bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of the Rigid Body Vibration Spectra of Road Transport Vehicles
Authors: Lamb Matthew J. , Rouillard Vincent
Published: September 2024

For decades, numerous attempts at re‐creating realistic (vertical) vibrations that purport to represent typical conditions during road transport have been proposed and published. This has and continues to result in a significant number of target power density spectra (PDS) for use in laboratory simulation of vibrations despite the fact that the underlying parameters that influence the vibrations (road surface unevenness and vehicle dynamics) remain largely unchanged. This paper seeks to address this situation by analysing published and measured PDS (129 in total) from a variety of vehicles and road types with the aim of establishing typical PDS. Through the analysis of the frequency of the first natural mode of these PDS, it was found that there exist five typical response PDS (three for steel leaf suspension and two for air ride suspension) that can be considered as representative vibration response PDS for road transport in general. These representative PDS were matched with a two degree‐of‐freedom quarter‐car model representing the heave response of the rigid body motion of the vehicles. The analysis suggests that the higher frequency content of the measured data is not related to rigid body motion but emanates from drivetrain and, in some cases, structural vibrations. These usually comprise numerous harmonics of fixed and varying frequencies as well as transients. As these vibrations are impossible to classify based on vehicle type, it is recommended that the five quarter‐car representative spectral models proposed in this paper—namely, for steel leaf spring suspended vehicles with heavy, moderate and light loads and air ride type vehicles with heavy and light loads—be used for laboratory simulation for the purpose of evaluating the vibration resistance of products and packaged systems. It is suggested that, for most packaged product, this is sufficient to test their ability to survive road transport vibrations. These will yield more realistic vibrations than those endorsed by standards organisations and should have a positive impact on the optimisation of packaging designs and a corresponding reduction in packaging waste. Finally, the need for further work aimed at developing methods to identify and extract fixed and varying discrete frequency vibration as well as transient vibrations was identified.
Fully‐Optimized Quantum Metrology: Framework, Tools, and Applications
Authors: Liu Qiushi , Hu Zihao , Yuan Haidong , Yang Yuxiang
Published: September 2024

This tutorial introduces a systematic approach for addressing the key question of quantum metrology: For a generic task of sensing an unknown parameter, what is the ultimate precision given a constrained set of admissible strategies. The approach outputs the maximal attainable precision (in terms of the maximum of quantum Fisher information) as a semidefinite program and optimal strategies as feasible solutions thereof. Remarkably, the approach can identify the optimal precision for different sets of strategies, including parallel, sequential, quantum SWITCH‐enhanced, causally superposed, and generic indefinite‐causal‐order strategies. The tutorial consists of a pedagogic introduction to the background and mathematical tools of optimal quantum metrology, a detailed derivation of the main approach, and various concrete examples. As shown in the tutorial, applications of the approach include, but are not limited to, strict hierarchy of strategies in noisy quantum metrology, memory effect in non‐Markovian metrology, and designing optimal strategies. Compared with traditional approaches, the approach here yields the exact value of the optimal precision, offering more accurate criteria for experiments and practical applications. It also allows for the comparison between conventional strategies and the recently discovered causally‐indefinite strategies, serving as a powerful tool for exploring this new area of quantum metrology.
High‐Dimensional Photonic Quantum Computing with a Measurement‐Free Auxiliary System
Authors: Ren Xue‐Mei , Du Fang‐Fang
Published: September 2024

