bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germany’s Television Landscape: Actors and Production Areas
Authors: Krauß Florian
Published: August 2024

This chapter begins the actual investigation of German television drama, starting with an introduction to its structures. It describes production areas and central players by focusing on programme commissioners—a role that, like that of the commissioning editor, has diversified considerably since the 2010s, due to pay TV and streaming services beginning to produce German TV series. The second part of the chapter focuses on production companies. These are a very decisive factor in television drama production in Germany, since they, and not the broadcasters themselves, are who generally produce the series and kick off the screenwriting process alongside the actual writers. Regarding the quality drama segment, this look at production companies shows that the boundaries between television and film are becoming increasingly blurred. In addition to the current quality production—which in Germany is mostly concretised in miniseries—the chapter presents other series types and production areas that shape the German television series landscape. Hybrid forms of television film and series as well as broadcasting slots are taken into account. Schedule placements continue to structure German series production up to the present day, and, despite the non-linear distribution channels enabled by the internet, they still represent an important reference point in practitioners’ negotiations.
Understanding Chilling Effects in Digital Spaces – A Study of Ugandan LGBT+ Advocacy in the Wake of the Draconian 2023 Anti-homosexuality Act
Authors: Strand Cecilia
Published: August 2024

Against the backdrop of the recently passed Ugandan Anti-homosexuality Act 2023 (AHA2023), which directly targets LGBT+ activist and their rights advocacy, this paper seeks to explore if the AHA2023 had a chilling effect on Ugandan LGBT+ activism in their key online social platform, Twitter. By comparing Twitter data sets from 2022 and 2023 quantitively and analyzing a post-AHA corpus comprising of 611 tweets qualitatively, the results indicate that AHA 2023 produced a chilling effect on the content level but not on the activity level. The AHA2023 did thus not silence Ugandan LGBT+ activists’ digital activism but appears to have impacted the content in some critical ways. Most concerning, Ugandan LGBT+ activists’ explicit self-penned demands for equal human rights almost disappear. Rights demands did not disappear from the Uganda LGBT+ Twittersphere but were primarily promoted and kept alive by international development, Western bilateral partners, and human rights allies. The long-term impact of the discursive shift in Ugandan LGBT+ activism is still unfolding, and it is arguably too early to identify the impact of the aforementioned troublesome chilling effects on content. There is, however, a reason to suspect that the loss of Ugandan voices will negatively impact efforts to challenge the post-colonial amnesia that sustains erroneous beliefs around African sexuality as singularly heterosexual. This case study can serve as a critical case for understanding the chilling effects caused by heavy-handed legislation. The study also seeks to contribute methodologically by offering insights into how chilling effects in digital spaces can be studied empirically.
The Close Proximity Impact of a Newly Constructed Large Cross-Section Twin-Arch Tunnel Crossing an Existing Tunnel
Authors: Hai Dapeng , Wei Liangwen , Su Guoqi , Zheng Jie , Wang Dan , Tian Wei , Tang Yu , Hua Zejian
Published: August 2024

With the Xinsen Avenue Tunnel Project in Chongqing Gaoxin District as the research context, this study investigates the degree of impact on an existing tunnel resulting from the construction of a new twin-arch tunnel that crosses over it. Utilizing finite element analysis methods, the study explores the displacement and stress variation patterns in the existing tunnel following the construction of the new tunnel, considering different clearances, crossing angles, and rock mass grade factors. Additionally, based on a composite discernment criterion involving additional stress and additional displacement, this study establishes longitudinal and transverse impact zones for intersecting tunnels. The research findings reveal that in terms of longitudinal impact, the clearance factor exerts a more substantial influence compared to rock mass grade and crossing angle factors. Regarding transverse impact, the area affected by parallel undercrossing is greater than that of parallel overcrossing, and the impact area is minimized when the new and existing tunnels are in a horizontally side-by-side configuration. The study's conclusions provide a theoretical basis and practical reference for the control of construction in similar large cross-section tunnel intersections.
Influence of 3% Barium Chloride as a Retarder on the Setting Time of Geopolymer Cement and Compressive Strength of Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Liu Conghui , Zhu Meichun
Published: August 2024

Addressing the issue of short setting time in geopolymer cement, this study focuses on common retarders in engineering, and explores the effect of retarders in alkali activated geopolymer cement systems, including the impact on the solidification time of geopolymer cement and the impact on the strength of geopolymer concrete after adding aggregates to prepare concrete. Using 1 and 3% Sucrose, Borax and barium chloride as retarders, comparative experiments were conducted to determine the setting time of geopolymer cement and the compressive strength of geopolymer concrete. Results indicate that, compared to Sucrose and Borax, barium chloride exhibited the most effective retarding effect on the setting time of geopolymer cement, with initial and final setting times reaching 265 and 420 min, respectively. Whatsmore, at concentrations ranging from 1 to 3%, sucrose, borax, and barium chloride as retarders had a minimal impact on the compressive strength of geopolymer concrete. This research provides a reference basis for the effectiveness and applicability of retarders in engineering applications.
Study on Permeability Performance and Prediction Model of Coal Gangue Pervious Concrete
Authors: Xia Junwu , Zhu Zhichun , Xu Enlai , Yu Linli
Published: August 2024

