bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research and Implementation of a Classification Method of Industrial Big Data for Security Management
Authors: Huang Haibo , Yan Min , Yan Qiang , Zhang Xiaofan
Published: November 2024

Purpose/Significance

With the extensive adoption of cloud computing, big data, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and other novel information technologies in the industrial field, the data flow in industrial companies is rapidly increasing, leading to an explosion in the total volume of data. Ensuring effective data security has become a critical concern for both national and industrial entities.

Method/Process

To tackle the challenges of classification management of industrial big data, this study proposed an Information Security Triad Assessment‐Support Vector Machine (AIC‐ASVM) model according to information security principles. Building on national policy requirements, FIPS 199 standards, and the ABC grading method, a comprehensive classification framework for industrial data, termed “two‐layer classification, three‐dimensional grading,” was developed. By integrating the concept of Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) from the GDPR, the classification of large industrial data sets was accomplished using a Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm.

Result/Conclusion

Simulations conducted using MATLAB yielded a classification accuracy of 96.67%. Furthermore, comparisons with decision tree and random forest models demonstrated that AIC‐ASVM outperforms these alternatives, significantly improving the efficiency of big data classification and the quality of security management.
Preclinical evaluation of the CD38‐targeting engineered toxin body MT‐0169 against multiple myeloma
Authors: Bruins Wassilis S. C. , Rentenaar Rosa , Newcomb John , Zheng Wenrou , Ruiter Ruud W. J. , Baardemans Thomas , Poma Eric , Moore Chris , Robinson Garrett L. , Lublinsky Anya , Zhang Yuhong , Syed Sakeena , Milhollen Michael , Dash Ajeeta B. , van de Donk Niels W. C. J. , Groen Richard W. J. , Zweegman Sonja , Mutis Tuna
Published: November 2024

Despite significant progress in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), relapsed/refractory patients urgently require more effective therapies. We here describe the discovery, mechanism of action, and preclinical anti‐MM activity of engineered toxin body MT‐0169, a next‐generation immunotoxin comprising a CD38‐specific antibody fragment linked to a de‐immunized Shiga‐like toxin A subunit (SLTA) payload. We show that specific binding of MT‐0169 to CD38 on MM cell lines triggers rapid internalization of SLTA, causing cell death via irreversible ribosome inhibition, protein synthesis blockade, and caspase 3/7 activation. In co‐culture experiments, bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells did not induce drug resistance against MT‐0169. In the preclinical setting, MT‐0169 effectively lysed primary MM cells from newly diagnosed and heavily pretreated MM patients, including those refractory to daratumumab, with minimal toxicity against nonmalignant hematopoietic cells. MM cell lysis showed a significant correlation with their CD38 expression levels but not with cytogenetic risk, tumor load, or number of prior lines of therapy. Finally, MT‐0169 showed efficient in vivo anti‐MM activity in various mouse xenograft models, including one in which MM cells are grown in a humanized bone marrow‐like niche. These findings support clinical investigation of MT‐0169 in relapsed/refractory MM patients, including those refractory to CD38‐targeting immunotherapies.
Association of Stress Defense System With Fine Particulate Matter Exposure: Mechanism Analysis and Application Prospects
Authors: Meng Tao , He Jing , Huo Qianru , Wang Yajie , Ren Qingchun , Kang Yihui
Published: November 2024

The association between the stress defense system and exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a hot topic in the field of environmental health. PM2.5 pollution is an increasingly serious issue, and its impact on health cannot be ignored. The stress defense system is an important biological mechanism for maintaining cell and internal environment homeostasis, playing a crucial role in PM2.5‐induced damage and diseases. The association between PM2.5 exposure and activation of the stress defense system has been reported. Moderate PM2.5 exposure rapidly mobilizes the stress defense system, while excessive PM2.5 exposure may exceed its compensatory and coping abilities, resulting in system imbalance and dysfunction that triggers pathological changes in cells and tissues, thereby increasing the risk of chronic diseases, such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. This detailed review focuses on the composition, function, and regulatory mechanisms of the antioxidant defense system, autophagy system, ubiquitin–proteasome system, and inflammatory response system, which are all components of the stress defiance system. In particular, the influence of PM2.5 exposure on each of these defense systems and their roles in responding to PM2.5‐induced damage was investigated to provide an in‐depth understanding of the pathogenesis of PM2.5 exposure, accurately assess potential hazards, and formulate prevention and intervention strategies for health damage caused by PM2.5 exposure.
The Distribution of HR‐HPV E6/E7 DNA and mRNA by Histological Grade and the Clinical Performance for Detection of Cervical Cancer and Precancer
Authors: Pi Ruoji , Li Tingyuan , Zhang Hua , Zhou Hang , Yang Yuan , Dai Yu , Wu Zeni , Jiang Mingyue , Chen Wen , Zhu Lan
Published: November 2024

High‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) testing, utilizing both DNA and RNA methods, offers enhanced sensitivity compared to cytology for detecting high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2+). Meanwhile, HR‐HPV E6 and E7 mRNAs are more likely to differentiate the transient infection from the persistent than DNA. Aptima HPV can not only detect HPV mRNA but also HPV DNA though it is much more efficient at detecting HPV RNA than DNA. Currently, there are few studies on the distribution of HPV E6 and E7 mRNA and DNA in the same individual. It is interesting to compare the clinical performance of the Onclarity and Aptima HPV assays and to assess variations in viral load across different histological grades at both DNA and mRNA levels. The analysis included 1607 women (902 from a cervical cancer screening population and 705 inpatients and outpatients), with cervical cytological samples tested using the Aptima and Onclarity HPV assays. Both assays demonstrated high agreement for HPV types 18/45 and 16. Signal‐to‐cutoff (S/CO) values and Ct values for various HR‐HPV types increased with histological severity from normal tissue to cancer. Notably, HPV18 Ct values exceeded those for HPV16 and 45 in women with ≥ CIN1 lesions but decreased sharply in cancer cases. Across the screening population, both assays showed similar sensitivity and predictive values for detecting CIN2+ lesions. The area under the curve (AUC) for CIN2+ and CIN3+ detection in the study population was robust (CIN2+: 0.880, 0.863; CIN3+: 0.881, 0.863). The DNA level for various HR‐HPV types increased with histological severity from normal tissue to cancer, which might impact the performance of Aptima HPV assay. Both assays showed similar sensitivity and predictive values for detecting CIN2+ lesions.
Assessment of Time‐Gated Raman Spectroscopy for Online Mineralogy of a Spodumene Ore
Authors: Laitinen Teemu , Legault Marc , Ojala Satu , Boulanger Jean‐François
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the applicability of time‐gated Raman spectroscopy (TRS) for online mineralogy identification, focusing on a Li‐bearing spodumene ore. The study provides an overview of existing online mineralogy tools and points out some limitations of elemental analysis techniques. Dense media separation concentrate and tailing samples used originated from a deposit in Quebec, Canada. Various techniques, including ICP‐AES, XRD, laser diffraction, and specific gravity determination, were used for detailed sample characterization. Samples and their mixtures at known ratios were prepared as powder and slurries, before being analyzed using TRS, followed by spectrum quantitative analysis. Results show a linear correlation between spodumene percentage by weight and the main Raman peak height or area, in both dry and slurry form, with a higher determination coefficient in slurry form. TRS also provided indications as to the gangue minerals present in the samples. This study shows the potential for TRS as a tool for online mineralogical assessment of spodumene ores, and further work should target the determination of detection limits and quantification of both valuable and gangue minerals.
Effect of cigarette smoke exposure and cessation on regional diffusion properties in rat intervertebral discs
Authors: Kelley Joshua , Buchweitz Nathan , Madden Avery , Fan Hongming , Hepfer Glenn , Kern Michael , Townsend Danyelle M. , Ye Tong , Yao Hai , Wu Yongren
Published: November 2024

Background

Cigarette smoking is a recognized risk factor for orthopedic disorders, particularly intervertebral disc (IVD) degenerative disease. However, the IVD pathophysiology, especially the spatial–temporal remodeling progression in the context of cigarette smoking, remains unclear. This study aimed to address this knowledge gap through a quantitative assessment of IVD structural composition and diffusion properties using a Sprague–Dawley rat model.

Methods

Twenty‐four rats were divided into control and smoke exposure cohorts, each with two sub‐groups of six rats. One smoke exposure sub‐group was sacrificed after 2 months of daily cigarette smoke exposure in a custom smoking apparatus, while the other was sacrificed after an additional 5 months of smoke cessation. The control groups were age‐matched to the smoke exposure groups. A fluorescent recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) technique was used to determine solute diffusivities and multi‐photon excitation (MPE) imaging was performed to characterize structural changes in the annulus fibrosus (AF), nucleus pulposus (NP), and cartilage endplate (CEP).

Results

A decrease in diffusivity was observed in the CEP and the AF (radial direction only) after 2 months of smoke exposure. MPE imaging showed aberrant CEP calcification and reduced AF radial collagen fiber bundle diameter, suggesting that the IVD exhibits regionally dependent structural remodeling due to smoke exposure. Furthermore, the smoke cessation group showed deteriorating alterations of structure and diffusivities in all three‐disc regions, including the NP, indicating that five‐month smoke cessation alone didn't reverse the progression of IVD degenerative remodeling during aging.

Conclusion

This study advances the understanding of IVD pathophysiology in the context of cigarette smoke exposure and cessation, laying the groundwork for potential earlier diagnosis and optimized interventions.
Inconsistent scientific methods hamper the management of drone use near birds
Authors: Wilson Joshua P. , Amano Tatsuya , Fuller Richard A.
Published: November 2024

