bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasensitive Electrochemiluminescence Biosensor with ZIF‐67@MXene as an Efficient Co‐Reaction Accelerator and Plasmonic Nanozyme as a Smart Signal Amplification Probe
Authors: Wang Jing , Hong Ran , Yang Zhen , Meng Xingxing , Wu Rui , Liu Zhiguo , Li Chuanping
Published: September 2024

Exploring novel electrochemiluminescence (ECL) co‐reaction accelerators to construct ultrasensitive sensing systems is a prominent focus for developing advanced ECL sensors. However, challenges still remain in finding highly efficient accelerators and understanding their promoting mechanisms. In this paper, ZIF‐67@MXene nanosheet composites, with highly conductive in‐plane structure and confined‐stable pore/channel, are designed to act as high‐efficient co‐reaction accelerators and achieve a significant enhancement in the luminol‐H2O2 based ECL system. Mechanism investigation suggests that hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and singlet oxygen (1O2) can be selectively and preferentially generated on ZIF‐67@MXene due to the stable and efficient absorption of ·OH and 1O2, leading to a remarkable enhancement in the ECL efficiency of luminol (830%). Finally, by designing a plasmonic NH2‐MIL‐88@Pd nanozyme, an “on‐off” switch immunosensor is constructed for the detection of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA). Based on the multiple signal amplification effect, the linear detection range for PSA is expanded by three orders of magnitude. The detection limit is also improved from 1.44 × 10−11 to 9.1 × 10−13 g mL−1. This work proposes an effective method for the preparation of highly efficient co‐reaction accelerators and provides a new strategy for the sensitive detection of cancer markers.
Influence of Central Coke Ratio on the Internal State of Blast Furnace
Authors: Liu Pengbo , Cheng Shusen , Liu Zhao
Published: September 2024

Central coke charging (CCC) is a widely used burden distribution method for blast furnaces (BFs). Adjusting the central coke ratio can change the burden temperature field and affect the smooth operation of BF. This study presents a coupled physical and mathematical model, incorporating particle motion, gas flow, and heat transfer between the burden and gas in two 5500 m3 BFs. The central coke ratios of the blast furnace A (BFA) and blast furnace B (BFB) is 15% and 20%, respectively. The root positions of the cohesive zone in the BFA and BFB are in the lower part of the stack and bosh zones, respectively. In the central area of the BF, the gas flow rate, gas temperature, and burden temperature of the BFB are higher. In the edge area of the BF, the gas flow rate, gas temperature, and burden temperature of the BFA are higher. The actual top gas temperature and gas pressure verify the accuracy of the proposed model. This model investigates the influence of the central coke ratio on the position of the cohesive zone, gas flow rate, gas temperature, and burden temperature, providing a cost‐effective method for studying the effect of the burden distribution matrix on the internal state of the BF.
Functional characterization of protein SUMOylation in the miRNA transcription regulation during heat stress in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xia Simin , Chen Yue , Lai Jianbin , Zhang Zhonghui , Yang Chengwei , Han Danlu
Published: September 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role as non‐coding‐RNA‐type epigenetic regulators in response to high‐temperature stress in plants. There are crucial roles for global transcriptional regulation under SUMO (small ubiquitin‐related MOdifier) stress response (SSR). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying its downstream regulation remain unclear. In this study, SUMO‐specific chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing analysis detected specific binding in the promoter region of miRNAs under high‐temperature stress. A correlation analysis between this binding and miRNA profiling revealed that the location of SUMO on the chromosome was correlated with the expression pattern of miRNAs, particularly miR398a and miR824a. In contrast, knockout mutants of the SSR‐dependent SUMO E3 ligase SAP AND MIZ 1 in Arabidopsis exhibited opposing trends in target gene expression for the SUMO‐related miRNAs compared to the wild type. Multi‐omics correlation analyses identified 34 SUMO‐candidate proteins that might be involved in the regulation of miRNA response to high‐temperature stress. Therefore, we propose a potential model whereby high‐temperature exposure induces nuclear entry of SUMO molecules, modifying specific transcription factors that bind to miRNA gene promoters and potentially regulate miRNA expression.
Tree-level R4 correction from O(d, d): NS-NS five-point terms
Authors: Wulff Linus
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The tree-level string effective action reduced from D to D − d dimensions possesses a continuous O(d, d) symmetry, closely related to T-duality. A necessary condition for a higher derivative correction to preserve this symmetry is that certain O(d, d) violating terms which appear in the dimensional reduction have to cancel out. We use this idea to complete the quartic Riemann correction with all terms involving five NS-NS sector fields. The resulting Lagrangian is considerably simpler than expressions that have previously appeared in the literature.
Spontaneous CP violation in supersymmetric QCD
Authors: Nakagawa Shota , Nakai Yuichiro , Wang Yaoduo
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We investigate a composite model of spontaneous CP violation based on a new supersymmetric QCD as a solution to the strong CP problem. The scalar components of the meson chiral superfields obtain complex vacuum expectation values to break CP symmetry spontaneously. Then, wavefunction renormalization for the quark kinetic terms provides the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa (CKM) phase, while the strong CP phase $$ \overline{\theta} $$