To expand the in-situ utilization of coal gangue in mining area and meet the demand of “sponge city”, the permeability coefficient, total porosity and effective porosity of coal gangue pervious concrete (CGPC) in different mixtures were deeply explored. The results show that the permeability coefficient of CGPC can reach 1.5 ~ 2 mm/s. In general, the permeability coefficient and porosity of CGPC increase as the aggregate particle size and designed porosity increase. Effective porosity is the key factor affecting the permeability coefficient of CGPC. More importantly, the prediction model of permeability coefficient of CGPC is established based on the mix proportion, providing a theoretical reference for the application of CGPC in pervious pavement of mining areas.
Experimental Research on Dry Shrinkage Property of High Performance Concrete
Authors: Ge Tao , Wu Han
Published: August 2024

In order to reveal the durability of high-performance concrete in underground engineering, 10 different mix ratios of dry shrinkage tests were conducted on high-performance concrete used in an underground civil air defense project. After three days’ age, we dismantle the mold and measure the base length. And then, make test-pieces stay in water at 20 ± 3 ℃ to test the first, seventh and fourteenth day’s length. After that, we move the test-pieces in the drying chamber to measure the twenty-eighth and ninetieth day’s length. We reach the impact of every aggregate dosage on concrete’s expansion and shrinkage rate. And we analysis high performance concrete’s crack resistance. At last, we reach the best mix proportion in the construction and dry shrinkage property, and summarize some necessary measures to prevent or reduce concrete shrinkage cracks.
Integrate the Methods of Linear Full Resonance with Quarter-Wavelength into Strong Motion Synthesis
Authors: Tao Zhiguo , Liu Shiyao , Tao Zhengru , Zhang Zhaoyue
Published: August 2024

The local site condition plays a crucial role in the study of strong ground motion, and much effort has been expended. The most common theoretical methods are linear full resonance (FR), quarter-wavelength (QWL), equivalent linear and nonlinear. We compare the site response from these two methods and the combination of them for the mainshock of the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake. The surface-borehole recordings at a far-field station FKOH01 and a near-fault station KMMH03 are selected as benchmark. Horizontal ground motions at these two borehole stations are simulated. The site effect is evaluated by three methods of FR, QWL and the combination QWL × FR. At FKOH01, PGAs from QWL × FR are larger than those from QWL and FR; at KMMH03, PGAs from QWL are larger than those from QWL × FR, and the latter are close to those from FR. A similar trend is observed in the comparison of response spectra. Compared with the records, QWL × FR can be adopted to evaluate the site response.
A Signal Processing Approach for Fracture Inversion Technique Utilizing Acoustic Emission Signal in Shale Hydraulic Fracturing Experiment
Authors: Yao Qiyang , Wang Sheng , Chen Yao , Shao Yanchao , Fan Xiaokun
Published: August 2024