Drone use has increased in the last decade, prompting efforts to manage their operation near wildlife. These efforts are hampered by variations in methods among studies, leading to evidence that is fragmented, inconsistent, and incomplete. To address this, we extracted evidence from 194 studies involving drones and birds, covering 314 species, including 61 studies on drone‐induced bird disturbance that encompassed 206 species. We summarized the results of these 61 studies, identified evidence gaps, and developed a standard method for characterizing drone‐induced bird disturbance. Drone‐induced bird disturbance varied with species, breeding status, and distance of the drone from the birds. Key evidence gaps include a lack of studies on small terrestrial species likely to occur in urban environments where drones are often used and limited research in Africa, Asia, and South America. Methods were inconsistent among studies, with only 20% of studies reporting the often‐recommended response variable of flight initiation distance (FID). We conclude that 1) managers should use evidence, including our database, to inform regulations, such as buffer distances, that account for species, breeding status, and drone type, 2) researchers should target contexts where interactions between drones and birds are likely but few studies exist, such as urban environments, and 3) researchers investigating drone‐induced bird disturbance should conduct horizontal and vertical approaches directly towards birds, and record the FID along with predictors describing the environment, target, and stimulus.
Multi‐institutional Validation of the Interarytenoid Assessment Protocol for Pediatric Laryngeal Cleft
Authors: Siu Jennifer M. , Amin Shaunak , Propst Evan J. , Wolter Nikolaus E. , Prager Jeremy , Wyatt Michelle , Lawlor Claire , Sidell Douglas , Mehta Deepak , Padia Reema , Smith Nicholas , Hartnick Christopher , Hart Catherine K. , Wang Xing , Johnson Kaalan
Published: November 2024

Background

Current assessment techniques for determining whether a patient has normal interarytenoid anatomy, a deep interarytenoid notch, or a minor laryngeal cleft are highly variable. However, differentiating between these three entities is important, given it may distinguish whether a patient should be considered for surgical intervention. The Interarytenoid Assessment Protocol (IAAP) was developed to provide standardization of interarytenoid anatomy evaluations. We aimed to assess the reliability of the IAAP for assessment of interaytenoid mucosal height (IAMH) through a multi‐institutional validation study.

Methods

Reliability of the IAAP was assessed by 10 pediatric otolaryngologists all from different academic centers. 30 de‐identified endoscopic videos of interarytenoid assessments were rated at two separate time points, 2 months apart. Intra‐class correlation (ICC) coefficients with two‐way models were used to evaluate inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability.

Results

Thirty endoscopic videos were collected for patients with a median (IQR) age of 4.9 years (59 months; range: 1 month to 20 years). On the first video assessment, inter‐rater reliability was 0.74 (95% CI 0.63–0.84), and on the second video assessment, inter‐rater reliability was 0.75 (95% CI 0.63–0.85) indicating strong inter‐rater reliability. Overall intra‐rater test–retest reliability was 0.75 (95% CI 0.69–0.79) indicating strong agreement. In almost half, 14 (46.6%) raters chose IAAP classification levels within 1 level of each other.

Conclusions

Multi‐institutional validation of the IAAP demonstrates strong inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability for assessment of IAMH when evaluated through pictorial analysis. Standardization of anatomical evaluations may improve our ability to perform more reliable outcomes studies of pediatric pharyngeal dysphagia in the future.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2024
Influence of Surface Preparation on the Durability of Repair Coatings for Prepainted Galvanised Steel
Authors: LeBozec Nathalie , Picot Philippe , LeGac Anne , Thierry Dominique
Published: November 2024

The performance of repair coating solutions at damaged areas on prepainted galvanised steel was assessed in a cyclic corrosion test and after outdoor exposures in marine atmosphere. Different surface preparations at corroded defects before the application of the repair coatings were tested, for example, water‐jetting, the use of commercial cleaning solutions either acidic or alkaline, a chrome‐free conversion coating and the application of Zn‐Al primer coating. A poorer performance of the repair coatings was observed on damaged and corroded systems compared to damaged‐only panels. This was connected to the presence of remaining chlorides and corrosion products at scribes on corroded panels before repair coating application, which indicated the need for careful surface preparation to minimise the concentration of soluble salts. This was achieved by water‐jetting and the use of alkaline or acidic cleaning which provided satisfying corrosion performance of the repair coatings particularly with a two‐layer system as expected from the thicker layer of the reparation and presence of a primer. The weakest protection was observed when the one‐layer repair coating was applied on a chemically treated surface, which may be related to the weakness of the coating.
4DCT image artifact detection using deep learning
Authors: Carrizales Joshua W. , Flakus Mattison J. , Fairbourn Dallin , Shao Wei , Gerard Sarah E. , Bayouth John E. , Christensen Gary E. , Reinhardt Joseph M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Four‐dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) is an es sential tool in radiation therapy. However, the 4D acquisition process may cause motion artifacts which can obscure anatomy and distort functional measurements from CT scans.

Purpose

We describe a deep learning algorithm to identify the location of artifacts within 4DCT images. Our method is flexible enough to handle different types of artifacts, including duplication, misalignment, truncation, and interpolation.

Methods

We trained and validated a U‐net convolutional neural network artifact detection model on more than 23 000 coronal slices extracted from 98 4DCT scans. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and precision‐recall curve were used to evaluate the model's performance at identifying artifacts compared to a manually identified ground truth. The model was adjusted so that the sensitivity in identifying artifacts was equivalent to that of a human observer, as measured by computing the average ratio of artifact volume to lung volume in a given scan.