Enhancing the capabilities of quantum computing relies heavily on harnessing the power of qudit‐based high‐dimensional quantum gates. In the study, single‐qudit 4D , , and gates tailored for a two‐photon system in polarization states are presented. Furthermore, a two‐qudit ‐dimensional controlled‐not (CNOT) gate designed for a four‐photon system is introduced. These high‐dimensional gates can offer versatile and straightforward optical implementations, ensuring them to fulfill in a deterministic way. To facilitate these processes, an auxiliary system in the form of a ‐type atom residing in a cavity is employed. Remarkably, the auxiliary system retains its original state after the operation process ends, so it is not required to measure and plays a pivotal role in promoting effective interactions among distinct photons in its extended coherence time. Importantly, the in‐depth analysis of the fidelities and efficiencies of these quantum gates showcase remarkable outcomes, affirming the superiority of the proposed protocols. Therefore, these high‐dimensional gates not only amplify quantum parallelism, but also bolster the speed of quantum computations, fortify resilience against errors, and foster scalability for executing intricate quantum operations.
Endometrial pattern predicts pregnancy outcome in single‐blastocyst frozen‐embryo transfer: An analysis of 1383 cycles
Authors: Kuramoto Kazutaka , Hamada Norio , Kawamura Keiko , Egashira Katsuko , Morokuma Seiichi , Otsuka Misako , Yoshioka Naomi , Kuramoto Takeshi , Kato Kiyoko
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Several studies investigated endometrial patterns, with respect to pregnancy rates following the transfer of embryos but did not distinguish between single‐ and multiple‐blastocyst procedures. We clarified how the endometrial pattern imaged to transfer a frozen embryo is associated with pregnancy outcomes in single‐blastocyst frozen‐embryo transfer (sbFET).

Methods

Patients ≤35 years who underwent sbFET on the hormone replacement protocol. We analyzed endometrial patterns’ associations with pregnancy outcomes in relation to blastocyst grade and pregnancy‐related factors.

Results

Of the 1383 cycles, 483 were Lf, 840 were partial‐Lf, and 60 were non‐Lf. Leaf pattern (Lf): central echogenic line present and continuous. Overall, decreasing distinctness of the central echogenic line was associated with significantly lower rates of clinical pregnancy (Lf: 70.4%; partial‐Lf: 58.1%; non‐Lf: 28.3%) and live birth (56.3%, 45.5%, and 15.0%) and a higher miscarriage rate (20.0%, 21.7%, and 47.1%). Logistic regressions showed pregnancy and live birth to be significantly more likely and miscarriage less likely in Lf than non‐Lf: OR (95% CI): 6.07 (3.24–11.37), 7.43 (3.47–15.39), and 0.20 (0.07–0.57).

Conclusions

Non‐Lf presentation was associated with lower rates of pregnancy and live birth, suggesting it signals unsuitable conditions for embryo transfer. We provide information on the pregnancy outcomes of sbFET for endometrial patterns.
Bioactive Nb2C MXene‐Functionalized Hydrogel with Microenvironment Remodeling and Enhanced Neurogenesis to Promote Skeletal Muscle Regeneration and Functional Restoration
Authors: Zheng Hua , Yang Zuoting , Zhou Li , Zhang Baoliang , Cheng Ruidong , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: September 2024

The complete structure‐functional repair of volumetric muscle loss (VML) remains a giant challenge and biomedical hydrogels to remodel microenvironment and enhance neurogenesis have appeared to be a promising direction. However, the current hydrogels for VML repair hardly achieve these two goals simultaneously due to their insufficient functionality and the challenge in high‐cost of bioactive factors. In this study, a facile strategy using Nb2C MXene‐functionalized hydrogel (OPTN) as a bioactive scaffold is proposed to promote VML repair with skeletal muscle regeneration and functional restoration. In vitro experiments show that OPTN scaffold can effectively scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), guide macrophages polarization toward M2 phenotype, and resist bacterial infection, providing a favorable microenvironment for myoblasts proliferation as well as the endothelial cells proliferation, migration, and tube formation. More importantly, OPTN scaffold with electroactive feature remarkably boosts myoblasts differentiation and mesenchymal stem cells neural differentiation. Animal experiments further confirm that OPTN scaffold can achieve a prominent structure‐functional VML repair by attenuating ROS levels, alleviating inflammation, reducing fibrosis, and facilitating angiogenesis, newborn myotube formation, and neurogenesis. Collectively, this study provides a highly promising and effective strategy for the structure‐functional VML repair through designing bioactive multifunctional hydrogel with microenvironment remodeling and enhanced neurogenesis.
Soft and Deformable Thermoresponsive Hollow Rod‐Shaped Microgels
Authors: Hagemans Fabian , Hazra Nabanita , Lovasz Viktoria D. , Awad Alexander J. , Frenken Martin , Babenyshev Andrey , Laukkanen Olli‐Ville , Braunmiller Dominik , Richtering Walter , Crassous Jérôme J.
Published: September 2024