In order to detect the fracture information inside the material, solve the problem of static flaw detection and dynamic monitoring of the material, this paper studies the processing method of acoustic emission signal based on the active excitation signal of shale surface and the data output from hydraulic fracturing test. Event detection is the preliminary signal processing, to obtain the event information conveyed by acoustic emission signal and capture the information of shale internal materials carried in signal transmission. Sound source location is calculated by dividing the unit and fitting the signal source position. Both spectrum analysis and tomography are used to locate static natural fractures. Through the analysis of signal data, the positioning situation of different methods is compared. Based on experimental data from laboratory shale hydraulic fracturing, this study uses Julia language to construct a processing model for acoustic emission signals. Through the research context of this paper, we hope to provide reference for Julia language in the field of acoustic emission signal processing.
Flavors of entanglement
Authors: Jokela Niko , Kastikainen Jani , Penín José Manuel , Ruotsalainen Helime
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We employ holography to investigate Liu-Mezei renormalization group monotones in conformal field theories influenced by massive flavor degrees of freedom. We examine the entanglement entropy of a spherical subregion in three holographic field theories — $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 Klebanov-Witten theory, $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM theory, and ABJM theory — with fundamental flavor. The gravity dual of massive unquenched flavor is described by dynamical D-branes, and we solve their backreaction in the smeared approximation. We compute entanglement entropy using the Ryu-Takayanagi formula in these backreacted geometries. Our findings indicate that the Liu-Mezei A- and F-functions decrease monotonically to leading order in the number of flavors across all examples. Additionally, we calculate the leading flavor contribution to entanglement entropy using an alternative probe brane method that does not require knowledge of backreaction in the bulk geometries. These results consistently match with backreacted calculations in all cases, assuming omission of a specific IR boundary term stemming from a total derivative.
Path integral and conformal instability in nonlocal quantum gravity
Authors: Calcagni Gianluca , Modesto Leonardo
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We introduce the Lorentzian path integral of nonlocal quantum gravity. After introducing the functional measure, the Faddeev-Popov sector and the field correlators, we move to perturbation theory and describe Efimov analytic continuation of scattering amplitudes to Euclidean momenta and back to Lorentzian. We show that the conformal instability problem in the Euclidean path integral is solved by suitable gauge choices at the perturbative level. The three examples of Einstein gravity, Stelle gravity and nonlocal quantum gravity are given.
Hadronization and decay of excited heavy hadrons in Herwig 7
Authors: Masouminia M. R. , Richardson P.
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We revisit the hadronization and decay of excited heavy mesons and heavy baryons in Herwig 7 general-purpose event-generator, following four distinct steps: (i) Passing through the polarisation of heavy hadrons at the end of parton shower through the application of heavy quark effective theory (HQET), where the emergence of a spin-flavour symmetry allows for the determination of the polarisations of the excited heavy mesons and heavy baryons from the helicity states of the light and heavy quarks. (ii) Improving the strong and radiative decay modes of the excited heavy mesons, where in the absence of conclusive experimental data on many of the decays, one needs to rely on HQET symmetries to determine the favoured decay modes, widths and branching ratios. (iii) Re-examination of the production rates of heavy hadrons using all available experimental data sources and (iv) performing a general tune for Herwig’s free parameters to reflect the implemented changes. We compare our predictions against existing experimental data in the presence/absence of the newly implemented updates. These improvements will be available with Herwig-7.3.0 public release.
Momentum-space formulae for AdS correlators for diverse theories in diverse dimensions
Authors: Albayrak Soner , Kharel Savan , Wang Xinkang
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we explore correlators of a series of theories in anti-de Sitter space: we present comprehensive results for interactions involving scalars, gluons, and gravitons in multiple dimensions. One aspect of our investigation is the establishment of an intriguing connection between the kinematic factors of these theories; indeed, such a connection directly relates these theories among themselves and with other theories of higher spin fields. Besides providing several explicit results throughout the paper, we also highlight the interconnections and relationships between these different theories, providing valuable insights into their similarities and distinctions.
The frozen phase of heterotic F-theory duality
Authors: Oehlmann Paul-Konstantin , Ruehle Fabian , Sung Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study the duality between the Spin(32)/ℤ2 heterotic string without vector structure and F-theory with frozen singularities. We give a complete description in theories with 6d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (1, 0) supersymmetry and identify the duals of Spin(32)/ℤ2-instantons on ADE singularities without vector structure in the frozen phase of F-theory using an ansatz introduced by Bhardwaj, Morrison, Tachikawa, and Tomasiello. As a consequence, we obtain a strongly coupled description of orbifold phases of type I string theory without vector structure, substantially expanding the list of known examples of 6d F-theory compactifications with frozen singularities. Supergravity theories can be fused from these instanton theories, in a way that commutes with switching off vector structure, which we use to propose new consistency checks via neutral hypermultiplet counting. Finally, we describe various Higgsings of this duality, and comment on constraints on higher form symmetries.
Influence of wet wire drawing speed on the brass-plated steel cord properties
Authors: Suliga Maciej , Kabzinski Adam , Kotecki Kamil , Kloziński Arkadiusz , Hawryluk Marek
Published: August 2024

Steel cords are a reinforcing phase of the rubber-steel-canvas composite, and their properties, including strength, depend on the quality of the wires. The novelty of the work is a multi-parameter analysis of the cord production process, which showed that there is a relationship between the rheological properties of the lubricating emulsion, the friction conditions and deformation of the brass coating, and the properties of the wires and their resistance to cracking when braiding into a steel cord. It was shown that the friction conditions depend on the wire temperature and the rheological properties of the emulsion. As the drawing speed increases, the emulsion viscosity improves. The grease reaches its optimum at a specific drawing speed depending on the type of emulsion and the type of wire. Further increases in drawing speed result in an increase in temperature at the material/tool interface. This leads to a decrease in the viscosity of the emulsion and the breakdown of the lubricant film in the contact zone. Inappropriate selection of wet drawing speed contributes to a decrease in plastic properties and a reduction in the number of twists and bends of the wire, which leads not only to wire breakage at the stage of cord braiding but also to its premature breaking during the tensile test.
Pandemic, policy, and markets: insights and learning from COVID-19’s impact on global stock behavior
Authors: Yang Shuxin
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered an unprecedented shock to global stock markets, exceeding the economic impacts of prior pandemics. This paper examines the pandemic’s impact on global stock markets across 34 countries, focusing on the relationship between the pandemic’s severity, government policy responses, and economic stimuli. Panel data regressions reveal that increased daily COVID-19 cases initially negatively impacted stock returns and increased volatility. Stringent government measures positively influenced market returns but also heightened volatility. The research challenges previous assumptions about the influence of geographical and economic factors on market reactions. By segregating the sample period by investor sentiment, the study finds a consistent pattern of negative lagged returns, indicating stronger mean reversion during high VIX periods. During low market volatility, government stringency measures are perceived as harmful to economic activity, negatively impacting stock returns. The insights from the COVID-19 pandemic can inform responses to future market disruptions from health crises, geopolitical tensions, environmental disasters, or other systemic shocks.
An automated and high-throughput data processing workflow for PFAS identification in biota by direct infusion ultra-high resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Dudášová Silvia , Wurz Johann , Berger Urs , Reemtsma Thorsten , Fu Qiuguo , Lechtenfeld Oliver J.
Published: August 2024