Results

The model achieved a sensitivity, specificity, and precision of 0.78, 0.99, and 0.58, respectively. The ROC area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) was 0.99 and the precision‐recall AUC was 0.73. Our model sensitivity is 8% higher than previously reported state‐of‐the‐art artifact detection methods.

Conclusions

The model developed in this study is versatile, designed to handle duplication, misalignment, truncation, and interpolation artifacts within a single image, unlike earlier models that were designed for a single artifact type.
The Positive Effects of Soil Organic Carbon on European Cereal Yields Level Off at 1.4%
Authors: Campos‐Cáliz Ana , Valencia Enrique , Plaza César , Garland Gina , Edlinger Anna , Herzog Chantal , van der Heijden Marcel G. A. , Banerjee Samiran , Rillig Matthias C. , Hallin Sara , Saghaï Aurélien , Maestre Fernando T. , Pescador David S. , Philippot Laurent , Spor Ayme , Romdhane Sana , García‐Palacios Pablo
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Increasing soil organic carbon (SOC) in croplands is a natural climate mitigation effort that can also enhance crop yields. However, there is a lack of comprehensive field studies examining the impact of SOC on crop yields across wide climatic, soil, and farming gradients. Furthermore, it is largely unknown how water retention, soil microbial diversity, and nutrient availability modulate the SOC‐crop yield relationship.

Materials and Methods

We conducted an observational study across 127 cereal fields along a 3000 km north‐south gradient in Europe, measured topsoil (0–20 cm) organic C content, and collected data on climate, soil properties, crop yield and farming practices. Additionally, we explored the relationship between crop yield, particulate organic carbon (POC) and mineral‐associated organic carbon (MAOC) contents at three soil depths (0–20, 20–40 and 40–60 cm) in a subset of sites.

Results

Relative yield increases levelled off at 1.4% SOC, indicating an optimal SOC content for cereals along a European gradient. The quadratic relationship between SOC and cereal yield was conspicuous even after controlling for large differences in climate, soil and farming practices across countries. The relationship varied significantly across soil depths and C fractions. MAOC dominated the SOC pool, and was significantly related to relative yield up to an optimal level that varied with soil depth. Soil microbial diversity and nutrient availability emerged as main drivers of the SOC‐yield relationship, while water retention did not exhibit a notable influence.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that SOC is as a key determinant of cereal yield along a European gradient, and identifying this threshold can inform soil management strategies for improved carbon capture based on initial SOC levels. Nevertheless, the complex SOC‐yield relationship highlights the necessity for tailored soil management strategies that consider specific site conditions to optimize C storage and crop yield.
Green Synthesis of Aminosilicate‐Functionalized CuO–Ag Nanocomposites Using Syzygium cumini Seed Extract: Evaluation of Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Kathija M. Muthu , Kavitha B. , Eswaran K. , Badhusha M. Sheik Muhideen
Published: November 2024

The green EDAS–(CuO–Ag) nanocomposite was synthesized using Syzygium cumini seed extract. S. cumini seed extract act as a reducing as well as stabilizing agent. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized using different techniques such as UV–vis, FT‐IR, XRD, HRTEM, BET, and XPS. Photocatalytic activity was examined by subjecting it to UV light irradiation conditions and measuring its performance in degradation methylene blue. Additionally, the antibacterial activity of nanocomposite was assessed against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. The results revealed that the photocatalytic and antibacterial activities are in following order: CuO < CuO–Ag < EDAS–(CuO–Ag).
2D‐to‐1D Conversion of a Layered Sodium Titanate via Rational Framework Splitting for Highly Efficient Cation Exchange
Authors: Moustafa Esraa , Esmat Mohamed , Iwanade Akio , Oishi Makoto , Nagai Takuro , Tsunoji Nao , Fukata Naoki , Chaikittisilp Watcharop , Ide Yusuke
Published: November 2024

Demand on high‐performance ion exchangers is ever‐increasing in energy and environment applications. Among many cation exchangers, layered alkali titanates generally show larger cation exchange capacity, but slower cation exchange rate due to their 2D micrometer‐size particle morphologies, which limits their practical applications. Here, a rational conversion of a layered sodium titanate, Na2Ti3O7, is reported to the corresponding 1D ultra‐narrow nanowires via hydrothermal treatment under basic conditions. The formation of nanowires is thought to involve the partial exfoliation of Na2Ti3O7 to form thin plate‐like particles that subsequently split into nanowires along a crystallographically defined, chemically selective weakness in the Na2Ti3O7 crystals. This process is similar to a recently burgeoning materials design using atomic‐level weakness in solids, such as zeolites and metal‐organic frameworks. The proposed formation scheme is further supported by comparative experiments performed on another layered alkali titanate, K0.8Ti1.73Li0.27O4, which possesses randomly distributed defects at the Ti sites. Thanks to the shortening of diffusion path lengths of the interlayer cations, the resulting Na2Ti3O7 nanowires show an excellent cation exchange performance toward Cd2+ in aqueous solution, exceeding several existing cation exchangers such as zeolites and organic resins.
Hyperbolic/elliptic‐CAP formulation for FRCC based on microplane constitutive theory
Authors: Caggiano Antonio , Vrech Sonia M. , Etse Guillermo
Published: November 2024

