bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Hybrid Techniques for Cyberattack Detection and Defense in IoT Networks
Authors: Mahdi Zaed S. , Zaki Rana M. , Alzubaidi Laith
Published: October 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a vast network of devices connected to the Internet, making it easier for users to connect to modern technology. However, the complexity of these networks and the large volume of data pose significant challenges in protecting them from persistent cyberattacks, such as distributed denial‐of‐service (DDoS) attacks and spoofing. It has become necessary to use intrusion detection systems and protect these networks. Existing intrusion detection systems for IoT networks face many problems and limitations, including high false alarm rates and delayed detection. Also, the datasets used for training may be outdated or sparse, which reduces the model's accuracy, and mechanisms may not be used to defend the network when any intrusion is detected. To address these limitations, a new hybrid deep learning and machine learning methodology is proposed that contributes to detecting DDoS and spoofing attacks, reducing false alarms, and then implementing the necessary defensive measures. In proposed hybrid methodology consists of three stages: the first stage is to propose a hybrid method for feature selection consisting of techniques (correlation coefficient and sequential feature selector); the second stage is to propose a hybrid model by integrating deep learning neural networks with a machine learning classifier (cascaded long short‐term memory [LSTM] and Naive Bayes classifier); and in the third stage, improving network defense mechanisms and blocking ports after detecting threats and maintaining network integrity. In training and evaluating the performance of the proposed methodology, three datasets (CIC‐DDoS2019, CIC‐IoT2023, and CIC‐IoV2024) were used, and these data were also balanced to obtain effective results. The accuracy of 99.91%, 99.88%, and 99.77% was obtained. Also, a cross‐validation technique was used with the test data to ensure no overfitting. The proposed methodology has proven its high performance in detecting attacks, as it provides a powerful solution to enhance the security of IoT networks and protect them from cyberattacks, as it can be applied in many fields and to other attacks.
Irreversibility analysis in an electro‐osmotically driven flow using ternary hybrid nanofluids in a microchannel with a porous material
Authors: Yusuf Tunde A. , Salawu Sulyman O. , Adesanya Samuel O. , Ukaegbu Joel C.
Published: October 2024

Flow enhancement is one of the most significant challenges in microfluidics with extremely low permeability. Based on this, electrokinetics remediation for the double‐layer flow of hybrid ternary nanofluid is proposed based on the transport of ions under constant pumping pressure. The entropy generation volumetric rate relation is also modeled. The nonlinear system of equations is formulated, solved, and validated numerically by the collocation method and shooting Runge–Kutta method. Results are shown graphically to explore the impacts of governing parameters, such as the Darcy parameter, viscosity index, electrokinetic, and Joule heating effects, on the velocity, temperature, entropy, and Bejan number profiles. The flow and heat transmission in microchannels may be significantly changed and controlled by the electric double layer. The findings show that as the electrokinetic parameter's magnitude increases, the flow is slowed down, and thermal dispersion is impeded by nanoparticle collisions, which lowers the velocity field and heat transfer profile.
Nonlinear vibration and parametric excitation of magneto‐thermo elastic embedded nanobeam using homotopy perturbation technique
Authors: Selvamani Rajendran , Thangamuni Prabhakaran , Yaylacı Murat , Emin Özdemir Mehmet , Yaylacı Ecren Uzun
Published: October 2024

The present study focuses on the modeling and analyzing the nonlinear vibration patterns and parametric excitation of embedded Euler–Bernoulli nanobeams subjected to thermo‐magneto‐mechanical loads. The Euler–Bernoulli nanobeam is developed with external parametric excitation. The governing equation of motion is derived by utilizing nonlocal continuum theory and nonlinear von Karman beam theory. Subsequently, the homotopy perturbation technique is employed to determine the vibration frequencies. Finally, the modulation equation of Euler–Bernoulli nanobeams is derived for simply supported boundary condition. In order to validate our findings, we conduct a comparative analysis against existing literature, thereby underscoring the effectiveness and robustness of our proposed methodology. The influence of stress, magnetic potential, temperature, damping coefficient, Winkler coefficient, and nonlocal parameters are tested numerically on nonlinear frequency‐amplitude and parametric excitation–amplitude responses. The numerical examples indicate the significant impact of physical variables on the nonlinear frequency and parametric excitation. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the effects of external physical variables on the dynamic behavior of nanobeams, particularly in nonlinear regimes. This study provides insights into the design and control of nanostructures under complex load conditions, contributing to developing advanced materials and nanosystems.
Improving Social Justice, Environmental Integrity, and Geopolitical Resilience in EU Electric Mobility Transition
Authors: Lis-Plesińska Aleksandra , Ortar Nathalie , Szymanowski Rafał , Jaskólski Marek W. , Parteka Aleksandra , Buisson Christine
Published: October 2024