The increasing recognition of the health impacts from human exposure to per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) has surged the need for sophisticated analytical techniques and advanced data analyses, especially for assessing exposure by food of animal origin. Despite the existence of nearly 15,000 PFAS listed in the CompTox chemicals dashboard by the US Environmental Protection Agency, conventional monitoring and suspect screening methods often fall short, covering only a fraction of these substances. This study introduces an innovative automated data processing workflow, named PFlow, for identifying PFAS in environmental samples using direct infusion Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (DI-FT-ICR MS). PFlow’s validation on a bream liver sample, representative of low-concentration biota, involves data pre-processing, annotation of PFAS based on their precursor masses, and verification through isotopologues. Notably, PFlow annotated 17 PFAS absent in the comprehensive targeted approach and tentatively identified an additional 53 compounds, thereby demonstrating its efficiency in enhancing PFAS detection coverage. From an initial dataset of 30,332 distinct m/z values, PFlow thoroughly narrowed down the candidates to 84 potential PFAS compounds, utilizing precise mass measurements and chemical logic criteria, underscoring its potential in advancing our understanding of PFAS prevalence and of human exposure.

Graphical abstract
Energy efficient and low-latency spiking neural networks on embedded microcontrollers through spiking activity tuning
Authors: Barchi Francesco , Parisi Emanuele , Zanatta Luca , Bartolini Andrea , Acquaviva Andrea
Published: August 2024

In this work, we target the efficient implementation of spiking neural networks (SNNs) for low-power and low-latency applications. In particular, we propose a methodology for tuning SNN spiking activity with the objective of reducing computation cycles and energy consumption. We performed an analysis to devise key hyper-parameters, and then we show the results of tuning such parameters to obtain a low-latency and low-energy embedded LSNN (eLSNN) implementation. We demonstrate that it is possible to adapt the firing rate so that the samples belonging to the most frequent class are processed with less spikes. We implemented the eLSNN on a microcontroller-based sensor node and we evaluated its performance and energy consumption using a structural health monitoring application processing a stream of vibrations for damage detection (i.e. binary classification). We obtained a cycle count reduction of 25% and an energy reduction of 22% with respect to a baseline implementation. We also demonstrate that our methodology is applicable to a multi-class scenario, showing that we can reduce spiking activity between 68 and 85% at iso-accuracy.
SkinNet-14: a deep learning framework for accurate skin cancer classification using low-resolution dermoscopy images with optimized training time
Authors: Al Mahmud Abdullah , Azam Sami , Khan Inam Ullah , Montaha Sidratul , Karim Asif , Haque Aminul , Zahid Hasan Md. , Brady Mark , Biswas Ritu , Jonkman Mirjam
Published: August 2024

The increasing incidence of skin cancer necessitates advancements in early detection methods, where deep learning can be beneficial. This study introduces SkinNet-14, a novel deep learning model designed to classify skin cancer types using low-resolution dermoscopy images. Unlike existing models that require high-resolution images and extensive training times, SkinNet-14 leverages a modified compact convolutional transformer (CCT) architecture to effectively process 32 × 32 pixel images, significantly reducing the computational load and training duration. The framework employs several image preprocessing and augmentation strategies to enhance input image quality and balance the dataset to address class imbalances in medical datasets. The model was tested on three distinct datasets—HAM10000, ISIC and PAD—demonstrating high performance with accuracies of 97.85%, 96.00% and 98.14%, respectively, while significantly reducing the training time to 2–8 s per epoch. Compared to traditional transfer learning models, SkinNet-14 not only improves accuracy but also ensures stability even with smaller training sets. This research addresses a critical gap in automated skin cancer detection, specifically in contexts with limited resources, and highlights the capabilities of transformer-based models that are efficient in medical image analysis.
Infection with bovine leukemia virus belonging to group A or B-1 contributes more strongly to the development of enzootic bovine leukosis in young cattle than the presence of bovine lymphocyte antigen-DRB3 susceptibility alleles
Authors: Fujii Yuki , Maezawa Masaki , Akagami Masataka , Kawakami Junko , Fujimoto Yuri , Inokuma Hisashi
Published: August 2024