The present work describes an elasto‐plastic constitutive formulation aimed at simulating the failure behavior of Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composites (FRCCs). This proposal, based on the Microplane Theory and Smeared Crack Approach (SCA), assumes a hyperbolic maximum strength criterion for the cementitious matrix in terms of normal and shear (micro‐)stresses, evaluated on generally oriented planes (microplanes). A combination of an associated/non‐associated plastic flow rule in conjunction with a fracture energy‐based softening law is defined to complete the modeling approach. The Mixture Theory is applied with the aim of characterizing the fiber‐to‐concrete interactions, described by considering two fundamental interaction phenomena: bridging debonding effects and dowel actions. Numerical analysis of FRCC failure behavior at the constitutive level is performed. Particularly, the soundness and capabilities of this approach are assessed against experimental data from tensile, shear, and compressive tests on FRCC samples. Simple shear tests are also evaluated to analyze the influence of the microplanes approximation over the unit microplane hemisphere. Comparisons against a discontinuous zero‐thickness interface model are proposed. Numerical results also illustrate the capabilities of the proposed constitutive theory to reproduce brittle or localized failure modes in limit stress states through discontinuous bifurcation analysis.
Science teachers' beliefs about teaching and learning related to content and procedural goals
Authors: Petermann Verena , Vorholzer Andreas , von Aufschnaiter Claudia
Published: November 2024

Science teachers' beliefs about teaching and learning are a vital component of teachers' professional competence and are often assumed to impact classroom practice. To date, these beliefs have been predominantly investigated regarding teaching and learning in general or for a particular science subject (e.g., physics). It remains to be determined whether these beliefs are similar across different goals within a subject. The study reported addresses this question by investigating and comparing beliefs about teaching and learning regarding two prominent main goals of science education: content goals that refer to scientific phenomena, laws, theories, and disciplinary core ideas and procedural goals that refer to scientific procedures and practices. To that end, data from 170 German teachers were collected in 2019 and 2020 with an online questionnaire. After modeling the data and assessing the quality of measurement via Rasch analysis techniques, subsequent t‐tests were employed to compare beliefs. Results reveal that science teachers' beliefs vary between both main goals. For instance, teachers believe that achieving procedural goals requires primarily doing science with lesser relevance of discussing and elaborating with students explicitly the rules and strategies for engaging appropriately in scientific practices (e.g., control of variables strategy). In contrast, teachers believe that for achieving content goals, explicit instruction about corresponding conceptual knowledge is of higher relevance. Furthermore, the analysis reveals differences in teachers' beliefs about their own abilities. Teachers typically believe they are more able to teach and deal with content goals compared with procedural goals. The differences reported may help to understand research on teachers' classroom practice and can inform teacher training and professional development.
Evaluation of acaricide treatments to experimentally reduce winter tick load on moose
Authors: De Pierre Delphine , Déry Florent , Asselin Anthony , Leighton Patrick A. , Côté Steeve D. , Tremblay Jean‐Pierre
Published: November 2024

Quantifying the consequences of winter ticks (Dermacentor albipictus) on the body condition and life‐history traits of moose (Alces alces) is a challenge due to several confounding factors. We experimentally reduced tick load on moose calves by testing the effectiveness of 2 acaricide treatments: one using topical permethrin (5%) alone and the other a combination of a more concentrated topical permethrin (44%) and orally administered fluralaner (25 mg/kg). We evaluated changes in tick load, body mass, hematocrit, and hair loss severity and occurrence, from recaptured or resighted moose calves over winter in Québec and New Brunswick, Canada. Nearly all untreated moose (94%, n = 41) experienced hair loss compared to calves that received the combination of permethrin (44%) and fluralaner (41%, n = 37). Of treated moose that exhibited hair loss, only 22% had more than 5% damage and some already had hair loss at capture. Capturing moose later likely increased the probability of observing hair loss when resighting treated moose, although hair loss essentially remained lower for treated calves than for untreated calves. In untreated moose, tick load at capture tended to drive hair loss, but calendar date mostly drove hair loss severity, especially during April. There was no clear effect of topical permethrin (5%) on tick load, body mass, and hematocrit. Body condition simply decreased from January captures to spring recaptures, regardless of treatment. Our results suggested that combining permethrin (44%) and fluralaner effectively reduced tick load based on hair loss severity and occurrence. We cannot, however, disentangle the individual effects of permethrin (44%) and fluralaner. We discuss research implications and considerations of using such a treatment for reducing winter tick load.
Statistical Phenomena
Authors: Gurbatov Sergey N. , Rudenko Oleg V.
Published: November 2024

Statistical analysis is applied to phenomena associated with propagation of random nonlinear acoustic waveforms in homogeneous media. Following presentation of the nonlinear evolution equation and relevant statistical functions, basic phenomena in nonlinear noise fields are described for an initially quasi-harmonic signal with random amplitude and phase modulation. An expression is presented for the intensity of the harmonics generated by a source radiating narrowband noise. Examples are provided illustrating the widening of the frequency spectrum associated with propagation of broadband noise of finite amplitude, and with interaction of a finite-amplitude tone with a band of low-amplitude noise.
Future Outlook and Research Ideas
Authors: Lampoltshammer Thomas J. , Leitold Herbert , Schmidt Carsten , Zefferer Thomas
Published: November 2024

