bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Process Mining for Analyzing Open Questions Computer-Aided Examinations
Authors: Bala Saimir , Revoredo Kate , Mendling Jan
Published: March 2023

Computer-based education relies on information systems to support teaching and learning processes. These systems store trace data about the interaction of the learners with their different functionalities. Process mining techniques have been used to evaluate these traces and provide insights to instructors on the behavior of students. However, an analysis of students behavior on solving open-questioned examinations combined with the marks they received is still missing. This analysis can support the instructors not only on improving the design of future edition of the course, but also on improving the structure of online and physical evaluations. In this paper, we use process mining techniques to evaluate the behavioral patterns of students solving computer-based open-ended exams and their correlation with the grades. Our results show patterns of behavior associated to the marks received. We discuss how these results may support the instructor on elaborating future open question examinations.
Process Mining on Curriculum-Based Study Data: A Case Study at a German University
Authors: Hobeck Richard , Pufahl Luise , Weber Ingo
Published: March 2023

On their trajectory through educational university systems, students leave a trace of event data. The analysis of that event data with a process lens poses a set of domain-specific challenges that is addressed in the field of Educational Process Mining (EPM). Despite the vast potential for understanding the progress of students and improving the quality of study programs through process mining, a case study based on an established process mining methodology is still missing. In this paper, we address this gap by applying the state-of-the-art process mining project methodology (PM$$^2$$

2

) in an EPM case study with a focus on student trajectory analysis at a German university. We found that process mining can create actionable items to improve the quality of university education. We also point out domain-specific challenges, like handling reoccurring exams (retaken after failing) for future research in EPM. Finally, we observe insights of some value in our case.
TraVaS: Differentially Private Trace Variant Selection for Process Mining
Authors: Rafiei Majid , Wangelik Frederik , van der Aalst Wil M. P.
Published: March 2023

In the area of industrial process mining, privacy-preserving event data publication is becoming increasingly relevant. Consequently, the trade-off between high data utility and quantifiable privacy poses new challenges. State-of-the-art research mainly focuses on differentially private trace variant construction based on prefix expansion methods. However, these algorithms face several practical limitations such as high computational complexity, introducing fake variants, removing frequent variants, and a bounded variant length. In this paper, we introduce a new approach for direct differentially private trace variant release which uses anonymized partition selection strategies to overcome the aforementioned restraints. Experimental results on real-life event data show that our algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art methods in terms of both plain data utility and result utility preservation.
Generalized non-unitary Haagerup-Izumi modular data from 3D S-fold SCFTs
Authors: Gang Dongmin , Kim Dongyeob
Published: March 2023

Abstract

By applying the recently proposed (3D rank-0 $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
=4 SCFT)/(non-unitary TQFTs) correspondence to S-fold SCFTs, we construct an exotic class of non-unitary TQFTs labelled by an integer k ≥ 3. The SCFTs are obtained by gauging diagonal SU(2) subgroup of T[SU(2)] theory with Chern-Simons level k. We give the explicit expression for modular data, S and T matrices, of the TQFTs. When k = 4m2 + 4m + 3 with an integer m ≥ 1, the modular data (modulo a decoupled semion) is identical to a non-unitary Haagerup-Izumi modular data. Thus, we give a physical realization of the exotic non-unitary modular data as well as its generalization using an exotic class of SCFTs.
Effective de Sitter space, quantum behaviour and large-scale spectral dimension (3+1)
Authors: Trugenberger C. A.
Published: March 2023

Abstract

De Sitter space-time, essentially our own universe, is plagued by problems at the quantum level. Here we propose that Lorentzian de Sitter space-time is not fundamental but constitutes only an effective description of a more fundamental quantum gravity ground state. This cosmological ground state is a graph, appearing on large scales as a Riemannian manifold of constant negative curvature. We model the behaviour of matter near this equilibrium state as Brownian motion in the effective thermal environment of graph fluctuations, driven by a universal time parameter. We show how negative curvature dynamically induces the asymptotic emergence of relativistic coordinate time and of leading ballistic motion governed by the isometry group of an “effective Lorentzian manifold” of opposite, positive curvature, i.e. de Sitter space-time: free fall in positive curvature is asymptotically equivalent to the leading behaviour of Brownian motion in negative curvature. The local limit theorem for negative curvature implies that the large-scale spectral dimension of this “effective de Sitter space-time” is (3+1) independently of its microscopic topological dimension. In the effective description, the sub-leading component of asymptotic Brownian motion becomes Schrödinger quantum behavior on a 3D Euclidean manifold.
A note on the admissibility of complex BTZ metrics
Authors: Basile Ivano , Campoleoni Andrea , Raeymaekers Joris
Published: March 2023