We recommend improving social justice, environmental integrity, and geopolitical resilience in electric mobility transition. To achieve this policy recommendation, we propose the following: (1) Increase societal acceptance and justice of climate policies by engaging local stakeholders; (2) Prioritize sustainable mobility practices over replacement of internal combustion engine vehicle (ICEV) with battery electric vehicle (BEV); (3) Base resilience of global value and supply chains on a diversified network of suppliers and a balanced structure of domestic and foreign content of economic value; (4) Evaluate geo-political risks and environmental impacts of value and supply chains in non-European regions; (5) Create a geopolitical risk body to scrutinise geopolitical threats to the electric mobility supply chain; and (6) Increase the share of EU-based manufacturing in electric mobility related sectors.
Assessing Mobility Policy with AI-Driven Analysis of User-Generated Content
Authors: Tori Floriano , van Vessem Charlotte , Betancur Arenas Juliana , Ginis Vincent
Published: October 2024

We recommend assessing mobility policies with AI-driven analysis of user-generated content. To achieve this policy recommendation, we propose to take into account the following: (1) Using large language models to analyse user-generated content is a reliable methodology for gathering and analysing typically overlooked relevant information regarding citizens' perceptions in the implementation of sustainable mobility policies; (2) The substantial processing capacity of these models, coupled with their ability to gather a great amount of information, enables decision-makers to supplement and enhance the often-limited traditional data collection methods. As exposed in the following case study, this methodology can provide historical perceptual information on transport modes, mobility policies, and infrastructure, among others; and (3) The ease of applying this methodology through AI open-source recent developments such as ChatGPT allows decision-makers and their teams to rapidly generate and assess a great amount of relevant data. This can facilitate policymakers' effectiveness and efficiency in the decision-making processes in urban mobility planning. However, policymakers should be aware of the characteristics of their selected population and use this as a complementary and evaluative method.
Thermodynamics of the α-FeOOH (goethite)-ScOOH solid solution
Authors: Majzlan Juraj
Published: October 2024

Scandium (Sc) is a rare element that finds uses in modern technologies. Thermodynamic properties of Sc phases could help in the development of innovative technologies to extract Sc from mining waste. In this work, we investigated the FeOOH–ScOOH solid solution with the goethite structure. The end members and five intermediate compositions were synthesized and characterized. The lattice parameters show that the solid solution is non-ideal, with complex behavior induced by the Fe–Sc substitution. The excess unit-cell volume deviates negatively for the Sc-rich region, and positively for the Fe-rich region from the ideal behavior (Vegard’s law). Enthalpies of dissolution were determined by acid-solution calorimetry in 5 mol$$\cdot \hbox {dm}^{-3}$$

·

dm

-
3

HCl at T = 343.15 K. Enthalpies of mixing ($$\Delta _{mix}H$$

Δ

mix

H

), calculated from the experimental data, are small and positive. The available data allow for fitting the data as $$\Delta _{mix}H = W x (1-x)$$

Δ

mix

H
=
W
x

(
1
-
x
)

, with the mixing parameter $$W = 15.2\pm$$

W
=
15.2
±

1.0 kJ$$\cdot \hbox {mol}^{-1}$$

·

mol

-
1

. Using $$\Delta _fG^o$$

Δ
f

G
o

of ScOOH from earlier literature, we calculated a Lippmann diagram that shows that Sc should strongly partition into the aqueous phase upon goethite precipitation. The field observations from lateritic profiles show that Sc is primarily harbored by goethite via adsorption. It seems that under weathering conditions, thermodynamically driven partitioning of $$\hbox {Sc}^{3+}$$

Sc

3
+

into the aqueous phases and its subsequent adsorption onto goethite surfaces controls the mobility of Sc in the weathering profiles.
Evaluating the accuracy of population-specific versus generic stature estimation regression equations in a South African sample
Authors: Bidmos Mubarak , Brits Desiré
Published: October 2024

Accurate estimates of stature play an important role in the personal identification of unknown decedents, however a drawback in the application of many stature estimation equations is the need for known sex and population, the assignment of which can be challenging. Researchers have formulated equations for stature estimation that are neither population- nor sex-specific and thereof the aim of this study was to assess the applicability of these stature estimation equations proposed by Albanese et al.. (2016) (Albanese J, Tuck A, Gomes J, Cardoso HFV (2016) An alternative approach for estimating stature for long bones that is not population- or group-specific. Forensic Sci Int 259:59–68). The physiological length of the femur, condylar malleolar length of the tibia and a combination of these measurements, collected from Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scanograms of adult (20–60 years) White South African males (n = 30) and females (n = 44) were used to assess the accuracy of the Albanese et al. (Albanese J, Tuck A, Gomes J, Cardoso HFV (2016) An alternative approach for estimating stature for long bones that is not population- or group-specific. Forensic Sci Int 259:59–68). sex-specific and generic stature estimation equations. The stature estimates were compared with measured living stature (LSM), using paired t-tests. Results indicated that the Albanese et al. (Albanese J, Tuck A, Gomes J, Cardoso HFV (2016) An alternative approach for estimating stature for long bones that is not population- or group-specific. Forensic Sci Int 259:59–68). equations underestimated living stature by between 1.1 and 5.0 cm. These underestimations were significantly different between the LSM and the sex-specific estimates for females and the LSM and the generic estimates for males and the tibia for sex-specific equation. All stature estimates however fell in between two standard error of estimates for the sex-specific equations for males and the generic equations for the females. Although, the equations by Albanese et al. (Albanese J, Tuck A, Gomes J, Cardoso HFV (2016) An alternative approach for estimating stature for long bones that is not population- or group-specific. Forensic Sci Int 259:59–68). can be used to estimate stature in White South Africans in certain cases, the use of sex/population-specific equations remains the method of choice.
A sarcoptic mange outbreak drives long-term patterns of a fitness trait in an exotic ungulate
Authors: Pascual-Rico Roberto , Sánchez-Zapata José A. , Candela Mónica G. , Eguía Sergio , Barbosa Jomar M.
Published: October 2024