In this study, we compared the effects of different bovine leukemia virus (BLV) strains and bovine lymphocyte antigen (BoLA)-DRB3 alleles in cattle with enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) aged either <3 years or ≥3 years. The frequency of infection with BLV belonging to group A or B-1 in cattle aged <3 years with EBL was significantly higher than that in cattle aged ≥3 years, regardless of which BoLA-DRB3 allele was present. This suggests that infection with group A or B-1 BLV contributes more strongly to the development of EBL in young cattle than the presence of early-EBL-onset susceptibility BoLA-DRB3 alleles.
Besteht ChatGPT die neurologische Facharztprüfung? Eine kritische Betrachtung
Authors: Wuchty Bianca , Sellner Johann
Published: August 2024

Chat generative pre-trained transformer (ChatGPT) ist ein Chatbot, der künstliche Intelligenz (KI) einsetzt, um mit den Benutzer:innen zu kommunizieren. Im Bereich der klinischen Neurologie könnte hierdurch die Patientenversorgung vor allem bei komplexen oder seltenen Erkrankungen unterstützt werden. Um das Potenzial der KI als Hilfsmittel in der postgraduellen neurologischen Ausbildung zu untersuchen, wurde ChatGPT mit neurologischen Prüfungsfragen auf Facharztniveau getestet. Die Ergebnisse zeigen kongruent das Potenzial der KI-Systeme in der künftigen Unterstützung von Ausbildung und Patientenversorgung auf. Die Komplexität des neurologischen Fachgebiets stellt allerdings nicht nur für Nachwuchsneurolog:innen eine besondere Herausforderung dar. Des Weiteren hat die KI noch relevante Limitationen für die Translation in die klinische Praxis, hierzu zählen „Halluzinationen“ und die mangelnde Beurteilung der Seriosität von Datenquellen.
Nanofluids in solar collectors: a comprehensive review focused on its sedimentation
Authors: Bocanegra Johan Augusto , Marchitto Annalisa , Misale Mario
Published: August 2024

The use of nanofluids as working fluids in energy systems, such as solar collectors, natural circulation loops, geothermal plants, and nuclear reactors, has the potential to enhance their efficiency. Nanofluids have improved optical and thermal properties, enabling better energetic performance than common working fluids. However, the stability of nanofluids depends on multiple factors that can cause nanoparticles to sediment in the base fluid, leading to the degradation of physical properties that affect system performance. Experimental, analytical, and computational-based approaches have been used to study the sedimentation process in nanofluids. This review presents a comprehensive comparison of these research methods, with a particular focus on the role of gravitational sedimentation when nanofluids are used in solar collectors. Sedimentation remains the primary limitation of the engineering application of nanofluids. Some key factors that affect this process, such as volumetric concentration, flow regime, and additives, have been addressed to solve the sedimentation problem. However, other factors that can influence sedimentation in solar collectors, such as thermal cycling, ultraviolet radiation, and rest periods, remain open problems that require extensive investigation in the future.

Graphical abstract
A mathematical model to predict “low-lying” posterior communicating artery aneurysms in neurosurgical practice
Authors: Ma Qianquan , Liu Lei , Song Zhihao , Wen Hongbo , Li Kaihuan , Chen Jingqi , Zhang Weixin , Huang Tao , Xu Yufeng , Li Haoyu , Lei Ting , Sun Xuezhi
Published: August 2024

“Low-lying” posterior communicating artery (PCoA) aneurysms require great attention in surgical clipping due to their distinct anatomical characteristics. In this study, we propose an easy method to immediately recognize “low-lying” PCoA aneurysms in neurosurgical practice. A total of 89 cases with “low-lying” PCoA aneurysms were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent preoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA) examinations and microsurgical clipping. Cases were classified into the “low-lying” and regular groups based on intraoperative findings. The distance- and angle-relevant parameters that reflected the relative location of the aneurysms and tortuosity of the internal carotid artery were measured using 3D-DSA images. The data were sequentially integrated into a mathematical analysis to obtain the prediction model. Finally, we proposed a novel mathematical formula to preoperatively predict the existence of “low-lying” PCoA aneurysms with great accuracy. Neurosurgeons might benefit from this model, which enables them to directly identify “low-lying” PCoA aneurysms and make appropriate surgical decisions accordingly.
A Chance to have a Voice: The Motivations and Experiences of Female Victim-Survivors of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence who Joined a Lived Experience Research Group
Authors: Fiolet Renee , Lamb Katie , Tarzia Laura , Hegarty Kelsey
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Having individuals with lived experience as co-researchers collaborate in research has increasingly become recognized as empowering for those involved and necessary for translational research. However, there has been limited exploration of how lived experience involvement as co-researchers in design, implementation and dissemination is experienced by those undertaking these influential roles. This study aimed to explore victim-survivors’ (of domestic, family and sexual violence) motivations for joining a lived experience research group and understand their experiences of taking part in setting the research agenda.