Abstract

We perform a nontrivial check of Witten’s recently proposed admissibility criterion for complex metrics. We consider the ‘quasi-Euclidean’ metrics obtained from continuing the BTZ class of metrics to imaginary time. Of special interest are the overspinning metrics, which are smooth in this three-dimensional context. Their inclusion as saddle points in the gravitational path integral would lead to puzzling results in conflict with those obtained using other methods. It is therefore encouraging that the admissibility criterion discards them. For completeness, we perform an analysis of smoothness and admissibility for the family of quasi-Euclidean BTZ metrics at all values of the mass and angular momentum.
Scalar, fermionic and supersymmetric field theories with subsystem symmetries in d + 1 dimensions
Authors: Honda Masazumi , Nakanishi Taiichi
Published: March 2023

Abstract

We study various non-relativistic field theories with exotic symmetries called subsystem symmetries, which have recently attracted much attention in the context of fractons. We start with a scalar theory called ϕ-theory in d + 1 dimensions and discuss its properties studied in literature for d ≤ 3 such as self-duality, vacuum structure, ’t Hooft anomaly, anomaly inflow and lattice regularization. Next we study a theory called chiral ϕ-theory which is an analogue of a chiral boson with subsystem symmetries. Then we discuss theories including fermions with subsystem symmetries. We first construct a supersymmetric version of the ϕ-theory and dropping its bosonic part leads us to a purely fermionic theory with subsystem symmetries called ψ-theory. We argue that lattice regularization of the ψ-theory generically suffers from an analogue of doubling problem as previously pointed out in the d = 3 case. We propose an analogue of Wilson fermion to avoid the “doubling” problem. We also supersymmetrize the chiral ϕ-theory and dropping the bosonic part again gives us a purely fermionic theory. We finally discuss vacuum structures of the theories with fermions and find that they are infinitely degenerate because of spontaneous breaking of subsystem symmetries.
Choose the appropriate implantation position of the Femoral Neck System in the femoral neck: a finite-element analysis
Authors: Kuang Ximu , Jian Guojian , Xie Desheng , Chen Xiaolin , Liu Haoyuan
Published: March 2023

Purpose

There is no specific literature on the best implantation position of the Femoral Neck System (FNS) for treating Pauwels type III femoral neck fracture in young adults.

Methods

Use finite-element analysis to compare the mechanical properties of implantation positions: FNS in the central position, FNS in the low position, and FNS in the low position combined with cannulated screw (CS). The CT data of the femur were imported into the mimics20.0 to obtain the three-dimensional model of the femur; imported into geomagic2017 and SolidWorks 2017 for optimizations; models of FNS and CS are built on the basis of the device manuals. Grouping is as follows: FNS group, FNS-LOW group, and FNS-CS group. Assemble and import them into abaques6.14 for load application. The displacement distribution and von Mises Stress value of them were compared.

Results

On femoral stability and stress distribution, the FNS-CS group performs best, followed by the FNS-LOW group, and finally FNS group. The FNS-LOW group has an improvement over the FNS group but not by much.

Conclusion

In operations, when the implantation position of the central guide wire is not at the center of the femoral neck but slightly lower, it is recommended not to adjust the wire repeatedly in pursuit of the center position; for femoral neck fractures that are extremely unstable at the fracture end or require revision, the insertion strategy of FNS in the low position combined with CS can be adopted to obtain better fixation effects.
The impact of COVID-19 related adversity on the course of mental health during the pandemic and the role of protective factors: a longitudinal study among older adults in The Netherlands
Authors: Holwerda Tjalling J. , Jaarsma Eva , van Zutphen Elisabeth M. , Beekman Aartjan T. F. , Pan Kuan-Yu , van Vliet Majogé , Stringa Najada , van den Besselaar Judith H. , MacNeil-Vroomen Janet L. , Hoogendijk Emiel O. , Kok Almar A. L.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Many studies report about risk factors associated with adverse changes in mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic while few studies report about protective and buffering factors, especially in older adults. We present an observational study to assess protective and buffering factors against COVID-19 related adverse mental health changes in older adults.

Methods

899 older adults (55 +) in the Netherlands were followed from 2018/19 to two pandemic time points (June–October 2020 and March–August 2021). Questionnaires included exposure to pandemic-related adversities (“COVID-19 exposure”), depressive and anxiety symptoms, loneliness, and pre-pandemic functioning. Linear regression analyses estimated main effects of COVID-19 exposure and protective factors on mental health changes; interaction effects were tested to identify buffering factors.

Results

Compared to pre-pandemic, anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms and loneliness increased. A higher score on the COVID-19 adversity index was associated with stronger negative mental health changes. Main effects: internet use and high mastery decreased depressive symptoms; a larger network decreased anxiety symptoms; female gender, larger network size and praying decreased loneliness. COVID-19 vaccination buffered against COVID-19 exposure-induced anxiety and loneliness, a partner buffered against COVID-19 exposure induced loneliness.