This chapter uses the lessons learned from technical work and piloting of the mGov4EU project, as well as experience made so far in developing the Single Digital Gateway (SDG) Once-Only Technical System (OOTS) and the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDIW). These are our basis, and we dare to look into the future. The two European flagship policy initiatives OOTS and EUDIW are meant to facilitate citizens’ journey through European public services but also are meant as tools to navigate private services in the Digital Single Market. It, however, would be naïve to assume that setting such complex systems into production is the end of an endeavour. We might only learn through first experience where pitfalls lie but in particular what opportunities are given that haven’t been seen before. We, therefore, give authors’ views on where this road might lead us and what research might be essential to get there. The chapter, thus, aims at anticipating what might be needed to reap the benefits of OOTS and EUDIW in a mobile world from a governance perspective, a privacy and data protection perspective, a services perspective and a mobile technologies perspective. Therefore, each section first sets the scene by outlining the status. This is followed by addressing some challenges and gives an outlook by indicating how research might address these challenges.
User and Design Research of Digital Government
Authors: Sellung Rachelle , Kiss Lennart
Published: November 2024

User experience (UX) and design research are pivotal in developing mobile and e-government services. As digital governance evolves, it faces the challenge of meeting citizens’ expectations for intuitive, accessible, and efficient online interfaces. The primary challenge is the need for standardised design approaches and insufficient user involvement in developing digital government services. This has led to interfaces that often fail to meet users’ diverse needs and preferences, impacting the effectiveness and accessibility of government services. The focus of this chapter is an in-depth exploration of these challenges within the context of the mGov4EU project. Through comprehensive desk research and analysis of user interfaces in digital government, this chapter evaluates existing design practices and user involvement strategies. The analysed evidence includes case studies and empirical methods, including surveys, interviews, and brain activity analysis. The results reveal significant insights into the effectiveness of current design practices and highlight the diverse approaches required to cater to different user groups. The study demonstrates how the mGov4EU project successfully addressed the challenges through established best practices and lessons learned in user-centric design. The chapter concludes with a forward-looking perspective, emphasising the importance of ongoing research and innovation in UX for digital governance. It suggests that future efforts should focus on enhancing user participation in design processes and standardising UX approaches to ensure the development of more effective and accessible government services.
Design and Architecture of Mobile Cross-Border Services Building Blocks
Authors: Podgorelec Blaž , Czerny Roland , Zefferer Thomas , Prünster Bernd , Corici Andreea Ancuta , Wich Tobias , Hühnlein Detlef
Published: November 2024

The growing trend of mobile services usage compared to desktop services necessitates the development of mobile-accessible e-government to cater to citizens’ growing digital needs. Secure and efficient solutions for strong authentication and cross-institutional data exchange are crucial in this context, particularly within the eID (electronic Identification) and SDG (Single Digital Gateway) domains. This work presents an advanced technical architecture developed as part of the H2020 mGov4EU project, which addresses these challenges by offering a comprehensive set of mobile-tailored building blocks that could serve as a basis when using e-Government. The proposed architecture consists of four building blocks: (1) eID Interoperability System, enabling mobile-based cross-border authentication; (2) Digital Wallet System, providing a user-friendly platform for citizens to manage their eID credentials and (SDGR) evidence; (3) SDG Interoperability System, enabling efficient cross-border data exchange and user-authorization access point; and (4) eSignature Interoperability System, ensuring secure and efficient creation of electronic signatures. Integrating these building blocks, the mGov4EU project enhances the baseline of e-Government in a mobile environment.
An i-Voting Pilot in the eIDAS and SDG Context
Authors: Cucurull Jordi , Toropova Polina , Corici Andreea-Ancuta , Prünster Bernd , Zefferer Thomas , Podgorelec Blaž
Published: November 2024

This chapter describes the design, implementation, and execution of the i-voting pilot of the mGov4EU project. The pilot has integrated some of the main building blocks of the project into an i-voting software and has demonstrated their functionality applied to a real use case. The chapter also describes the experience and lessons learned while passing from a laboratory proof of concept to the deployments to be used by real users both at the University of Tartu in a first stage and at the University of Stuttgart in a second stage. During the first stage, the identification with eIDAS has been tested, and during the second stage, validation of documents retrieved via single digital gateway (SDG) components and authorizing users to vote in the election have been tested. Also, some insights obtained from the final users of the pilots have been presented.
Psychologische Frauenbefreiung: Feministische Therapie zwischen Psychologie und Frauenbewegung in der Bundesrepublik der 1970er Jahre
Authors: Luckgei Vera
Published: November 2024

