bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of powder particle size distribution on the surface finish of components manufactured by laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Sendino Sara , Martinez Silvia , Lartategui Fernando , Gardon Marc , Lamikiz Aitzol , Gonzalez Javier Jesus
Published: November 2022

One of the key aspects of the laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) process is the quality of the raw powder since it affects the final properties of the manufactured parts. In this study, 13 batches of Inconel® 718 powder were analysed, all of them being specially designed for L-PBF technology and meeting similar requirements but coming from different suppliers. Therefore, these batches have certain differences in their characteristics, including the particle size distribution (PSD). This study presents the relationship between the PSD of each batch and the surface roughness obtained in the manufactured parts. For the roughness study, Sa and Sz parameters are presented; in addition, the size and frequency of the particles adhered to the surface were quantified, and an autocorrelation analysis was carried out. Furthermore, after this analysis, the parts were sandblasted in order to repeat the same analysis after removing the adhered particles from the surface. This work points to the fact that the particles adhered to the surface are the smallest particles in the powder batch, and their size affects the roughness of the final part. This means that the surface roughness is strongly related to the fraction of smaller particles within the PSD of the batch, while there is no relationship between the surface roughness and the larger particles.
Vorschlag eines morphologischen Kastens zur Charakterisierung von Data-Science-Projekten
Authors: Theuerkauf René , Daurer Stephan , Hoseini Sayed , Kaufmann Jens , Kühnel Stephan , Schwade Florian , Alekozai Emal M. , Neuhaus Uwe , Rohde Heiko , Schulz Michael
Published: November 2022

Data-Science-Projekte sind typischerweise interdisziplinär, adressieren vielfältige Problemstellungen aus unterschiedlichen Domänen und sind häufig durch heterogene Projektmerkmale geprägt. Bestrebungen in Richtung einer einheitlichen Charakterisierung von Data-Science-Projekten sind insbesondere dann relevant, wenn über deren Durchführung entschieden werden soll – beispielsweise anhand von Kriterien wie Ressourcenbedarf, Datenverfügbarkeit oder potenziellen Risiken. Nach bestem Wissen der Autoren fehlt es jedoch in Wissenschaft und Praxis bisher an einschlägigen Ansätzen.

Mit diesem Artikel wird ein erster Schritt auf dem Weg hin zu einem Ansatz für eine einheitliche Charakterisierung von Data-Science-Projekten gegangen, indem ein morphologischer Kasten vorgeschlagen wird, der im Rahmen einer dreischrittigen Analyse auf Basis eines Fragenkataloges abgeleitet wurde. Er umfasst sieben Dimensionen mit 32 Dimensionsausprägungen und wird anhand einer Fallstudie aus dem Gebiet der Predictive Maintenance illustriert. Der morphologische Kasten bietet theoretische und praktische Anwendungspotenziale für den strukturierten Vergleich von Data-Science-Projekten und die Definition von Projektportfolios, erhebt jedoch keinen Anspruch auf Vollständigkeit. Er ist somit als Vorschlag und Anstoß zum Einstieg in einen weiterführenden Diskurs anzusehen.
Which preventive control measure initiated the “flattening of the curve”
Authors: Fuss Franz Konstantin , Weizman Yehuda , Tan Adin Ming
Published: November 2022

Background

When a country introduces different COVID-19 control measures over time, it is important to identify the specific measure that was effective and therefore responsible for “flattening the curve”. This information helps policymakers find the right decision and saves the economy by avoiding severe yet ineffective measures.

Objective

This paper aims to fill the literature gap by investigating two regions that introduced two or three consecutive measures during the second COVID-19 wave, namely Austria and Victoria.

Method

We calculated the first derivative (acceleration) of the filtered daily case data and identified the date of the start and end of the acceleration’s major downturn (effective phase) relative to the date when the control measures were introduced (Austria: soft/hard lockdowns; Victoria: stages 3/4 lockdowns, mask order).

Results

In Austria, the effective phase started 5 days after the introduction of the soft lockdown and ended at the start of the hard lockdown. In Victoria, the effective phase started 19 days after the introduction of the stage 3 lockdown, 5 days after the introduction of the mask order, and ended 6 days after the start of the stage 4 lockdown.

Conclusion

Considering that the effect of control measures is expected the earliest one serial interval after their introduction, the control measure responsible for “flattening the curve” was the soft lockdown in Austria and the mask mandate in Victoria. The severe lockdowns in both regions were ineffective.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Measurement Feedback Systems in Treatment for Common Mental Health Disorders
Authors: Rognstad Kristian , Wentzel-Larsen Tore , Neumer Simon-Peter , Kjøbli John
Published: November 2022