Methods

Seven in-depth face-to-face interviews took place with women from a lived experience group based at a university. Reflective thematic analysis led to development of four main themes.

Results

The first theme, making a difference, speaks to personal reasons that empowered participants to become a part of the new co-researcher group. Having that collective experience explains the benefits victim-survivors experienced from joining the group and shows to the importance of feeling supported by others with similar experiences. Wounds that are still very raw describes the emotional challenges that could arise when committing to the work of a lived experience group and the potential for re-traumatization. Finally, the theme there’s no blueprint for this addresses the innovative work victim-survivors engaged in to build a meaningful, research-active group. Motivation to participate in a lived experience group was influenced by their own past experiences. While having their voices heard was important for some, the stronger desire was to create meaningful change for other victim-survivors.

Conclusions

Future research should focus on how to support and meaningfully engage victim-survivors to undertake co-researcher roles, acknowledging the potential for re-traumatization. Future guidelines for establishing lived experience research groups are necessary.
Single-cell atlas profiling revealed cellular characteristics and dynamic changes after PD-1 blockade therapy of brain metastases from laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zou Yunzhi , Duan Hao , Deng Zekun , Xiang Rong , Zhao Jixiang , Zhang Zhenhua , Hu Wanming , Yang Yuanzhong , Yan Zeming , Wen Shujuan , Liu Zexian , Zhang Gao , Mou Yonggao , Li Depei , Jiang Xiaobing
Published: August 2024

Brain metastasis (BM) in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is uncommon but prognosis is poor. Anti-PD-1 immunotherapy benefits some advanced LSCC cases, yet its efficiency is limited by tumor complexity. We analyzed paired metastatic tumor samples from before and after immunotherapy using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), along with a primary LSCC dataset and bulk RNA sequencing. This identified changes post-immunotherapy and revealed differences in single-cell transcriptomes among LSCC, primBM, and neoBM. Our findings show that anti-PD-1 treatment suppresses metastasis-promoting pathways like VEGF and EMT in cancer cells, and alters immune cell functions. Notably, it upregulates T cell activation, leading to CD8 T cell exhaustion from excess heat shock proteins, notably HSPA8. However, CD8 T cell cytotoxic functions improve post-treatment. In myeloid cells, anti-PD-1 therapy enhances antigen presentation and promotes a proinflammatory shift post-metastasis. Additionally, NUPR1 is linked to BM in LSCC, and NEAT1 is a potential metastatic cancer cell cycle participant. Our study provides insights into cancer heterogeneity and the impact of PD-1 immunotherapy on metastasis, aiding precise diagnosis and prognosis.
Insights from Three Pan-European Multicentre Studies on Invasive Candida Infections and Outlook to ECMM Candida IV
Authors: Wolfgruber Stella , Sedik Sarah , Klingspor Lena , Tortorano Annamaria , Gow Neil A. R. , Lagrou Katrien , Gangneux Jean-Pierre , Maertens Johan , Meis Jacques F. , Lass-Flörl Cornelia , Arikan-Akdagli Sevtap , Cornely Oliver A. , Hoenigl Martin
Published: August 2024

Invasive candidiasis and candidemia remain a significant public health concern. The European Confederation of Medical Mycology (ECMM) conducted three pan-European multicentre studies from 1997 to 2022 to investigate various aspects of invasive Candida infections. These studies revealed shifting trends in Candida species distribution, with an increase of non-albicans Candida species as causative pathogens, increasing rates of antifungal resistance, and persistently high mortality rates. Despite advancements in antifungal treatment, the persistently high mortality rate and increasing drug resistance, as well as limited drug access in low-income countries, underscore the need for continued research and development in the treatment of Candida infections. This review aims to summarize the findings of the three completed ECMM Candida studies and emphasize the importance of continued research efforts. Additionally, it introduces the upcoming ECMM Candida IV study, which will focus on assessing candidemia caused by non-albicans Candida species, including Candida auris, investigating antifungal resistance and tolerance, and evaluating novel treatment modalities on a global scale.
A meta-analysis of entrepreneurial ecosystem elements and entrepreneurial activity
Authors: Queissner Martin , Stolz Lennard , Weiss Matthias
Published: August 2024

This meta-analysis examines the relationship between entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) elements and regional entrepreneurial activity (EA). An extensive literature search is performed to identify quantitative studies covering EE elements and EA at the regional level (257 studies) and to extract relevant data (2,241,813 observations). To synthesize the findings, we group the potential antecedent variables based on Stam’s (European Planning Studies, 23(9):1759-1769, 2015) EE framework. The results show large differences in the effect sizes and relevance of EE elements. Based on the empirical results, three relevant elements underlying all EEs are identified: demand, talent, and finance. Our results remain robust after using different methods for variable grouping, applying meta-analytic regression, and controlling for country, publication specifics, and grouping errors. Propositions for building an EE theory are derived, and future research opportunities are discussed, as well as policy implications.
Removal of graffiti paint from construction materials coated with TiO2-based photocatalysts
Authors: Jimenez-Relinque Eva , Rubiano Francisco Jose , Castellote Marta
Published: August 2024