Die zweite Welle der Frauenbewegung erfasste ab den späten 1960er Jahren sämtliche Bereiche der westdeutschen Gesellschaft. Dazu gehörten Debatten darüber, wie die Gesundheitsversorgung von Frauen selbstbestimmt, frauenfreundlich und feministischen Idealen entsprechend gestaltet werden könnte. Dies wurde auch in Hinblick auf die damals allgemein boomende Psychotherapie diskutiert. Der vorliegende Beitrag geht der Frage nach, wie Debatten rund um eine feministische Therapie in der Bundesrepublik aufkamen. Dabei rückt das spannungsgeladene Verhältnis zwischen Psychologie und Psychotherapie in den Blick. Während feministische Frauenberatungsstellen und Therapiezentren im deutschsprachigen Raum seit den späten 1970er Jahren ein verbreiteter Bestandteil des psychosozialen Versorgungsnetzes wurden, blieb die wissenschaftliche Psychologie feministischen Einflüssen gegenüber weitgehend unbewegt. Der Artikel zeichnet nach, wie es zu diesem Ungleichgewicht zwischen feministisch-therapeutischer Praxis und psychologischer Frauenforschung kam. Dazu setzt er im Jahr 1974 an, als Psychologinnen versuchten, feministische Impulse in die akademische Psychologie zu tragen und feministische Aktivistinnen psychotherapeutische Ansätze für die Frauenbewegung nutzbar machten. Dass viele Psychologinnen ihr Engagement aus dem akademischen in das therapeutische Feld verlagerten – so die These des Artikels –, lag an den wenig förderlichen Bedingungen, die feministisch orientierte Psychologinnen in der deutschsprachigen akademischen Psychologie vorfanden.
Interstitial HDR brachytherapy for anal cancer—results and quality of life
Authors: Jirkovská Michaela , Stankušová Hana , Kindlová Anna , Jirkovský Daniel , Lohynská Radka
Published: November 2024

Purpose

While anal cancer is a very rare oncological diagnosis representing less than 2% of lower gastrointestinal tract cancers, the incidence has doubled in the past 20 years. Radical radiochemotherapy with sequential or simultaneous boost is now the standard treatment modality. Interstitial HDR brachytherapy is one of the boost application options. Implementation of new radiotherapy techniques has resulted in improved therapeutic outcomes; however, it is still associated with acute and especially late toxicity. Gastrointestinal disorders and sexual dysfunction are the most frequent factors affecting the long-term quality of cured patients’ lives.

Methods

A total of 96 patients consecutively treated between 2000 and 2022 with external beam radio-/chemotherapy and an interstitial brachytherapy boost for histologically verified nonmetastatic anal squamous cell carcinoma were evaluated. The median follow-up time was 15.4 years (range 13.4–17.3 years). The primary objective of the study was to assess local control (LC) and quality of life (QoL). The Czech versions of internationally validated EORTC questionnaires were used to evaluate life quality—the basic EORTC QOL-C30 v.3 and the specific QOL-ANL 27 questionnaire.

Results

Local control was 85.5% at 5 years, 83.4% at 10 years, 83.4% at 15 years, and 83.4% at 20 years, and there was no dependence on clinical stage. The most common forms of acute toxicity were cutaneous and hematological but were gastrointestinal for late toxicities. In the evaluation of quality of life, 80.5% of patients alive at the time participated. In the EORTC quality of life questionnaire C30 v.3, patients rated the functional scale score as 86.2 points (standard deviation [SD] = 12.6) and the symptom score as 15.5 points (SD = 12.5). The global health score achieved 68.4 points (SD = 23.6). The most common symptoms were fatigue with 25.6 points (SD = 20.2) and diarrhea with 19.0 points (SD = 27.8). In the QOL-ANL 27 questionnaire, symptom scales assessing bowel symptoms were scored 27.5 points (SD = 19) in non-stoma patients and 11.9 points (SD = 17.2) in stoma patients. In the single-item symptom scales, the highest scores were rated for frequency of urination with 26.4 points (SD = 30.8), need to be close to a toilet with 22.4 points (SD = 27.3), and self-cleaning more often with 25.3 points (SD = 31.8). In the functional scales assessing sex life and interest, men and women reported scores of 45.2 (SD = 23) and 45.5 points (SD = 19), respectively.

Conclusion

Boost with interstitial HDR brachytherapy is an established safe method of anal cancer treatment, with excellent results and limited late toxicity. Functioning scales were rated relatively highly in QoL questionnaires, and the overall global health score was comparable to published data. Gastrointestinal difficulties, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction dominated the symptom scales in our cohort.
Analysis of the relationship between cutting forces and local structural properties of Scots pine wood aided by computed tomography
Authors: Huang Yunbo , Chuchala Daniel , Buck Dietrich , Orlowski Kazimierz A. , Fredriksson Magnus , Svensson Mikael
Published: November 2024