To investigate the effects of measurement feedback systems (MFSs) in therapy on mental health outcomes through a literature review and meta-analysis. Using a three-level modeling approach, we conducted a meta-analysis of all effect sizes from randomized controlled studies of MFSs used in the treatment of common mental health disorders. Eighty-two effect sizes were extracted from the thirty-one included studies. Analyses were performed to consider the post-treatment effects of the MFS-assisted treatment compared to treatment as usual. A separate analysis was done for the subgroup “not-on-track” patients as it is theorized that MFSs will be clinically useful because they make therapists aware of patients who fail to progress. MFSs had a significant effect on mental health outcomes (d = 0.14, 95% CI [0.082–0.206], p < .001). Further analysis found a larger effect in patients identified as less respondent to therapy, the “not-on-track” group (d = 0.29, 95% CI [0.114, 0.464], p = .003). Moderation analyses indicated that the type of outcome measurement and type of feedback system used, and whether it was used for a child and youth or adult population, influenced effect sizes. MFSs seem to have a small positive effect on treatment outcomes. The effects seem to be larger for “not-on-track” patients, the group of patients that would usually not benefit much from treatment.
From diverse to simple: butterfly communities erode from extensive grasslands to intensively used farmland and urban areas
Authors: Guariento Elia , Rüdisser Johannes , Fiedler Konrad , Paniccia Chiara , Stifter Simon , Tappeiner Ulrike , Seeber Julia , Hilpold Andreas
Published: November 2022

The severe biodiversity decline in European agricultural landscapes demands a specific evaluation of the various land-use practices. Many butterflies in Europe, as an important ecological indicator and pollinator taxon, require human interventions to sustain their populations in cultivated landscapes. However, land-use changes and management intensification are currently responsible for their decline. In this study, we compare butterfly communities occurring on 93 sites in seven widely distributed land-use types, viz. extensive meadows and pastures, semi-intensive meadows, vineyards, arable land, settlements and apple orchards. We recorded a high butterfly diversity in supposedly high nature-conservation value (HNV) grasslands (extensive meadows and pastures). All other land-use types showed significantly lower diversity, with decreasing diversity from semi-intensive meadows to apple orchards. Moreover, functional traits uncovered a general trend: extensive grasslands supported communities of more specialized and sedentary species whilst all other non-HNV land-use types showed communities characterized by mobile generalists. Community composition was driven by the land-use type and explained by plant-based indicator values for nutrients and light and temperature variables. Important life-history traits further correlated with site variables confirming the shift from specialists to generalists along increasing land-use intensity gradients and the effect of the thermal environment on phenological traits. We found supporting evidence for the effectiveness of regional Agri-Environmental Measures for butterfly conservation in European cultural landscapes and for the European conservation schemes to focus at least partly on the preservation of HNV grasslands with extensive management. Furthermore, we clearly show the poor ecological state of butterfly communities in more disturbed land-use types (including urban areas) and propose adopting measures to improve butterflies’ conservation in these environments.
Preferential substrate use decreases priming effects in contrasting treeline soils
Authors: Michel Jennifer , Hartley Iain P. , Buckeridge Kate M. , van Meegen Carmen , Broyd Rosanne C. , Reinelt Laura , Ccahuana Quispe Adan J. , Whitaker Jeanette
Published: November 2022

Climate change currently manifests in upward and northward shifting treelines, which encompasses changes to the carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) composition of organic inputs to soils. Whether these changed inputs will increase or decrease microbial mineralisation of native soil organic matter remains unknown, making it difficult to estimate how treeline shifts will affect the C balance. Aiming to improve mechanistic understanding of C cycling in regions experiencing treeline shifts, we quantified priming effects in soils of high altitudes (Peruvian Andes) and high latitudes (subarctic Sweden), differentiating landcover types (boreal forest, tropical forest, tundra heath, Puna grassland) and soil horizons (organic, mineral). In a controlled laboratory incubation, soils were amended with substrates of different C:N, composed of an organic C source at a constant ratio of 30% substrate-C to microbial biomass C, combined with different levels of a nutrient solution neutral in pH. Substrate additions elicited both positive and negative priming effects in both ecosystems, independent from substrate C:N. Positive priming prevailed above the treeline in high altitudes and in mineral soils in high latitudes, where consequently climate change-induced treeline shifts and deeper rooting plants may enhance SOM-mineralisation and soil C emissions. However, such C loss may be compensated by negative priming, which dominated in the other soil types and was of larger magnitude than positive priming. In line with other studies, these results indicate a consistent mechanism linking decreased SOM-mineralisation (negative priming) to increased microbial substrate utilisation, suggesting preferential substrate use as a potential tool to support soil C storage.

Graphical abstract
Prognostic significance of microinvasion with ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast: a meta-analysis
Authors: Shiino Sho , Quinn Cecily , Ball Graham , Syed Binafsha M. , Kurozumi Sasagu , Tsuda Hitoshi , Rakha Emad A.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) associated with invasive carcinoma ≤ 1 mm in size is defined as DCIS with microinvasion (DCIS/microinvasion) rather than as invasive breast carcinoma. The number of patients with microinvasion accounts for < 1% of all breast cancer in published studies. As the numbers are limited, the prognostic significance of DCIS/microinvasion has not been clearly elucidated. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the survival differences between patients with DCIS/microinvasion and those with pure DCIS.