Graffiti on construction materials has significant social and economic impacts, especially on artistic and historical artefacts. Anti-graffiti protective coatings are used to generate low surface energies that limit graffiti adhesion to the surface, thereby reducing surface damage and facilitating removal. The anti-graffiti properties of three commercial TiO2-based coatings were tested under outdoor exposure conditions using four colours of graffiti paint (red, blue, black, and white). Chemical removers were used to clean the stained surfaces to understand the impact of the photocatalytic coatings during the conventional cleaning procedure. The effectiveness of cleaning was assessed by visual observations, colour measurements, and the percentage of residual stain. The anti-graffiti efficacy was strongly dependent on the colour of the graffiti and characteristics of the TiO2 coating. The cleaning performance of TiO2-treated samples was likely related to the photocatalytic redox reactions that decompose the graffiti. Additionally, their hydrophilicity may also prevent the adhesion and/or penetration of graffiti paint on the surface and/or pore matrix.
Assessment of climate change impact and resource-use efficiency of lettuce production in vertical farming and greenhouse production in Finland: a case study
Authors: Joensuu Katri , Kotilainen Titta , Räsänen Kati , Rantanen Marja , Usva Kirsi , Silvenius Frans
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Our aim in this study was to examine lettuce production in vertical farming or in conventional greenhouse production in Northern European conditions from the perspective of climate change impact and environmental sustainability. Further, the goal was to identify practices and choices that could mitigate adverse effects and increase resource-use efficiency, allowing the development of more sustainable production systems.

Methods

This article provides new information of the environmental impacts of lettuce production in greenhouses and vertical farming in Finland, compared using the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. The impact categories used were climate change impact, cumulative energy demand, resource use of fossil energy sources, resource use of minerals and metals, land use, and water scarcity. The system boundaries covered the production chains from cradle to farmgate, including inputs in production, as well as direct emissions caused by fertiliser use and the onsite composting of organic waste. The environmental impacts of the two production systems with different energy scenarios were assessed: (1) a greenhouse either with average or renewable energy; and (2) vertical farming either with average or renewable energy and with or without waste heat recovery. The data for vertical farming were based on one Finnish production site and supplementary data for the construction materials. The greenhouse data were based on a previous LCA investigation of average Finnish lettuce production.

Results

The climate change and all other impact categories were lowest for lettuce produced in vertical farming with renewable energy and waste heat recovery. The climate change impact was largest for lettuce produced in greenhouse with average energy use. For energy use and energy resource use, the impacts of vertical farming were lower than greenhouse production, but for mineral and metal use and water scarcity, the impact of vertical farming was higher for average energy use without heat recovery. Direct land and irrigation water use on the production sites in Finnish circumstances represented only a small share of total land-use and water-use impacts on both production methods.

Conclusion

Paying attention to the energy source and heat recovery, the environmental sustainability can be advanced in both vertical and greenhouse production systems.
An exploration of fibre intake and bowel function in a sample of adults at an Irish university campus
Authors: Lynch Ellen , Mulligan Sophie , Doyle Suzanne L.
Published: August 2024

Background

Bowel dysfunction can significantly impair quality of life. Adequate fibre intake is associated with good bowel health but intakes have been reported to be low in Ireland.

Aim

This study aimed to gather data on fibre intake and bowel habits in a cohort of adults at a university campus in Dublin, Ireland.

Methods

An online questionnaire was developed by adapting validated tools to assess habitual fibre intake and bowel function. The questionnaire was circulated through mailing lists and advertised via QR codes on campus in February/March 2023. Data was analysed using SPSS, p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

In total, 275 valid responses were received. Low fibre intakes (< 19 g/day) were found in 50.5% of participants. A significantly higher proportion of males had low fibre intake compared to females (62.2% vs 44.8%, p = 0.039). Nearly a third (30.2%) of respondents experienced mild symptoms of bowel dysfunction, and 13.1% experienced moderate to severe symptoms. An inverse relationship was observed between fibre intake (g/day) and bowel dysfunction (p = 0.033).

Conclusions

In this cohort, low fibre intakes and some degree of bowel dysfunction were prevalent. Public health campaigns to increase fibre intake could prove to be a cost-effective way to improve bowel function and health amongst adults in Ireland.
Calcium Pyrophosphate Crystal Formation and Deposition: Where Do we Stand and What Does the Future hold?
Authors: Sirotti Silvia , Scanu Anna , Pascart Tristan , Niessink Tom , Maroni Paola , Lombardi Giovanni , Filippou Georgios
Published: August 2024

Purpose of the review

Although calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) has been known since the 1960s, our understanding of its pathogenesis remains rudimentary. This review aims to illustrate the known mechanisms underlying calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) crystal formation and deposition and explore future directions in research. By examining various perspectives, from basic research to clinical and imaging assessments, as well as new emerging methodologies, we can establish a starting point for a deeper understanding of CPPD pathogenesis.