θ
¯

is protected by nonrenormalization of the superpotential and hermiticity of the wavefunction renormalization factor. In our model, the right-handed down-type quark multiplets are given by composite states, enhancing their couplings to CP breaking fields, which is essential to realize the observed CKM phase. The non-perturbative dynamics generates the scale of spontaneous CP violation hierarchically lower than the Planck scale. We discuss potential corrections to $$ \overline{\theta} $$

θ
¯

and find a viable parameter space of the model to solve the strong CP problem without fine-tuning.
Effect of seven baking lipases on the lipid class composition of three different cakes
Authors: Stemler Charlotte Dorothea , Hoefflin Katharina Lea , Scherf Katharina Anne
Published: September 2024

Lipases are effective clean-label improvers for the baking quality of cake. Insights into lipase activities in different cake formulations in combination with the effect on batter/dough and baking quality are needed to further reveal the underlying mechanisms. Therefore, a method using normal phase high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to an evaporative light scattering detector was adapted and validated for the five most abundant lipid classes in three common cake recipes, namely triacylglycerols, diacylglycerols, monoacylglycerols, glycerophosphocholine and lysoglycerophosphocholine. The method revealed total changes of 0.2 mg/g to 186.5 mg/g in lipid class content per dry weight after lipase treatments. Comparative investigations on batter/dough and products of basic cake, pound cake and brioche without or with addition of seven lipases showed that the substrate specificity of lipases is the decisive factor for their effectiveness regarding improved dough and product quality. A high lipase activity only supported already matching substrate specificities.

Graphical abstract
Patient safety incidents in paediatric radiology: how to care for the professional?
Authors: Nievelstein Rutger A. J. , Hennus Marije P. , van Dam Marjel
Published: September 2024

Patient safety incidents in paediatric radiology have profound impacts not only on the patient and their family, but also on the well-being and professional practice of healthcare professionals. These incidents, which range from procedural and diagnostic incidents to serious adverse events leading to harm or even death of the patient, may evoke feelings of distress, guilt, and anxiety among paediatric radiologists (in-training), ultimately affecting their confidence and ability to deliver high-quality care. Recognizing the importance of addressing these challenges, healthcare organizations should implement strategies to support professionals in coping with and learning from these incidents. By fostering a culture of open communication, providing access to peer support, and offering structured debriefing and educational opportunities, healthcare institutions can help mitigate the psychological toll of patient safety incidents and promote resilience among their staff. This article examines the multifaceted impacts of patient safety incidents on paediatric radiologists (in-training) and their staff and outlines effective approaches for handling these incidents to support professional well-being and enhance patient safety.

Graphical abstract
The observation that older men suffer from hip fracture at DXA T-scores higher than older women and a proposal of a new low BMD category, osteofrailia, for predicting fracture risk in older men
Authors: Wáng Yì Xiáng J. , Xiao Ben-Heng , Leung Jason C. S. , Griffith James F. , Aparisi Gómez Maria Pilar , Bazzocchi Alberto , Diacinti Davide , Chan Wing P. , Guermazi Ali , Kwok Timothy C. Y.
Published: September 2024

The clinical significance of osteoporosis lies in the occurrence of fragility fractures (FFx), and the most relevant fracture site is the hip. The T-score is defined as follows: (BMDpatient–BMDyoung adult mean)/SDyoung adult population, where BMD is bone mineral density and SD is the standard deviation. When the femoral neck (FN) is measured in adult Caucasian women, a cutpoint value of patient BMD of 2.5 SD below the young adult mean BMD results in a prevalence the same as the lifetime risk of hip FFx for Caucasian women. The FN T-score criterion for classifying osteoporosis in older Caucasian men has been provisionally recommended to be − 2.5, but debates remain. Based on a systematic literature review, we noted that older men suffer from hip FFx at a FN T-score approximately 0.5–0.6 higher than older women. While the mean hip FFx FN T-score of around − 2.9 for women lies below − 2.5, the mean hip FF FN T-score of around − 2.33 for men lies above − 2.5. This is likely associated with that older male populations have a higher mean T-score than older female populations. We propose a new category of low BMD status, osteofrailia, for older Caucasian men with T-score ≤  − 2 (T-score ≤  − 2.1 for older Chinese men) who are likely to suffer from hip FFx. The group with T-score ≤  − 2 for older Caucasian men is comparable in prevalence to the group with T-score ≤  − 2.5 for older Caucasian women. However, older men in such category on average have only half the FFx risk as that of older women with osteoporotic T-score.
Evaluating the impact of surgery sequence on infection rates in hip or knee arthroplasty: does sequence matter?
Authors: Ruangsomboon Pakpoom , Ruangsomboon Onlak , Tomescu Sebastian , Rahman Cristal , Pincus Daniel , Ravi Bheeshma
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The potential influence of surgical sequence of elective hip-and-knee reconstructive surgery in relation to an infection-related procedure on postoperative infection rates is not clearly understood. Therefore, we aimed to examine the impact of surgical sequence on the incidence of postoperative infections within one-year and the longest available follow-up period in patients undergoing hip-and-knee reconstructive surgery.