Methods

A meta-analysis following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology was performed. We searched three electronic databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE) and included observational studies published in English that contained survival details of patients with either DCIS or DCIS/microinvasion.

Results

This study identified 26 studies that described the clinicopathological characteristics of patients in both the DCIS and DCIS/microinvasion groups. Survival differences were evaluated in 10 of 26 studies. Disease-free survival and loco-regional recurrence-free survival were significantly shorter in patients with DCIS/microinvasion than in those with DCIS (Hazard ratio, 1.52; 95% confidence interval, 1.11–2.08; p = 0.01 and hazard ratio, 2.53; 95% confidence interval, 1.45–4.41; p = 0.001, respectively). Both overall survival and distant metastasis-free survival tended to be shorter in patients with DCIS/microinvasion than in patients with DCIS (Hazard ratio, 1.63; 95% CI, 0.63–4.23; p = 0.31 and hazard ratio, 1.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.74–4.66; p = 0.19, respectively) but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis suggests that DCIS/microinvasion may display more aggressive biological and clinical behavior than pure DCIS, highlighting the potential need for closer follow-up and consideration of adjuvant treatment strategies in DCIS patients with microinvasive disease.
Impact of rapid Arctic sea ice decline on China's crop yield under global warming
Authors: Chen Di , Sun Qizhen
Published: November 2022

Food is the material basis for human survival. Therefore, food security is a top priority for the people's livelihood and the sustainable development and future destiny of human beings. In the context of global warming in recent decades, the Arctic region has experienced more significant temperature anomalies than the midlatitudes due to the "Arctic amplification," and the rate of sea ice reduction has accelerated, which has an important impact on climate change in the middle and high latitudes, especially the frequent occurrence of extreme climate disasters that seriously affect food security and China's agricultural production. However, little research has been conducted on the role of changes in this important system of Arctic sea ice in China's agricultural production. Therefore, this paper analyzes the interannual variability and multi-year trends of Arctic sea ice concentration, CO2, air temperature, precipitation and China's major crop yield data to explore the possible effects and mechanisms of the rapid decrease in Arctic sea ice on China's grain production. From the analysis, it was found that the yield of major grains (rice, maize, wheat and soybean) in China was closely related to the Arctic sea ice anomaly in the previous summer and autumn, and the influence process was primarily through the dynamic process of the Arctic sea ice anomaly affecting the meridional temperature gradient and the positive and negative Arctic Oscillation phases, which in turn affected the air temperature anomalies in Eurasia and China, and finally led to the anomalous changes in Chinese grain yield. Based on this, a prediction model of China's major grain yield was established by stepwise nonlinear multiple regression analysis, which is a good fit and is expected to increase China's major crop yield by 11.4% in 2022 compared with last year. This presents new ideas and methods for future grain yield assessment in China and has far-reaching guidance for the stability and development of national and regional economies worldwide.
Social Validity of Pivotal Response Treatment for Young Autistic Children: Perspectives of Autistic Adults
Authors: Schuck Rachel K. , Dwyer Patrick , Baiden Kaitlynn M. P. , Williams Zachary J. , Wang Mian
Published: November 2022

The social validity of autism behavioral intervention has been questioned. Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs) attempt to address some concerns, but it is unclear whether autistic people consider NDBIs socially valid. Social validity of an NDBI, Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), was investigated through autistic adults commenting on videos of autistic children receiving PRT. Qualitative coding of responses generated three themes: respect for individuals; assessment of intervention implementation; and socioemotional considerations. Although video brevity limits the scope of the present study’s conclusions, participants highlighted PRT components that appeared socially valid (e.g., reinforcing attempts, following the child’s lead) and aspects appearing invalid (e.g., overemphasis on spoken language). Therefore, adjustments appear necessary for PRT to be fully acceptable to the autistic community.
Structuralism and the Quest for Lost Reality
Authors: Vos Bobby
Published: November 2022

The structuralist approach represents the relation between a model and physical system as a relation between two mathematical structures. However, since a physical system isprima facienota mathematical structure, the structuralist approach seemingly fails to represent the fact that science is about concrete, physical reality. In this paper, I take up thisproblem of lost realityand suggest how it may be solved in a purely structuralist fashion. I start by briefly introducing both the structuralist approach and the problem of lost reality and discussing the various (non-structuralist) solutions that have been proposed in the literature. Following this, I decompose the problem into theontological mismatchandspecificationproblems. In response to the former, I present ametascientific dissolution argument, according to which the difference in kind between mathematical structures and physical systems poses no deep obstacle to the structuralist approach, and consider some upshots of this argument for our views on representation. By way of conclusion, I argue that the metascientific dissolution argument paves the way for a solution to the specification problem as well.
On the structure of isothermal acoustic shocks under classical and artificial viscosity laws: selected case studies*
Authors: Carillo Sandra , Jordan Pedro M.
Published: November 2022

