bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost‐effectiveness of a randomized controlled trial comparing low‐dose aspirin to placebo for the prevention of recurrent preterm birth
Authors: Landman Anadeijda J. E. M. C. , Broulikova Hana M. , Visser Laura , Nijman Tobias A. J. , Hemels Marieke A. C. , Vollebregt Karin C. , Boormans Elisabeth M. A. , Bremer Henk A. , Tuinman Esther , Langenveld Josje , van der Made Flip , Rijnders Robbert J. P. , van Vliet Huib A. A. M. , Freeman Liv M. , de Heus Roel , Blaauw Judith , Krabbendam Ineke , van de Laar Rafli , Verberg Marieke F. G. , Scheepers Hubertina C. J. , Mol Ben W. , de Groot Christianne J. M. , Oudijk Martijn A. , Bosmans Judith E. , de Boer Marjon A.
Published: November 2024

To assess the cost‐effectiveness of low‐dose aspirin compared to placebo for the prevention of recurrent preterm birth from a healthcare perspective. This was a cost‐effectiveness analysis alongside a multicenter, randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled trial. We included women with a singleton pregnancy and a previous spontaneous preterm birth <37 weeks of gestation of a singleton. Women were randomized between aspirin 80 mg daily and placebo, initiated between 8 and 16 weeks of gestation. We estimated the difference in preterm births (<37 weeks of gestation), and maternal and neonatal healthcare costs using seemingly unrelated linear regression analyses. Bootstrapping was performed to estimate statistical uncertainty. A total of 387 women were included: 194 in the aspirin group and 193 in the placebo group. We observed a small, statistically non‐significant difference in preterm birth (21.2% vs. 25.4%; risk difference −4.3%; 95% CI: −12.7% to 4.1%) and healthcare costs (mean –€99; 95% CI: –€2385 to €2325) in the aspirin group compared to placebo. The cost‐effectiveness acceptability curve showed that the probability of aspirin being cost‐effective was 54% for a willingness to pay threshold of €0 for one prevented preterm birth and 78% for €50 000 for one prevented preterm birth. Our findings suggest that aspirin is the dominant strategy over placebo for the prevention of preterm birth. However, there was substantial uncertainty around the results and definite conclusions regarding the cost‐effectiveness of aspirin cannot be drawn.
Degradation and Fatigue Behavior of 3D‐Printed Bioresorbable Tracheal Splints
Authors: Wahbeh Jenna M. , Lama John , Park Sang‐Hyun , Ebramzadeh Edward , Hollister Scott J. , Sangiorgio Sophia N.
Published: November 2024

Severe infantile tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) is often treated with invasive surgery and fixed‐size implants to support the trachea during respiration. A novel 3D‐printed extra‐luminal splint has been developed as a flexible and bioresorbable alternative. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to use an in vitro breathing simulator model to comprehensively evaluate the structural stiffness and failure modes of two sizes of a novel bioresorbable 3D‐printed splint design under a range of physiological degradation conditions. Two thicknesses, 2 mm and 3 mm, of a novel 3D‐printed bioresorbable splint were evaluated under two different degradation conditions, phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The splints were subjected to simulated breathing loading, involving a cyclic opening and closing of the splint by 2 mm, for a targeted duration of 7.5 to 30 million cycles. A separate new set of splints were statically soaked in their respective degradation condition for a comparative analysis of the effects of cyclic loading by the degradation medium. After successfully simulated breathing or static soaking, non‐destructive tensile and compressive strengths were evaluated, and overall stiffness was calculated from destructive tensile testing. The present study indicates that the splints were more significantly degraded under simulated breathing conditions than under soaking. Cyclic simulated breathing specimens failed far earlier than the intended duration of loading. Over time, both 2 mm and 3 mm splints became increasingly more flexible when subjected to the static degradation conditions. Interestingly, there was little difference in the compressive and tensile strengths of the 2 mm and 3 mm thickness splints. The bioresorbable nature of PCL offers a valuable advantage as it eliminates the need for splint removal surgery and increases device flexibility over time with degradation. This increased flexibility is crucial because it allows for uninhibited growth and development of the infant's trachea over the intended use period of 2 years. The results of this study confirm that the splints were able to withstand tensile forces to prevent tracheal collapse. This study further supports the successful use of 3D‐printed splints in the treatment of infantile TBM.
Ewing Sarcoma of the Sinonasal Tract: A Scoping Review
Authors: Shaari Ariana L. , Ho Rebecca , Patel Aman M. , Haimowitz Sean , Anderson Eloy Jean , Fang Christina H.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a rare aggressive malignancy that can present in the sinonasal region. The objective of this study is to investigate the demographics, presentation, management, and outcomes of patients with sinonasal ES.

Data Sources

PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library.

Review Methods

A scoping review of cases of sinonasal ES was performed. Inclusion criteria consisted of case reports, series, or retrospective reviews.