Methods

A case-control study with propensity matching was utilized to examine elective surgeries conducted at Sunnybrook Holland Orthopaedic & Arthritic centre, Toronto, Canada between 2015 and 2018. We determined and categorized them based on their operating room (OR) sequence in relation to an infected case; the cases were those performed right after (post-infection cohort), and the controls were those performed before an infection-related procedure in the same OR (pre-infection cohort). We employed survival analysis to compare the infection incidence within one year and at the longest available follow-up among the propensity-matched cohort.

Results

A total of 13,651 cases were identified during the four year period. We successfully matched 153 cases (21 post-infection and 132 pre-infection) using propensity scores. Demographic and clinical characteristics were balanced through matching. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed no significant difference in infection-free survival within one year and at a median follow-up of 2.2 years [interquartile range 0.9-5.0] between surgeries conducted before and after infected cases (both log-rank p-values = 0.4). The hazard ratios for infection within one year and the longest follow-up period were both 0.37 [95%Confidence Interval 0.03–4.09, p = 0.418], as no more events occurred after one year.

Conclusion

The sequence of surgical procedures, whether or not an elective arthroplasty or lower limb reconstructive procedure occurs before or after an infection-related case in the same OR, does not significantly affect postoperative infection rates. This finding supports the efficacy of the current infection control measures and suggests a reconsideration of surgical scheduling standards.
Exploring the Implementation of UNESCO’s MAB Program in South Africa: A Case Study of the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve
Authors: Klaver Michael , Currie Bianca , Sekonya James G. , Coetzer Kaera
Published: September 2024

The Man and the Biosphere Program (MAB) responds to challenges of the Anthropocene through an explicit social-ecological approach. Implemented as a world network of biosphere reserves, MAB aims to increase [eco]system sustainability and resilience globally, via individual model sites for learning and sustainable development. This research provides an in-depth case study of MAB implementation in South Africa using the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve (CWBR), established in 2007 when a key MAB guiding policy, the Madrid Action Plan came into effect. The study utilized semi-structured in-depth interviews with strategic and operational management, and document analysis. The CWBR prioritizes their role as a landscape coordinator, a driver of socio-economic development and site in which humans derive benefits from healthy natural environments. The CWBR have adopted a non-profit organization cooperative governance model in support of this vision, fulfilling the socio-economic development function primarily through successful international partnerships. Challenges faced include a perceived lack of sufficient government support, limited stakeholder awareness and insufficient resources for project implementation. Over reliance on the pillar of their model, the chief executive officer in the current governance form, is an instrument in their effectiveness, yet carries significant risk. These are learnings useful for other biosphere reserves translating an international designation for a local context.
Real-world response assessment of immune checkpoint inhibition: comparing iRECIST and RECIST 1.1 in melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Nelles Christian , Gräf Moritz , Bernard Pascale , Persigehl Thorsten , Große Hokamp Nils , Zopfs David , Maintz David , Kreuzberg Nicole , Wolf Jürgen , Bröckelmann Paul J. , Lennartz Simon
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To compare immune response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (iRECIST) and response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST) 1.1 for response assessment of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in a real-world setting in patients with melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Two-hundred fifty-two patients with melanoma and NSCLC who received CTLA-4 inhibitor ipilimumab or PD-1 inhibitors nivolumab or pembrolizumab and who underwent staging CT of the chest and abdomen were retrospectively included. Treatment response evaluation according to the RECIST 1.1 and iRECIST guidelines was performed for all patients. Response patterns, as well as overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and time to progression (TTP), were compared between RECIST 1.1 and iRECIST.

Results

Out of 143 patients with progressive disease (PD) according to RECIST 1.1, 48 (33.6%) did not attain confirmation of progression (iCPD) as per iRECIST and six patients who were treated beyond RECIST 1.1 progression reached PD at a later point in time in iRECIST, resulting in a significant difference in TTP between iRECIST and RECIST 1.1 (618.3 ± 626.9 days vs. 538.1 ± 617.9 days, respectively (p < 0.05)). The number of non-responders as per RECIST 1.1 was 79, whereas it was 60 when using iRECIST. ORR was 28.5% for RECIST 1.1 and 34.1% for iRECIST, and corresponding DCR of 67.4% for RECIST 1.1 and 74.6% for iRECIST.

Conclusion

iRECIST was more suitable than RECIST 1.1 for capturing atypical response patterns to ICI therapy in patients with melanoma and NSCLC, resulting in differences in the assessment of treatment response.

Clinical relevance statement

Compared to RECIST 1.1, iRECIST may improve patient care and treatment decisions for patients with NSCLC or melanoma who are treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical routine.