Conclusion

Exposure to COVID-19 adversity had a cumulative negative impact on mental health. Improving coping, finding meaning, stimulating existing religious and spiritual resources, network interventions and stimulating internet use may enable older adults to maintain mental health during events with large societal impact, yet these factors appear protective regardless of exposure to specific adversities. COVID-19 vaccination had a positive effect on mental health.
Effective Guessing Has Unlikely Consequences
Authors: Salamon András Z. , Wehar Michael
Published: March 2023

A classic result of Paul, Pippenger, Szemerédi and Trotter states that ${\textsf {DTIME}}(n) \subsetneq {\textsf {NTIME}}(n)$
DTIME
(
n
)
⫋
NTIME
(
n
)
. The natural question then arises: could the inclusion ${\textsf {DTIME}}(t(n)) \subseteq {\textsf {NTIME}}(n)$
DTIME
(
t
(
n
)
)
⊆
NTIME
(
n
)
hold for some superlinear time-constructible function t(n)? If such a function t(n) does exist, then there also exist effective nondeterministic guessing strategies to speed up deterministic computations. In this work, we prove limitations on the effectiveness of nondeterministic guessing to speed up deterministic computations by showing that the existence of effective nondeterministic guessing strategies would have unlikely consequences. In particular, we show that if a subpolynomial amount of nondeterministic guessing could be used to speed up deterministic computation by a polynomial factor, then ${\textsf {P}}~ \subsetneq {\textsf {NTIME}}(n)$
P

⫋
NTIME
(
n
)
. Furthermore, even achieving a logarithmic speedup at the cost of making every step nondeterministic would show that SAT ∈NTIME(n) under appropriate encodings. Of possibly independent interest, under such encodings we also show that SAT can be decided in O(nlogn) steps on a nondeterministic multitape Turing machine, improving on the well-known O(n(logn)c) bound for some constant but undetermined exponent c ≥ 1.
Physicomechanical properties of raw and comminuted pine and poplar shavings: energy consumption, particle size distribution and flow properties
Authors: Tryjarski Paweł , Lisowski Aleksander , Gawron Jakub , Obstawski Paweł
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the energy consumption during milling and cutting-milling of pine and poplar shavings and the determination of particle size distribution (PSD) characteristics and mechanical properties of these materials. Cutting-milling process required less energy (in kJ·kg–1) than milling but maximum mass flow rate of shavings was significantly higher and thus the effective power requirement of the knife mill during cutting also was higher. Comminution of plastic poplar shavings was more energy-consuming than harder pine shavings. These features influenced PSD, which was approximated with four mathematical models: Rosin–Rammler-Sperling-Bennett (RRSB), normal, logistic and lognormal. On the basis of the best fitting (Radj2) for RRSB, detailed PSD parameters were calculated and all PSDs were described as ‘mesokurtic’, ‘fine skewed’ and ‘well-graded’. In comparison to milled shavings, cut-milled shavings had higher density, but were less compressible and had lower unconfined yield strength. However, cut-milled shavings had higher flowability because of lower cohesion and internal friction angles, because after cutting-milling particles were more spherical than elongated particles after milling. Cut-milled poplar shavings had more favourable mechanical parameters and better PSD characteristics, but required more energy for comminution than pine shavings.
Anatomical Position of the Pancreas as a Risk Factor for Pancreatic Fistula after Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kumagai Koshi , Nunobe Souya , Hiki Naoki , Hayami Masaru , Ishizuka Naoki , Ida Satoshi , Makuuchi Rie , Jiang Xiaohua , Ohashi Manabu , Sano Takeshi
Published: March 2023

Background

Laparoscopic gastrectomy is more frequently associated with postoperative pancreatic fistula than is open gastrectomy. We assumed that compression of the pancreas with various devices to obtain a proper operative view is associated with the higher incidence of PF in LG and that the extent of the compression differs depending on the anatomical position of the pancreas. The present study aimed to elucidate the correlation between the anatomical position of the pancreas and PF after LG for gastric cancer.

Methods

Patients who underwent LG for gastric cancer from 2005 to 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Two anatomical parameters representing the height of the slope looking down the celiac artery from the top of the pancreas (P‐A length) and the steepness of the slope (UP‐CA angle) were measured in computed tomography sagittal projections. The correlation between PF and (1) P‐A length, (2) UP‐CA angle, and (3) other clinicopathological factors was analyzed using a logistic regression model.

Results

Among 3485 patients, grade ≥ II PF was observed in 140 (4.0%) patients. The UP‐CA angle [odds ratio (OR), 2.472; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.725–3.543; P < 0.001], a high BMI (OR 2.339; 95% CI 1.634–3.348; P < 0.001), and male sex (OR 2.602; 95% CI 1.590–4.257; P < 0.001) were independently correlated with grade ≥ II PF.