Assuming Newton’s law of cooling, the propagation and structure of isothermal acoustic shocks are studied under four different viscosity laws. Employing both analytical and numerical methods, 1D traveling wave solutions for the velocity and density fields are derived and analyzed. For each viscosity law considered, expressions for both the shock thickness and the asymmetry metric are determined. And, to ensure that isothermal flow is achievable, upper bounds on the associated Mach number values are derived/computed using the isothermal version of the energy equation.
Changes in clinical management of diffuse IDH-mutated lower-grade gliomas: patterns of care in a 15-year period
Authors: Svenjeby Caroline , Carstam Louise , Werlenius Katja , Bontell Thomas Olsson , Rydén Isabelle , Jacobsson Julia , Dénes Anna , Jakola Asgeir S. , Corell Alba
Published: November 2022

Background

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutated diffuse lower-grade gliomas (dLGG) are infiltrating brain tumors and increasing evidence is in favor of early multimodal treatment. In a Scandinavian population-based setting, we wanted to study treatment patterns over the last 15 years, focusing on the short-term postoperative course to better understand the potential negative consequences of treatment.

Methods

Patients ≥ 18 years with primary IDH-mutated dLGG grade 2 and 3, operated between January 2007–June 2021 were identified. Patients were divided into subgroups (2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021) and comparisons regarding tumor- and disease characteristics, treatment, and postoperative outcome were performed.

Results

We identified 202 patients (n = 61, 2007–2011; n = 72, 2012–2016; n = 69, 2017–2021), where of 193 underwent resection without change in proportion of resections over time. More patients underwent complete resections in recent times (6.1%; 15.7%; 26.1%, respectively; p = 0.016). Forty-two patients had any neurological deficit postoperatively (14.8%; 23.6%; 23.2%; p = 0.379), mostly minor and transient. Differences in oncological therapy were seen between the investigated subgroups. Early radiotherapy alone (32.8%; 7%; 2.9%; p < 0.001), concomitant chemoradiotherapy (23%; 37.5%; 17.4%; p = 0.022), sequential chemoradiotherapy (0%; 18%; 49.3%; p < 0.001), and no adjuvant treatment (42.6%; 23.6%; 18.8%; p = 0.009) shifted during the studied period. Increasingly more patients received proton radiotherapy compared to photon radiotherapy during the later time periods (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Complete resections were performed more often in later time periods without an apparent increase in surgical morbidity. Early adjuvant oncological treatment shifted towards providing chemotherapy and combined chemoradiotherapy more often in later time periods. Protons replaced photons as the radiation modality of choice.
The role of [18F]fluorodopa positron emission tomography in grading of gliomas
Authors: Roach Joy R. , Plaha Puneet , McGowan Daniel R. , Higgins Geoff S.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Gliomas are the most commonly occurring brain tumour in adults and there remains no cure for these tumours with treatment strategies being based on tumour grade. All treatment options aim to prolong survival, maintain quality of life and slow the inevitable progression from low-grade to high-grade. Despite imaging advancements, the only reliable method to grade a glioma is to perform a biopsy, and even this is fraught with errors associated with under grading. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with amino acid tracers such as [18F]fluorodopa (18F-FDOPA), [11C]methionine (11C-MET), [18F]fluoroethyltyrosine (18F-FET), and 18F-FDOPA are being increasingly used in the diagnosis and management of gliomas.

Methods

In this review we discuss the literature available on the ability of 18F-FDOPA-PET to distinguish low- from high-grade in newly diagnosed gliomas.

Results

In 2016 the Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) and European Association for Neuro-Oncology (EANO) published recommendations on the clinical use of PET imaging in gliomas. However, since these recommendations there have been a number of studies performed looking at whether 18F-FDOPA-PET can identify areas of high-grade transformation before the typical radiological features of transformation such as contrast enhancement are visible on standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Conclusion

Larger studies are needed to validate 18F-FDOPA-PET as a non-invasive marker of glioma grade and prediction of tumour molecular characteristics which could guide decisions surrounding surgical resection.
UK practice on incidentally detected non-functioning pituitary microadenomas: analysis of two national surveys during a 12-year interval
Authors: Hamblin Ross , Fountas Athanasios , Levy Miles , Karavitaki Niki
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The optimal management approach for presumed non-functioning pituitary microadenomas (microNFPAs) remains unclear. Our aim was to capture current UK practice and identify changes with time.

Methods

Two online surveys investigating clinicians’ approaches were performed in 2009–2010 and 2021–2022 (advertised through Society for Endocrinology UK).

Results

150 and 214 clinicians participated in the 2021 and 2009 survey, respectively (response rates 31.2% and 35.4%, respectively). At baseline, 2021 survey respondents were more likely to measure IGF-1 (96.0% vs 74.1%, p < 0.001) and morning cortisol (87.9% vs 62.6%, p < 0.001), and less likely GH (26.2% vs 42.6% p = 0.002), 24 h urine free cortisol (3.4% vs 23.2%, p < 0.0001) or dynamically assess adrenal reserve (11.4% vs 30.4%, p < 0.001). 47.2% of clinicians in 2021 would reassess pituitary function annually until discharge (in absence of tumour growth/symptoms). The 2021 survey respondents were more likely to stop imaging at or before 3 years (81.7% vs 44.3%, p < 0.001) and at or before 5 years (86.6.% vs 72.9%, p = 0.002), whilst 2009 survey respondents were more likely to continue imaging beyond 5 years (24% vs 7%, p < 0.001). Responses on imaging frequency/intervals showed notable variability in both surveys.