Key Points

RECIST 1.1 may incorrectly assess atypical treatment patterns to immune checkpoint inhibitors.

iRECIST better captured atypical response patterns compared to RECIST 1.1.

iRECIST was more suitable for assessing response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in non-small cell lung carcinoma and melanoma.
A 10-year retrospective analysis of sudden unexpected death in the young investigated at Salt River Mortuary, Cape Town
Authors: Swart Micaela Louise , Vandayar Yuvika , Mole Calvin Gerald , Oghenechovwen Ogheneochuko , Hamadziripi Dirk , Heathfield Laura Jane
Published: September 2024

Sudden unexpected death in the young (SUDY) is defined as the rapid, unsuspected demise of an apparently healthy individual between the ages of one and 40 years. There is a gap in research pertaining to this population in a South African context. This retrospective study aimed to explore the burden, scope of post-mortem investigation, and risk factors of SUDY admissions to Salt River Mortuary (SRM) in Cape Town between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2019. Medico-legal case files pertaining to SUDY cases from SRM were reviewed. SRM received a total of 34 601 admissions in the 10-year period; of which 1 997 (5.77%) were SUDY cases. Nearly two-thirds (62.59%) of the SUDY admissions were male. The leading cause of death was pneumonia (17.11%), and the most prevalent organ system implicated in cause of death was the pulmonary system (45.19%). At least 32.46% of SUDY cases were infectious-related, with varying degrees of confidence. A large proportion of cases had no history of acute or chronic illness (45.43%), and no family history of illness (56.66%). In total, 52 potential candidates were identified for a molecular autopsy, of which 47 have stored biological samples for future investigations. This study advocates for the routine performance of post-mortem ancillary microbiological and toxicological testing in cases of SUD, considering the large burden of infectious disease and substance abuse in South Africa. The retention of biological samples in undetermined or non-specific natural cases is also urged, to allow for cause of death determination on a molecular level.
Levetiracetam versus carbamazepine monotherapy in the management of pediatric focal epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Martins Jefferson Manoel Borges , Vieira Paula Larissa Ferreira , Gosch Berton Giovanni , Karlinski Vizentin Vanessa , dos Santos Borges Rafael , Chaves Vieira Ana Livia , Sefer Celina Cláudia Israel , Chermont Aurimery Gomes
Published: September 2024

Levetiracetam (LEV) and carbamazepine (CBZ) are effective monotherapies for focal epilepsy in children. However, the best drug remains controversial. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing LEV and CBZ monotherapy in the management of pediatric focal epilepsy (PFE). We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published until February 2024 comparing LEV and CBZ monotherapy in PFE. Statistical analysis was performed using R version 4.2.2, heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics, and the risk of bias was evaluated using the RoB-2 tool. Risk Ratios (RR) with p < 0.05 were considered significant. The outcomes of interest were seizure freedom, any adverse events, adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation, dermatologic adverse events, and the frequency of at least one seizure, defined as the proportion of patients experiencing one or more seizures during the treatment period. Four RCTs comprising 381 children with a mean age of 7.32 to 9.28 years were included, of whom 186 (48.8%) received LEV monotherapy. There was no significant difference between groups (RR: 1.15; 95% CI 0.88–1.50; p = 0.31; I2 = 90%) regarding seizure freedom. The frequency of at least one seizure (RR: 0.71; 95% CI 0.52–0.97; p = 0.03; I2 = 8%) and dermatologic adverse events (RR: 0.24; 95% CI 0.09–0.64; p < 0.01; I2 = 0%) were both significantly lower in the LEV group. There were no significant differences in the presence of any adverse events (RR: 0.58; 95% CI 0.33–1.01; p = 0.05; I2 = 36%) or adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation (RR: 0.67; 95% CI 0.13–3.42; p = 0.63; I2 = 30%).

Conclusion: In monotherapy, LEV was more advantageous than CBZ for PFE, with a lower frequency of seizures and fewer dermatological adverse events. However, both drugs are equally effective in achieving seizure freedom, adverse events without specification, and those that lead to treatment discontinuation. Our findings have important implications for clinical practice and decision-making in this condition.

What is Known:

• Both LEV and CBZ are effective monotherapies for pediatric focal epilepsy.

• The use of LEV or CBZ monotherapy for the management of children with focal epilepsy remains controversial.

What is New:

• No significant differences were observed between the LEV and CBZ groups in terms of overall seizure freedom, safety, and tolerance.

• However, LEV resulted in a lower frequency of at least one seizure and fewer dermatological adverse events than CBZ.
Concentric remodeling and the metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease in patients with type 1 diabetes: an exploratory study
Authors: Czarnik Klaudia , Sablik Zbigniew , Borkowska Anna , Drożdż Jarosław , Cypryk Katarzyna
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Diabetic cardiomyopathy in young patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) usually presents as asymptomatic diastolic heart dysfunction with left ventricle (LV) remodeling. Its prevalence seems to be underestimated. One of the factors seemingly influencing LV remodeling is a metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which was extensively investigated in patients with type 2 diabetes but not with T1D. This study aimed to describe the correlation between MASLD risk and relative wall thickness (RWT) in young patients with T1D without heart failure symptoms or treatment.