Species phenotypes are driven by persistent selective pressures that condition their adaptation to the environment. However, stochastic critical events, such as disease outbreaks, may also act as selective pressures because of drastic population decline. External structures like horns of ungulate species may reflect the consequences of these selective pressures on animal fitness. Using a generalized linear model approach, we analysed how a massive mortality event caused by a sarcoptic mange outbreak in 1992 affected the horn size of an Iberian aoudad population (dataset from 1980 to 2014) by comparing horn length before and after the outbreak. We found that this episodic, albeit massive, outbreak changed long-term trends in age-size horn relations. Both females and males presented shorter horns after the sarcoptic mange outbreak, although more marked in males. Even when animals reached mature ages, horn length did not increase with age to the same degree as before the outbreak. We consider that two processes may have acted on the population: a bottleneck favoured “shorter horns” phenotype and a post-mange enzootic period limited horn growth, as infected animals may invest more resources in the immune system. Overall, our results show a top-down regulation of a fitness trait for an ungulate population mediated by a parasite. This disease outbreak showed long-lasting effects on the ungulate population, with ecological and management implications.

Graphical Abstract
Modelling crop management and environmental effects on the development of Leptosphaeria maculans pseudothecia
Authors: Bondad Jamina J , Whish Jeremy P. M. , Sprague Susan J. , Van de Wuow Angela P. , Barry Kara M. , Harrison Matthew T.
Published: October 2024

The timing of ascospore release is critical in the prediction of blackleg infection, particularly if the timing of spore release coincides with early development of canola seedlings. Historically, prediction models have used average daily temperature and an environment calibration to estimate a minimum rainfall amount to trigger development. This paper describes a different approach based on hydro-thermal time, where soil evaporation and rainfall are used as a surrogate to estimate when the stubble is wet, and temperature is accumulated on an hourly basis. Furthermore, the stubble orientation due to differing harvest management practices is considered, as stubble knocked down has greater contact with the soil compared to stubble which remains in a standing position. Pseudothecia and ascospore development in the standing and lying treatments was monitored weekly to measure the rate of development in diverse environments. The new modelling approach was used to describe the pseudothecial maturation rate and predict the timing of ascospore release. Subsequently, a range of Australian and international datasets were used to assess the robustness and accuracy of this new model’s predictions. When tested across multiple locations and seasons globally, the hydro-thermal time approach had similar performance (R2 = 0.94, RMSD = 16 days) to the existing Sporacle Ezy model (R2 = 0.90, RMSD = 22 days), but without the need to calibrate in different environments and account for the delayed rate of development in standing stubble. Integrating this new approach into early warning systems for canola growers will help in the management of control measures.
Cut the scrap? the impact of truck age on driver retention, driving safety, and driving productivity
Authors: de Vries Jelle , Roy Debjit
Published: October 2024

In many countries, vehicle replacement policies are implemented to reduce the average age of the vehicles on the road. Through these policies, policymakers typically aim to reduce emissions and to stimulate demand for automobiles through vehicle renewal. Not much is known however, about the more detailed operational consequences of vehicle age in truck transportation. In this study, we empirically address this issue by analyzing data obtained from 27 thousand trips made by 916 drivers in 355 unique trucks, over a period of 346 days. Using this data, we test the relationship between truck age and driver retention, productivity, and unsafe driving behavior. Our results demonstrate that truck age significantly impacts driver turnover, with every additional year of truck age relating to an approximate 5% higher risk of leaving the job at a given point in time. Contrarily, drivers with older trucks drove significantly less volatile, which suggests that they drive more safely. The results illustrate that vehicle age influences a broader spectrum of outcome measures than typically considered when assessing the expected impact of replacement policies. Policymakers and trucking companies can use these results to make more informed decisions about vehicle replacement, thereby also addressing the widespread issue of driver shortage.
Save for a rainy day? How regional household savings constrain entrepreneurship after a natural disaster
Authors: Zhang Jiabin , van Hugten Joeri , Stam Wouter
Published: October 2024