Conclusions

Diagnostic and management approaches for microNFPAs have evolved in the UK. Biochemical investigations are performed in accord with consensus guidelines, though many clinicians perform annual biochemical surveillance without tumour growth/symptoms. A small number of clinicians request imaging beyond 5 years, but the frequency of imaging intervals until discharge remains variable. Robust evidence on the long-term natural history of microNFPAs is necessary to unify clinician approach.
Workplace Social Capital: Redefining and Measuring the Construct
Authors: Tsounis Andreas , Xanthopoulou Despoina , Demerouti Evangelia , Kafetsios Konstantinos , Tsaousis Ioannis
Published: November 2022

Although workplace social capital (WSC) is a relevant construct that contributes positively to employee and organizational wellness, there is lack of consensus regarding its definition and measurement. The aim of this paper was to synthesize a valid definition of WSC and develop an instrument measuring the construct. Based on a literature review of existing definitions (Phase 1), we conceptualized WSC as a workplace resource that concerns employees’ perceptions regarding trust, reciprocity (cognitive WSC), and network interactions (structural WSC) that exist among peers (bonding WSC) and among individuals across hierarchical levels and organizations (bridging WSC). Next, we developed the WSC Inventory (WoSCi; Phase 2) and, we tested the psychometric properties of the new scale (Phase 3). The initial structure of the scale was explored in a sample of university employees (N = 376). Multilevel confirmatory factor analysis in a heterogeneous sample of 733 employees nested in 158 work groups supported the hypothesized factor structure of the WoSCi. Results also supported the internal consistency, as well as the convergent, criterion-related and incremental validity of the WoSCi in explaining work engagement, burnout, job performance over and above similar constructs, such as individual social capital and psychological capital. These results highlight the relevance of WSC as defined and measured with the WoSCi and underline its value for explaining work-related well-being and organizational behavior.
The Van Allen Probes Electric Field and Waves Instrument: Science Results, Measurements, and Access to Data
Authors: Breneman A. W. , Wygant J. R. , Tian S. , Cattell C. A. , Thaller S. A. , Goetz K. , Tyler E. , Colpitts C. , Dai L. , Kersten K. , Bonnell J. W. , Bale S. D. , Mozer F. S. , Harvey P. R. , Dalton G. , Ergun R. E. , Malaspina D. M. , Kletzing C. A. , Kurth W. S. , Hospodarsky G. B. , Smith C. , Holzworth R. H. , Lejosne S. , Agapitov O. , Artemyev A. , Hudson M. K. , Strangeway R. J. , Baker D. N. , Li X. , Albert J. , Foster J. C. , Erickson P. J. , Chaston C. C. , Mann I. , Donovan E. , Cully C. M. , Krasnoselskikh V. , Blake J. B. , Millan R. , Halford A. J.
Published: November 2022

The Van Allen Probes Electric Fields and Waves (EFW) instrument provided measurements of electric fields and spacecraft floating potentials over a wide dynamic range from DC to 6.5 kHz near the equatorial plane of the inner magnetosphere between 600 km altitude and 5.8 Re geocentric distance from October 2012 to November 2019. The two identical instruments provided data to investigate the quasi-static and low frequency fields that drive large-scale convection, waves induced by interplanetary shock impacts that result in rapid relativistic particle energization, ultra-low frequency (ULF) MHD waves which can drive radial diffusion, and higher frequency wave fields and time domain structures that provide particle pitch angle scattering and energization. In addition, measurements of the spacecraft potential provided a density estimate in cold plasmas ($<20~\text{eV}$
<
20

eV
) from 10 to $3000~\text{cm}^{-3}$
3000

cm

−
3

. The EFW instrument provided analog electric field signals to EMFISIS for wave analysis, and it received 3d analog signals from the EMFISIS search coil sensors for inclusion in high time resolution waveform data.

The electric fields and potentials were measured by current-biased spherical sensors deployed at the end of four 50 m booms in the spacecraft spin plane (spin period $\sim11~\text{sec}$
∼
11

sec
) and a pair of stacer booms with a total tip-tip separation of 15 m along the spin axis. Survey waveform measurements at 16 and/or 32 S/sec (with a nominal uncertainty of 0.3 mV/m over the prime mission) were available continuously while burst waveform captures at up to 16,384 S/sec provided high frequency waveforms.