Materials and methods

Study participants were recruited at the inpatient diabetology department, in admission order. Patients underwent a set of laboratory tests and echocardiographic examinations. The risk of MASLD was estimated using fatty liver index (FLI). Acquired data was then statistically analyzed.

Results

The study group consisted of 55 patients. 25 participants had RWT > 0.42, suggesting LV remodeling. Study participants did not differ in HbA1c, NT-proBNP, HDL, LDL, non-HDL, and uric acid concentrations. However, patients with RWT > 0.42 had higher FLI (40.97 vs. 13.82, p < 0.01) and BMI (27.3 vs. 22.5, p < 0.01) and differed in transaminase concentrations. Moreover, patients with RWT > 0.42 had significantly higher LV mass index (85.6 vs. 68.2 g/m2) and altered mitral ring velocities. In univariable logistic regression, FLI correlated with LV remodeling risk (OR 1.028, p = 0.05). The optimal cutoff point for FLI predicting the RWT > 0.42 was 26.38 (OR 10.6, p = 0.04, sensitivity 0.857, specificity 0.657).

Conclusions

FLI correlates with RWT in patients with T1D independently of diabetes metabolic control and hypothetically may support recognizing T1D patients with a higher risk of LV remodeling.
Cu(β-diketonato)2 bathochromic shifts from the ultraviolet towards the visible region
Authors: Conradie Marrigje M.
Published: September 2024

Context

The DFT-calculated ultraviolet/visible properties of 11 different Cu(β-diketonato)2 complexes are presented. The selected β-diketonato ligands on the Cu complex contain none, one or two aromatic rings. The experimentally measured absorbance maxima range of the ultraviolet/visible is observed at 295–390 nm, and the calculated range is 302–425 nm, for the 11 complexes in this study. More aromatic rings on the ligand lead to bathochromic shifts of the experimentally measured absorbance maxima from the ultraviolet towards the visible region. Absorbance maxima of the Cu(β-diketonato)2 complexes with no aromatic rings on the ligand are found to be predominantly ligand-to-metal charge transfer excitations, whereas introducing one or two aromatic rings shifts the excitations to predominantly ligand-to-ligand charge transfer.

Methods

DFT calculations were conducted on the neutral molecules with multiplicity 2, using the PBEh1PBE functional and the aug-cc-pVDZ basis set as implemented in the Gaussian 16 package. The selected solvent was acetonitrile, the solvent in which most of the experimental UV/Vis are reported. The molecules were all optimized in the solvent phase, using the IEFPCM. The initial coordinates for the compounds were generated using Chemcraft.

Highlights

TDDFT of 11 different Cu(β-diketonato)2 complexes follow the experimental trend.

Aromatic rings on the ligand lead to Bathochromic shifts of UV/Visible spectra.

No aromatic rings on the ligand lead to ligand-to-metal charge transfer excitations.

Aromatic rings on the ligand lead to ligand-to-ligand charge transfer excitations.

Graphical abstract

Bathochromic shifts in eco-friendly Cu(β-diketonato)2.
Revisiting Fishery Sustainability Targets
Authors: Cattoni Vincent , South Leah F. , Warne David J. , Boettiger Carl , Thakran Bhavya , Holden Matthew H.
Published: September 2024

Density-dependent population dynamic models strongly influence many of the world’s most important harvest policies. Nearly all classic models (e.g. Beverton-Holt and Ricker) recommend that managers maintain a population size of roughly 40–50 percent of carrying capacity to maximize sustainable harvest, no matter the species’ population growth rate. Such insights are the foundational logic behind most sustainability targets and biomass reference points for fisheries. However, a simple, less-commonly used model, called the Hockey-Stick model, yields very different recommendations. We show that the optimal population size to maintain in this model, as a proportion of carrying capacity, is one over the population growth rate. This leads to more conservative optimal harvest policies for slow-growing species, compared to other models, if all models use the same growth rate and carrying capacity values. However, parameters typically are not fixed; they are estimated after model-fitting. If the Hockey-Stick model leads to lower estimates of carrying capacity than other models, then the Hockey-Stick policy could yield lower absolute population size targets in practice. Therefore, to better understand the population size targets that may be recommended across real fisheries, we fit the Hockey-Stick, Ricker and Beverton-Holt models to population time series data across 284 fished species from the RAM Stock Assessment database. We found that the Hockey-Stick model usually recommended fisheries maintain population sizes higher than all other models (in 69–81% of the data sets). Furthermore, in 77% of the datasets, the Hockey-Stick model recommended an optimal population target even higher than 60% of carrying capacity (a widely used target, thought to be conservative). However, there was considerable uncertainty in the model fitting. While Beverton-Holt fit several of the data sets best, Hockey-Stick also frequently fit similarly well. In general, the best-fitting model rarely had overwhelming support (a model probability of greater than 95% was achieved in less than five percent of the datasets). A computational experiment, where time series data were simulated from all three models, revealed that Beverton-Holt often fit best even when it was not the true model, suggesting that fisheries data are likely too small and too noisy to resolve uncertainties in the functional forms of density-dependent growth. Therefore, sustainability targets may warrant revisiting, especially for slow-growing species.
Relational Persistent Homology for Multispecies Data with Application to the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Stolz Bernadette J. , Dhesi Jagdeep , Bull Joshua A. , Harrington Heather A. , Byrne Helen M. , Yoon Iris H. R.
Published: September 2024