Recent Findings

Recent years have seen significant advances in CPPD research, particularly in the clinical field with the development of the 2023 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for CPPD disease, and in imaging with the introduction of the OMERACT ultrasonographic definitions and scoring system. However, progress in basic research has been slower. New laboratory approaches, such as Raman spectroscopy and omics sciences, offer promising insights that may help piece together the puzzle of CPPD.

CPPD is a common yet understudied condition. As the population ages and CPPD becomes more prevalent, there is an urgent need to better understand the disease and the mechanisms involved in crystal formation and deposition, in order to improve diagnosis and therapeutic approaches.
Comparison of Perovskite Systems Based on AFeO3 (A = Ce, La, Y) in CO2 Hydrogenation to CO
Authors: Matveyeva Anna N. , Omarov Shamil O.
Published: August 2024

CO2 is the most cost-effective and abundant carbon resource, while the reverse water–gas reaction (rWGS) is one of the most effective methods of CO2 utilization. This work presents a comparative study of rWGS activity for perovskite systems based on AFeO3 (where A = Ce, La, Y). These systems were synthesized by solution combustion synthesis (SCS) with different ratios of fuel (glycine) and oxidizer (φ), different amounts of NH4NO3, and the addition of alumina or silica as supports. Various techniques, including X-ray diffraction analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, N2-physisorption, H2 temperature-programmed reduction, temperature-programmed desorption of H2 and CO2, Raman spectroscopy, and in situ FTIR, were used to relate the physicochemical properties with the catalytic performance of the obtained composites. Each specific perovskite-containing system (either bulk or supported) has its own optimal φ and NH4NO3 amount to achieve the highest yield and dispersion of the perovskite phase. Among all synthesized systems, bulk SCS-derived La–Fe–O systems showed the highest resistance to reducing environments and the easiest hydrogen desorption, outperforming La–Fe–O produced by solgel combustion (SGC). CO2 conversion into CO at 600 °C for bulk ferrite systems, depending on the A-cation type and preparation method, follows the order La (SGC) < Y < Ce < La (SCS). The differences in properties between La–Fe–O obtained by the SCS and SGC methods can be attributed to different ratios of oxygen and lanthanum vacancy contributions, hydroxyl coverage, morphology, and free iron oxide presence. In situ FTIR data revealed that CO2 hydrogenation occurs through formates generated under reaction conditions on the bulk system based on La–Fe–O, obtained by the SCS method. γ-Al2O3 improves the dispersion of CeFeO3 and LaFeO3 phases, the specific surface area, and the quantity of adsorbed H2 and CO2. This led to a significant increase in CO2 conversion for supported CeFeO3 but not for the La-based system compared to bulk and SiO2-supported perovskite catalysts. However, adding alumina increased the activity per mass for both Ce- and La-based perovskite systems, reducing the amount of rare-earth components in the catalyst and thereby lowering the cost without substantially compromising stability.
Technology Guided Management of Orbital Trauma: A Systematic Review
Authors: González Luis Vicente , López Juan Pablo , Orjuela María Paula , Díaz-Báez David
Published: August 2024

Background

The use of technology in the surgical field has been increasing; however, the literature that studies the combination of these techniques is still scarce.

Purpose

This systematic review aims to identify the combination of the different technological tools currently available for surgical reconstruction of the orbit after trauma injury and determine the most common treatment alternatives.

Methods

A search following PRISMA criterios was carried out of articles published between January 2015 and December 2019 in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Ovid databases. The Mesh terms were orbit fracture, orbit trauma, computer-assisted surgery, surgical navigation system, navigation surgery, endoscopic surgical procedure, endoscopy, endoscope support, and patient-specific implants. The inclusion criteria were orbital trauma, articles that described the combination of technological tools, cases, case series, retrospective studies, and randomized clinical trials. Pediatric trauma management studies were excluded. To determine methodological quality and risk of bias the Joanna Briggs Institute Verification List (JBI) was used. The results were collected and presented in tables for easy interpretation.

Results

Of the articles found, 12 were finally chosen. Most of the articles (8) were case series, 2 were case reports, 1 was quasi-experimental, and 1 was a randomized clinical trial. A total of 418 patients were reported in all studies, and the most widely used tool was virtual planning, reported in 11 articles (91.6%). Virtual surgical planning in combination with intraoperative navigation was adopted by 9 articles (75%), being the most used combination of technologies.

Conclusions

Integration of virtual surgical planning, intraoperative navigation, patient-specific implants, and endoscopic techniques will help to improve the results significantly in the initial management of the orbital trauma. However, it is recommended in future studies that the results be evaluated in the same way to obtain more homogeneous studies.