This post-mission paper provides the reader with information useful for accessing, understanding and using EFW data. Selected science results are discussed and used to highlight instrument capabilities. Science quantities, data quality and error sources, and analysis routines are documented.
Identification of FDA-approved drugs against SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) through computational virtual screening
Authors: Jade Dhananjay , Alzahrani Areej , Critchley William , Ponnambalam Sreenivasan , Harrison Michael A.
Published: November 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is responsible for the COVID-19 outbreak, which overwhelmed millions of people worldwide; hence, there is an urgency to identify appropriate antiviral drugs. This study focuses on screening compounds that inhibit RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase (RdRp) essential for RNA synthesis required for replication of positive-strand RNA viruses. Computational screening against RdRp using Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs identified ten prominent compounds with binding energies of more than − 10.00 kcal/mol, each a potential inhibitor of RdRp. These compounds’ binding energy is comparable to known RdRp inhibitors remdesivir (IC50 = 10.09 μM, SI = 4.96) and molnupiravir (EC50 = 0.67 − 2.66 µM) and 0.32–2.03 µM). Remdesivir and molnupiravir have been tested in clinical trial and remain authorized for emergency use in the treatment of COVID-19. In docking simulations, selected compounds are bound to the substrate-binding pocket of RdRp and showed hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interaction. For molecular dynamics simulation, capmatinib, pralsetinib, ponatinib, and tedizolid phosphate were selected from the initial ten candidate compounds. MD simulation indicated that these compounds are stable at 50-ns MD simulation when bound to RdRp protein. The screen hit compounds, remdesivir, molnupiravir, and GS-441524, are bound in the substrate binding pocket with good binding-free energy. As a consequence, capmatinib, pralsetinib, ponatinib, and tedizolid phosphate are potential new inhibitors of RdRp protein with potential of limiting COVID-19 infection by blocking RNA synthesis.
Thermochemistry in the twenty-first century–quo vadis? In silico assisted diagnostics of available thermochemical data
Authors: Verevkin Sergey P. , Samarov Artemiy A.
Published: November 2022

Which comes first, experiment or theory? The answer is obvious—the experiment comes first. But how to be sure that the result of the experiment is reliable? Perhaps the crucial criterion is that the result should be consistent with the network of knowledge already available. In this study, we propose a step-by-step algorithm for quality diagnostics of thermochemical data on enthalpies of formation and enthalpies of phase transitions of organic compounds. The consistency of the data is studied and established using empirical structure–property correlations as well as using quantum chemical calculations. The diagnostic algorithm is exemplarily demonstrated on a series of alkyl-substituted benzophenones for which conflicting thermochemical data were available.
Drought-Stricken U.S. States Have More Comprehensive Water-Related Hazard Planning
Authors: Jedd Theresa , Smith Kelly Helm
Published: November 2022

Despite the devastating impacts of droughts, the United States lacks a national drought plan. This leaves states to address droughts in water, hazard, and stand-alone plans which are designed to reduce drought vulnerability and to prepare government, industry, and society to cope with the impacts. Yet, there is limited empirical research that evaluates the comprehensiveness of these plans, specifically in terms of whether they include preparedness and mitigation measures or triggers for action and response. To fill this gap, this study’s first aim was to establish an evaluation framework based on principles from the drought mitigation literature. The study then evaluated 171 state-level plans with the framework, and simultaneously collected interview data to contextualize the results. In a final step, the scores were employed in a statistical analysis of whether states with higher physical exposure to drought have more comprehensive planning. The study finds states that have experienced more frequent and severe drought plan more comprehensively, suggesting that the occurrence of drought may be an intrinsic driver for planning. The study concludes that planning and preparing for droughts is a necessary but complex undertaking requiring interdisciplinary, interagency efforts that the U.S.’ decentralized, federalist political system is suited to address. If generalization is warranted, the results suggest that the physical occurrence of drought can act as a policy catalyst.
There are (almost) no robots in journalism. An attempt at a differentiated classification and terminology of automation in journalism on the base of the concept of distributed and gradualised action
Authors: Mooshammer Sandra
Published: November 2022

Human-Machine Communication and fields like journalism studies have been discussing new technological developments in journalism, especially automation technologies like automated writing software. However, existing literature has terminological problems: Terms are not distinctly defined and delimited, different aspects can be referred to with the same term, while different, often misleading, terms exist for the same aspect. As a result, it is often unclear which concept is being referred to. To gain a better understanding and modeling of automation in journalism as well as a theoretical foundation, this paper first describes current problems with terms used in scientific literature and argues that existing automation taxonomies are not fully transferrable to journalism, making a new theoretical basis necessary. Subsequently, Rammert and Schulz-Schaeffer’s concept of distributed and gradualised action is described and proposed as such a theoretical basis for the unification of terminology and conceptual foundations, providing the opportunity to empirically and normatively describe automation as well as delivering necessary theoretical underpinnings. Lastly, the concept is applied to automation in journalism, resulting in a proposed automation concept, suggestions for terminology, and further implications for Human-Machine Communication theory.
Investigations on sheet metal forming of hybrid parts in different stress states
Authors: Hafenecker Jan , Merklein Marion
Published: November 2022