Conclusions

The present study identified a significant correlation between anatomical position of the pancreas and PF after LG. High BMI and male sex were also significantly correlated with PF after LG.
Minimizing total weighted latency in home healthcare routing and scheduling with patient prioritization
Authors: Akbari Vahid , Sadati İhsan , Salman F. Sibel , Shiri Davood
Published: March 2023

We study a home healthcare routing and scheduling problem, where multiple healthcare service provider teams should visit a given set of patients at their homes. The problem involves assigning each patient to a team and generating the routes of the teams such that each patient is visited once. When patients are prioritized according to the severity of their condition or their service urgency, the problem minimizes the total weighted waiting time of the patients, where the weights represent the triage levels. In this form, the problem generalizes the multiple traveling repairman problem. To obtain optimal solutions for small to moderate-size instances, we propose a level-based integer programming (IP) model on a transformed input network. To solve larger instances, we develop a metaheuristic algorithm that relies on a customized saving procedure and a general variable neighborhood search algorithm. We evaluate the IP model and the metaheuristic on various small-, medium- and large-sized instances coming from the vehicle routing literature. While the IP model finds the optimal solutions to all the small- and medium-sized instances within three hours of run time, the metaheuristic algorithm achieves the optimal solutions to all instances within merely a few seconds. We also provide a case study involving Covid-19 patients in a district of Istanbul and derive insights for the planners by means of several analyses.
Cryogenic laser operation of a “mixed” Yb:LuYAG garnet crystal
Authors: Slimi Sami , Jambunathan Venkatesan , Pan Mingyan , Wang Yicheng , Chen Weidong , Loiko Pavel , Solé Rosa Maria , Aguiló Magdalena , Díaz Francesc , Smrz Martin , Mocek Tomas , Mateos Xavier
Published: March 2023

We report on the continuous-wave and passively Q-switched operation of a compositionally “mixed” heavily doped 16.6 at.% Yb:(Y,Lu)3Al5O12 garnet crystal at cryogenic temperatures (100–200 K), pumped by a volume Bragg grating stabilized diode laser emitting at 969 nm. At 140 K, in the continuous-wave regime, a maximum output power of 10.65 W was achieved at ~ 1029 nm with a slope efficiency of 56% (versus the incident pump power), a laser threshold of 1.05 W and excellent beam quality. Using Cr4+:YAG as a saturable absorber, the passively Q-switched laser generated pulses with an energy/duration of 0.15 mJ/201 ns, respectively, at a repetition rate of 39.7 kHz, corresponding to a peak power of 0.39 kW.
Establishment and inheritance of minichromosomes from Arabidopsis haploid induction
Authors: Tan Ek Han , Ordoñez Benny , Thondehaalmath Tejas , Seymour Danelle K. , Maloof Julin N. , Maruthachalam Ravi , Comai Luca
Published: March 2023

Minichromosomes are small, sometimes circular, rearranged chromosomes consisting of one centromere and short chromosomal arms formed by treatments that break DNA, including plant transformation. Minichromosomes have the potential to serve as vectors to quickly move valuable genes across a wide range of germplasm, including into adapted crop varieties. To realize this potential, minichromosomes must be reliably generated, easily manipulated, and stably inherited. Here we show a reliable method for minichromosome formation in haploids resulting from CENH3-mediated genome elimination, a process that generates genome instability and karyotypic novelty specifically on one parental genome. First, we identified 2 out of 260 haploids, each containing a single-copy minichromosome originating from centromeric regions of chromosomes 1 and 3, respectively. The chromosome 1 minichromosome we characterized did not pair at meiosis but displayed consistent transmission over nine selfing generations. Next, we demonstrated that CENH3-based haploid induction can produce minichromosomes in a targeted manner. Haploid inducers carrying a selectable pericentromeric marker were used to isolate additional chromosome-specific minichromosomes, which occurred in 3 out of 163 haploids. Our findings document the formation of heritable, rearranged chromosomes, and we provide a method for convenient minichromosome production.
Comparison of the quality of clinical forensic examination of victims of physical violence conducted by clinicians and forensic examiners
Authors: Walz Cleo , Schwarz Clara-Sophie , Imdahl Karla , Steffan Christian , Germerott Tanja
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The Istanbul Convention calls for comprehensive care for victims of violence while maintaining forensic standards. After violent crimes, court usable documentation of injuries and securing of evidence is essential to avoid disadvantages for those affected in criminal prosecution.

Material and methods

This retrospective study compares forensic relevant aspects in clinical forensic examination of victims of physical and sexual violence conducted by clinicians and forensic examiners. Forensic medical reports based on clinical documentation of individuals of all ages in the period from 2015 to 2018 (n = 132) were evaluated in comparison to a control group of examinations conducted by forensic specialists. A comparative statistical evaluation was performed.

Results

The study revealed statistically significant differences in forensically relevant aspects. In the clinical examinations, full-body examination was performed in only 37.9%, and concealed body sites were examined in 9.8%. Photo documentation was often incomplete (62.4%), without scale (59.1%), blurred (39.7%), or poorly exposed (31.2%). Information on size, color, shape, and texture of injuries was often missing. In about every third examination, the findings were not described purely objective. A body scheme was used only in 8.3% of the clinical cases.

Discussion

In order to establish nationwide care structures and the forensic standard required in criminal proceedings, intensive involvement of forensic medicine is essential. Standardized examination materials, regular training of medical staff, and telemedical approaches can improve the care for victims of violence regarding criminal prosecution.
Are psychosocial work factors and work-home interference associated with time to first full return-to-work after sick leave due to common mental disorders?
Authors: Holmlund Lisa , Bültmann Ute , Bergström Gunnar , Warnqvist Anna , Björk Brämberg Elisabeth
Published: March 2023

Objective

To (1) examine the time to first full return-to-work (RTW), and (2) investigate whether psychosocial work factors and work-home interference are associated with time to first full RTW after sick leave due to common mental disorders (CMDs).