Results

785 total articles were retrieved. 72 articles met inclusion criteria and were included in the final review for a total of 93 cases. 48 (53%) patients were male. Mean age at diagnosis was 26.4 years old (range 1–89). Nasal obstruction (N = 55, 59%), epistaxis (N = 35, 38%), and impaired vision (N = 29, 29%) were the most common symptoms. On examination, 38 (41%) patients had a nasal cavity mass. Most tumors (N = 33, 35%) were located in the maxillary sinus. 44 (47%) were left sided and 4 (4%) were bilateral. The most utilized treatment modalities were surgical resection with adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (N = 27, 29%), chemoradiotherapy alone (N = 24, 26%), and surgical resection with adjuvant chemotherapy (N = 14, 15%). 56 patients had no evidence of disease (60%), 14 patients died with disease (15%), and 9 patients were alive with disease (10%) at the time of follow‐up.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, we report the first scoping review of sinonasal ES. Patients generally present with non‐specific sinonasal symptoms. Surgery with adjuvant chemoradiation is the most common treatment modality for these patients.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2024
A Reconfigurable Metasurface Antenna for Arbitrarily Polarized Beam Generation and Advanced Polarization Detection
Authors: Chen Yue Teng , Wang Hai Lin , Wang Yu Kun , Zheng Sen , Zhang Tai Yi , Sun Shi , Cui Tie Jun , Ma Hui Feng
Published: November 2024

A reconfigurable metasurface antenna (RMA) is proposed that can be used as a full polarized beam launcher to generate arbitrarily polarized radiation waves, or as a polarization detector to identify the polarization state of unknown incoming wave. It is shown that integrating Positive‐Intrinsic‐Negative (PIN) diodes and varactor diodes on the metasurface can independently control the amplitudes and phases of two orthogonal polarization components of the radiated electromagnetic (EM) waves through bias voltage, further achieving real‐time control of the polarization states. The proposed RMA can also be used as a polarization detector to identify all possible polarization states of unknown incoming waves quickly. A prototype of RMA is designed and fabricated, and the functions of arbitrary polarization generation and detection are validated by experiments, which are consistent very well with the theoretical predictions. Due to the advantages of low profile, versatility, and fast response, the proposed RMA is promising to be used in the future wireless communication, radar, and so on.
Tunable Tri‐Channel Orthogonal Full‐Color Luminescence in Nanostructure toward Anticounterfeiting and Information Security
Authors: Liu Songbin , Yang Shan , Wang Junrong , An Zhengce , Wang Junjie , Liao Yu , Zhang Ze , Tan Junjun , Ye Xinyu , Zhou Bo
Published: November 2024

Tunable orthogonal full‐color luminescence has emerged as a new class of smart luminescence phenomenon with wide applications ranging from photonics to biomedicine. However, the current research is focused on complex multilayer core‐shell nanostructures (e.g., 5–8 shell layers) with a single upconversion mode, greatly limiting their synthesis and practical application. Herein, this work proposes a simple core‐shell structure to integrate upconversion and downshifting dual‐mode luminescence based on Gd3+‐mediated interfacial energy transfer and Ce3+‐assisted cross relaxation. This design is able to suppress cross‐talk of multiple emissions and simplify the sample structure by removing the conventionally required intermediate isolation layer. Importantly, it further enables the arbitrarily controllable multicolor output at a single nanoparticle level by adopting the tri‐channel selective excitation wavelengths (980/808/254 nm), greatly expanding the conventional red‐green‐blue (RGB) color gamut. Moreover, the use of these nanoparticles promotes the information security level and the complexity of anti‐counterfeiting modes by adopting a pre‐set logic Morse information encryption and decryption strategy. These results provide effective guidance for the rational nanostructure design of novel orthogonal trichromatic emissive materials for a variety of frontier applications such as advanced anticounterfeiting and information security.
Single breath‐hold volumetric lung imaging at 0.55T using stack‐of‐spiral (SoS) out‐in balanced SSFP
Authors: Tian Ye , Lee Nam G. , Zhao Ziwei , Wilcox Alison G. , Nieva Jorge J. , Nayak Krishna S.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To develop a robust single breath‐hold approach for volumetric lung imaging at 0.55T.

Method

A balanced‐SSFP (bSSFP) pulse sequence with 3D stack‐of‐spiral (SoS) out‐in trajectory for volumetric lung imaging at 0.55T was implemented. With 2.7× undersampling, the pulse sequence enables imaging during a 17‐s breath‐hold. Image reconstruction is performed using 3D SPIRiT and 3D l1‐Wavelet regularizations. In two healthy volunteers, single breath‐hold SoS out‐in bSSFP was compared against stack‐of‐spiral UTE (spiral UTE) and half‐radial dual‐echo bSSFP (bSTAR), based on signal intensity (SI), blood‐lung parenchyma contrast, and image quality. In six patients with pathologies including lung nodules, fibrosis, emphysema, and air trapping, single breath‐hold SoS out‐in and bSTAR were compared against low‐dose computed tomography (LDCT).

Results

SoS out‐in bSSFP achieved 2‐mm isotropic resolution lung imaging with a single breath‐hold duration of 17 s. SoS out‐in (2‐mm isotropic) provided higher lung parenchyma and blood SI and blood‐lung parenchyma contrast compared to spiral UTE (2.4 × 2.4 × 2.5 mm3) and bSTAR (1.6‐mm isotropic). When comparing SI normalized by voxel size, SoS out‐in has lower lung parenchyma signal, higher blood signal, and a higher blood‐lung parenchyma contrast compared to bSTAR. In patients, SoS out‐in bSSFP was able to identify lung fibrosis and lung nodules of size 4 and 8 mm, and breath‐hold bSTAR was able to identify lung fibrosis and 8 mm nodules.