Depending on their aspect ratio, rod‐shaped particles exhibit a much richer 2D and 3D phase behavior than their spherical counterparts, with additional nematic and smectic phases accompanied by defined orientational ordering. While the phase diagram of colloidal hard rods is extensively explored, little is known about the influence of softness in such systems, partly due to the absence of appropriate model systems. Additionally, investigating higher volume fractions for long rods is usually complicated because non‐equilibrium dynamical arrest is likely to precede the formation of more defined states. This has motivated us to develop micrometric rod‐like microgels with limited sedimentation that can respond to temperature and reversibly reorganize into defined phases via annealing and seeding procedures. A detailed procedure is presented for synthesizing rod‐shaped hollow poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) microgels using micrometric silica rods as sacrificial templates. Their morphological characterization is conducted through a combination of microscopy and light scattering techniques, evidencing the unconstrained swelling of rod‐shaped hollow microgels compared to core‐shell microgel rods. Different aspects of their assembly in dispersion and at interfaces are further tested to illustrate the opportunities and challenges offered by such systems that combine softness, anisotropy, and thermoresponsivity.
Anti‐Frosting and Defrosting Fins with Hierarchical Interlocking Structure for Enhancing Energy Utilization Efficiency of Heat Exchanger
Authors: Zhao Yue , Liu Wenzhuo , Du Yu , Tong Jun , Xie Heng , Wu Ting , Qu Jinping
Published: September 2024

Air conditioners, being an indispensable component of contemporary living, consume a significant amount of electricity every year. The accumulation of frost, dust, and water on the fins surface hinders the efficiency of the heat exchange process, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the air conditioning system. To address these limitations, this paper proposes a large‐scale and cost‐effective method combining compression molding, chemical etching, and spray coating to fabricate aluminum fins (HMNA) with hierarchical interlocking structures. The HMNA exhibits outstanding durability, passive and active anti‐icing, anti‐frosting and defrosting, and self‐cleaning capabilities associated with the robust super‐hydrophobicity. The hierarchical interlocking structure effectively enhances the physical and environmental durability of the HMNA. Most significantly, the frost time of the HMNA fins assembled heat exchanger is significantly delayed by ≈700% compared to the traditional Al fins heat exchanger, while the frost layer thickness is reduced by ≈75%. This greatly reduces the frequency with which the defrosting cycle is started, thus effectively improving the efficiency of the air conditioning system. The proposed method for economical and mass production of the HMNA fins can be an excellent candidate for the development of low energy consumption air conditioning system.
Heterovalent Samarium Cation‐Doped SnO2 Electron Transport Layer for High‐Efficiency Planar Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sattar Abdul , Xu Chenzhe , Cheng Feiyu , Sun Haochun , Wang Hongwei , Hu Liyan , Fan Wenqiang , Kang Zhuo , Zhang Yue
Published: September 2024

Tin oxide (SnO2) has demonstrated significant potential as an electron transport layer (ETL) owing to its low‐temperature processing in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the poor energy‐level alignment and the presence of interface defects between the SnO2 and perovskite layer aggravate the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the PSCs. Herein, heterovalent samarium cation (Sm3+) is deliberately doped into SnO2, optimizing the energy‐level alignment between SnO2 and the perovskite layer, and effectively passivating the oxygen vacancy defects on the surface of SnO2. Experimental and theoretical conclusions reveal that Sm‐doping successfully passivates the defects in the ETL and improves the perovskite crystal quality, thereby reducing interface charge recombination, and enhancing electron extraction from perovskite to the SnO2 layer. Consequently, the optimized Sm‐doped SnO2‐based PSCs achieve a PCE of 24.10% with a VOC of 1.174 V, negligible hysteresis, and improved durability under ambient conditions.
Nonhalogenated Photoactive Layer PBDB‐T:BTP‐M‐Based Organic Solar Cells with Efficient and Stable Performance
Authors: Zhao Huan , Yin Zhipeng , Chen Lijun , Li Yunjie , Wang Beining , Sun Hangxing , Song Junhao , Xiao Xunwen , Li Ning , Wang Hai‐Qiao
Published: September 2024

