bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical impact of transient lymphopenia
Authors: Petramala Luigi , Milito Cinzia , Sarlo Francesca , Servello Adriana , Circosta Francesco , Marino Luca , Sardella Germano , Trapani Piero , D’aguanno Giulio , Cimo’ Antonino , Galardo Gioacchino , Letizia Claudio
Published: April 2024

Transient or persistent immunosuppression is a known risk factor for morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. Aim of the present study is to evaluate the lymphopenia in patients admitted to the Emergency Unit of AOU Policlinico Umberto I, to investigate its prevalence at admission and the persistence during hospitalization until discharge. Possible correlations were evaluated between lymphopenia, diagnosis of admission, comorbidities and chronic treatments. In this study, 240 patients (142 men; 98 female; mean age 75.1 ± 15.1) were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups according to the lymphocytes count at hospital admission, namely “Group A” with lymphopenia and “Group B” with values in the normal range. Moreover, the patients in group A were distinguished in relation to the regression or persistence of the lymphopenia assessed at the time of hospital discharge (Group A1: persistence; Group A2: normalization). Prevalence of lymphopenia at admission was 57%; Group A showed higher mean age and percentage of patients over 65 years of age; and none differences were observed regarding gender. Prevalence of lymphopenia at admission was 57%; Group A showed higher mean age and percentage of patients over 65 years of age; no differences were observed regarding gender. All subsets of the lymphocytes (CD4+, CD8+, NK) were equally reduced. Persistent lymphopenia was found in 19% of patients. Lymphopenia should be valued at the time of hospital admission as a factor influencing the prognosis, the management and the treatment of these patients.
Sustainability performance assessment of freight transportation modes using an integrated decision-making framework based on m-generalized q-neutrosophic sets
Authors: Görçün Ömer Faruk , Tirkolaee Erfan Babaee , Aytekin Ahmet , Korucuk Selçuk
Published: April 2024

The freight transport industry is one of the primary sectors responsible for excessive energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Restructuring international and domestic freight transport chains based on sustainability and green transportation is critical for practitioners and policymakers to reduce pressure on the logistics and transportation industries. This study aims to develop a mathematical model for selecting the most appropriate transportation type, and accordingly, the optimal route in transportation operations to improve the sustainability performance of the freight transportation industry. Therefore, the main goal is to choose the most suitable route and transportation type which contributes to create a more eco-friendly and sustainable transportation system. For this purpose, Neutrosophic Number-based Delphi (NN-Delphi), m-Generalized q-Neutrosophic Sets (mGqNSs)-based Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (MGqNS-SWARA) and mGqNSs-based Additive Ratio Assessment (mGqNS-ARAS) are developed and implemented to set the influential criteria, compute the weights of these criteria, and identify the sustainability performance of the freight mode variants, respectively. According to the final results, "Cargo security" and "Accident rates" are the most important criteria with a relative importance score of 0.0237, contributing to the sustainability of load transport modes. Moreover, "Maritime Transport Mode" is identified as the most sustainable transportation type with a relative importance score of 0.7895. Finally, it is revealed that there is a positive relationship between maritime transport and sustainability.
Changes in Stress Following Wage Increases for Early Childhood Educators
Authors: Bates Randi A. , Dynia Jaclyn M.
Published: April 2024

Early childhood educators have one of the most important roles in society, helping the youngest generation flourish, yet educators earn some of the lowest wages. Given their disparate financial value, educators have unsurprisingly reported high stress. Educators’ high stress and low wages may affect their health, workplace turnover, and children’s development. Here, we observed whether natural wage increases were associated with reduced stress in educators during the 2021–2022 academic year. Across two time points (TPs), 67 center-based educators of children 0–5 years old completed surveys on their wages and psychological stress (perceived stress, depression, and anxiety). Fifty educators provided hair cortisol concentration to represent chronic physiological stress. Over about three months, educators received a mean wage increase of $1.85/hour. Before the wage increase, minoritized educators earned about $1.50 less than White educators, but earnings were more similar at the second TP. Educators’ depression at the start of the academic year was related to their next three months’ of physiological stress. Over time, educators’ stress remained high and was unassociated with wage changes. Our results suggest a concentrated examination into eliminating wage inequities and reducing the stress of educators.
A mathematical model with uncertainty quantification for allelopathy with applications to real-world data
Authors: Bevia Vicente J. , Cortés Juan-Carlos , Moscardó Ana , Pérez Cristina Luisovna , Villanueva Rafael-Jacinto
Published: April 2024