Conclusion

Single breath‐hold volumetric lung imaging at 0.55T with 2‐mm isotropic spatial resolution is feasible using SoS out‐in bSSFP. This approach could be useful for rapid lung disease screening, and in cases where free‐breathing respiratory navigated approaches fail.
The ubiquitous pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate‐binding protein is also an RNA‐binding protein
Authors: Graziani Claudio , Barile Anna , Parroni Alessia , di Salvo Martino Luigi , De Cecio Irene , Colombo Teresa , Babor Jill , de Crécy‐Lagard Valérie , Contestabile Roberto , Tramonti Angela
Published: November 2024

The pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate binding protein (PLP‐BP) is believed to play a crucial role in PLP homeostasis, which may explain why it is found in living organisms from all kingdoms. Escherichia coli YggS is the most studied homolog, but human PLP‐BP has also attracted much attention because variants of this protein are responsible for a severe form of B6‐responsive neonatal epilepsy. Yet, how PLP‐BP is involved in PLP homeostasis, and thus what its actual function is in cellular metabolism, is entirely unknown. The present study shows that YggS binds RNA and that the strength of this interaction is modulated by PLP. A key role in RNA binding is clearly played by Lys137, an invariant residue located on a protein loop away from the PLP binding site, whose importance has been highlighted previously. The interaction with RNA is evidently conserved, since it is also observed with human PLP‐BP. The RNA binding site, which is apparently located at the entrance of the PLP‐binding site, is also evolutionarily conserved. It is therefore reasonable to assume that PLP, by defining the conformation of the protein, determines the RNA binding affinity. RNA‐seq analysis of RNA co‐purified with or captured by YggS revealed SsrA and RnpB RNAs, respectively involved in trans‐translation and tRNA maturation, as the major molecular components. This work opens up new horizons for the function of the PLP‐BP, which could be related to its interaction with RNA and modulated by PLP, and thus play a role in an as yet unknown regulatory mechanism.
Parameter‐Free Calculation for the Optical Bandgap Energies of InGaAlN
Authors: Matsuoka Takashi , Kawazoe Yoshiyuki , Inerbaev Talgat M.
Published: November 2024

The accurate prediction of bandgap energy Eg is crucial for the future development of semiconductors. Ab initio simulation studies have been undertaken to unravel the intricacies of compound semiconductors. However, traditional density functional theory estimates Eg to be mostly 30–50% smaller than experimental values. To reconcile these disparities, fitting parameters such as U have been employed, albeit at the expense of violating the virial theorem's essential conditions. In our pursuit of a more accurate approach, utilizing a computational method that adheres to virial's theorem without resorting to fitting parameters is proposed. Employing the self‐consistent Green‐function vertex (GW) approximation calculation, standard phenomenological results are built upon as an initial condition. This novel methodology successfully resolves the long‐standing issue surrounding Eg of InN, a nitride semiconductor InGaAlN known for blue light‐emitting diodes. The numerical results from our calculations demonstrate a remarkable alignment with experimental values across the entire InxGa1−xN range, with an impressive accuracy of 0.1 eV. This innovative method holds promise for application to various semiconductors, serving as a potent tool for predicting new semiconductors with small Eg. This calculation method is also applied to Eg of In1−xAlxN and Ga1−xAlxN.
AMHF‐TP: Multifunctional therapeutic peptides prediction based on multi‐granularity hierarchical features
Authors: Tuo Shouheng , Zhu YanLing , Lin Jiangkun , Jiang Jiewei
Published: November 2024

Multifunctional therapeutic peptides (MFTP) hold immense potential in diverse therapeutic contexts, yet their prediction and identification remain challenging due to the limitations of traditional methodologies, such as extensive training durations, limited sample sizes, and inadequate generalization capabilities. To address these issues, we present AMHF‐TP, an advanced method for MFTP recognition that utilizes attention mechanisms and multi‐granularity hierarchical features to enhance performance. The AMHF‐TP is composed of four key components: a migration learning module that leverages pretrained models to extract atomic compositional features of MFTP sequences; a convolutional neural network and self‐attention module that refine feature extraction from amino acid sequences and their secondary structures; a hypergraph module that constructs a hypergraph for complex similarity representation between MFTP sequences; and a hierarchical feature extraction module that integrates multimodal peptide sequence features. Compared with leading methods, the proposed AMHF‐TP demonstrates superior precision, accuracy, and coverage, underscoring its effectiveness and robustness in MFTP recognition. The comparative analysis of separate hierarchical models and the combined model, as well as with five contemporary models, reveals AMHF‐TP’s exceptional performance and stability in recognition tasks.
Epistemic Justice as a “New Normal?” Interrogating the Contributions of Communities of Practice to Decolonization of Knowledge
Authors: Cummings Sarah , Munthali Nyamwaya , Sittoni Toni
Published: November 2024