Methods

The cohort study comprised 162 employees on sick leave due to CMDs participating in a two-armed cluster-randomised controlled trial in Sweden. Baseline data consisted of a web-based questionnaire and follow-up data of repeated text messages every fourth week for 12 months. The time to first full RTW was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier Estimator. Parametric Weibull survival models with interval-censored outcomes were used to determine associations between psychosocial work factors and work-home interference with time to first full RTW. In a post hoc analysis, time-interval differences in associations for 0– ≤ 6- versus > 6–12 months were tested.

Results

During the 12-month follow-up, n = 131 (80.9%) reported a first full RTW. The median time to this RTW was 16 weeks (95% CI 12; 20). High psychological job demands, high emotional job demands, high work-to-home interference (WHI), and low social job support were independently associated with a longer time to first full RTW. Time-interval differences were found for job control and emotional job demands.

Conclusions

Psychosocial work demands and WHI are associated with a longer time to RTW after sick leave due to CMDs. Work organisations and rehabilitation practices should include accommodations for high psychological and emotional job demands during RTW, as well as pay attention to the risk of spill-over of high job demands into employees’ private lives.
Characterization of electrical 1-phase transformer parameters with guaranteed hotspot temperature and aging using an improved dwarf mongoose optimizer
Authors: Rizk-Allah Rizk M. , El-Fergany Attia A. , Gouda Eid A. , Kotb Mohamed F.
Published: March 2023

Parameters identification of Electric Power Transformer (EPT) models is significant for the steady and consistent operation of the power systems. The nonlinear and multimodal natures of EPT models make it challenging to optimally estimate the EPT’s parameters. Therefore, this work presents an improved Dwarf Mongoose Optimization Algorithm (IDMOA) to identify unknown parameters of the EPT model (1-phase transformer) and to appraise transformer aging trend under hottest temperatures. The IDMOA employs a population of solutions to get as much information as possible within the search space through generating different solution’ vectors. Furthermore, the Nelder–Mead Simplex method is incorporated to efficiently promote the neighborhood searching with the aim to find a high-quality solution during the iterative process. At initial stage, power transformer electrical equivalent extraction parameters are expressed in terms of the fitness function and its corresponding operating inequality restrictions. In this sense, the sum of absolute errors (SAEs) among numerous factors from nameplate data of transformers is to be minimized. The proposed IDMOA is demonstrated on two transformer ratings as 4 kVA and 15 kVA, respectively. Moreover, the outcomes of the IDMOA are compared with other recent challenging optimization methods. It can be realized that the lowest minimum values of SAEs compared to the others which are 3.3512e−2 and 1.1200e−5 for 15 kVA and 4 kVA cases, respectively. For more assessment for the proposed optimizer, the extracted parameters are utilized to evaluate the transformer aging considering the transformer hottest temperature compared with effect of the actual parameters following the IEEE Std C57.91 procedures. It is proved that the results are guaranteed, and the transformer per unit nominal life is 1.00 at less than 110 °C as per the later-mentioned standard.
Tracing ΦX174 bacteriophage spreading during aerosol-generating procedures in a dental clinic
Authors: Beltrán Edgar O. , Castellanos Jaime E. , Corredor Zayda L. , Morgado Wendy , Zarta Olga L. , Cortés Andrea , Avila Viviana , Martignon Stefania
Published: March 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to test the plausibility of using the ΦX174 bacteriophage as a tracer of viral aerosols spreading in a dental aerosol-generating procedure (AGP) model.

Methods

ΦX174 bacteriophage (~ 108 plaque-forming units (PFU)/mL) was added into instrument irrigation reservoirs and aerosolized during class-IV cavity preparations followed by composite fillings on natural upper-anterior teeth (n = 3) in a phantom head. Droplets/aerosols were sampled through a passive approach that consisted of Escherichia coli strain C600 cultures immersed in a LB top agar layer in Petri dishes (PDs) in a double-layer technique. In addition, an active approach consisted of E coli C600 on PDs sets mounted in a six-stage cascade Andersen impactor (AI) (simulating human inhalation). The AI was located at 30 cm from the mannequin during AGP and afterwards at 1.5 m. After collection PDs were incubated overnight (18 h at 37 °C) and bacterial lysis was quantified.

Results

The passive approach disclosed PFUs mainly concentrated over the dental practitioner, on the mannequin’s chest and shoulder and up to 90 cm apart, facing the opposite side of the AGP’s source (around the spittoon). The maximum aerosol spreading distance was 1.5 m in front of the mannequin’s mouth. The active approach disclosed collection of PFUs corresponding to stages (and aerodynamic diameters) 5 (1.1–2.1 µm) and 6 (0.65–1.1 µm), mimicking access to the lower respiratory airways.