We revisit a deterministic model for studying the dynamics of allelopathy. The model is formulated in terms of a non-homogeneous linear system of differential equations whose forcing or source term is a piecewise constant function (square wave). To account for the inherent uncertainties present in this natural phenomenon, we reformulate the model as a system of random differential equations where all model parameters and the initial condition are assumed to be random variables, while the forcing term is a stochastic process. Taking extensive advantage of the so-called Random Variable Transformation (RVT) method, we obtain the solution of the randomized model by providing explicit expressions of the first probability density function of the solution under very general assumptions on the model data. We also determine the joint probability density function of the non-trivial equilibrium point, which is a random vector. If the source term is a time-dependent stochastic process, the RVT method might not be applicable since no explicit solution of the model is available. We then show an alternative approach to overcome this drawback by applying the Liouville–Gibbs partial differential equation. All the theoretical findings are illustrated through several examples, including the application of the randomized model to real-world data on alkaloid contents from leaching thornapple seed.
Mineral composition modulates Erwinia amylovora resistance in pear based on path analysis
Authors: Mertoğlu Kerem , Evrenosoğlu Yasemin , Akkurt Emre , Yeşilbaş Mücahit Furkan , Gülmezoğlu Nurdilek
Published: April 2024

The effects of mineral composition (N, P, K, Mg, Fe, Cu, and Zn) against fire blight caused by Erwinia amylovora, the most devastating disease of pome fruits, was investigated in pear. Due to the transport physiology of minerals, the leaf contained higher concentrations of every mineral analyzed, especially macro-minerals (N, P, K, and Mg) compared to the fruit. Minerals obtained from the leaves were not statistically correlated with resistance to fire blight, however all the minerals examined in the fruit, except for K, were found to be significant. Increased P and Mg concentrations were associated with disease resistance, while N, Zn, Fe, and Cu were associated with susceptibility. Nitrogen-causing susceptibility exerted 61% of this impact through itself directly and was sharply distinguished from other mineral compounds. Furthermore, the indirect effect of nitrogen on disease susceptibility through Cu (39%), Zn (33%), and Fe (30%) was even higher than the direct effect of these minerals (21%, 24%, and 29%, respectively). The direct effects of P (13%) and Mg (10%), which are associated with an increase in resistance, were lower than the indirect effects (19% and 29%, respectively) due to their negative correlation with nitrogen, showing that the main effect of these minerals was in suppressing the negative effects of nitrogen on susceptibility by maintaining mineral balance.
Pressure waveform analysis for occlusion assessment significantly reduces contrast medium use in cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Sciacca Vanessa , Fink Thomas , Winnik Stephan , Hamriti Mustapha El , Guckel Denise , Didenko Maxim , Mörsdorf Maximilian , Braun Martin , Khalaph Moneeb , Imnadze Guram , Sommer Philipp , Sohns Christian
Published: April 2024

Background

Pulmonary vein (PV) occlusion is crucial for adequate lesion formation during cryoballoon-guided pulmonary vein isolation (CB-PVI). PV occlusion is usually confirmed by angiographies over the inflated balloon device. The aim of our study was to analyze the safety and efficacy of pressure waveform-based PV occlusion assessment during CB-PVI utilizing a novel fully integrated pressure analysis tool.

Methods

Consecutive patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) scheduled for CB-PVI were prospectively enrolled for pressure waveform-based PV occlusion assessment. A patient cohort receiving conventional angiographies served as control group. Patients with common PV ostia were excluded.

Results

The study group consisted of 40 patients (16 females, mean age was 64.5 ± 9.7, 45% persistent AF). The control group consisted of 40 matched patients. All 160 PVs in the study group were successfully isolated without the use of additional venograms confirming PV occlusion. The mean procedure duration was 69 ± 12 min in the study group with a mean fluoroscopy duration of 11.5 ± 4.4 min. The mean contrast medium volume was 22 ± 9 ml in the study group and 36 ± 12 ml in the control group (p = 0.0001). Mean procedure duration, mean balloon temperatures, and mean ablation application durations did not differ significantly between the study and the control group. No periprocedural complications occurred.

Conclusion

CB-PVI utilizing a fully integrated pressure waveform analysis tool to assess PV occlusion is feasible and safe and significantly reduces the amount of contrast medium without impact on procedural parameters and freedom from arrhythmia recurrence.

Graphical Abstract
Optimization of image acquisition by automated white-light interferometers during the inspection of object surfaces
Authors: Schwarze Björn , Edelkamp Stefan
Published: April 2024

This paper considers the efficient quality assurance of diverse geometric objects through the use of a white-light interferometer, with a primary focus on minimizing the number of required image captures. The motivation behind such an algorithm stems from the extended recording times associated with various free-form sheet metal parts. Given that capturing images with a microscope typically consumes 30–40 s, maintaining high-quality assurance is imperative. A reduction in the number of images not only expedites part throughput but also enhances the economic efficiency. A unique aspect in this context is the requirement for focus points to consistently align with the part’s surface. We formulate this challenge in a mathematical framework, necessitating a comprehensive literature review to identify potential solutions, and introduce an algorithm designed to optimize the image acquisition process for inspecting object surfaces. The proposed algorithm enables efficient coverage of large surfaces on objects of various sizes and shapes using a minimal number of images. The primary objective is to create the most concise list of points that comprehensively encompass the entire object surface. Subsequently, the paper conducts a comparative analysis of various strategies to identify the most effective approach.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices about Electronic Personal Health Records: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Region of Northern Italy
Authors: Scaioli Giacomo , Martella Manuela , Lo Moro Giuseppina , Prinzivalli Alessandro , Guastavigna Laura , Scacchi Alessandro , Butnaru Andreea Mihaela , Bert Fabrizio , Siliquini Roberta
Published: April 2024

