique. Three different concentrations (2%, 5%, and 8%) of nano clay (nanoparticles) were used as fillers and mixed in the green epoxy resin. Pendulum (Charpy) and drop weight impact tests of the composites were performed. The results showed that by the addition of nano particles the impact properties were increased. Nanoparticles showed a significant effect on impact strength. Charpy impact test results showed that the HB‐3 (LL) composite sample with 8% nanofillers showed the highest impact performance, while the HB‐1 (TT) composite sample with 8% nanofillers showed the highest impact performance during the drop weight impact test. By comparing the impact strength of the present work with that of similar research previously published, it is evident that our study achieved a remarkable improvement of 19.17%. This increase is due to the novel structures and nano fillers in the composite.

Highlights

Eco‐friendly green composites: economically feasible, minimizes pollution.

Adding 3D woven structures to green composites improves their mechanical properties.

Composite materials with nano clay fillers have increased impact resistance.

The highest impact performance is shown by HB‐3 (LL) composites with 8% nanofillers.
End‐/side‐chain fluorescent polymer conjugates: Stimuli‐responsiveness and biological applications
Authors: Kar Mahuya , Mandal Tarun K.
Published: November 2023

Smart fluorescent polymers are an interesting class of advanced materials that find widespread applications in diverse areas ranging from materials chemistry to biology. This review highlights the last 15 years' developments of end‐chain and side‐chain fluorescent polymer conjugates by employing various controlled polymerization techniques, with a major focus on “grafting to” or “grafting from” strategies. The fluorescent polymer conjugates that discussed in this review are limited to some conventional dye molecules such as perylene‐3,4,9,10,‐bis(dicarboximide), 1,8‐naphthalimide, tetraphenylethylene, azo dye, rhodamine, coumarin, fluorescein, pyrene, and a few other selected dyes. Attempts are also made to primarily describe the changes in optical properties of these conjugates in response to various external stimuli. Additionally, this review extensively discusses the formation of nanoassemblies of these fluorescent polymer conjugates, along with their various applications, majorly focusing on their role in bioimaging, drug delivery, and DNA binding.
Spontaneous breathing in selected neonates with very mild congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Kipfmueller Florian , Leyens Judith , Pugnaloni Flaminia , Bo Bartolomeo , Grass Tamara , Lemloh Lotte , Schroeder Lukas , Nitsch‐Felsecker Patrizia , Berg Christoph , Heydweiller Andreas , Strizek Brigitte , Mueller Andreas
Published: November 2023

Aims

Current treatment guidelines recommend immediate postnatal intubation in all neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and outcomes of a spontaneous breathing approach (SBA) versus immediate intubation in neonates with prenatally diagnosed very mild CDH.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted comparing neonates with very mild CDH (left‐sided, liver‐down, observed‐to‐expected lung‐to‐head ratio ≥45%) undergoing SBA and matched controls receiving standard treatment. Data on early echocardiographic findings, respiratory support, length of hospital stay, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Of 151 CDH neonates, eight underwent SBA, while 31 received standard treatment. SBA was successful in six of eight patients. SBA patients had shorter length of stay (14 vs. 30 days, p = .005), mechanical ventilation (3.5 vs. 8.7 days, p = .011), and oxygen supplementation (3.2 vs. 9.3 days, p = .013) compared to matched controls. Echocardiographic evidence of pulmonary hypertension and cardiac dysfunction were significantly lower in SBA neonates after admission but similar before surgical repair. The SBA group tolerated enteral feeding earlier (day of life 7 vs. 16, p = .019).

Conclusions

SBA appears feasible and beneficial for prenatally diagnosed very mild CDH. It was associated with a shortened hospital stay supportive therapies. However, larger trials are needed to confirm these findings and determine optimal respiratory support.
Bronchoscopic treatment of pediatric atelectasis: A modified segmental insufflation‐surfactant instillation technique
Authors: Šapina Matej , Olujic Bojana , Nađ Tihana , Vinkovic Hrvoje , Dupan Zdravka K. , Bartulovic Ines , Milas Krešimir , Kos Martina , Divkovic Dalibor , Zubčić Željko , Erić Ivan
Published: November 2023

Background

Atelectasis is a condition characterized by the collapse and nonaeration of lung regions and is considered a manifestation of an underlying disease process. The goal of atelectasis treatment is the restoration of volume loss. In the range of different treatment options, chest physiotherapy is often used as a first‐line approach, and some cases require bronchoscopic interventions.