Conclusion

The ΦX174 bacteriophage can be used as a traceable viral surrogate in simulated studies contributing to understand dental bioaerosol’s behavior, its spreading, and its potential threat for upper and lower respiratory tract.

Clinical relevance

The probability to find infectious virus during AGPs is high. This suggests the need to continue characterizing the spreading viral agents in different clinical settings through combination of passive and active approaches. In addition, subsequent identification and implementation of virus-related mitigation strategies is relevant to avoid occupational virus infections.
Parastomal hernia prevention with permanent mesh in end colostomy: failure with late follow-up of cohorts in three randomized trials
Authors: López-Cano M. , Adell-Trapé M. , Verdaguer-Tremolosa M. , Rodrigues-Gonçalves V. , Badia-Closa J. , Serra-Aracil X.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Short-term results have been reported regarding parastomal hernia (PH) prevention with a permanent mesh. Long-term results are scarce. The objective was to assess the long-term PH occurrence after a prophylactic synthetic non-absorbable mesh.

Methods

Long-term data of three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were collected. The primary outcome was the detection of PH based exclusively on a radiological diagnosis by computed tomography (CT) performed during the long-term follow-up. The Kaplan–Meier method was used for the comparison of time to diagnosis of PH according to the presence of mesh vs. no-mesh and the technique of mesh insertion: open retromuscular, laparoscopic keyhole, and laparoscopic modified Sugarbaker.

Results

We studied 121 patients (87 men, median age 70 years), 82 (67.8%) of which developed a PH. The median overall length of follow-up was 48.5 months [interquartile range (IQR) 14.4–104.9], with a median time until PH diagnosis of 17.7 months (IQR 9.3–49.0). The survival analysis did not show significant differences in the time to development of a PH according to the presence or absence of a prophylactic mesh neither in the overall study population (log-rank, P = 0.094) nor in the groups of each technique of mesh insertion, although according to the surgical technique, a higher reduction in the appearance of PH for the open retromuscular technique was found (log-rank, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

In the long-term follow-up placement of a non-absorbable synthetic prophylactic mesh in the context of an elective end colostomy does not seem effective for preventing PH.
Analysis of psychoactive substances and metabolites in sludges, soils, sediments and biota: a review
Authors: Santana-Viera Sergio , Pintado-Herrera Marina G. , Sosa-Ferrera Zoraida , Santana-Rodríguez José Juan
Published: March 2023

The use of psychoactive substances, including illegal drugs, drugs of abuse and psychiatric pharmaceuticals, is a major health and environmental issue. In particular, drugs are found in urban sewage and water ecosystems. The analysis of drugs in wastewater is challenging because drugs occur at trace levels in complex organo-mineral media, calling for advanced analytical methods. Here we review recent methods developped to analyze drugs in sludge, sediments, soils and biota. Extraction methods include solid–liquid extraction, sonication, microwave, and quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe extraction (QuEChERS). We compare and discuss advantages and disadvantages of each analytical step for various sample types.
Vision-based techniques for automatic marine plankton classification
Authors: Sosa-Trejo David , Bandera Antonio , González Martín , Hernández-León Santiago
Published: March 2023

Plankton are an important component of life on Earth. Since the 19th century, scientists have attempted to quantify species distributions using many techniques, such as direct counting, sizing, and classification with microscopes. Since then, extraordinary work has been performed regarding the development of plankton imaging systems, producing a massive backlog of images that await classification. Automatic image processing and classification approaches are opening new avenues for avoiding time-consuming manual procedures. While some algorithms have been adapted from many other applications for use with plankton, other exciting techniques have been developed exclusively for this issue. Achieving higher accuracy than that of human taxonomists is not yet possible, but an expeditious analysis is essential for discovering the world beyond plankton. Recent studies have shown the imminent development of real-time, in situ plankton image classification systems, which have only been slowed down by the complex implementations of algorithms on low-power processing hardware. This article compiles the techniques that have been proposed for classifying marine plankton, focusing on automatic methods that utilize image processing, from the beginnings of this field to the present day.
How can big data and predictive analytics impact the performance and competitive advantage of the food waste and recycling industry?
Authors: Nilashi Mehrbakhsh , Baabdullah Abdullah M. , Abumalloh Rabab Ali , Ooi Keng-Boon , Tan Garry Wei-Han , Giannakis Mihalis , Dwivedi Yogesh K.
Published: March 2023

Big data and predictive analytics (BDPA) techniques have been deployed in several areas of research to enhance individuals’ quality of living and business performance. The emergence of big data has made recycling and waste management easier and more efficient. The growth in worldwide food waste has led to vital economic, social, and environmental effects, and has gained the interest of researchers. Although previous studies have explored the influence of big data on industrial performance, this issue has not been explored in the context of recycling and waste management in the food industry. In addition, no studies have explored the influence of BDPA on the performance and competitive advantage of the food waste and the recycling industry. Specifically, the impact of big data on environmental and economic performance has received little attention. This research develops a new model based on the resource-based view, technology-organization-environment, and human organization technology theories to address the gap in this research area. Partial least squares structural equation modeling is used to analyze the data. The findings reveal that both the human factor, represented by employee knowledge, and environmental factor, represented by competitive pressure, are essential drivers for evaluating the BDPA adoption by waste and recycling organizations. In addition, the impact of BDPA adoption on competitive advantage, environmental performance, and economic performance are significant. The results indicate that BDPA capability enhances an organization’s competitive advantage by enhancing its environmental and economic performance. This study presents decision-makers with important insights into the imperative factors that influence the competitive advantage of food waste and recycling organizations within the market.
Land and deep-sea mining: the challenges of comparing biodiversity impacts
Authors: Katona Steven , Paulikas Daina , Ali Saleem , Clarke Michael , Ilves Erika , Lovejoy Thomas E. , Madin Laurence P. , Stone Gregory S.
Published: March 2023