Why do some entrepreneurial ecosystems successfully adjust amid adversity while others languish? By integrating prospect theory into the entrepreneurial ecosystem literature and using a quasi-natural experimental design with a difference-in-difference-in-differences model, our theory and findings reveal that earthquakes reduce entrepreneurship in regions with high household savings, but increase entrepreneurship in regions with low savings, and these between-area differences increase over time. Reconceptualizing the meaning of savings from a resource into a key driver of loss aversion, we thus identify the surprising constraining influence of financial capital in times of adversity, yielding important implications for entrepreneurship research and policymakers.
Distinguishing two kinds of fictionalism: metaphor, autism, and the imagination
Authors: Lane Elek
Published: October 2024

Fictionalist theories of metaphor hold that metaphorical utterances aim at fictionality. Fictionalism successfully explains speaker judgments about the truth and aptness of metaphorical utterances, and it also accurately predicts the data around metaphor and autistic individuals (who have deficits in both imaginative play and metaphor comprehension). But fictionalism is not a viable theory of metaphor, despite these merits, because of (what I call) the problem of semantic entailment: semantic entailments that are normally valid fail under metaphorical interpretation, but fictionalism predicts otherwise. I argue this to ultimately show that theorists of metaphor should reject the linguistic side of the fictionalist story; but this leaves open the possibility of accepting psychological fictionalism, i.e., the hypothesis that fiction/make-believe is central to the cognitive processing of metaphor. Coupling psychological fictionalism with a different theory of metaphorical meaning and content (such as contextualism) promises to keep the explanatory upsides of traditional fictionalism while avoiding the problem of semantic entailment.
Higher-order misinformation
Authors: Harris Keith Raymond
Published: October 2024

Experts are sharply divided concerning the prevalence and influence of misinformation. Some have emphasized the severe epistemic and political threats posed by misinformation and have argued that some such threats have been realized in the real world. Others have argued that such concerns overstate the prevalence of misinformation and the gullibility of ordinary persons. Rather than taking a stand on this issue, I consider what would follow from the supposition that this latter perspective is correct. I argue that, if the prevalence and influence of misinformation are indeed overstated, then many reports as to the prevalence and influence of misinformation constitute a kind of higher-order misinformation. I argue that higher-order misinformation presents its own challenges. In particular, higher-order misinformation, ironically, would lend credibility to the very misinformation whose influence it exaggerates. Additionally, higher-order misinformation would lead to underestimations of the reasons favoring opposing views. In short, higher-order misinformation constitutes misleading higher-order evidence concerning the quality of the evidence on which individuals form their beliefs.
Ethno-racial categorisations for biomedical studies: the fair selection of research participants and population stratification
Authors: Żuradzki Tomasz , Malinowska Joanna Karolina
Published: October 2024

We argue that there are neither scientific nor social reasons to require gathering ethno-racial data, as defined in the US legal regulations if researchers have no prior hypotheses as to how to connect this type of categorisation of human participants of clinical trials with any mechanisms that could explain alleged interracial health differences and guide treatment choice. Although we agree with the normative perspective embedded in the calls for the fair selection of participants for biomedical research, we demonstrate that current attempts to provide and elucidate the criteria for the fair selection of participants, in particular, taking into account ethno-racial categories, overlook important epistemic and normative challenges to implement the results of such race-sorting requirements. We discuss existing arguments for and against gathering ethno-racial statistics for biomedical research and present a new one that refers to the assumption that prediction is epistemically superior to accommodation. We also underline the importance of closer interaction between research ethics and the methodology of biomedicine in the case of population stratifications for medical research, which requires weighing non-epistemic values with methodological constraints.
Utilization of quarry dust and periwinkle shell ash in concrete production
Authors: Njoku Chioma Emmanuella , Ekeleme Anthony Chibuzo , Ekwueme Benjamin Nnamdi , Onuoha Chukwudike , Onuzulike Ebube Prince , Chibundu Wisdom , Okon Kooffreh , Ozoh Chibuike Christopher
Published: October 2024

The usage of plentiful raw discarded resources in the manufacturing of concrete has proven to be a sustainable and environmentally beneficial method of making concrete for a variety of purposes. In this study, the physical and mechanical properties of concrete made by partially and fully substituting fine aggregates and ordinary Portland cement with periwinkle shell ash and quarry dust (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 100%), respectively, were examined. The ratio of water to cement utilized for the concrete mixture, 1:2:4, was 0.60. Fresh concrete underwent a slump test, and then 150-mm cubes of cured concrete were subjected to density, compressive strength tests, and morphological and structural property characterizations. The concrete without the waste materials gave an optimum compressive strength of 22.9 N/mm2 as opposed to those that were partially replaced, having 18.8–15.1 N/mm2. The concrete samples with full replacements of periwinkle shell ash and quarry dust have compressive strengths lower than 13.8 N/mm2. All the concrete samples produced with partial and full replacements are in the class of normal concrete, but only those with partial replacements of up to 20% can be utilized for load-bearing and non-load-bearing applications. Opting for these alternative waste materials implies taking steps towards creating a cleaner and healthier planet for now and the future.
Home-Made Lateral Flow Test Strip Versus POC-CCA Assay for Detection of Active Schistosomiasis in Egypt
Authors: Kamel Manal , Salah Faten , Demerdash Zeinab , Maher Sara , El-Baz Hanan , Zakaria Nahla , Abu-Shady Rania , Saad Amany , Hassan Salwa , Aziz Doaa Abdel
Published: October 2024