Methods

In this case series, we describe a modified bronchoscopic treatment procedure using pressure‐controlled bronchoscopic segmental insufflation with surfactant application.

Results

The proposed approach resulted in significant improvement of lung volume across a range of patients including massive lobar, atypical rounded atelectasis in previously healthy patients, and in a particularly challenging case involving an infant suffering from spinal muscular atrophy type I.

Conclusion

The modified segmental insufflation‐surfactant instillation technique offers a safe and promising easily implementable treatment of persistent atelectasis caused by different underlying disease processes with positive long‐term outcomes.
Application technology for bioherbicides: challenges and opportunities with dry inoculum and liquid spray formulations
Authors: Hewitt Andrew J , Galea Victor J , O'Donnell Christopher
Published: November 2023

Bioherbicides offer many potential benefits as part of an integrated weed management system or a totally biological or organic cropping system. A key factor for success is the selection of appropriate formulation and delivery systems for each target weed and cropping/climatic region. For dry inoculum products, we discuss direct implantation as an example for successful control of woody weeds, with benefits in control extending beyond the treated weeds to surrounding weeds. These applications do not require water and will become less labor‐intensive with future robotic application platforms. Indeed, all bioherbicide applications are likely to improve and become more cost‐effective with the advance of new application platforms with sensors and targeted control at lower application volume rates. Unmanned aerial vehicles, as new application platforms, are one of several such potential progressive application systems for liquid formulations, and we discuss product design to maintain optimum conditioning of the active ingredient(s) and storage stability. The delivery system must not adversely affect the products and the application volume rate must be appropriate for coverage on the target. Where applied with other products, compatibility must be ensured and appropriate mixing orders observed to assure performance and avoid precipitation or settling. Droplet size is important for allowing the active materials to be included in the spray, which may require droplets with diameter >150 μm for some larger particle biologically active agents. However, droplet size should not be too large to achieve target coverage. In some cases, that may be plant stems rather than leaves, or narrow grass weeds which tend to have highest spray collection efficiency for small droplets. Narrow droplet size spectrum nozzles may help optimize droplet size. We propose spray calculators to help optimize performance for coverage, retention and avoidance of drift losses, bounce, shatter and runoff. These include regulatory‐supported, validated models. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Clinical outcomes of personalized blastocyst embryo transfer after endometrial receptivity analysis: A multicenter, retrospective cohort study
Authors: Takeshige Yuya , Jwa Seung Chik , Hirota Yasushi , Osuga Yutaka , Kuramoto Takeshi , Mio Yasuyuki , Furui Kenji , Kinutani Masayuki , Shiotani Masahide , Asada Yoshimasa , Kamiya Hirobumi , Yoshida Hiroaki , Igarashi Hideki , Kyono Koichi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To evaluate clinical outcomes after endometrial receptivity analysis (ERA).

Methods

This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study involving 861 women who underwent ERA testing at certified fertility clinics in Japan, and who received subsequent personalized blastocyst embryo transfers (ET) between 2018 and 2020. Clinical outcomes, including pregnancies, miscarriages, and live births, were evaluated according to receptivity status for ERA.

Results

Mean patient age was 37.7 years (SD = 4.0), and the median number of previous ETs was 2 (interquartile range, 2–3). 41.0% (353/861) of patients were non‐receptive for ERA testing. Clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and live birth rates for personalized blastocyst ET were 44.5% (226/508), 26.1% (59/226), and 26.8% (136/508) for receptive patients, and 43.1% (152/353), 28.3% (43/152), and 28.9% (102/353) for non‐receptive patients, all statistically nonsignificant. Multiple logistic regression demonstrated similar nonsignificant associations between receptivity and clinical outcomes. Greater patient age, smoking, and longer duration of infertility were significantly and negatively associated with receptivity, whereas a history of delivery was positively associated and statistically significant.