The Electronic Personal Health Record (EPHR) provides an innovative service for citizens and professionals to manage health data, promoting patient-centred care. It enhances communication between patients and physicians and improves accessibility to documents for remote medical information management. The study aims to assess the prevalence of awareness and acceptance of the EPHR in northern Italy and define determinants and barriers to its implementation. In 2022, a region-wide cross-sectional study was carried out through a paper-based and online survey shared among adult citizens. Univariable and multivariable regression models analysed the association between the outcome variables (knowledge and attitudes toward the EPHR) and selected independent variables. Overall, 1634 people were surveyed, and two-thirds were aware of the EPHR. Among those unaware of the EPHR, a high prevalence of specific socio-demographic groups, such as foreign-born individuals and those with lower educational levels, was highlighted. Multivariable regression models showed a positive association between being aware of the EPHR and educational level, health literacy, and perceived poor health status, whereas age was negatively associated. A higher knowledge of the EPHR was associated with a higher attitude towards the EPHR. The current analysis confirms a lack of awareness regarding the existence of the EPHR, especially among certain disadvantaged demographic groups. This should serve as a driving force for a powerful campaign tailored to specific categories of citizens for enhancing knowledge and usage of the EPHR. Involving professionals in promoting this tool is crucial for helping patients and managing health data.
An ensemble of optimal smoothing and minima controlled through iterative averaging for speech enhancement under uncontrolled environment
Authors: G P Raghudathesh , C B Chandrakala , B Dinesh Rao , G Thimmaraja Yadava
Published: April 2024

Although better progress has been made in the area of speech enhancement, a significant performance degradation still exists under highly non-stationary noisy conditions. These conditions have a detrimental impact on the performance of the speech processing applications such as automatic speech recognition, speech encoding, speaker verification, speaker identification, and speaker recognition. Therefore, in this work, a robust noise estimation technique is proposed for speech enhancement under highly non-stationary noisy scenarios. The proposed work introduces an optimal smoothing and minima controlled (OSMC) through an iterative averaging method for noise estimation. Firstly, the computation of smooth power spectrum of degraded speech data and tracking the minima by continuously taking the past spectral average values are considered. Then, to find the activity of speech in each frequency bin, the ratio of degraded speech spectrum to its local minimum is considered, and a Bayes minimum-cost rule is applied for the decision-making. Finally, the spectrum of noise is estimated using the time-frequency dependent smoothing factors which mainly depend on the estimation of the probability of speech presence. The experiments are conducted on NOIZEUS and Kannada speech databases. The evaluated results demonstrated that the proposed OSMC technique exhibits better speech quality and intelligibility performance compared to existing algorithms under highly non-stationary noisy conditions.
Dynamics of the traveling wave solutions of conformable time-fractional ISLW and DJKM equations via a new expansion method
Authors: Kırcı Özlem , Koç Dilara Altan , Bulut Hasan
Published: April 2024

This work searches the new wave solutions of the time-fractional ion sound and Langmuir waves (ISLWs) equation and the time-fractional Date–Jimbo–Kashiwara–Miwa (DJKM) equation with the conformable derivative. The $$\left( m+\frac{1}{G^\prime }\right)$$

m
+

1

G
′

-expansion method is employed for these models for the first time. Getting support from symbolic software, some new solutions are presented, which will be constructive for studies in the field of nonlinear physical phenomena. New wave solutions obtained by using the $$\left( m+\frac{1}{G^\prime }\right)$$

m
+

1

G
′

-expansion method have applications in engineering, physics, and other scientific fields. The regarded method may provide a framework for the exact solutions of several evolution equations in applied sciences. Moreover, the graphical illustrations are also demonstrated to observe the dynamical behaviours of the solutions, which may benefit the development of new technologies.
Plant-soil relations of selenium, molybdenum and vanadium in the Richmond District of Central Queensland, Australia
Authors: Harvey Maggie-Anne , Erskine Peter D. , Harris Hugh H. , Virtue Jemma I. , van der Ent Antony
Published: April 2024

Background and aims

The Richmond District of Queensland (Australia) hosts seleniferous soils and is the habitat of selenium (Se) hyperaccumulator plants. These soils are also naturally enriched in vanadium (V) and molybdenum (Mo). This study aimed to survey soils and plants of the Richmond area with a focus on the Se hyperaccumulator Neptunia amplexicaulis.

Methods

Field collection of plant specimens and soils from the seleniferous outcrops of the Richmond District (including the Julia Creek area) was undertaken and the samples were analyzed for Se, V, Mo and other elements.