The term ‘biodiversity,’ while casually used in practice, is a complicated subject to measure, interpret, contextualize, and compare. Yet the possible advent of deep-sea mining in the mid-2020’s compels us to compare potential impacts of biodiversity loss across ecologically distant realms, a formidable task. Supplying the world’s green infrastructure is expected to lead to shortages of nickel, cobalt and other metals; meanwhile polymetallic nodules sitting atop the abyssal plains of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) of the Pacific Ocean contain billions of tons of nickel, cobalt, copper and manganese, enough to solve the supply issues. Implicit in society’s decision of whether to exploit this resource is a tradeoff of harm to biodiversity in the CCZ’s abyssal seafloor and its overlying water column, versus intensification of harm to rainforests and other terrestrial mining habitats. Here we frame the challenges of comparing biodiversity impacts across such different realms, spanning the gamut from normative to fundamental: ambiguities in definitions, lack of protocol standardization, physical challenges in measurement, difficulties to integrate measures among different taxonomic groups, profound differences between ecologically distant realms, contextual necessity to attribute value to mathematical index results, and constraints of current knowledge about species, ecosystems and system level impacts of biodiversity change. Quantitative biodiversity measures alone cannot rank one system above the other; measures must be supplemented with qualitative judgements of the tangible and intangible values of species and habitats to natural systems and to humans, along with consideration of other threats that they and we face.
A sustainable approach to enhance heavy hydrocarbons removal in landfarming treatment
Authors: Di Marcantonio Camilla , Chiavola Agostina , Noce Alessandra , Straccamore Elisabetta , Giannuzzi Andrea , Jirillo Jacopo , Gallo Francesco , Boni Maria Rosaria
Published: March 2023

The present study aimed to evaluate the best strategy to enhance the degradation rate of heavy petroleum hydrocarbons (HPH) contaminated soil in a landfarming plant. Samples of real contaminated soil, further spiked with HPH, were treated in mesocosm reactors simulating the landfarming system. One reactor was operated without any modification compared to the real landfarming plant. The other three reactors were operated with different strategies to improve the removal rate: biostimulation (BS) through the addition of nitrogen and phosphorus; bioaugmentation (BA) with the inoculation of sludge produced in the treatment of the process water from the oil re-fining plant of the same industrial area; combination of biostimulation and bioaugmentation (BAS). The biostimulation (BS) was the most effective strategy, leading to a reduction of the remediation time by 35% as compared to the traditional treatment. Bioaugmentation (BA) also provided positive effects leading to a reduction of the remediation time by 24%; its performance improved further when the addition of sludge was combined with the increase of phosphorous (BAS). Therefore, the key tool was represented by the phosphorous availability, whereas the application of sludge was most useful to provide waste with a new possibility of reuse, thus fulfilling the principles of the circular economy. The final characterization showed that the treated soil was suitable for reuse in industrial areas according to the legislation in force.
Contrast enhanced mammography in breast cancer surveillance
Authors: Elder Kenneth , Matheson Julia , Nickson Carolyn , Box Georgia , Ellis Jennifer , Mou Arlene , Shadbolt Clair , Park Allan , Tay Jia , Rose Allison , Mann Gregory Bruce
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Mammography (MG) is the standard imaging in surveillance of women with a personal history of breast cancer or DCIS (PHBC), supplemented with ultrasound. Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM) has higher sensitivity than MG and US. We report the performance of CEM compared with MG ± US.

Methods

A retrospective study of patients undergoing their first surveillance CEM in an Australian hospital setting between June 2006 and October 2020. Cases where a patient was recalled for assessment were identified, recording radiology, pathology and treatment details. Blinded re-reading of recalled cases was performed to determine the contribution of contrast. Use of surveillance US across the board was assessed for the period.

Results

73/1191 (6.1%) patients were recalled. 35 (48%) were true positives (TP), with 26 invasive cancers and 9 cases of DCIS, while 38 (52%) were false positive (FP) with a positive predictive value (PPV) 47.9%. 32/73 were recalled due to MG findings, while 41/73 were only recalled due to Contrast. 14/73 had ‘minimal signs’ with a lesion identifiable on MG with knowledge of the contrast finding, while 27/73 were visible only with contrast. 41% (17/41) recalled due to contrast were TP. Contrast-only TPs were found with low and high mammographic density (MD). Screening breast US reduced by 55% in the year after CEM was implemented.