Conventional processes are being pushed to their limits by growing demands in terms of sustainability and diversity of variants. Hybrid components, which are produced by a combination of two or more manufacturing processes, are a suitable way of meeting these challenges. The combination of sheet metal forming processes with additive manufacturing offers the potential to link personalized components with standardized parts. Knowing that the additively manufactured components influence the forming process, it is essential to understand the interactions in detail. Therefore, this work will compare the influence of several additively manufactured elements (AME) for deep drawing with two different punch geometries. The approach used combines experimental and numerical investigations to improve process insight in relation to sheet metal forming of hybrid components. The results show that the AMEs amplify existing stresses and strains in dependence of the present load. Sections subjected to low loads, as it is found in the bottom of the cup manufactured with a cylindrical punch, are hardly affected, whereas stronger loaded areas, e.g. the center of the parts manufactured with a hemispherical punch, are affected all the more.
Sims and Vulnerability: On the Ethics of Creating Emulated Minds
Authors: Chomanski Bartlomiej
Published: November 2022

It might become possible to build artificial minds with the capacity for experience. This raises a plethora of ethical issues, explored, among others, in the context of whole brain emulations (WBE). In this paper, I will take up the problem of vulnerability – given, for various reasons, less attention in the literature – that the conscious emulations will likely exhibit. Specifically, I will examine the role that vulnerability plays in generating ethical issues that may arise when dealing with WBEs. I will argue that concerns about vulnerability are more matters of institutional design than individual ethics, both when it comes to creating humanlike brain emulations, and when animal-like emulations are concerned. Consequently, the article contains reflection on some institutional measures that can be taken to protect the sims' interests. It concludes that an institutional framework more likely to succeed in this task is competitive and poly-centric, rather than monopolistic and centralized.
(Healthy) Aging Patterns in Europe: A Multistate Health Transition Approach
Authors: Solé-Auró Aïda , Gumà Jordi
Published: November 2022

We explore patterns and determinants of health transition probabilities by combining outcomes of morbidity and mortality to examine different aging patterns across Europe, and to ascertain how individual socio-demographic characteristics modify these patterns. We use panel data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (2004– 2017) for 76,536 individuals aged 50 + in 20 European countries who participated in at least two waves. All transition probabilities were calculated applying a multistate analytical approach. Our findings show significant gender, education, and cohort differences in health transition probabilities and marked cross-country group differences. Central and Northern European countries present lower probabilities of health deterioration than Southern and, especially, Eastern European countries. Having a high level of education, living in Central Europe, and being younger are associated with lower probabilities of health deterioration and, if any, a higher probability of being restored to good health. We found less evidence of differences when transitions end in death. Our study contributes to this line of research by implementing a multistate approach using European harmonized panel dataset, to examine the effects of birth cohort, educational attainment and gender differences on health transitions. Our findings point to the need to consider the specific influence of individual factors in the aging process in different transitions according to the context and with reference to specific vulnerable groups. In the context of aging societies, such a consideration is both essential and policy relevant.
A Novel Method of Minimally Invasive Repair of Pectus Excavatum (MIRPE) in Patients with Bilateral Breast Prostheses: a Report of Two Patients
Authors: Arredondo Montero Javier , Martín-Calvo Nerea , Bardají Pascual Carlos
Published: November 2022

The literature on minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum in patients with breast prostheses is very scarce, with only one report to date. We present two cases treated in our center in which this technique was performed without prior removal of the breast prostheses. In one of the patients, a sternal zenithal traction system was additionally used to facilitate retrosternal dissection. In this work, we present the technical details of the procedure. One of the patients presented with postoperative Dressler’s syndrome which resolved with conservative measures. We found no correlation between this complication and the presence of breast prostheses. After 4 and 2 years respectively, both patients are asymptomatic, with an adequate correction of the defect, and being followed up. Minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum technique is safe and feasible in patients with bilateral breast prostheses. The placement of breast prostheses prior to the correction of rib cage deformities leads to an unpredictable aesthetic result in certain aspects, such as the exact positioning of the nipple areola complex. The approach to this pathology by a pediatric surgeon, who considers not only the aesthetic aspect but also the rib cage involvement and the potential presence of additional malformations (for example, a Poland sequence), is, in the authors’ opinion, beneficial to the overall outcome of these patients.
Hospital utilisation and the costs associated with complications of ICD implantation in a contemporary primary prevention cohort
Authors: van Barreveld M. , Verstraelen T. E. , Buskens E. , van Dessel P. F. H. M. , Boersma L. V. A. , Delnoy P. P. H. M. , Tuinenburg A. E. , Theuns D. A. M. J. , van der Voort P. H. , Kimman G. P. , Zwinderman A. H. , Wilde A. A. M. , Dijkgraaf M. G. W. ,   DO-IT investigators, van Barreveld M. , Verstraelen T. E. , Buskens E. , van Dessel P. F. H. M. , Boersma L. V. A. , Delnoy P. P. H. M. , Tuinenburg A. E. , Theuns D. A. M. J. , van der Voort P. H. , Kimman G. P. , Zwinderman A. H. , Wilde A. A. M. , Dijkgraaf M. G. W.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Implantation of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is standard care for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. However, ICD-related complications are increasing as the population of ICD recipients grows.