Results

The results show that three modes of Se accumulation can be observed with most plant species having from ~10 μg Se g−1 up to 70 μg Se g−1 in shoots, some having between 75 and 250 μg Se g−1 in shoots while both N. amplexicaulis and Acacia tephrina contained 450–700 μg Se g−1 in their shoots. There was high Se accumulation in the phyllode tips of A. tephrina. Previously unrecorded populations of N. amplexicaulis were discovered near Julia Creek. Selenium concentrations in soil are lower than historically reported from similar localities (up to 23.2 mg Se kg−1). Molybdenum concentrations between 213 and 329 μg Mo g−1 occurred in the two Se hyperaccumulators N. amplexicaulis and A. tephrina, whilst Salsola australis had the highest accumulation of V (31–66 μg V g−1).

Conclusions

The results suggest that the Toolebuc Formation is the source of Se in the region, but temporal variability alters how much Se is bioavailable to plants. The presence of high Mo in plant tissues is linked to Se hyperaccumulation, and V accumulation appears to have little impact on plant ecology.
Spin-encoded quantum computer near ultimate physical limits
Authors: Wang Frank Z.
Published: April 2024

Landauer’s bound is applicable to irreversible quantum operations. In this study, we showcased that the Doppler temperature manifests the existence of Landauer’s bound, which does not block a spin from (irreversibly) flipping with a tiny amount of energy via quantum tunneling. Verified by a spin–spin magnetic interaction experiment, this (energy) amount was determined to be only 1.25 times the theoretical value of Landauer’s bound. Based on Heisenberg’s principle, we defined information from a measuring perspective: one bit of information corresponds to the smallest error when quantifying the product of the measured energy uncertainty ($$\Delta E$$

Δ
E

) and the measured time duration ($$\Delta t$$

Δ
t

). We then illustrate an optically manipulated, spin-encoded, near-Landauer-bound, near-Heisenberg-limit quantum computer that encompasses this new definition of information. This study may represent the last piece of the puzzle in understanding both quantum Landauer erasure and Heisenberg’s quantum limit since a single spin is the smallest information carrier.
Recognize the Value of the Sum Score, Psychometrics’ Greatest Accomplishment
Authors: Sijtsma Klaas , Ellis Jules L. , Borsboom Denny
Published: April 2024

The sum score on a psychological test is, and should continue to be, a tool central in psychometric practice. This position runs counter to several psychometricians’ belief that the sum score represents a pre-scientific conception that must be abandoned from psychometrics in favor of latent variables. First, we reiterate that the sum score stochastically orders the latent variable in a wide variety of much-used item response models. In fact, item response theory provides a mathematically based justification for the ordinal use of the sum score. Second, because discussions about the sum score often involve its reliability and estimation methods as well, we show that, based on very general assumptions, classical test theory provides a family of lower bounds several of which are close to the true reliability under reasonable conditions. Finally, we argue that eventually sum scores derive their value from the degree to which they enable predicting practically relevant events and behaviors. None of our discussion is meant to discredit modern measurement models; they have their own merits unattainable for classical test theory, but the latter model provides impressive contributions to psychometrics based on very few assumptions that seem to have become obscured in the past few decades. Their generality and practical usefulness add to the accomplishments of more recent approaches.
The Gehan test identifies life-extending compounds overlooked by the log-rank test in the NIA Interventions Testing Program: Metformin, Enalapril, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, green tea extract, and 17-dimethylaminoethylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin hydrochloride
Authors: Jiang Nisi , Gelfond Jonathan , Liu Qianqian , Strong Randy , Nelson James F.
Published: April 2024

The National Institute on Aging Interventions Testing Program (ITP) has so far identified 12 compounds that extend the lifespan of genetically heterogeneous mice using the log-rank test. However, the log-rank test is relatively insensitive to any compound that does not uniformly reduce mortality across the lifespan. This test may thus miss compounds that only reduce mortality before midlife, for example, a plausible outcome if a compound only mitigates risk factors before midlife or if its efficacy is reduced at later ages. We therefore reanalyzed all data collected by the ITP from 2004–2022 using the Gehan test, which is more sensitive to mortality differences earlier in the life course and does not assume a uniformly reduced mortality hazard across the lifespan. The Gehan test identified 5 additional compounds, metformin, enalapril, 17-dimethylaminoethylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin hydrochloride (17-DMAG), caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), and green tea extract (GTE), which significantly increased survival but were previously missed by the log-rank test. Three (metformin, enalapril, and 17-DMAG) were only effective in males and two (CAPE and GTE) were only effective in females. In addition, 1,3-butanediol, which by log-rank analysis increased survival in females but not males, increased survival in males by the Gehan test. These results suggest that statistical tests sensitive to non-uniformity of drug efficacy across the lifespan should be included in the standard statistical testing protocol to minimize overlooking geroprotective interventions.
Determination of changes in bioactive components, antioxidant capacity, phenolic components and mineral values of date fruits stored in different packages and temperatures for six months
Authors: Alhamdan Abdullah M. , Al Juhaimi Fahad Y. , Alamri Yosef A. , Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Elamshity Mahmoud G. , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Uslu Nurhan
Published: April 2024