Background

For years, the Kato-Katz (KK) technique has been considered the gold standard for diagnosing schistosomiasis. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of our previously developed gold nanoparticle-based lateral flow test strip (AuNPs-LFTS) for diagnosing active Schistosoma mansoni with that of the commercially available point-of-care Circulating Cathodic Antigen detection (POC-CCA) kit.

Methods

In this study, we collected sixty positive and twenty negative urine samples from patients in endemic hot spots in the Nile Delta, as well as from patients visiting the internal medicine clinic at Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI). We produced monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against S. mansoni soluble egg antigen (SEA) from cloned hybridoma cells (4D/1D). These MAbs were conjugated with gold and mesoporous silica nanoparticles, and used to develop the LFTS.

Results

The LFTS demonstrated a limit of detection (LoD) of 3 ng/ml. The sensitivity and specificity of the developed LFTS were found to be 96.7% and 95%, respectively, compared to 85% and 90% for the POC-CCA detection kit. The cases were divided into groups based on egg count in the stool, categorized as light, moderate, and heavy infections. The sensitivity of the LFTS in the group with light infection was higher than that of the POC-CCA. When using the KK technique (eggs per gram of stool sample [EPG]) as the reference test, the kappa value for the nano-based strips was 0.902, compared to 0.672 for the CCA strips, indicating an almost perfect agreement between KK and our developed LFTS.

Conclusion

These results confirm the reliability and effectiveness of the LFTS compared to commercially available kits for rapid, sensitive, and early diagnosis of schistosomiasis. However, it is recommended to conduct further assessments of the developed strip on a larger scale with a broader range of cases before considering its introduction to local or international markets.

Graphical Abstract
Priorities for multimorbidity management and research in cancer: a Delphi study of Australian cancer survivors, clinicians, and researchers
Authors: Venchiarutti Rebecca L. , Dhillon Haryana , Ee Carolyn , Hart Nicolas H. , Jefford Michael , Koczwara Bogda
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Multimorbidity is common in people with cancer and associated with increased complexity of care, symptoms, mortality, and costs. This study aimed to identify priorities for care and research for cancer survivors with multimorbidity.

Methods

A Delphi consensus process was conducted. Elements of care and research were based on Australia’s National Strategic Framework for Chronic Conditions, a literature review, and expert input. In Round 1, health professionals, cancer survivors, and researchers rated the importance of 18 principles, 9 enablers, and 4 objectives. In Round 2, new elements were rated and all elements were ranked.

Results

In Round 1, all elements reached consensus for care delivery; three principles and one enabler did not reach consensus for research and were eliminated. One principle and two enablers were added, reaching consensus. In the final list, 19 principles, 10 enablers, and 4 objectives were included under care delivery; 14 principles, 9 enablers, and 4 objectives were included under research. For care delivery, principles of ‘survivorship’ and ‘self-management’ were ranked highest, and ‘peer support’ and ‘technology’ were the most important enablers. For research, ‘survivorship’ and ‘coordinated care’ were the highest-ranked principles, with ‘peer support’ and ‘education’ the most important enablers.

Conclusion

Most elements apply to the general population and cancer survivors; however, additional elements relevant to survivorship need consideration when managing multimorbidity in cancer survivors.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Chronic disease frameworks should be more inclusive of issues prioritised by people with, managing, or researching cancer through interdisciplinary approaches including acute and primary care.
Effects of COVID-19 on Irish general practice activity from 2019 to 2021: a retrospective analysis of 500,000 consultations using electronic medical record data
Authors: O’Callaghan Michael E. , Glynn Liam G.
Published: October 2024

Background

General practice (GP) is crucial to primary care delivery in the Republic of Ireland and is almost fully computerised. General practice teams were the first point of contact for much COVID-19-related care and there were concerns routine healthcare activities could be disrupted due to COVID-19 and related restrictions.

Aims

The study aimed to assess effects of the pandemic on GP activity through analysis of electronic medical record data from general practice clinics in the Irish Midwest.

Methods

A retrospective, descriptive study of electronic medical record data relating to patient record updates, appointments and medications prescribed across 10 GP clinics over the period 2019–2021 inclusive.

Results

Data relating to 1.18 million record transactions for 32 k patients were analysed. Over 500 k appointments were examined, and demographic trends presented. Overall appointment and prescribing activity increased over the study period, while a dip was observed immediately after the pandemic’s arrival in March 2020. Delivery of non-childhood immunisations increased sixfold as a result of COVID-19, childhood immunisation activity was maintained, while cervical smears decreased in 2020 as the screening programme was halted. A quarter of consultations in 2020 and 2021 were teleconsultations, and these were more commonplace for younger patients.