Recently, scholarly communities of practice have emerged with the objective of decolonizing knowledge practices within sustainable development. Their contributions to sustainability and systems change remain underexplored, possibly due to the absence of appropriate conceptual tools to analyze them. This study applies a new conceptual framework of epistemic justice, derived from the philosophical notion of epistemic injustice, to examine how these communities foster more equitable knowledge systems with regards to the social dimensions of sustainable development. Using critical discourse analysis, data from the websites of two scholarly communities of practice were analyzed, revealing their innovative approaches to advancing epistemic justice through knowledge practices. The findings emphasize the utility of the epistemic justice framework in understanding the role of these scholarly communities of practice in fostering social sustainability, specifically by contributing to more equitable knowledge practices and a “new normal.”
The allocation of resource control within the corporate structure: Evidence from post‐acquisition patent reassignments
Authors: Devarakonda Shivaram V. , Goossen Martin C. , Mulotte Louis
Published: November 2024

Research Summary

This study explores the decision to centralize control over technological resources. We posit that opportunity costs arising from the firm's administrative structure impact this choice. These opportunity costs stem from differences in identifying and evaluating opportunity sets between the unit level (decentralized) and headquarters level (centralized). We propose that a resource's versatility increases the opportunity costs associated with decentralized control, thereby raising the likelihood of its control being centralized. Using a sample of patents acquired through corporate acquisitions in the medical device industry, we find that patents with greater technological and product‐market versatility are more likely to be reassigned to the central level. These findings contribute to elucidating the interplay between resources, strategy, and structure.

Managerial Summary

In the process of integrating a newly acquired firm, acquirers must decide whether to retain the resources within the acquired subsidiary or reallocate them to the headquarters. Decentralizing resources enables managers at the divisional level to spot, sort, select, and seize opportunities in their specific product‐market domains. However, centralizing resources can help exploit opportunities with a broad scope, spanning across divisions. The key consideration is determining which resources should be centralized after an acquisition? Analysis of data on 507 US acquisitions in the medical device industry undertaken between 1996 and 2015 reveals that acquirers tend to centralize versatile technological resources, especially when the acquirers themselves have a diverse technological base.
Interwoven Porous Pristine Cobalt‐Based Metal‐Organic Framework as an Efficient Photocatalyst for CO2 Reduction
Authors: Ren Zhujuan , Wang Shuaishuai , Zhu Mengyu , Wang Kuaibing , Wu Hua , Mao Feifei
Published: November 2024

As a desired utilization of the conversion of CO2 into valuable carbon fuel production under solar energy, it remains challenging due to the lack of efficient catalysts. Herein, a 3D interpenetrating metal‐organic framework of [Co(Tipa)(HCOO)2(H2O)]·H2O (Co‐Tipa) with 1D open channel is solvothermally synthesized using a semi‐flexible ligand (Tipa = tri‐(4‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)‐phenyl)amine). The tridentate bridge ligand‐oriented periodicity Co‐Tipa MOF is combined with ruthenium‐based photosensitizers under mild reaction conditions to form an efficient nonhomogeneous co‐catalyst for photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). As a crystalline MOFs catalyst, the CO production rate, selectivity, and the quantum yield under visible light irradiation offer outstanding performance for the synergistic advantages of structural feature, metal center, and organic ligand. The stability and reusability of the Co‐Tipa co‐catalyst in the reaction system are profited from the robust 3D entangled framework. The mechanism of how to enhance CO2RR performance for the Co‐Tipa is assisted in illustration through density functional theory (DFT) calculations. By leveraging the unique structural properties of entangled MOFs, this study offers innovative approaches for the development of more effective and s Co‐Tipa catalysts that can selectively CO2 into valuable chemicals and fuels.
Esculin, a Coumarin Glucoside Prevents Fluoride‐Induced Oxidative Stress and Cardiotoxicity in Zebrafish Larvae
Authors: Babu Srija , Velmani Naveen Surya , Manoharan Suryaa , Perumal Ekambaram
Published: November 2024

Fluoride (F−) is a major groundwater contaminant spread across the world. In excess concentrations, F− can be detrimental to living beings. F− exposure is linked to cellular redox dyshomeostasis, leading to oxidative stress‐mediated pathologies including heart dysfunction. Due to its potent antioxidant properties, various phytochemicals are found to alleviate the symptoms of F− toxicity. Hence, we explore the protective effect of esculin (Esc), a coumarin glucoside on F−‐induced oxidative stress and cardiotoxicity in zebrafish larvae. The experimental groups consisted of NaF (50 ppm) and Esc (100 μM) groups treated alone and in combination with a control group for 6 h. The groups were maintained till 78 hpf after which the level of oxidants (ROS, LPO, and PCC) and antioxidants (GST, GSH, GPx, SOD, and CAT) were assessed. The results revealed that Esc pretreatment restored the depleted antioxidant markers and reduced the levels of oxidant in the Esc+NaF group, exhibiting its antioxidant potential. In addition, analyses of the heartbeat rate and hemoglobin integrity using o‐Dianisidine staining were conducted in the control and experimental groups. Esc treatment prevents F− induced cardiac changes including tachycardia and altered blood flow. Further, the mRNA expression level of antioxidant genes (nrf2, gstp1, hmox1a, prdx1, and nqo1) and cardiac developmental genes (bmp2b, nkx2.5, myh6, and myl7) confirmed that Esc acts as a potent free radical scavenger and antioxidant defense enhancer, protecting zebrafish larvae from NaF‐induced oxidative stress and heart dysfunction.
Dextromethorphan Inhibits Osteoblast Differentiation and Bone Regeneration of Rats With Subcritical‐Sized Calvarial Defects
Authors: Lai Yu‐Cheng , Yao Zhi‐Kang , Chang Tien‐Chieh , Feng Chien‐Wei , Kuo Tsu‐Jen , Luo Yi‐Wei , Jean Yen‐Hsuan , Lin Hugo Y.‐H. , Wen Zhi‐Hong
Published: November 2024