The moisture results, bioactive compounds, phenolic and mineral amounts of date fruits showed significant changes depending on package types, storage temperatures and fruit types. The moisture content of date fruits stored at -18 °C was higher than that of date fruits stored at other temperatures (5 and 25 °C). The highest moisture loss in date fruits was observed in fruits stored at 25 °C. The storage temperature with the highest total phenol amounts of the Khalas, Ruzeiz and Sukkari date cultivars was at 25 °C, followed by 5 °C and − 18 °C in decreasing order. The storage temperature and packaging types with the highest total flavonoid content of the “Ruzeiz” date variety were “open cardboard” and “sealed in plastic bag and stored in closed cardboard” at 25 °C. In general, the highest phenolic compounds were detected in “Khalas” date variety, followed by “Ruzeiz” and “Sukkari” varieties in decreasing order. While the most abundant macro element in date varieties was K, followed by P, Mg and Ca, the most abundant micro elements were Fe, and followed by Mn, Zn, B and Cu in decreasing order. The P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn and B results of the “Khalas” date variety stored at 25 °C were higher than those of the “Khalas” date fruits stored at other temperatures.
Postoperative leukocyte counts as a surrogate for surgical stress response in matched robot- and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery cohorts of patients: A preliminary report
Authors: Liu Sidi , Huang Huichao , Zhang Chunfang , Chen Letao , Feng Xuelian , Wu Yaling , Xia Qing , Huang Xun
Published: April 2024

The objective is to preliminary evaluated postoperative leukocyte counts as a surrogate for the surgical stress response in NSCLC patients who underwent RATS or VATS for further prospective analyses with proper assessment of surgical stress response and tissue trauma. We retrospectively analyzed patients with stageI-IIIA NSCLC who underwent RATS or VATS at a hospital between 8 May 2020 and 31 December 2021. Analysis of leukocytes (including neutrophils and lymphocytes) and albumin on postoperative days (PODs) 1 and 3 in patients with NSCLC treated with RATS or VATS after propensity score matching (PSM). In total, 1824 patients (565 RATS and 1259 VATS) were investigated. The two MIS groups differed significantly with regard to operative time (p < 0.001), chronic lung disease (p < 0.001), the type of pulmonary resection (p < 0.001), the excision site of lobectomy (p = 0.004), and histology of the tumor (p = 0.028). After PSM, leukocyte and neutrophil levels in the RATS group were lower than those in the VATS group on PODs 1 and 3, with those on POD 3 (p < 0.001) being particularly notable. While lymphocyte levels in the RATS group were significantly lower than those in the VATS group only at POD 1 (p = 0.016). There was no difference in albumin levels between the RATS and VATS groups on PODs 1 and 3. The surgical stress response and tissue trauma was less severe in NSCLC patients who underwent RATS than in those who underwent VATS, especially reflected in the neutrophils of leukocytes.
The Role of Edible Bulbous Layers on Macro, Micro, and Heavy Metal Contents of Leek (Allium porrum) Plant
Authors: AlJuhaimi Fahad , Kulluk Duygu Akçay , Ahmed Isam A Mohamed , Yılmaz Fatma Gökmen , Karrar Emad , Özcan Mehmet Musa
Published: April 2024

In this study, the degree of accumulation of biogenic element and heavy metal contents of different parts and edible layers of leeks cultivated in Konya in Turkey was revealed. The amounts of P and K of leek were determined from 154.69 (leaf top of leek) and 985.05 mg/kg (root of leek) to 1377.63 (onion part of leek) and 2688.50 mg/kg (root of leek), respectively. P and K contents of leek layers changed from 139.45 (1st layer) and 446.63 mg/kg (7th layer) to 1596.69 (2nd layer) and 2201.53 mg/kg (4th layer), respectively. While Ca amounts of leek parts vary between 577.09 (leaf of leek) and 666.87 mg/kg (root of leek), Mg contents of leek parts were determined between 130.70 (onion part of leek) and 264.58 mg/kg (root of leek). All of the macro elements were detected in the highest amount in the root of the leek, followed by the leaf and bulb parts in decreasing order. Fe and Zn contents of different parts of leeks varied from 0.506 (onion part of leek) and 22.71 mg/kg (root of leek) to 1.53 (leaf top of leek) and 5.85 mg/kg (root of leek), respectively. In general, the heavy metals found in the highest amount both in different parts of the leek and in the edible bulbous layers were As and Ba. The layers of the leeks are rich in potassium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.
Gender differences in old-age poverty in 14 EU countries: exploring the role of household structure
Authors: Ahonen Kati , Kuivalainen Susan
Published: April 2024