X-ray computed tomography (CT) is utilised in some sawmills today, primarily for enhancing value yield and for process automation, which includes log sorting and sawing optimisation. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of recent research utilising CT to assess the local cutting process. As a preliminary study, this paper addresses this gap by using CT to investigate the connections between local cutting force and local wood properties including density, knots, and annual ring width. Workpieces of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), from Sweden and Poland, were CT-scanned in laboratory conditions. Quasi-linear cutting tests were then performed on both clear and knotty regions of the workpieces using a custom-made laboratory stand with a Stellite-tipped tooth mounted on piezoelectric sensors. It was found that density influences cutting forces for both clear and knotty wood, and this effect increased noticeably with increasing uncut chip thickness. Changes in wood density, such as between sapwood and heartwood or between clear wood and knot, caused dynamic changes in cutting forces and temporary disturbances to the stability of the system. Normalisation of cutting forces by local density allowed the conclusion that density is not the only property affecting cutting forces. Other structural properties, e.g. annual ring width and latewood–earlywood proportion may affect the cutting process as well, which requires deeper analysis in the future research. This preliminary study demonstrates the feasibility and usefulness of coupling CT data with cutting force measurements and suggests further research on the relationship between cutting force and wood properties.
Organic waste and beechwood cellulose blend saccharification and validation of hydrolysates by fermentation
Authors: Rudnyckyj Stanislav , Kucheryavskiy Sergey , Chaturvedi Tanmay , Thomsen Mette Hedegaard
Published: November 2024

This study demonstrates the sustainable advancement of fermentation media by blending the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) with organosolv beechwood cellulose. Investigations examined the effects of enzyme dosages and OFMSW integration into organosolv beechwood cellulose on sugar yield. The findings indicate that OFMSW inclusion and Cellic® CTec3 dosage significantly influence hydrolysis across two different batches of beechwood cellulose. Experimental data showed that OFMSW inclusion levels of 35% and 45% (w/w) produced sugar levels comparable to pure beechwood cellulose, achieving 58% to 68% (w/w) saccharification with sugar concentrations of 44 to 46 g/L. This highlights OFMSW's potential as a buffer substitute during the enzymatic conversion of organosolv cellulose. The resulting sugar-rich hydrolysates, derived from OFMSW-cellulose blends and pure cellulose, were evaluated for ethanol and cell biomass production using Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Mucor indicus, yielding 30 g of ethanol/L hydrolysate. Furthermore, OFMSW inclusion in beechwood cellulose proved to be an excellent alternative to synthetic nitrogen agents for S. cerevisiae cell production, reaching 12.2 g of biomass/L and surpassing the biomass concentration from cultivation on cellulose hydrolysate with nitrogen supplementation by threefold. However, M. indicus did not grow in the OFMSW-cellulose blend, suggesting that the inhibitory compounds of OFMSW may be a bottleneck in the proposed process. The present study demonstrates the benefits of incorporating OFMSW into cellulose material, as it enhances both cost-effectiveness and sustainability. This is attributed to the natural buffering properties and nitrogen content of OFMSW, which reduces the need for synthetic agents in fermentation-based lignocellulose biorefineries.

Key points

• OFMSW inclusion significantly influences beechwood cellulose saccharification.

• OFMSW could be an excellent alternative for synthetic agents in biorefinery.

• S. cerevisiae achieved higher biomass growth on OFMSW/cellulose mix compared to YPD.

Graphical abstract
EyeMatics – Multizentrische Datenauswertung von Real-World-Daten mit interoperabler medizinischer Informatik
Authors: Holtrup Lea , Varghese Julian , Schuster Alexander K. , Poschkamp Broder , Hampf Christopher , Waltemath Dagmar , Wahle Leonie , Lipprandt Myriam , Merle David A. , Berens Philipp , Kohlbacher Oliver , Kakkassery Vinodh , Bartos Martin , Ziemssen Focke , Wendt Thomas , Hoffmann Katja ,   EyeMatics Study Group, Eter Nicole
Published: November 2024

Die Auswertung von Real-World-Daten (RWD) ermöglicht Erkenntnisse aus einer Vielzahl von Patientendaten, die in der klinischen Routine erhoben werden. Multizentrische Analysen bilden darüber hinaus eine breite und repräsentative Patientenpopulation ab und bergen das Potenzial, die reale Versorgungssituation zu erfassen. Als Basis dafür sind die Definition von Datensätzen und eine Infrastruktur zum Datenaustausch notwendig. Datenintegrationszentren (DIZ) sind bereits bundesweit an (universitären) Standorten etabliert worden, um RWD für wissenschaftliche Analysen aus den verschiedenen Quellsystemen zu extrahieren und in forschungskompatiblen Dateninfrastrukturen zu integrieren. Das hier beschriebene Projekt soll den Mehrwert dieser Datenzusammenführung anhand eines Ophthalmologie-Anwendungsfalls demonstrieren und dazu einen Kerndatensatz als Augenheilkunde-Erweiterungsmodul definieren sowie eine standortübergreifende Datenaustauschinfrastruktur etablieren. In einem ersten Schritt soll der Behandlungserfolg bei Augenkrankheiten verbessert werden, die mit intravitrealer operativer Medikamentenapplikation (IVOM) behandelt werden. Zur Erreichung dieses Ziels soll ein Dashboard für klinische Daten bereitgestellt werden, das die zusammengeführten Daten übersichtlich visualisiert. Darüber hinaus sollen Algorithmen zur Identifikation neuer bildgebender Biomarker entwickelt werden, die der Therapieüberwachung dienen und Behandlungsergebnisse prognostizieren können.