Conclusions

General practice responded robustly to the pandemic by taking on additional activities while maintaining routine services where possible. The shift to teleconsulting was a significant change in workflow. Analysing routinely collected electronic medical record data can provide valuable insights for service planning, and access to these insights would be beneficial for future pandemic responses.
Finite Element Simulation of Opening Angle Response of Porcine Aortas Using Layer Specific GAG Distributions in One and Two Layered Solid Matrices
Authors: Ghadie Noor M. , St-Pierre Jean-Philippe , Labrosse Michel R.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Recent studies have identified an effect of glycosaminoglycans (GAG) on residual stresses in the aorta, underscoring the need to better understand their biomechanical roles.

Methods

Aortic ring models for each of the ascending, arch and descending thoracic regions of the porcine thoracic aorta were created in FEBioStudio, using a framework that incorporates the Donnan osmotic swelling in a porous solid matrix. The distribution of fixed charge densities (FCD) through the thickness of the tissue was prescribed as calculated from experimentally quantified sulfated GAG mural distributions. Material parameters for the solid matrix, modeled using a Holmes–Mow constitutive law, were optimized using data from biaxial tensile tests. In addition to modelling the solid matrix as one layer, two layers were considered to capture the differences between the intima-media and the adventitia, for which various stiffness ratios were explored.

Results

As the stiffness of the adventitia with respect to that of the media increased, the simulated opening angle increased. The opening angle also decreased from the ascending to the descending thoracic region in both one- and two-layered solid matrices models. The simulated results were compared against the experimental contribution of GAG to the opening angle, as previously quantified via enzymatic GAG-depletion. When using one layer for the solid matrix, the errors between the simulated opening angles and the experimental contribution of GAG to the opening angle were respectively 28%, 15% and 23% in the ascending, arch and descending thoracic regions. When using two layers for the solid matrix, the smallest errors in the ascending and arch regions were 21% and 5% when the intima-media was modelled as 10 times stiffer, and as twice stiffer than the adventitia, respectively, and 23% in the descending thoracic regions when the intima-media and adventitia shared similar mechanical properties.

Conclusions

Overall, this study demonstrates that GAG partially contribute to circumferential residual stress, and that GAG swelling is one of several regulators of the opening angle. The minor discrepancies between simulated and experimental opening angles imply that the contribution of GAG extends beyond mere swelling, aligning with previous experimental indications of their interaction with ECM fibers in determining the opening angle.
Avatars and the Value of Human Uniqueness
Authors: Sweeney Paula
Published: October 2024

Danaher and Nyholm (Philosophy & Technology 37:106, 2024) explore whether avatar technology makes humans less valuable by making them less scarce. They identify two forms of human scarcity, intrinstic scarcity and instrumental scarcity, and explore how each is impacted by avatar representation. Here I argue that avatars cannot make humans less scarce but that, nevertheless, the use of avatar technology can undermine the value of human uniqueness.
No reduced serum serotonin levels in patients with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19
Authors: Mathé Philipp , Götz Veronika , Stete Katarina , Walzer Dietrich , Hilger Hanna , Pfau Stefanie , Hofmann Maike , Rieg Siegbert , Kern Winfried V.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Approximately 10–20% of patients previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 experience post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), presenting with fatigue and neurocognitive dysfunction along various other symptoms. Recent studies suggested a possible role of a virally induced decrease in peripheral serotonin concentration in the pathogenesis of PASC. We set out to verify this finding in an independent and well-defined cohort of PASC patients from our post-COVID-19 outpatient clinic.

Methods

We performed a retrospective case–control study including 34 confirmed PASC patients and 14 healthy controls. Clinical assessment encompassed physician examination as well as questionnaire based evaluation. Eligibility required ongoing symptoms for at least 6 months post-PCR-confirmed infection, relevant fatigue (CFS ≥ 4), and no other medical conditions. Serum serotonin was determined by LC–MS/MS technique.

Results

Serum serotonin levels in PASC patients did not significantly differ from healthy controls. Most subjects had normal serotonin levels, with no subnormal readings. Subgroup analyses showed no significant differences in serotonin levels based according to predominant fatigue type, high overall fatigue score or depression severity.