Conclusions

Clinical outcomes after ERA testing were similar between receptive and non‐receptive patients. Further prospective study including an appropriate comparison group are warranted to evaluate the efficacy of ERA testing.
COVID‐19‐related stressors exacerbate food insecurity and depressive symptoms among graduate students receiving campus basic needs services: Cross‐sectional findings from seven California public universities
Authors: Martinez Suzanna M. , Esaryk Erin , Chodur Gwen , Singh Sonali , Kalaydjian Sevan , Bullock Heather E. , Britton Tolani A.
Published: November 2023

Prior to the COVID‐19 pandemic, food insecurity and depression were growing public health concerns among graduate students. Yet, little is known about how COVID‐19‐related stressors exacerbated these health outcomes among graduate students. To address this research gap, this study examined two types of COVID‐19‐related stressors, anticipated concerns about remote learning and challenges interfering with academic and research responsibilities, in relation to food insecurity and depressive symptoms among public university graduate students. Between August and October 2020, 631 graduate students who utilised basic needs services from seven University of California campuses completed an online survey assessing the effects of COVID‐19 on their academic experiences, mental health, and basic needs security. Regression analyses examined associations of COVID‐19‐related concerns and COVID‐19‐related challenges with food insecurity as well as COVID‐19‐related concerns and COVID‐19‐related challenges in relation to depressive symptoms. All four models were adjusted for age, sex, race and ethnicity, campus affiliation, and living with a partner. Models examining food security status as the dependent variable were adjusted for depressive symptoms and vice versa. Graduate students concerned about delayed graduation, post‐graduate employment, isolation from faculty and not having access to healthcare reported higher counts of depressive symptoms. Challenges associated with higher counts of depressive symptoms included caring for family more than usual, spending more time on errands and not paying for utilities in full. Students concerned about accessing healthcare had higher odds of experiencing food insecurity. Challenges associated with food insecurity included spending more time on errands, being unable to afford housing and sending money to family members during the pandemic. Our findings illuminate the pandemic's deleterious consequences on graduate students' mental health and food security, underscoring the need for strong academic and basic needs programs and policies.
Does use of health behaviours to cope with stress predict sleep impairment in trauma‐exposed community adults?
Authors: Gnall Katherine E. , Garnsey Camille , Lee Sharon Y. , Park Crystal L.
Published: November 2023

Individuals who have been exposed to trauma experience high levels of sleep impairment. Given the well‐established negative effects of stress on sleep, the ways in which trauma‐exposed individuals cope with stress is likely to be associated with their sleep. This study examined how the use of health behaviours (i.e., exercise, comfort eating, and maintaining a self‐care routine) to cope relate to sleep impairment in a community sample of trauma‐exposed adults (N = 84, mean age = 35.1, 83% female). We also tested whether use of health behaviours to cope moderates the relationship between psychological distress and sleep impairment. Results demonstrate that exercise and maintaining a self‐care routine to cope are associated with less sleep impairment, while comfort eating to cope is associated with greater sleep impairment. Further, comfort eating to cope moderated the relationship between distress and sleep impairment. Findings suggest that the use of health behaviours to cope is differentially associated with sleep impairment, which has important clinical and research implications for the health of trauma‐exposed adults.
Integrating Artificial DNAzymes with Natural Enzymes on 2D MOF Hybrid Nanozymes for Enhanced Treatment of Bacteria‐Infected Wounds
Authors: Mo Fayin , Lin Chuyan , Lu Jing , Sun Duanping
Published: November 2023

Removal of invasive bacteria is critical for proper wound healing. This task is challenging because these bacteria can trigger intense oxidative stress and gradually develop antibiotic resistance. Here, the use of a multienzyme‐integrated nanocatalytic platform is reported for efficient bacterial clearance and mitigation of inflammatory responses, constructed by physically adsorbing natural superoxide dismutase (SOD), in situ reduction of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs), and incorporation of a DNAzyme on 2D NiCoCu metal–organic frameworks (DNAzyme/SOD/Au@NiCoCu MOFs, termed DSAM), which can adapt to infected wounds. O2 and H2O2 replenishment is achieved and alleviated the hypoxic microenvironment using the antioxidant properties of SOD. The H2O2 produced during the reaction is decomposed by peroxidase (POD)‐like activity enhanced by Au NPs and DNAzyme, releasing highly toxic hydroxyl radicals (•OH) to kill the bacteria. In addition, it possesses glutathione peroxidase (GPx)‐like activity, which depletes GSH and prevents •OH loss. Systematic antimicrobial tests are performed against bacteria using this multienzyme‐integrated nanoplatform. A dual‐mode strategy involving natural enzyme‐enhanced antioxidant capacity and artificial enzyme‐enhanced •OH release to develop an efficient and novel enzyme‐integrated therapeutic platform is integrated.
Water quality assessment and spatial‐temporal change: The case of Zipingpu Reservoir in central Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Su Kai , Wang Qin , Cao Rong , Peng Zhongshan , Xi Yingwei , Li Guizhi
Published: November 2023