Topological data analysis (TDA) is an active field of mathematics for quantifying shape in complex data. Standard methods in TDA such as persistent homology (PH) are typically focused on the analysis of data consisting of a single entity (e.g., cells or molecular species). However, state-of-the-art data collection techniques now generate exquisitely detailed multispecies data, prompting a need for methods that can examine and quantify the relations among them. Such heterogeneous data types arise in many contexts, ranging from biomedical imaging, geospatial analysis, to species ecology. Here, we propose two methods for encoding spatial relations among different data types that are based on Dowker complexes and Witness complexes. We apply the methods to synthetic multispecies data of a tumor microenvironment and analyze topological features that capture relations between different cell types, e.g., blood vessels, macrophages, tumor cells, and necrotic cells. We demonstrate that relational topological features can extract biological insight, including the dominant immune cell phenotype (an important predictor of patient prognosis) and the parameter regimes of a data-generating model. The methods provide a quantitative perspective on the relational analysis of multispecies spatial data, overcome the limits of traditional PH, and are readily computable.
Additive manufacturing of interlocking glass masonry units
Authors: Massimino Daniel , Townsend Ethan , Folinus Charlotte , Stern Michael , Becker Kaitlyn
Published: September 2024

In comparison to traditional glass casting, glass additive manufacturing (AM) presents an opportunity to increase design flexibility and reduce tooling costs for the production of highly variable geometries. While the latter has been extensively explored for masonry units, there is minimal research on the former for its viability to produce structural building components. This paper encompasses design, manufacturing, and experimental testing to assess the feasibility of using glass AM to produce interlocking masonry units for the construction industry. The glass 3D printer employed in this study is capable of printing a maximum volume of 32.5 $$\times $$
×
32.5 $$\times $$
×
38 cm–suitable for producing full-size masonry units. As part of this work, we discuss how to adapt design guidelines for glass AM to produce interlocking units. To evaluate fabrication ease and structural performance, three fabrication methods, Fully Hollow, Print-Cast, and Fully Printed, are compared. To compare the accuracy, repeatability, and structural capacity of each masonry unit, geometric analysis, surface roughness, and mechanical testing is conducted. Results varied by fabrication method, with average strength ranging from 3.64$$-$$
-
42.3 MPa for initial fracture and 64.0–118 MPa for ultimate strength. Accuracy in print dimensions was less than 1 mm with a standard deviation of 0.14–1.6 mm. Results demonstrated that Fully Hollow masonry units provide a more immediate path to implementation, while Fully Printed units have the potential to provide an entirely glass, transparent, and circular building component fabrication method.
Mapping and visualizing global knowledge on planetary health in the climate change context: a comprehensive exploration of insights, trends, and research priorities
Authors: Zyoud Shaher , Zyoud Ahed H.
Published: September 2024

Climate change presents a substantial global threat to human health and wellbeing. Planetary health, an emerging field, provides a comprehensive framework to comprehend the intricate interplay between ecological stability, human health, and ecosystems, particularly within the context of climate change. This study investigates the planetary health perspective on climate change by exploring global knowledge. The Scopus database is used as the source of data. The analysis encompassed a performance evaluation aimed at scrutinizing both quantitative and qualitative indicators. Visualization techniques utilizing VOSviewer software were deployed to analyze collaboration patterns, co-citation links among prominent knowledge-sharing platforms, and key topics derived from keyword co-occurrence matrices. Additionally, using SciMAT software, the study conducted thematic evolution and intellectual analyses to identify both driving and emerging themes, while also examining coherence among different themes across various periods. The study also explores policy implications, and the relevance of COVID-19 in the context of planetary health and climate change. Through this analysis, 261 relevant publications are identified, with the United States being the leading contributor (90 documents; 34.5% of publications). At the institutional level, the Australian National University secured the top position, representing 4.6% of the total with 12 documents. The Lancet Planetary Health journal was the most prolific source, contributing 15 documents (5.7%). In terms of impact, The Lancet journal held a central position as the most cited source. The primary funding organization was the Wellcome Trust, based in the United Kingdom. Motor themes shaping the future of this field include vector-borne diseases, human demographics, informal settlements, air pollution, carbon footprint of animal-based foods, and pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors. The study underscores the significance of leveraging the momentum surrounding infectious diseases like COVID-19 and the impacts of climate change to advance planetary health concepts. Integration of the social sciences and enhanced multidisciplinary cooperation are crucial for progress. Additionally, increased funding for developing countries, and legislative empowerment are essential to foster further research.
NGEU: A New Marshall Plan for Europe and a Template for Global Finance
Authors: Kempf Elena , Linos Katerina
Published: September 2024