The risk of poverty among older people varies widely across countries and between men and women. This is usually explained by reference to institutional differences in pension systems or differences in employment histories. However, many other factors also come into play. In this paper we argue that, to avoid biased conclusions, it is necessary to take into account the role of household structure. This study of 14 European Union (EU) countries investigates the impact of household structure on gender differences in old-age poverty risk. The empirical examination is based on European Union Statistics on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC). The findings show that older women’s high poverty risk is strongly related to the financial vulnerability of single-person households and the higher prevalence of female than male single-person households. In addition, gender differences in poverty risk can be attributed to gender differences in household structure. It matters whether the older person lives with another older person or an employed/unemployed person and whether there are minor children in the household. Country differences in the gender poverty gap are linked to country differences in the household age structure and the poverty risks of different types of households.
Comparative analysis of European vertical landing reusable first stage concepts
Authors: Wilken Jascha , Stappert Sven
Published: April 2024

Reusable launch systems have the potential to significantly impact the space launch service market if both a high reliability and low refurbishment costs can be achieved. This study delves into the Vertical Takeoff and Vertical Landing (VTVL) methodology, as currently employed by SpaceX, and forms a segment of the ENTRAIN study by DLR. This broader study encompasses an examination of both Vertical Takeoff Horizontal Landing (VTHL) and VTVL reusable first stages, exploring their performance across high-level design parameters. This manuscript’s primary objective is to assess the quantitative impact of high-level design factors on launch vehicle performance, particularly in relation to the development of a future European reusable launch system featuring a VTVL first stage. For a two-stage vehicle with a payload performance of 7.5t into GTO, the effect of varying propellant combinations, staging velocities and engine cycles are assessed. The study encompasses an iterative, multidisciplinary analysis and sizing process for ten different configurations. Each design iteration not only entails a structural design analysis but also includes optimization of the ascent and descent trajectories. Finally, the developed vehicle concepts are compared to derive quantitative insights into the trade-offs associated with key design choices.
Numerical estimation of discharge coefficient for non-circular bottom intake racks
Authors: Bina Keivan , Rikhtehgarmashhad Shahab , Hosseini Khosrow , Karami Hojat
Published: April 2024

Current research presents a comprehensive numerical study on the performance of riverbed intake systems equipped with non-circular cross section racks. Three types of bottom racks, such as rhombus bars, rounded-edge rectangle bars, and circular bars, were numerically modeled using Flow3D software with different geometric and hydraulic parameter, all in super critical approaching flow in clear water condition. Subsequently, changes in diverted discharge ratio (DDR) of bottom racks and factors affecting its intensity and manner of changes, were studied using model results. The study reveals that the RNG k-ε turbulence model accurately represents the flow field around the bottom racks. The results indicated that the DDR changes are directly related to rack length changes but is inversely related to the rack slope and upstream flow discharge. Also, rhombus bars outperform circular and rounded bars, with 23.34% and 35.92% higher flow diversion, respectively, attributed to the formation of more negative pressures between bars. The main focus of the present study was on accurate and complete estimation of the diverted discharge coefficient (Cd) for racks with different bar shapes—especially non-circular bars using the results of the constructed numerical model. Proposed relations for the diverted discharge coefficient (DDC), especially for non-circular bars, were rigorously validated and showed high accuracy in predicting DDC under diverse hydraulic and geometric conditions.
Freshwater and minerals recovery from synthetic produced water by membrane distillation/membrane crystallization processes
Authors: Alessandro Francesca , Macedonio Francesca , Frappa Mirko , Drioli Enrico
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this work is to study the influence of oil and surfactant present in produced water on the membrane distillation and membrane crystallization performance. The latter is evaluated in terms of permeate flux, quality of permeate and sodium chloride crystallization kinetics. Polypropylene and Hyflon AD40H/PVDF composite membranes with 0.2 $$\mathrm{\mu m}$$

μ
m

pore size were used in the investigation. The tests were carried out in direct contact configuration using two synthetic feed solutions: the first one without oil and surfactant, and the second one with oil and surfactant. The achieved results showed a permeate flux reduction of 20 and 40% for PP and AD40H, respectively, in membrane distillation and of 35% in membrane crystallization. These results may be attributed to the interaction between the salts and surfactant, which led to the deterioration of the membrane performance. Despite this, high salt rejection factors greater than 99.9% and total carbon rejections ranging between 80 and 90% indicated the good potential of membrane distillation technology for the treatment of produced water. Moreover, good quality crystals and high total water recovery factor (97%) were achieved using the membrane crystallization process. Nevertheless, the presence of oil and surfactant in the feed caused an increase in the induction time compared to the system without oil and surfactant. In addition, in the performed experiments, simple physical cleaning with distillate water was sufficient to recover the initial trans-membrane flux of the membranes.
Using data mining to discover new patterns of social media and smartphone use and emotional states
Authors: Al-Saggaf Yeslam , Rahman Md Anisur , Wiil Uffe Kock
Published: April 2024