This research evaluated and analyzed the water quality of Zipingpu Reservoir using the Comprehensive Water Quality Index and Nemerow index method, based on monitoring data from 2019 to 2021 at four monitoring sites. It also used temporal and spatial change rate analysis to understand changes in water quality among the four monitoring sites—Aba Aluminum Factory, Chaguan Village, Cross‐reservoir Bridge and Xuankou Village—as well as the reservoir as a whole. The results show that: from the result of comprehensive water quality index, the water quality of Zipingpu Reservoir had improved in 3 years, and the water quality was excellent. The Nemerow index method results for the four monitoring sections in 2019, 2020, and 2021, which varied from 0.37 to 0.47, demonstrated that the reservoir was rated as having high water quality and Class I standard water quality. According to the results of the improved Nemerow pollution index method, the Improved Nemerow pollution index values were all between 0.27 and 0.32 and the water quality was within the Class I range each of the 3 years and fluctuated less. The water quality of the Aba aluminum facility was marginally worse than that of the other three monitoring sites during the monitoring period, according to the spatial rate of change (S/%). The reservoir's water quality improved slightly between 2019 and 2021, according to the temporal rate of change (T/%).
Moral judgment in realistic traffic scenarios: moving beyond the trolley paradigm for ethics of autonomous vehicles
Authors: Cecchini Dario , Brantley Sean , Dubljević Veljko
Published: November 2023

The imminent deployment of autonomous vehicles requires algorithms capable of making moral decisions in relevant traffic situations. Some scholars in the ethics of autonomous vehicles hope to align such intelligent systems with human moral judgment. For this purpose, studies like the Moral Machine Experiment have collected data about human decision-making in trolley-like traffic dilemmas. This paper first argues that the trolley dilemma is an inadequate experimental paradigm for investigating traffic moral judgments because it does not include agents’ character-based considerations and is incapable of facilitating the investigation of low-stakes mundane traffic scenarios. In light of the limitations of the trolley paradigm, this paper presents an alternative experimental framework that addresses these issues. The proposed solution combines the creation of mundane traffic moral scenarios using virtual reality and the Agent-Deed-Consequences (ADC) model of moral judgment as a moral-psychological framework. This paradigm shift potentially increases the ecological validity of future studies by providing more realism and incorporating character considerations into traffic actions.
On abelian subcategories of triangulated categories
Authors: Linckelmann Markus
Published: November 2023

The stable module category of a selfinjective algebra is triangulated, but need not have any nontrivial t-structures, and in particular, full abelian subcategories need not arise as hearts of a t-structure. The purpose of this paper is to investigate full abelian subcategories of triangulated categories whose exact structures are related, and more precisely, to explore relations between invariants of finite-dimensional selfinjective algebras and full abelian subcategories of their stable module categories.
My synthetic wingman must understand me: modelling intent for future manned–unmanned teaming
Authors: Hammarbäck Jimmy , Alfredson Jens , Johansson Björn J. E. , Lundberg Jonas
Published: November 2023

With advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cognitive modelling, unmanned aircraft are expected to act as human-like wingmen in the near future. For fluent and effective manned–unmanned teaming, synthetic wingmen must be able to account for and adapt to their partners’ intent with little or no communication. To enable such abilities, it becomes crucial to identify the requirements that makes intent explainable to synthetic wingmen, necessitating approaches to describe and analyse intent from a human-centric perspective. To address this issue, this paper reports on findings from using Work Domain Analysis to design and analyse models of situated intent with six levels of cognitive control (frames, effects, values, generic, implementations, and physical). Through a literature review and seven subject matter expert interviews, a synthesized model was designed to represent fighter pilots’ intent in a manned–unmanned teaming scenario. Using the synthesized model as the context, a transfer of control and a link loss situation were further described and analysed. Experiences show that Work Domain Analysis can provide a practical and applicable means to model situated intent, particularly since designed models can be re-utilised to model intent in similar situations. Furthermore, the model analyses show the importance of accounting for fighter pilots’ adopted frames since small variations of the framing of the situations can propagate throughout the model resulting in conflicting or inconsistent intent. The paper concludes that synthetic wingmen must be able to reason about all six levels of cognitive control, requiring a more holistic approach to make intent explainable.
Does social well-being predict academic resilience and achievement? Analysis of Swedish PISA 2018 data
Authors: Siebecke Deborah Elin
Published: November 2023