In April 2020, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen called for a “Marshall Plan for Europe.”1 Almost a year after her appeal, the European Union implemented the recovery and resilience program Next Generation EU (NGEU). NGEU, we show, shares several features with the Marshall Plan, including size, redistributive allocation, conditional grantmaking, and the pursuit of a distinct political agenda. But the new Marshall Plan also differs from the old. NGEU is financed through common EU debt rather than an infusion of funds from the United States. Marshall aid was disbursed almost entirely as grants, while NGEU funds consist of a mix of grants and loans. Further, NGEU is unprecedented in distributing grants in exchange for post-austerity and climate-friendly reforms and investments, rather than budget cuts. This alternative model, we argue, can serve as a template for international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
The EU Treaties as a Living Constitution of the Union in Times of Crisis
Authors: de Gregorio Merino Alberto
Published: September 2024

Since 2009, the European Union has undergone a succession of crises. It is even said to be in a sort of permacrisis: the financial crisis; the debt and euro crisis; the migration crisis; the rule of law crisis afflicting some of its member states; the process of withdrawal of the UK from the Union; the pandemic crisis; and the war in Ukraine.
Demographic change, secular stagnation, and inequality: automation as a blessing?
Authors: Jacobs Arthur , Heylen Freddy
Published: September 2024

We study whether the increased adoption of available automation technologies allows economies to avoid the negative effect of aging on per capita output. We develop a quantitative theory in which firms choose to which extent they automate in response to a declining workforce and rising old-age dependency. An important element in our model is the integration of two capital types: automation capital that acts as a substitute to human labor, and traditional capital that is a complement to labor. Empirically, our model's predictions largely match data regarding automation (robotization) density across OECD countries. Simulating the model, we find that aging-induced automation only partially compensates the negative growth effect of aging in the absence of technical progress in automation technology. One reason is that automated tasks are no perfect substitutes for non-automated tasks. A second reason is that automation raises the interest rate and thus inhibits positive behavioral reactions to aging (later retirement and investment in human capital). Moreover, increased automation generates a falling net labor share of income and rising welfare inequality. We evaluate alternative policy responses to cope with this inequality.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown: A Systematic Review of Risk Factors for Motor Vehicle–Related Drowning in Floods and its Preventive Strategies
Authors: Haghdoost Zahra , Yousefzadeh-Chabok Shahrokh , Homaie Rad Enayatollah
Published: September 2024

Objective

Exposure to flood, one of the most widespread disasters caused by natural hazards, increases the risk of drowning. Driving through flooded waterways is a cause of death due to flood-related drowning, especially in flood-prone areas. This study aimed at identifying the risk factors for motor vehicle–related drowning in floods and its prevention strategies.

Methods

International and national databases (WOS, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Magiran, and SID) were searched in the time span from 2000 to 2022. The studies investigating the risk factors relevant to land motor vehicle–related drowning in floods and its prevention strategies were included and analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Results

In 14 eligible studies, risk factors for land motor vehicle–related drowning in floods were identified and categorized in 3 subthemes: driver (3 categories: socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge and attitude, and beliefs); technology (1 category: land motor vehicles); and environment (2 categories: physical and socio-economic environment). Physical and structural measures (1 category: road safety improvement) and nonstructural measures (4 categories: research and education and raising awareness, risk management, promoting social-cognitive beliefs, and reconstruction and improvement of legal infrastructure) were proposed as drowning prevention strategies.

Conclusions

The knowledge, attitude, and belief of the driver; the vehicle; and the environment were the most important risk factors of driving through flooded waterways. These factors should be considered when designing programs and physical and structural strategies for future interventions to curb this dangerous and potentially fatal driving behavior.
Design Criteria of Shelter Hospitals in Response to Biological Accidents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moradi Maryam , Sharififar Simintaj , Zareiyan Armin , Hoseyni Shokuh Seyyed-Javad , Nasiri Ali
Published: September 2024

Background

The appropriate response to mass causality biological events requires well-established preparedness and providing a surge capacity. In such a situation, a practical solution is to convert large public venues into shelter hospitals. Due to the lack of a guideline for the transformation of a large public center into a hospital, the present study collected the design criteria for the transformation of public buildings into shelter hospitals in response to biological events such as epidemics or mass causality biological accidents.

Methods

The keywords were searched in Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases until November 2021. This systematic review was conducted using terms related to mass causality biological accidents, shelter hospitals, and design criteria.

Results

Of 1802 extracted articles, duplicates (n = 280) and unrelated publications (n = 1342) were left out in the initial evaluation. Among 180 remained papers, 29 records satisfied our criteria after reviewing abstracts and full texts. Most of the included studies were related to the transformation of public venues into hospitals in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The investigated themes included site selection, layout and structure, waste and wastewater management, ventilation, communication, food and medicine delivery, humanitarians and social supports, post-treatment care, and Management measures.