The glutamatergic signaling pathway, which is mediated by N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors, is crucial for osteoblast differentiation and bone function. Dextromethorphan (DXM), a widely used antitussive, is a noncompetitive antagonist of the NMDA receptor. However, the effects of DXM on osteoblast and bone regeneration remain unclear. The present study investigated the effects of DXM on osteogenesis in vitro and in vivo. A MC3T3‐E1 preosteoblast cell line was treated with varying concentrations of DXM. Real‐time‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and Western‐blot analysis were performed to evaluate the expression of osteogenesis‐related runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osterix (OSX), osteocalcin (OCN), collagen type 1α (Col‐1α), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) after DXM treatment. Zebrafish embryos were incubated with DXM, which had potential to affect the ossification of the vertebrae and skull, and analyzed using calcein staining. Furthermore, we used a rat calvarial defect model to assess the effects of DXM on bone regeneration by using microcomputed tomography. The results indicate that DXM inhibited extracellular mineralization, ALP activity, and the expression of osteogenic markers, namely RUNX2, OSX, OCN, Col‐1α, and ALP, in MC3T3‐E1 cells. DXM suppressed skeleton ossification in zebrafish and affected bone regeneration in rats with calvarial defects. However, the mineral density of the regenerated bones did not differ significantly between the DXM and control groups. The present study demonstrated that DXM negatively affects the osteogenic function of osteoblasts, leading to impaired skeletal development and bone regeneration. Thus, clinicians should consider the negative effects of DXM on bone regeneration.
Creating welcoming and courageous spaces for student leadership training
Authors: Mayweather Darquillius J.
Published: November 2024

The evolving demographic landscape in the United States is a cause to shift leadership training approaches to better serve diverse populations. This article addresses the call for leadership educators to create inclusive, courageous training environments that reflect the increasing diversity in educational and professional settings. Traditionally, leadership education has centered on White and masculine paradigms, often neglecting the unique experiences of historically marginalized groups. This article emphasizes the importance of recognizing and incorporating social identities into leadership training by using these four key strategies: (1) building trust, (2) acknowledging social identity, (3) identity‐based storytelling, and (4) experiential learning activities. By integrating these strategies, leadership educators can foster environments that are conducive to deeper learning and engagement.
On the creativity of large language models
Authors: Franceschelli Giorgio , Musolesi Mirco
Published: November 2024

Large language models (LLMs) are revolutionizing several areas of Artificial Intelligence. One of the most remarkable applications is creative writing, e.g., poetry or storytelling: the generated outputs are often of astonishing quality. However, a natural question arises: can LLMs be really considered creative? In this article, we first analyze the development of LLMs under the lens of creativity theories, investigating the key open questions and challenges. In particular, we focus our discussion on the dimensions of value, novelty, and surprise as proposed by Margaret Boden in her work. Then, we consider different classic perspectives, namely product, process, press, and person. We discuss a set of “easy” and “hard” problems in machine creativity, presenting them in relation to LLMs. Finally, we examine the societal impact of these technologies with a particular focus on the creative industries, analyzing the opportunities offered, the challenges arising from them, and the potential associated risks, from both legal and ethical points of view.
Process chain of a twin-roll cast aluminium-copper-lithium alloy
Authors: Mallow Sina , Broer Jette , Milkereit Benjamin , Grydin Olexandr , Hoyer Kay-Peter , Garthe Kai-Uwe , Milaege Dennis , Boyko Viktoriya , Schaper Mirko , Kessler Olaf
Published: November 2024

Rolling processes of conventional cast Al-Li alloys quickly reach their limits due to relatively poor material formability. This can be overcome by using twin-roll casting to produce thin sheets. Further thermomechanical treatment, including hot or cold rolling, and heat treatment can adjust the mechanical properties of twin-roll cast Al-Li sheets. The whole manufacturing chain requires detailed knowledge of the precipitation and dissolution behavior during heating, soaking and cooling, to purposefully select any process parameters. This study shows the process chain of a twin-roll cast Al–Cu–Li alloy achieving a hardness of around 180 HV1 by adapting the heat treatment parameters for homogenisation, hot rolling and age hardening. Both hardness and microstructure evolution are visualised along the process chain.
Childhood maltreatment, mindfulness, and the mediating role of rumination in college students
Authors: Fox Stephen W. , Morgan Valerie R. , Strait Gerald G. , Strait Julia Englund , Ranton Katherine
Published: November 2024