Social media and smartphone use are strongly linked to users' emotional states. While numerous studies have established that fear of missing out (FOMO), boredom, and loneliness predict social media and smartphone use, numerous other studies have concluded that social media and smartphone use negatively impact these emotional states (i.e., FOMO, boredom, and loneliness). Phubbing (phone snubbing), which is the act of ignoring a physically present person in favour of a smartphone, is associated with both social media and smartphone use and users’ emotional states. Much of the above research, however, has adopted the traditional hypothesis testing method. So far, limited work has been done using data-driven approaches. This paper uses data mining techniques to uncover previously unknown patterns about social media and smartphone use, phubbing, and users' emotional states based on two existing datasets originating from online questionnaires facilitated through social media. Novel patterns related to FOMO, loneliness, boredom, and phubbing are discovered and explored in detail. The study also demonstrates the usefulness of the data-driven approach and establishes it as a valid alternative to the hypothesis-driven approach to investigating social media and smartphone use, phubbing, and users' emotional states.
Geochemical and Isotopic Characteristics of the Emir Geothermal Waters in Kula Area, Western Anatolia
Authors: Gökgöz Ali , Mutlu Halim , Demirel Özgün
Published: April 2024

In this study, we investigate chemical and isotopic characteristics of thermal waters of the Emir geothermal field in the Kula region, which hosts the youngest volcanism in Turkey. Studied thermal waters with temperature and electrical conductivity values of 21–63 °C and 3840 to 5210 μS/cm are of Na–HCO3 type and have neutral character. δ18O and δD of thermal waters are − 9.40 to − 8.41‰ and − 64.16 to − 56.38‰ (VSMOW) and indicate a meteoric source with local recharge. Tritium values of thermal waters in the Emir geothermal field are mostly < 1 TU signifying a deep circulation. Positive δ13C values (1.32–4.46‰ VPDB) imply that carbon is derived dominantly from marine limestone and dominantly from endogenic CO2. δ18O and δ34S of dissolved sulfate yield that marine limestone is the source of sulfur in thermal waters, which are partly affected by sulfide oxidation and bacterial reduction processes. At discharge temperatures, Emir thermal waters are oversaturated with respect to albite, aragonite, calcite, α-cristobalite, dolomite, gibbsite, illite, K-feldspar, kaolinite, muscovite and quartz but undersaturated for anhydrite and wairakite. The activity diagrams suggest that high Na+ and K+ concentrations in waters are attributed to dissolution of muscovite, K-feldspar and albite. Chemical and isotopic compositions of the Emir thermal waters are controlled by a combination of processes including water–rock interaction, dissolution/precipitation and ion exchange. Various chemical and isotopic geothermometers applied to the thermal waters yielded reservoir temperatures in the range of 80–125 °C. Paleo-temperatures estimated from δ18O values of travertines and thermal waters (isotope fractionation) are consistent with modern discharge temperatures.
Fatigue life evaluation of welded joints under multiaxial loading for different stress concepts using an extended Gough-Pollard criterion
Authors: Bauer N. M. , Baumgartner J. , Fass M.
Published: April 2024

Fatigue life evaluation of welded joints under multiaxial loading usually refers to stresses normal to the weld and shear stresses. Stresses parallel to the weld are not considered in most experiments or the well-known Gough-Pollard criterion. Hence, the Gough-Pollard criterion has recently been extended to include all stress components at the weld surface. In this paper, both the original and, for the first time, the extended Gough-Pollard criterion are applied to different welded specimens under multiaxial loading that includes stresses parallel to the weld. As shown, the original criterion is insufficient to evaluate such stress states. This is because the calculated fatigue life becomes less conservative as the stresses parallel to the weld become more significant. The extended criterion, on the other hand, shows greatly improved accuracy while significantly reducing the likelihood of non-conservative results. In conclusion, the extended Gough-Pollard criterion can describe fatigue life under multiaxial loading better than the original version and provides reliable and conservative results for welded joints. The main findings are valid for the nominal, the hot spot, and the notch stress concept.
Association of serum uric acid with functional disability in older subjects: a population-based study
Authors: Laudisio Alice , Dorizzi Agnese , Villeggia Fabio , Latino Francesca , Filippucci Daniele , Zuccalà Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

Background

The role of serum uric acid (SUA) in the development of adverse health outcomes in advanced age is still uncertain.

Aims

The aim of the study was to assess the association of disability with SUA levels in older community-dwelling subjects.

Methods

We assessed the association of disability with SUA in all 351 inhabitants of Tuscania (Italy) aged 75+. Functional ability was estimated using the instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs).

Results

In logistic regression, increasing SUA levels were associated with disability (OR = 1.22; 95%CI = 1.01–1.48; P = .036), after adjusting. The association was independent of both gender and age (P for interaction > 0.050). SUA levels above 5.5 mg/dL best predicted disability.