In recent years, Sweden has been struggling with issues of educational inequity as the influence of students' socioeconomic status on their academic achievements has amplified. Nonetheless, academically resilient students who demonstrate high achievement despite socioeconomic disadvantages offer hope for a more equitable future. Previous research has primarily focused on the relationship between well-being and academic achievement, with less emphasis on the connection between academic resilience and well-being. Thus, this study investigates the extent to which students’ well-being predicts their academic achievement and resilience, with a special focus on the social well-being of socioeconomically disadvantaged students. Using the Swedish PISA 2018 dataset and structural equation modeling technique, the measurement properties of social well-being were first tested, and its dimensions were then related to students' academic resilience and achievement. The findings reveal that student-reported teacher support positively predicts their academic resilience and achievement, whereas exposure to bullying is detrimental to their academic achievement.
Molecular phylogeny and genetic diversity of the economic seaweed Meristotheca (Gigartinales, Rhodophyta) in the northwest Pacific, with a description of M. pilulaora sp. nov
Authors: Yang Mi Yeon , Kang Jeong Chan , Fujita Daisuke , Kim Myung Sook
Published: November 2023

Species of the red algal genus Meristotheca are important natural resources that can be used directly as food for human consumption as well as raw materials for the extraction of carrageenan. Despite being harvested in Japan and Korea, a comprehensive taxonomic study of Meristotheca specimens from these two countries to elucidate their phylogenetic position is lacking. In this study, we aimed to clarify the taxonomic identities of specimens currently regarded as M. papulosa from Korea and Japan by analyzing morphological and molecular data. As the result, we recognized a new species, Meristotheca pilulaora sp. nov. from Korea and resurrected Meristotheca japonica for specimens from Japan. The two entities have long been identified as M. papulosa and exhibit similar external morphologies. They appeared independently in the concatenated phylogenetic tree of COI-5P and rbcL and could also be distinguished morphologically by the position of cystocarps (blade margins in M. pilulaora; marginal proliferations in M. japonica), spinose cystocarps (absent in M. pilulaora; present in M. japonica), and the number of cortical cell layers (two in M. pilulaora; 4–8 in M. japonica). The DNA analysis of M. pilulaora sp. nov. in local populations showed 11 COI-5P haplotypes on Jeju Island with no apparent geographical structure. High genetic diversity and occurrence of unique haplotypes in southern Jeju may provide a genetic basis for population with high thermal tolerance. These findings have strengthened our understanding of the species diversity of the genus Meristotheca and provided insights into conservation, management, and haplotype selection for the future cultivation of these economically important species.
Uncertainties in scheduling and execution of trackwork in Sweden
Authors: Ivina Daria , Olsson Nils O. E. , Palmqvist Carl-William , Hiselius Lena Winslott
Published: November 2023

Trackwork planning and scheduling are demanding because they require strategic foresight and must be completed well in advance. In Sweden, trackwork is performed by maintenance contracting companies during an operation period free from trains. In the contractors’ practice, once the maintenance plan is authorised, some unexpected events might interrupt the plan’s execution, leading to uncertainties. The purpose of this study is to identify and classify uncertainties and strategies applied to manage uncertainties in the contractors’ everyday planning and scheduling of trackwork. This work presents semi-structured interviews with foremen and planners at railway maintenance contracting companies in Sweden. The main findings show that in trackwork planning and scheduling, contractors deal with two types of uncertainties: internal and external. We categorised uncertainties and strategies to deal with uncertainties and described them on tactical and operational levels. The majority of the revealed uncertainties led to trackwork rescheduling. Furthermore, we suggest that current strategies to manage uncertainties applied at contracting companies can be improved by revising organisational design strategies for maintenance projects. This work increases the understanding and supports the management of uncertainties in trackwork planning and scheduling.
Erfolgreicher dank Qualifikation und Mentoring? Analysen von Determinanten des beruflichen Erfolgs von Schulleitungen in Deutschland
Authors: Tulowitzki Pierre , Pietsch Marcus , Grigoleit Ella , Köferli Sara
Published: November 2023