Conclusion

Compared to MG, CEM as a single surveillance modality for those with PHBC has higher sensitivity and comparable specificity, identifying additional malignant lesions that are clinically significant. Investigation of interval cancer and subsequent round outcomes is warranted.
The Bundian Way: An Indigenous-Led Cross-Sector Partnership in Place Through Time
Authors: Baker Maegan , Cutcher Leanne , Ormiston Jarrod
Published: March 2023

Our paper explores the complex place-based relations of cross-sector partnerships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners. We draw on a longitudinal in-depth case study of the Bundian Way, an Indigenous-led cross-sector partnership of over 40 organisations. Through practices of listening to history and walking ‘on Country’, the non-Indigenous partners and our team came to appreciate the indivisibility of place and time and bear witness to the intergenerational trauma of colonially imposed divisions. By combining a 45-day place-based ethnography with a 36-month participant observation and repeated interviews with the Advisory Committee members, we explain how non-Indigenous members of the cross-sector partnership came to realise, and reverse, these place-time divisions. We contribute to an ethics of custodianship by first contrasting, and then combining, Indigenous and Western ways of knowing place through time.
Value Judgements, Positivism and Utility Comparisons in Economics
Authors: Drakopoulos Stavros A.
Published: March 2023

The issue of interpersonal comparisons of utility is about the possibility (or not) of comparing the utility or welfare or the mental states in general, of different individuals. Embedded in the conceptual framework of utilitarianism, interpersonal comparisons were admissible in economics as part of the theoretical justification of welfare policies until the first decades of the twentieth century. Under the strong influence of the scientific philosophy of positivism as reflected in the works of early neoclassical economists and as epitomized by Lionel Robbins, utility comparisons were subsequently rejected as a value judgement. Robbins’ methodological stance is still prevalent among mainstream economists. Despite the explicit rejection of comparability by the majority of economists, interpersonal comparisons are necessary for many key policy issues, such as progressive taxation, social welfare policies, GDP-based welfare comparisons, cost–benefit analysis, and public goods provision. In this paper, the case of interpersonal utility comparisons is discussed as an illustrative example of the usefulness of the study of the role of value judgements, and generally of the interrelationship between ethics and economics. It is argued that the current tension between theory and policy practice might be resolved through the efforts of prominent economists and philosophers to challenge positivism, and especially its problematic treatment of value judgements and of ethical assumptions in general. The discussion also provides more strength to the view that policy makers and their economic advisers cannot avoid ethical questions in their analysis of the workings of the economic system.
The smallest hard trees
Authors: Bodirsky Manuel , Bulín Jakub , Starke Florian , Wernthaler Michael
Published: March 2023

We find an orientation of a tree with 20 vertices such that the corresponding fixed-template constraint satisfaction problem (CSP) is NP-complete, and prove that for every orientation of a tree with fewer vertices the corresponding CSP can be solved in polynomial time. We also compute the smallest tree that is NL-hard (assuming L≠NL), the smallest tree that cannot be solved by arc consistency, and the smallest tree that cannot be solved by Datalog. Our experimental results also support a conjecture of Bulín concerning a question of Hell, Nešetřil and Zhu, namely that ‘easy trees lack the ability to count’. Most proofs are computer-based and make use of the most recent universal-algebraic theory about the complexity of finite-domain CSPs. However, further ideas are required because of the huge number of orientations of trees. In particular, we use the well-known fact that it suffices to study orientations of trees that are cores and show how to efficiently decide whether a given orientation of a tree is a core using the arc-consistency procedure. Moreover, we present a method to generate orientations of trees that are cores that works well in practice. In this way we found interesting examples for the open research problem to classify finite-domain CSPs in NL.
Bots against corruption: Exploring the benefits and limitations of AI-based anti-corruption technology
Authors: Odilla Fernanda
Published: March 2023

Countries have been developing and deploying anti-corruption tools based on artificial intelligence with hopes of them having positive capabilities. Yet, we still lack empirical analyses of these automated systems designed to identify and curb corruption. Hence, this article explores novel data on 31 bottom-up and top-down initiatives in Brazil, presented as a case study. Methodologically, it uses a qualitative analysis and draws on secondary data and interviews to assess the most common features, usages and constraints of these tools. Data collected are scrutinised under a new conceptual framework that considers how these tools operate, who created them for what purpose, who uses and monitors these tools, what types of corruption they are targeting, and what their tangible outcomes are. Findings suggest that in Brazil, AI-based anti-corruption technology has been tailored by tech-savvy civil servants working for law enforcement agencies and by concerned citizens with tech skills to take over the key tasks of mining and crosschecking large datasets, aiming to monitor, identify, report and predict risks and flag suspicions related to clear-cut unlawful cases. The target is corruption in key governmental functions, mainly public spending. While most of the governmental tools still lack transparency, bottom-up initiatives struggle to expand their scope due to high dependence on and limited access to open data. Because this new technology is seen as supporting human action, a low level of concern related to biased codes has been observed.