Conclusions

In older subjects, SUA levels are associated with disability; the cut off level above 5.5 mg/dL might be adopted in pharmacological trials aiming at reducing the incidence and progression of disability by reducing SUA, and for identifying subjects at increased risk of disability.
Saddle point braids of braided fibrations and pseudo-fibrations
Authors: Bode Benjamin , Hirasawa Mikami
Published: April 2024

Let$$g_t$$gtbe a loop in the space of monic complex polynomials in one variable of fixed degreen. If the roots of$$g_t$$gtare distinct for allt, they form a braid$$B_1$$B1onnstrands. Likewise, if the critical points of$$g_t$$gtare distinct for allt, they form a braid$$B_2$$B2on$$n-1$$n-1strands. In this paper we study the relationship between$$B_1$$B1and$$B_2$$B2. Composing the polynomials$$g_t$$gtwith the argument map defines a pseudo-fibration map on the complement of the closure of$$B_1$$B1in$${\mathbb {C}}\times S^1$$C×S1, whose critical points lie on$$B_2$$B2. We prove that for$$B_1$$B1a T-homogeneous braid and$$B_2$$B2the trivial braid this map can be taken to be a fibration map. In the case of homogeneous braids we present a visualization of this fact. Our work implies that for every pair of links$$L_1$$L1and$$L_2$$L2there is a mixed polynomial$$f:{\mathbb {C}}^2\rightarrow {\mathbb {C}}$$f:C2→Cin complex variablesu,vand the complex conjugate$$\overline{v}$$v¯such that bothfand the derivative$$f_u$$fuhave a weakly isolated singularity at the origin with$$L_1$$L1as the link of the singularity offand$$L_2$$L2as a sublink of the link of the singularity of$$f_u$$fu.
Sparse semi-supervised multi-label feature selection based on latent representation
Authors: Zhao Xue , Li Qiaoyan , Xing Zhiwei , Yang Xiaofei , Dai Xuezhen
Published: April 2024

With the rapid development of the Internet, there are a large number of high-dimensional multi-label data to be processed in real life. To save resources and time, semi-supervised multi-label feature selection, as a dimension reduction method, has been widely used in many machine learning and data mining. In this paper, we design a new semi-supervised multi-label feature selection algorithm. First, we construct an initial similarity matrix with supervised information by considering the similarity between labels, so as to learn a more ideal similarity matrix, which can better guide feature selection. By combining latent representation with semi-supervised information, a more ideal pseudo-label matrix is learned. Second, the local manifold structure of the original data space is preserved by the manifold regularization term based on the graph. Finally, an effective alternating iterative updating algorithm is applied to optimize the proposed model, and the experimental results on several datasets prove the effectiveness of the approach.
Nonnationals’ Fertility and the Great Recession in Italy: A Panel Analysis of Quantum and Tempo Responses
Authors: García-Pereiro Thaís , Paterno Ana
Published: April 2024

Fertility responses to economic downturns differ among subpopulations. Whether the relationship between employment and fertility varies according to ethnic origin, and if so, how, are issues that have yet to be sufficiently acknowledged in empirical studies. It is well known that economic conditions affect childbearing, but little is known about how macro-level nonnationals’ fertility was affected by the economic crisis. This study accounts for the effects by comparing the fertility responses of nonnationals with nationals (in terms of ‘quantum’ and ‘tempo’), while assessing the role of compositional changes on the decline of nonnationals’ fertility before, during and after the recession in Italy. It also determines whether and how responses to economic conditions differentially affected the fertility of nonnationals and nationals based on the stage of the recession. We built a regional-level panel dataset for the period 2006–2018 and estimated several ordinary least squares regression models with regional and calendar year fixed effects to control for unobserved regional and period characteristics. Results show that nonnationals’ fertility responses were procyclical and more responsive to male than female unemployment. Fertility behaviours also responded to compositional effects, such as the increase in the stock of nonnational women coming from Eastern Europe and mixed marriages. The procyclical effect was stronger after 2009, primarily for nonnationals. Another important finding is that the greatest reduction in fertility was linked to age-specific unemployment among nonnational women aged 20–24 and 25–29. Finally, fertility responses of nationals were weaker independently of the observed unemployment measures.
High-performance thermoplastics obtained by fused filament fabrication: effects of harsh environmental conditions of power transformers
Authors: Costa Catarina , Lopes Pedro , Castro João , Matos João R. , Lopes Helena , Gouveia Joana R. , Pinto Sara M. , Ribeiro Inês , Oliveira Luís , Dutra Thiago Assis
Published: April 2024

In the evolving landscape of power transformers, the integration of advanced technologies, such as high-performance polymers obtained by Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), is crucial. This study investigates the compatibility and performance of various 3D-printed polymer materials—Biofila, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyphenylene Sulfone (PPSU), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (ULTEM 1010), and polyetheretherketone reinforced with 20% glass fiber (PEEK-GF20) for use in power transformer components. Through oil compatibility, dielectric strength, and kerosene compatibility evaluations, the study gauges their suitability for this application. The results reveal that PPSU, PEEK, and ULTEM 1010 exhibit promising characteristics, specifically in regard to dielectric breakdown voltage and kerosene and insulating oil compatibility. In contrast, Biofila presented severe cracking when exposed to the mineral oil and PVDF and PEEK-GF20 fall short in terms of dielectric strength, rendering them unsuitable. Kerosene compatibility assessments show minimal material changes, confirming that all studied materials have good resistance to this drying agent, commonly used on power transformers. This research aims to provides essential insights into material selection for a new generation of power transformer parts.