Conclusions

In summary, large public venues are highly recommended alternatives for surge capacity in response to mass causality biological accidents. However, the main challenges for using these centers are the provision of basic requirements such as water and electricity, ventilation, and available space.
DCG-GAN: design concept generation with generative adversarial networks
Authors: Ghasemi Parisa , Yuan Chenxi , Marion Tucker , Moghaddam Mohsen
Published: September 2024

Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have recently been proposed as a potentially disruptive approach to generative design due to their remarkable ability to generate visually appealing and realistic samples. Yet, we show that the current generator-discriminator architecture inherently limits the ability of GANs as a design concept generation (DCG) tool. Specifically, we conduct a DCG study on a large-scale dataset based on a GAN architecture to advance the understanding of the performance of these generative models in generating novel and diverse samples. Our findings, derived from a series of comprehensive and objective assessments, reveal that while the traditional GAN architecture can generate realistic samples, the generated and style-mixed samples closely resemble the training dataset, exhibiting significantly low creativity. We propose a new generic architecture for DCG with GANs (DCG-GAN) that enables GAN-based generative processes to be guided by geometric conditions and criteria such as novelty, diversity and desirability. We validate the performance of the DCG-GAN model through a rigorous quantitative assessment procedure and an extensive qualitative assessment involving 89 participants. We conclude by providing several future research directions and insights for the engineering design community to realize the untapped potential of GANs for DCG.
Coupled unsteady actuator disc and linear theory of an oscillating foil propulsor
Authors: Smyth Amanda S.M. , Nishino Takafumi , Zurman-Nasution Andhini N.
Published: September 2024

Linear unsteady aerofoil theory, while successfully used for the prediction of unsteady aerofoil lift for many decades, has yet to be proven adequate for predicting the propulsive performance of oscillating aerofoils. In this paper we test the hypothesis that the central shortcoming of linear small-amplitude models, such as the Garrick function, is the failure to account for the flow acceleration caused by aerofoil thrust. A new analytical model is developed by coupling the Garrick function to a cycle-averaged actuator disc model, in a manner analogous to the blade-element momentum theory for wind turbines and propellers. This amounts to assuming the Garrick function to be locally valid and, in combination with a global control volume analysis, enables the prediction of flow acceleration at the aerofoil. The new model is demonstrated to substantially improve the agreement with large-eddy simulations of an aerofoil in combined heave and pitch motion.
Caregiver-reported barriers to engagement in a paediatric fresh fruit and vegetable prescription programme
Authors: Saxe-Custack Amy , Egan Sarah , Farmer Bridget , Pulka Kimberly , Sampson Anna
Published: September 2024

Paediatric fruit and vegetable prescription programmes hold promise in improving food security and dietary patterns among youth. However, programme success is largely dependent upon caregiver and family engagement. The current study sought to gain a better understanding of environmental barriers to engagement in a paediatric fruit and vegetable prescription programme in one low-income, urban community (Flint, Michigan, USA). Following the implementation of a paediatric fruit and vegetable prescription programme, researchers conducted thirty-two semi-structured interviews with caregivers. Researchers explored caregivers’ understanding of the fruit and vegetable prescription programme, barriers to programme engagement, and recommendations for improvement. Telephone interviews were transcribed for textual analysis. Researchers used thematic analysis to examine qualitative data, determine patterns across transcripts, and develop emerging themes. Researchers concluded interviews when data saturation was reached. The majority of participants were female (94%), African American (66%), and residents of Flint (72%). Five recurrent themes emerged: (1) nutrition security; (2) prescription distribution; (3) prescription redemption; (4) educational supports; and (5) programme modifications. Although caregivers indicated that the prescription programme addressed household food insecurity, environmental barriers to engagement were apparent. Caregivers provided suggestions, such as partnering with large grocery stores and developing digital prescriptions, to address programme engagement challenges. Fundamental to the success of fruit and vegetable prescription programmes is the understanding of barriers to engagement from the perspective of participants. This study explores challenges with one paediatric fruit and vegetable prescription programme and provides actionable solutions, from the viewpoint of caregivers, to address these challenges.
Adolescent nutrition in Nigeria: a systematic review
Authors: Gabriel Theophilus Sunday , Kasim Mohammed , Oluma Francis Adah , Muka Taulant , Llanaj Erand
Published: September 2024

In this systematic review, we scrutinise adolescent nutrition in Nigeria, focusing on dietary patterns, intake, and nutritional status. Through a systematic examination of observational studies across three major databases, we analysed data from 67,844 adolescents. Our exploration revealed 102 studies, predominantly cross-sectional, addressing various nutritional dimensions. However, only 13% of these studies demonstrated low risk of bias, with none offering national representation and most concentrated in specific, school-based regions. The findings underscore a complex nutritional landscape with widespread malnutrition and highlight the critical need for high-quality, comprehensive data. The dominance of cross-sectional designs and regional biases in existing research calls for cautious interpretation and suggests a pressing need for more robust, nationally representative studies to guide future nutritional interventions and policy-making in Nigeria.