Conclusion

We postulate that peripheral serotonin is no reliable biomarker for PASC and that it should not be used in routine diagnostic. Therapy of PASC with serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or tryptophane supplementation should not be based solely on the assumption of lowered serotonin levels.
Discharge management after anaphylaxis
Authors: Faihs Valentina , Ring Johannes , Brockow Knut , Beyer Kirsten , Rietschel Ernst , Schnadt Sabine , Stöcker Britta , Treudler Regina , Worm Margitta , Klimek Ludger
Published: October 2024

People who have suffered from anaphylaxis often experience far-reaching consequences in everyday life. Unfortunately, discharge management after successful acute treatment is often still inadequate. In order to prevent further reactions in the future and improve the patient’s quality of life, there are several points that should be addressed or followed upon discharge from acute treatment. These include taking a detailed medical history to identify potential triggers, documenting the acute therapy, recommending further allergological assessment and prescribing an emergency kit for self-help including an adrenaline auto-injector—with education and practice on how to use it, including a written emergency plan. In addition, recommendations for avoiding potential triggers and information on patient organizations are helpful. This article aims to provide an up-to-date overview of discharge management after successful acute treatment of anaphylaxis. Remember: “After anaphylaxis also means potentially before the next anaphylaxis.”
Using Bone Char as a Renewable Resource of Phosphate Fertilizers in Sustainable Agriculture and its Effects on Phosphorus Transformations and Remediation of Contaminated Soils as well as the Growth of Plants
Authors: Amin Abu El-Eyuoon Abu Zied
Published: October 2024

Recycling slaughterhouse waste such as bone and converting it into bone char is a promising environmentally friendly, low-cost strategy in a circular economy and an important source of phosphorus. Therefore, this review focused on the impacts of bone char on the availability, dynamics, and transformations of phosphorus in soils as well as plant growth and utilizing bone char in remediating contaminated soils by heavy metals. Bone char is material produced through bone pyrolysis under limited oxygen at 300–1050 °C. Bone char applications to the soils significantly increased phosphorus availability and plant growth. Agricultural practices such as co-applying organic acids or sulfur or nitrogen fertilizers with bone char in some soils played an important role in enhanced phosphorus availability. Also, co-applying bone char with phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms enhanced plant growth and phosphorus availability in the soils. Applying bone char to the soils changed the dynamics and redistribution of phosphorous fractions, enhanced fertility, promoted crop growth and productivity, reduced heavy metals uptake by plants in contaminated soil, and decreased heavy metals bioavailability. Bone char has shown positive performance in remediating soils contaminated by heavy metals. Bone char proved its efficiency in sustainable agriculture and practical applications as an alternative source of phosphate fertilizers, it is safe, cheap and helps in remediating contaminated soils by heavy metals. Using bone char as a slow-release fertilizer is potentially beneficial because it reduces the hazard of excessive fertilizing and nutrient leaching which have negative impacts on the ecosystem.
The conductor model of consciousness, our neuromorphic twins, and the human-AI deal
Authors: Benitez Federico , Pennartz Cyriel , Senn Walter
Published: October 2024

Critics of Artificial Intelligence (AI) posit that artificial agents cannot achieve consciousness even in principle, because they lack certain necessary pre-conditions present in biological agents. Here we highlight arguments from a neuroscientific and neuromorphic engineering perspective as to why such a strict denial of consciousness in artificial agents is not compelling. Based on the construction of a co-evolving neuromorphic twin, we argue that the differences between a developing biological and artificial brain are not fundamental and are vanishing with progress in neuromorphic architecture designs mimicking the human blueprint. To characterise this blueprint, we propose the Conductor Model of Consciousness (CMoC) that builds on neuronal implementations of an external and internal world model, while gating and labelling information flows. An extended turing test lists functional and neuronal correlates of biological consciousness that are captured by the CMoC. These correlates provide the grounding for how biological or artificial agents learn to distinguish between sensory activity generated from outside or inside of the brain, how the perception of these activities can itself be learned, and how the information flow for learning an internal world model is orchestrated by a cortical meta-instance, which we call the conductor. Perception comes with the distinction of sensory and affective components, with the affective component linking to ethical questions that are inherent in our multidimensional model of consciousness. Recognizing the existence of a blueprint for a possible artificial consciousness encompasses functional, neuronal and ethical dimensions, begging the question: How should we behave towards agents that are akin to us in the inner workings of their brains? We sketch a human-AI deal, balancing the growing cognitive abilities of artificial agents, and the possibility to relieve them from suffering of negative affects, with a protection for the rights of humans.
Application of a Prediction Problem-Based Learning (PPBL) Method in an Undergraduate Biomechanics Course
Authors: Shady Sally F.
Published: October 2024

Challenge

As biomedical engineers revolutionize medicine, biomedical engineering programs must adapt to the diverse learning styles of the current student population. Students are learning in new ways and instructional strategies need to be adopted.

Novel Initiative

Understanding generational attributes is crucial for developing effective teaching pedagogy. Generation Z, also known as “zoomers” and “digital natives,” will dominate higher education for the next decade. In response to the shift of how students are learning, a new teaching method called Prediction Problem-Based Learning (PPBL) was implemented in an undergraduate Biomechanics course. PPBL combines the retrieval of information with problem-based learning to enhance student engagement and active learning.