Vor dem Hintergrund eines zunehmenden Mangels an Schulleitungen in Deutschland erscheint es von zentraler Bedeutung, dass Schulleitungen sich als erfolgreich in ihrem Amt wahrnehmen (subjektiver Berufserfolg) und auch anhand von Faktoren wie Gehalt als erfolgreich erachtet werden können (objektiver Berufserfolg), da sich diese Faktoren auf das Belastungserleben sowie die Motivation auswirken können. Ziel der Studie war es, für Deutschland zu ermitteln, welche Determinanten aus den Bereichen Soziodemographie, (objektiviertes) Humankapital und (organisationale) Förderungsmaßnahmen den Berufserfolg von Schulleitungen beeinflussen. Die Studie nutzt Daten der Studie Leadership in German Schools 2020 (Cramer et al. 2020), die durch die forsa Politik- und Sozialforschung GmbH zwischen September und November 2019 erhoben wurden. Die Grundgesamtheit für die Befragung umfasste alle Schulleitungen an allgemeinbildenden Schulen in Deutschland. In dieser Gruppe wurde eine zufällig ausgewählte und für Deutschland repräsentative Stichprobe von insgesamt n = 405 Schulleitungen mithilfe eines standardisierten und pilotierten Onlinefragebogens befragt.
Die Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass zwischen dem wahrgenommenen Erfolg und universitären Qualifikationen und Qualifikationen an einem Landesinstitut ein tendenzieller Zusammenhang besteht. Zwischen Einkommen und Qualifikationsmaßnahmen und Mentoring konnte hingegen kein statistisch signifikanter Zusammenhang gefunden werden. Weibliche Schulleitungen haben, auch nach Kontrolle einer Vielzahl von Kovariaten, ein geringeres Einkommen als männliche.
Overload and variable amplitude load effects on the fatigue strength of welded joints
Authors: Grönlund Kiia , Ahola Antti , Riski Jani , Pesonen Tero , Lipiäinen Kalle , Björk Timo
Published: November 2023

Different load spectra and individual load peaks might substantially relax high residual stresses as well as induce compressive residual stresses in welded components and, consequently, affect the fatigue performance of these joints. Consideration of peak loads and resulting relaxation of residual stresses in fatigue analyses can substantially enhance the accuracy of life prediction. The aim of the current study is to experimentally investigate the fatigue strength of welded joints subjected to different levels of overloads and variable amplitude (VA) loads and to develop local fatigue assessment method to account for the relaxation of residual stresses via a mean stress correction using the 4R method. The 4R method applies a local stress ratio for the mean stress correction considering material strength, residual stresses, applied stress ratio of external loading and local weld geometry in elastic–plastic material behaviour. Fatigue tests were carried out on fillet-welded longitudinal gusset joints made of S700 high-strength steels under applied stress ratio R = 0–0.1. A mild strength steel (S355) and ultra-high-strength steel (S1100) were selected as reference steel grades for the fatigue testing to study the material strength effects. Numerical analyses were conducted to evaluate the fatigue notch factors using the effective notch stress concept with the reference radius of rref = 1.0 mm and theory of critical distance (TCD) using the point method. The experimental results indicated that a substantial improvement in the fatigue strength capacity can be claimed in the joints subjected to tensile overloads, particularly in the studied S700 and S1100 steels. The higher-level overload (0.8fy), corresponding to the nominal cross-sectional area, improved the mean fatigue strength of the welded joints manufactured of high-strength S700 steel by approximately 60%, while the lower overload (0.6fy) improved the mean fatigue strength by 20%. In addition, a use of equivalent nominal stresses for the joints subjected to VA loads resulted in conservative assessments when employing S–N curves obtained for the CA loading. The 4R method, via the local mean stress correction for individual cycles, provided higher accuracy for the fatigue assessments.
Anomaly Detection with Sub-Extreme Values: Health Provider Billing
Authors: Muspratt Rob , Mammadov Musa
Published: November 2023

Anomaly detection within the context of healthcare billing requires a method or algorithm which is flexible to the practicalities and requirements of manual case review, the volumes and associated effort of which can determine whether anomalous output is ultimately actioned or not. In this paper, we apply a modified version of a previously introduced anomaly detection algorithm to address this very issue by enacting refined targeting capability based on the identification of sub-extreme anomalies. By balancing the anomaly identification process with appropriate threshold setting tailored to each sample health provider discipline, it is shown that final candidate volumes are controlled with greater accuracy and sensitivity. A comparison with standard local outlier factor (LOF) scores is included for benchmark purposes.
Rock Guitar Virtuosos
Authors: Herbst Jan-Peter , Vallejo Alexander Paul
Published: November 2023