Childhood maltreatment has been associated with a myriad of challenges in later life, including difficulties related to cognitive processing, emotional regulation, social-behavioral functioning, and academic achievement. The current study investigated how childhood maltreatment may affect college students by examining the interrelationship of important variables known to be associated with maltreatment: trait mindfulness and rumination. Data was collected via convenience sampling. Self-report measures of childhood maltreatment, ruminative thoughts, and trait mindfulness were completed by college students attending a midsize, public, regional, four-year university in the southeastern United States. Data from a total of 374 participants were included in the analyses. Findings provide evidence that rumination may mediate the relationship between childhood maltreatment and trait mindfulness. In addition, results indicated that negative forms of ruminative thought, both depressive and maladaptive, partially accounted for the relationship between childhood maltreatment and trait mindfulness. Adaptive rumination was not found to be a significant mediator in the relationship between childhood maltreatment and trait mindfulness. These findings may be useful for colleges and universities in considerations for providing a tiered system of support for students with maltreatment histories who experience ruminative thoughts. Addressing ruminative thoughts may help improve important life functions of those students.
Modular Forms and String Theory
Authors: D'Hoker Eric , Kaidi Justin
Published: November 2024

An indispensable resource for readers in physics and mathematics seeking a solid grasp of the mathematical tools shaping modern theoretical physics, this book comprises a practical introduction to the mathematical theory of modular forms and their application to the physics of string theory and supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory. Suitable for adventurous undergraduates, motivated graduate students, and researchers wishing to navigate the intersection of cutting-edge research in physics and mathematics, it guides readers from the theory of elliptic functions to the fascinating mathematical world of modular forms, congruence subgroups, Hecke theory, and more. Having established a solid basis, the book proceeds to numerous applications in physics, with only minimal prior knowledge assumed. Appendices review foundational topics, making the text accessible to a broad audience, along with exercises and detailed solutions that provide opportunities for practice. After working through the book, readers will be equipped to carry out research in the field.
Knightian uncertainty in the regulatory context
Authors: Sunstein Cass R.
Published: November 2024

In 1921, John Maynard Keynes and Frank Knight independently insisted on the importance of making a distinction between uncertainty and risk. Keynes referred to matters about which ‘there is no scientific basis on which to form any calculable probability whatever’. Knight claimed that ‘Uncertainty must be taken in a sense radically distinct from the familiar notion of Risk, from which it has never been properly separated’. Knightian uncertainty exists when people cannot assign probabilities to imaginable outcomes. People might know that a course of action might produce bad outcomes A, B, C, D and E, without knowing much or anything about the probability of each. Contrary to a standard view in economics, Knightian uncertainty is real, and it poses challenging and unresolved issues for decision theory and regulatory practice. It bears on many problems, potentially including those raised by artificial intelligence. It is tempting to seek to eliminate the worst-case scenario, and thus to adopt the maximin rule, which might seem to be the appropriate approach under Knightian uncertainty. But serious problems arise if eliminating the worst-case scenario would (1) impose high risks and costs, (2) eliminate large benefits or potential ‘miracles’ or (3) create uncertain risks.
Strategies to Strengthen Hospital Response for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Incident: A Multisite Study
Authors: Mackie Benjamin , Weber Sarah , Mitchell Marion , Hammad Karen , Wong Diana F , Crilly Julia , Boyd Matthew , Wullschleger Martin , Ranse Jamie
Published: November 2024

Objectives

In responding to a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear explosive (CBRNe) disaster, clinical leaders have important decision-making responsibilities which include implementing hospital disaster protocols or incident command systems, managing staffing, and allocating resources. Despite emergency care clinical leaders’ integral role, there is minimal literature regarding the strategies they may use during CBRNe disasters. The aim of this study was to explore emergency care clinical leaders’ strategies related to managing patients following a CBRNe disaster.

Methods

Focus groups across 5 tertiary hospitals and 1 rural hospital in Queensland, Australia. Thirty-six hospital clinical leaders from the 6 study sites crucial to hospital disaster response participated in 6 focus groups undertaken between February and May 2021 that explored strategies and decision making to optimize patient care following a CBRNe disaster.

Results

Analysis revealed the use of rehearsals, adopting new models of care, enacting current surge management processes, and applying organization lessons were facilitating strategies. Barriers to management were identified, including resource constraints and sites operating over capacity.

Conclusions

Enhanced education and training of clinical leaders, flexible models of care, and existing established processes and tested frameworks could strengthen a hospital’s response when managing patients following a CBRNe disaster.
Managing the Dead with Dignity at Mass Fatality Incidents in Nepal and Globally
Authors: Atreya Alok , Menezes Ritesh G.
Published: November 2024

Disasters, armed conflicts, and disease outbreaks often overwhelm normal corpse-handling capacities, highlighting the importance of mass fatality management in emergency preparedness and response. This paper examines principles, practices, and challenges of ensuring dignified corpse management after catastrophic events leading to sudden mass fatalities. It draws insights from Nepal’s experience with the 2015 earthquakes, as well as other recent disasters worldwide. The discussion reveals planning and policy gaps that undermine the dignity of the deceased and prolong trauma for survivors. Recommendations are provided for improving global preparedness to accord proper respect to the dead amid immense tragedy. As climate change escalates disasters, all vulnerable nations must enhance their capacities for systematic and empathetic mass fatality management. Even when protocols exist, overwhelmed systems lead to a breakdown in practical implementations, violating cultural norms. By building robust preparedness through strategic plans, training, infrastructure, and international cooperation, we can preserve humanity even amidst utter inhumanity.
Promise and peril: Gender, technology, and the future of work in the legal profession
Authors: Lee Talara , Foley Meraiah , Tapsell Amy , Cooper Rae
Published: November 2024