Reflection

Comparing this method to traditional teaching approaches demonstrated significant improvements in a course learning outcome and exam performances among students exposed to PPBL. These results suggest that PPBL fosters a deeper understanding of the material and promotes a more effective learning strategy. Further analysis and testing of this method are recommended to confirm its efficacy and explore its potential for broader application in biomedical engineering educational courses. This innovative approach aligns with the needs of Generation Z learners, who thrive in interactive and technology-enhanced educational environments, thereby providing greater opportunities for academic success and professional preparedness.
Performance analysis of a conventional two-stage indirect evaporative cooler
Authors: Salman Braihan Abdulwadood
Published: October 2024

With the aim of saving a portion of the high-quality energy consumed in mechanical vapor compression systems for air conditioning applications, the present work focuses on utilization of low-quality energy conversion processes due to fluid evaporation. The conventional indirect evaporative cooler is selected based on its preference for further modification compared to a regenerative indirect evaporative cooler. It is configured to be operated with two identical stages in series. This task is achieved by developing a thermodynamic model to analyze the performance of the cooling unit and to indicate the extent of its development compared to the cooler in one stage. Preliminary results show that the best operating condition is when the ratio of primary air to secondary air is 1. The cooling unit produces fairly comfortable air within limited climatic conditions. It delivers air at 26 °C and lower even at climatic temperatures as high as 48 °C, but within a very low relative humidity range. The relative humidity range extends to less than 58% as the outdoor air temperature decreases. At high humidity levels (64 to 80% depending on climate temperature), cool air cannot be obtained at 26 °C, and the cooling unit performance is limited only by what the first stage produces. The average performance of the cooling unit exceeds that of the first stage by 42.6%. Increasing air flow rate leads to an increase in cooling capacity, but it also has a negative impact on supply temperature and effectiveness.
Was heißt schon normal? Was man in der hausärztlichen Praxis über Persönlichkeitsstörungen wissen sollte
Authors: Kühlein Thomas , Hasan Gabriel , Deinzer Anja , Silbermann Andrea
Published: October 2024

Persönlichkeitsstörungen sind häufig, bleiben oft undiagnostiziert oder verstecken sich hinter anderen psychiatrischen Diagnosen wie Angst oder Depression. Auffällige Verhaltensweisen sind emotionale Instabilität, selbstbeschädigendes Verhalten und ein schwieriger Beziehungsaufbau. Die Diagnose sollte fachärztlich und strukturiert erfolgen und den Patientinnen und Patienten mitgeteilt werden. Vor allem für die Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung ist der Nutzen einer spezifischen Psychotherapie gesichert. Medikamentöse Therapien mit Psychopharmaka sind zu vermeiden. Am Thema der Persönlichkeitsstörungen manifestiert sich aktuell ein Wandel in der Psychiatrie. Das alte Denken in Krankheitskategorien wird zunehmend durch eine dimensionale Beschreibung psychischer Störungen abgelöst werden. Wie schnell das passieren wird und ob dieser neue Ansatz erfolgreicher sein wird als der alte, muss abgewartet werden.
A kind of a ‘Huh?’ A conversation about artists’ publications
Authors: Dockx Nico , Pas Johan , Montero Gustavo Grandal
Published: October 2024

At the request of the Middelheim Museum, artist Nico Dockx and art historian Johan Pas, from the ArchiVolt research group of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp, undertook a survey of the museum's library collection. Between March 2022 and December 2023, they examined the phenomenon of artists' publications from a range of perspectives, through a series of conversations with artists, designers, publishers and collectors, a symposium, and the book A kind of a ‘Huh?’ Artists' publications: (Not) a user's manual. We discussed these and other related projects with them.
High-resolution regional sea-ice model based on the discrete element method with boundary conditions from a large-scale model for ice drift
Authors: Tsarau Andrei , Lu Wenjun , Lubbad Raed , Løset Sveinung , Zhang Yuan
Published: October 2024

Understanding sea-ice dynamics at the floe scale is crucial to comprehend polar climate systems. While continuum models are commonly used to simulate large-scale sea-ice dynamics, they have limitations in accurately representing sea-ice behaviour at small scales. DEMs, on the other hand, are well-suited for modelling the behaviour of individual ice floes but face limitations due to computational constraints. To address the limitations of both approaches while combining their strengths, we explored the feasibility of using a DEM within a continuum model, where the latter provides boundary conditions for a rectangular high-resolution DEM domain. This paper presents a feasibility study where a discrete model of a 100 × 100 km2 icefield was created using high-resolution optical satellite imagery. Sea-ice dynamics were simulated in the DEM considering environmental forces and integrating large-scale ice-drift velocities as boundary conditions. Model predictions were compared with satellite observations for ice drift and deformation parameters. This numerical approach showed potential for offering accurate, high-resolution predictions of sea ice, particularly in coastal areas and near islands, and may find applications in ice navigation and climate studies. However, further development of the DEM, along with upgrades to the coupled ocean models providing data for the ice component, may be necessary. Additionally, challenges remain to develop a two-way coupling between the DEM and a continuum model, which may be needed to improve the accuracy of large-scale simulations.