The guitar has been an integral part of popular music and mainstream culture for many decades and in many places of the world. This Element examines the development and current state of virtuosic rock guitar in terms of playing, technology, and culture. Supported by technological advances such as extended-range guitars, virtuosos in the twenty-first century are exploring ways to expand standard playing techniques in a climate where ever-higher levels of perfection are expected. As musician-entrepreneurs, contemporary rock guitar virtuosos record, produce, and market their music themselves; operate equipment companies; and sell merchandise, tablature, and lessons online. For their social media channels, they regularly create videos and interact with their followers while having to balance building their tribe and finding the time to develop their craft to stay competitive. For a virtuoso, working situations have changed considerably since the last century; the aloof rock star has been replaced by the approachable virtuoso-guitarist-composerinnovator-producer-promoter-YouTuber-teacher-entrepreneur.
Beyond digital populism: civic culture and visions of political participation among Five Star Movement activists
Authors: Bedock Camille , Cappellina Bartolomeo
Published: November 2023

This article deals with the impact of intra-party transformations and access to power on the visions of political participation of activists taking part in populist anti-establishment parties with a strong emphasis on digital participation, using the Five Star Movement (M5S) as a case study. Going beyond studies conceiving the M5S as a populist and digital party, we argue that activists support a democratic ideal based on a civic culture involving a demanding role for ordinary citizens, who should be highly interested in politics and involved locally on a day-to-day basis. A negative vision of the Italian citizen judged as incapable of playing this role accompanies this ideal. Our article also demonstrates how political involvement in the M5S transformed the visions of activists, making them warier of direct democracy and more disillusioned about their fellow citizens. The analysis relies on qualitative semi-directed interviews with former and current M5S activists with diversified socio-demographics, political and participation trajectories in two Italian regions. More broadly, our article shows that the effects of entering government and intra-party reforms reinforcing the leadership at the expense of local activists are particularly strong in anti-establishment parties and clash with the conceptions of participation supported by activists.
How Ethnic Origin Shapes Political Preferences: Toward a Deeper Understanding of Asian American Identity
Authors: Yeung Yat To
Published: November 2023

How do Asian Americans think about their ethnic origin? How do ethnic identities affect political preferences? Drawing on interviews with a diverse group of Asian Americans, I provide a nuanced understanding of how they think about their ethnic origin and pan-ethnic identities. The findings reveal that ethnicity plays a significant role in shaping electoral preferences, as Asian Americans exhibit coethnicity preferences, conditional on partisanship. Moreover, I uncover several factors that have been underexplored in the existing literature, including transnational ties, news consumption, and political preferences on foreign policies related to their home country. This article provides a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of Asian American identities by showing that the ethnic origin roots of Asian Americans can have significant influence on their political interests and candidate preferences.
The role of rigid laryngo-tracheo-bronchoscopy in children with obstructive sleep apnoea: a case series of 65 children
Authors: Dritsoula Aikaterini , Clarke Raymond , Hatziagorou Elpis , Triaridis Stefanos , Talimtzi Persefoni , Elphick Heather
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess the role of laryngo-tracheo-bronchoscopy in children with obstructive sleep apnoea by identifying airway abnormalities at surgery, that occur separately or in addition to adenotonsillar hypertrophy, and examining the correlation with respiratory parameters.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of children with obstructive sleep apnoea who underwent laryngo-tracheo-bronchoscopy intra-operatively, performed by a single ENT surgeon from February 2016 to July 2019. Pre- and post-operative minimum oxygen saturation, apnoea-hypopnoea index, and oxygen desaturation index were recorded.

Results

Sixty-five children were identified; 34 were aged less than three years and 31 were aged three years or more. 77 per cent and 13 per cent respectively had an airway abnormality; the t-test showed a significantly higher mean oxygen desaturation index and lower mean minimum oxygen saturation pre-operatively compared to children without an airway abnormality.

Conclusion

An update of the surgical pathway for children aged less than three years with obstructive sleep apnoea is required to include laryngo-tracheo-bronchoscopy intra-operatively. A t-test analysis of the pre-operative respiratory parameters suggests that airway abnormalities contribute to obstructive sleep apnoea severity.
Changes in audiovestibular handicap following treatment of vestibular schwannomas
Authors: Campbell Tim , Goh Shao Jie , Wadeson Andrea M , Freeman Simon R , Rutherford Scott A , King Andrew T , Hammerbeck-Ward Charlotte L , Pathmanaban Omar , Entwistle Helen , Bird Judith , Axon Patrick R , Moffat David A , Lloyd Simon K
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aimed to assess degree of audiovestibular handicap in patients with vestibular schwannoma.