Methods

ICD-related complications in a national DO-IT Registry cohort of 1442 primary prevention ICD patients were assessed in terms of additional use of hospital care resources and costs.

Results

During a median follow-up of 28.7 months (IQR 25.2–33.7) one or more complications occurred in 13.5% of patients. A complication resulted in a surgical intervention in 53% of cases and required on average 3.65 additional hospital days. The additional hospital costs were €6,876 per complication or €8,110 per patient, to which clinical re-interventions and additional hospital days contributed most. Per category of complications, infections required most hospital utilisation and were most expensive at an average of €22,892. The mean costs were €5,800 for lead-related complications, €2,291 for pocket-related complications and €5,619 for complications due to other causes. We estimate that the total yearly incidence-based costs in the Netherlands for hospital management of ICD-related complications following ICD implantation for primary prevention are €2.7 million.

Conclusion

Complications following ICD implantation are related to a substantial additional need for hospital resources. When performing cost-effectiveness analyses of ICD implantation, including the costs associated with complications, one should be aware that real-world complication rates may deviate from trial data. Considering the economic implications, strategies to reduce the incidence of complications are encouraged.
Combining market and nonmarket food sources provides rural households with more options to achieve better diets in Southern Benin
Authors: Bellon Mauricio R. , Ntandou-Bouzitou Gervais , Lauderdale Janet E. , Caracciolo Francesco
Published: November 2022

This study examines the relative contributions to dietary diversity of the diversity of plant and domesticated animal species which rural households produce or collect, i.e., nonmarket food sources, versus the diversity of foods purchased in markets. Although opinions differ in the literature as to their relative importance, clarifying how different sources of food contribute to the dietary diversity of rural households in the developing world is important to inform policies and interventions to improve their food security and dietary quality. This case study was carried out among a random sample of 654 rural households in southern Benin during two seasons: when food is plentiful after harvest; and when food is scarcer between harvests. We collected data on crops, wild plants, and domesticated animals utilized by households, the number of markets they visited, and the diet of a mother in the household, with a structured 24-hour food frequency questionnaire. We hypothesize that the number of markets visited is an indicator of the diversity of foods available in the markets they have access to, and thus shows the contribution of markets as food sources. Results support this hypothesis and show that households that produced more plant and domesticated animal species and those that visited more markets had more diversified diets. Obtaining diverse foods from multiple sources provides households with more options to achieve better diets. These results suggest a need for a more holistic approach that recognizes the complementarities between market and nonmarket sources of foods. This approach should build on the diversity of species rural households already utilize, and on the ways they interact with markets.
High vs. low radiotherapy dose in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients treated with neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy: an endemic area population-based study
Authors: Li Chia-Chin , Chen Chih-Yi , Chou Ying-Hsiang , Huang Chih-Jen , Ku Hsiu-Ying , Lin Ying-Chun , Chien Chun-Ru
Published: November 2022

Background

The optimal radiotherapy dose for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in endemic areas treated with neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy is unclear.

Methods

Eligible patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2019 were identified via the Taiwan Cancer Registry. We used propensity score (PS) weighting to balance observable potential confounders. The hazard ratio (HR) of death was compared between high dose (50–50.4 Gy) and low dose (40–41.4 Gy) radiotherapy. We also evaluated other outcomes and performed supplementary analyses via an alternative approach.

Results

Our study population consisted of 644 patients. The PS weight-adjusted HR of death was 0.92 (95% confidence interval: 0.7–1.19, p = 0.51). There were no statistically significant differences for other outcomes or supplementary analyses.

Conclusions

In this population-based study from an endemic area, we found no significant difference in overall survival between high vs. low radiotherapy doses.
Investigations on the microstructure of drawn arc stud welds on structural steels by quantitative metallography
Authors: Brätz Oliver , Henkel Knuth-Michael
Published: November 2022

The drawn arc stud welding is widely applied in steel construction, and its welding procedure can be qualified according to different standards by visual examinations and practical destructive tests of the resulting joint. An evaluation of the material properties is usually not requested particularly considering the locally limited weld region. Nevertheless, there is a need of knowledge regarding the complex press welding process metallurgy and resulting heterogeneous material properties in the welded zone, especially when welding on base materials with specified strength and toughness behavior that might be significantly diminished. In this study, the metallurgy of standardized large low alloyed Ø20 mm steel studs welded on plates of different generic structural steel grades is comprehensively analyzed by quantitative metallography. Structural steels with a moderate nominal yield strength of 355 MPa in non-alloyed normalized and micro-alloyed thermomechanically rolled delivery condition as well as a quenched and tempered structural steel with a high nominal yield strength of 690 MPa were investigated comparatively. Despite the different base plate compositions, very similar microstructures were found in the weld metal, whereas a typical quenching microstructure that strongly depends on the steel grade occurs in the heat-affected zone. A basic suitability of all steel grades regarding the DASW metallurgy was found.