Much has been made about the impact of new technologies on the organisation of work in the professions. However, the gendered effect of technological change has rarely been a focus of investigation, even though these transformations are occurring in a context of persistent and pervasive gendered inequality. This paper aims to address this gap, using the case of the legal profession to understand the gendered impact of technological change. Drawing on insights developed through interviews with 33 senior legal stakeholders, the paper finds that technological change plays out in contradictory ways, offering both promise and peril for gender equality within the legal profession. We identify four key concepts – bifurcation, democratisation, humanisation, and flexibilisation – to elucidate the intricate interplay between technology and gendered legal careers, acknowledging the dual potential that technology holds for advancement and adversity. We argue for proactive measures and strategies to be adopted by legal institutions, professional associations, and employers, to harness the benefits of new technologies while mitigating the very real risks such technologies pose to a more gender-equitable future of work.
Shadowbanned on X: The DSA in Action
Authors: van de Kerkhof Jacob , Goanta Catalina
Published: November 2024

Small claim. Regulation 861/2007 (European Small Claims Procedure Regulation). Unfair term in terms of service agreement. Breach of contract through shadowbanning. Infringement on Articles 12 and 17 of Regulation 2022/2065 (Digital Services Act).
Cultural adaptation of an evidence-based intervention to address mental health among youth affected by armed conflict in Colombia: An application of the ADAPT-ITT approach and FRAME-IS reporting protocols
Authors: Pineros-Leano María , Desrosiers Alethea , Piñeros-Leaño Natalia , Moya Andrés , Canizares-Escobar Catalina , Tam Lyann , Betancourt Theresa S.
Published: November 2024

Background

In Colombia, over 9 million people have been impacted by armed conflict, creating a significant need for mental health services. This study aimed to culturally adapt and pilot test the Youth Readiness Intervention (YRI), an evidence-based transdiagnostic mental health intervention, for conflict-affected Colombian youth aged 18-28 years.

Methods

The eight phases of the Assessment, Decision, Administration, Production, Topical Experts, Integration, Training, and Testing (ADAPT-ITT) framework were used to culturally adapt the YRI for conflict-affected Colombian youth. The Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications to Evidence-based Implementation Strategies (FRAME-IS) was used to track the adaptations made. Qualitative and quantitative data were gathered and analyzed throughout the adaptation process.

Results

Data from the Assessment phase demonstrated a high need for mental health interventions among conflict-affected youth. The Testing phase revealed significant improvements in emotion regulation and functional impairment, suggesting the YRI is a promising intervention among conflict-affected Colombian youth. Qualitative data confirmed the intervention’s acceptability among youth and mental health providers.

Conclusions

The YRI was successfully adapted for conflict-affected Colombian youth. Future studies using randomized designs are needed to test the effectiveness of the YRI for improving mental health among larger samples of Colombian conflict-affected youth.
Low-dimensional analysis and modelling of the flow over a forward-facing step
Authors: Podvin B. , Fraigneau Y.
Published: November 2024

We consider the direct numerical simulation of the flow over a forward-facing step protruding in a turbulent boundary layer. Proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is applied to the velocity field in different regions using Fourier modes in the spanwise direction. The upstream flow is characterized by a structure with a spanwise modulation of the order of the step height, the origin of which is consistent with a centrifugal instability. The structure is associated with ejections over the step of low-speed fluid from the upstream recirculation, and organized into streaks through the action of strong spanwise motions along the step face. The spanwise-averaged instantaneous momentum deficit created by the ejections is directly related to the maximal shear rate at the edge of the step, and is well correlated with the dynamics of the downstream recirculation. The most energetic patterns consist of three-dimensional motions with a large spanwise wavelength located in the shear layer developing at the edge of the step, as well as two-dimensional fluctuations downstream of the reattachment. A linear model based on the interaction of the mean flow with the dominant POD modes is able to recover the main frequencies of the fluctuations at these wavenumbers. Including the time variations of the ejections into the model yields temporal spectra that resemble qualitatively those computed from the simulation. The results suggest that the global dynamics of the flow are at least partly driven by linear mechanisms and depend on the characteristic structure identified in the upstream region close to the step.
The vitamin D receptor TaqI TT genotype is associated with type 1 diabetes in the Black South African population
Authors: Bhola Sureka , Cave Eleanor M. , Prigge Katherine L. , Bhana Sindeep , Crowther Nigel J. , Padoa Carolyn J.
Published: November 2024

Polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene (BsmI (rs1544410), FokI (rs2228570), ApaI (rs7975232), TaqI (rs731236)) and low vitamin D concentrations have previously been associated with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Vitamin D is thought to mediate the switch from a pro-inflammatory Th1 response to an anti-inflammatory Th2 response which is protective against the development of T1D. These associations are inconsistent across studies and population groups. These associations have not been investigated in the South African black population. Thus, this observational, case-control study aims to address this knowledge gap. South African black participants with T1D (cases; n = 182) and healthy controls (n = 151) were genotyped for the four VDR polymorphisms using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Vitamin D levels were measured using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Vitamin D levels were not significantly different between cases and controls (62.8 ± 20.7 vs. 59.5 ± 17.0 nmol/l, respectively; P = 0.122). Higher vitamin D levels were associated with the TaqI TT (P = 0.045) and FokI TT/TC (P = 0.014) genotypes in multivariate analyses. Furthermore, the TaqI TT genotype was associated with T1D status in multivariate analysis (P = 0.040). The FokI CC genotype increases the transcription of CYP24A1, resulting in vitamin D catabolism and thus decreased vitamin D concentration through the action of 24-hydroxlase. The TaqI TT genotype results in increased vitamin D potentially through calcium metabolism feedback pathways. In addition, the TaqI TT genotype is associated with T1D through a vitamin D-independent mechanism and may be in linkage disequilibrium with a true causative variant.
Enhancing prosthetic hand control: A synergistic multi-channel electroencephalogram
Authors: Maibam Pooya Chanu , Pei Dingyi , Olikkal Parthan , Vinjamuri Ramana Kumar , Kakoty Nayan M.
Published: November 2024

Electromyogram (EMG) has been a fundamental approach for prosthetic hand control. However it is limited by the functionality of residual muscles and muscle fatigue. Currently, exploring temporal shifts in brain networks and accurately classifying noninvasive electroencephalogram (EEG) for prosthetic hand control remains challenging. In this manuscript, it is hypothesized that the coordinated and synchronized temporal patterns within the brain network, termed as brain synergy, contain valuable information to decode hand movements. 32-channel EEGs were acquired from 10 healthy participants during hand grasp and open. Synergistic spatial distribution pattern and power spectra of brain activity were investigated using independent component analysis of EEG. Out of 32 EEG channels, 15 channels spanning the frontal, central and parietal regions were strategically selected based on the synergy of spatial distribution pattern and power spectrum of independent components. Time-domain and synergistic features were extracted from the selected 15 EEG channels. These features were employed to train a Bayesian optimizer-based support vector machine (SVM). The optimized SVM classifier could achieve an average testing accuracy of 94.39

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.84% using synergistic features. The paired t-test showed that synergistic features yielded significantly higher area under curve values (p < .05) compared to time-domain features in classifying hand movements. The output of the classifier was employed for the control of the prosthetic hand. This synergistic approach for analyzing temporal activities in motor control and control of prosthetic hands have potential contributions to future research. It addresses the limitations of EMG-based approaches and emphasizes the effectiveness of synergy-based control for prostheses.
Planetary Perturbations May Strengthen Gaia
Authors: van Deelen Grace
Published: November 2024

Large-scale disruptions to life may ultimately increase ecological complexity over geologic timescales, though the risk of extinction always looms.
Geodesic Distance Integration in Analytical Frameworks for Aquifer Hydraulic Modeling
Authors: Wen Zhang , Park Eungyu , Xue Peipei , Chen Huali
Published: November 2024

Traditional analytical models in groundwater studies often simplify the complexities arising from spatial variations in aquifer geometry and anisotropy, limiting their ability to capture the full theoretical nuances of groundwater flow. In this study, we present a novel methodology that integrates geodesic distances within the intrinsic geometry of confined, constant‐thickness aquifers, while also accounting for directional anisotropy in hydraulic properties. This approach provides a rigorous mathematical framework for accurately capturing the true distances along the aquifer geometry between pumping and observation wells, in contrast to traditional Euclidean distances. Our methodology is compatible with various analytical solutions, including the Theis (1935, https://doi.org/10.1111/jawr.1965.1.3.9) and Papadopulos and Cooper (1967, https://doi.org/10.1029/wr003i001p00241) solutions, extending their theoretical applicability to more complex aquifer geometries and anisotropic conditions. Numerical simulations of synthetic examples illustrate the theoretical consistency of the proposed approach, aligning drawdown patterns within this advanced framework. While primarily focused on enhancing existing analytical models, this methodology sets the stage for future theoretical advances in groundwater modeling, offering a conceptual expansion of analytical solutions to better address geometric and anisotropic complexities.
A study of liquidity cross-chain models based on convex optimization
Authors: Han Yutong , Wang Chundong , Wang Huaibin , Yang Yi , Wang Xi
Published: November 2024

Blockchain after several years of hustle, bustle, precipitation, and sublimation, with the landing application step by step towards maturity and development, gradually spawned the outreach needs of interacting with other applications. At this stage, only the mobility cross-chain interoperability technology is the infrastructure system that can perfectly solve such needs. To achieve a cross-chain system that defines and realizes user-free liquidity interoperability according to the cross-chain environment and cross-chain requirements, this paper designs a convex optimization-based liquidity contract pair cross-chain model. This model can realize a uniform distributed NFT ID construction identification method for the whole chain, and at the same time use the convex optimization model to obtain liquidity contract pairs that have and only have the global optimal matching, and in this way lock the shortest cross-chain time required, with AMM bonding curve management to achieve immediate liquidity effect, and realize the interconnection and interoperability of users’ assets with free liquidity. Finally, the time-consumption, robustness, and radius of convergence of the models are tested by comparing the model experiments and the proposed model’s proposed cross-chain incentive experiments yield results that verify that the proposed convex optimization-based liquidity contract is efficient, applicable, and secure for cross-chain models.