Methods

Audiovestibular handicap was assessed using the Hearing Handicap Inventory, Tinnitus Handicap Inventory and Dizziness Handicap Inventory. Patients completed questionnaires at presentation and at least one year following treatment with microsurgery, stereotactic radiosurgery or observation. Changes in audiovestibular handicap and factors affecting audiovestibular handicap were assessed.

Results

All handicap scores increased at follow up, but not significantly. The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory and Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores predicted tinnitus and dizziness respectively. The Hearing Handicap Inventory was not predictive of hearing loss. Age predicted Tinnitus Handicap Inventory score and microsurgery was associated with a deterioration in Dizziness Handicap Inventory score.

Conclusion

Audiovestibular handicap is common in patients with vestibular schwannoma, with 75 per cent having some degree of handicap in at least one inventory. The overall burden of handicap was, however, low. The increased audiovestibular handicap over time was not statistically significant, irrespective of treatment modality.
Faith as skill: an essay on faith in the Abrahamic tradition
Authors: Khalaj M. Hosein M. A.
Published: November 2023

What is the nature of religious faith as understood in the Abrahamic tradition? This article suggests a novel answer to this question. To this end, I first outline five desiderata, characterized by appealing to conceptions of faith in both the Islamic and Christian traditions, which I think every adequate account of faith should satisfy. These five desiderata are: (1) explaining the principle of the relationship between faith and religious actions; (2) accounting for the maxim of the relationship between faith and moral virtues; (3) showing how the thesis of the priority of faith over knowledge can be the case; (4) providing a basis for the axiom of the gradability of faith; and (5) solving the dilemma of faith as a gift or an achievement. Then I make my case and develop a model of faith that satisfies all five desiderata. Following the accounts in the literature that describes faith as a kind of know-how, the central idea of my suggestion is that religious faith is partly constituted by intellectual, practical, and moral skills.
Adaptive learning with artificial barriers yielding Nash equilibria in general games
Authors: Hassan Ismail , Oommen B. John , Yazidi Anis
Published: November 2023

Artificial barriers in Learning Automata (LA) is a powerful and yet under-explored concept although it was first proposed in the 1980s. Introducing artificial non-absorbing barriers makes the LA schemes resilient to being trapped in absorbing barriers, a phenomenon which is often referred to as lock in probability leading to an exclusive choice of one action after convergence. Within the field of LA and reinforcement learning in general, there is a sacristy of theoretical works and applications of schemes with artificial barriers. In this paper, we devise a LA with artificial barriers for solving a general form of stochastic bimatrix game. Classical LA systems possess properties of absorbing barriers and they are a powerful tool in game theory and were shown to converge to game’s of Nash equilibrium under limited information. However, the stream of works in LA for solving game theoretical problems can merely solve the case where the Saddle Point of the game exists in a pure strategy and fail to reach mixed Nash equilibrium when no Saddle Point exists for a pure strategy.

Furthermore, we provide experimental results that are in line with our theoretical findings.
Digital Transformations of Public Administration in Countries with Transition Economies
Authors: Karpenko Oleksandr , Zaporozhets Tetiana , Tsedik Mariia , Vasiuk Nataliia , Osmak Anton
Published: November 2023

Digital transformation has become a prevalent feature of the twenty-first century, extending from business to all aspects of social life. Public administration has also been affected by this trend. However, no country undergoing a transition economy has been capable of matching the level of digitalization reached by developed nations. The study aims to evaluate the digital transformations of public administration in transition economies and assess their impact on indicators of population well-being, standard of living, and governance efficacy. The research methodology utilizes various methods, including comparison, grouping, correlation, regression, and cluster analysis, to evaluate the efficacy of digital transformations in public administration within transitioning economies. This article evaluates the extent of digital transformations in public administration and uncovers their favourable progress in countries with transitional economies from 2010 to 2020. An insignificant direct relationship (determination coefficient R2 ≍ 0.15) has been demonstrated between E-Government Development and Index GDP (Gross Domestic Product) per capita. However, a positive, strong connection between E-Government Development and the Government Effectiveness Index has been found. Countries with transitional economies were categorized into four clusters based on the degree of digitalization in their public administration. Results showed that there were no noteworthy gaps between the clusters, as most of the examined countries had comparable levels of development, experience and abilities in the digitalization of public administration.