While state‐of‐the‐art organic photovoltaics (OPVs) have been achieved by halogen modification strategies for active layer materials, the stability of these OPVs can be compromised by the presence of halogen ions at the interface and within the photoactive layer. Herein, halogen‐free photoactive layer‐based OPV cells are fabricated and systematically studied to understand and explore the working principle and potential of this class of OPV devices. For the first time, a champion efficiency of 13.12% is achieved for the inverted device (ITO/AZO/AL/MoO3/Ag) based on the nonhalogenated photoactive layer PBDB‐T:BTP‐M. Superior metal electrode stability is confirmed for the unencapsulated PBDB‐T:BTP‐M devices aged at 85 °C in the air atmosphere compared to the halogenated PM6:Y6 devices. Specifically, better thermal stability is verified for the nonhalogenated device without 1‐chloronaphthalene (1‐CN) additive compared to the device with 1‐CN additive, with 89% of the initial efficiency retained after being aged for 900 h at 85 °C in the N2 atmosphere. These results evidence the halogen/halide impacts on device stability and demonstrate the potential for nonhalogenated OPVs to achieve efficient and stable performance, benefiting the development and practical application of this technology.
Numerical Simulation of CO Generation and Combustion Efficiency in Sintering Process: Effect of Solid Fuel Particle Size
Authors: Li Zhen , Wang Yaozu , Zhang Jianliang , Li Sida , Niu Lele , Liu Zhengjian , Liu Hao
Published: September 2024

For sintering pot productive process with various fuel particle size distributions, a transient numerical simulation sintering model based on the computational fluid dynamics approach is developed using Fluent 2021R1. The model combines chemical reaction, mass and heat transfer, Euler–Euler model, and fluid flow in porous media. In this study, CO is employed as the combustion's intermediate product, which is further oxidized by secondary combustion in the high‐temperature zone. Through calculations, the solid fuel combustion behavior of the sintering is explained collectively with the changing bed temperature, CO emission, and solid fuel combustion efficiency of the process under various fuel particle size distribution. In the sintering process, the fuel particle size distribution is crucial for lowering CO emissions and increasing combustion efficiency. The combustion efficiency shows a tendency of increasing initially before decreasing with the reduction of solid fuel particle size, while CO emissions show a trend of reducing first and then increasing. It is advantageous to lower the CO emission in the sintering process, and the combustion efficiency of the sintering process is greatly boosted by 5.13% when the proportion of solid fuel with 5 mm particle size decreases and the proportion of solid fuel with 3 mm particle size increases.
Deep‐Learning‐Assisted Affinity Classification for Humoral Immunoprotein Complexes
Authors: Dadfar Bahar , Vaez Safoura , Haret Cristian , Koenig Meike , Mohammadi Hafshejani Tahereh , Franzreb Matthias , Lahann Joerg
Published: September 2024

Immunoglobulins are important building blocks in biology and biotechnology. With the emergence of comprehensive deep‐learning approaches, there are enormous opportunities for fast and accurate methods of classification of protein–protein interactions to arise. Herein, widely accessible image classification algorithms for species‐specific typification of a range of different immunoglobulin G (IgG) complexes are repurposed. Droplets of various immunoglobulins mixed with a B‐cell superantigen (SAg) (recombinant staphylococcal Protein A) are deposited onto hydrophobic polymer substrates and the resulting protein stains are imaged using polarized light microscopy. A comprehensive study based on 23 745 images finds that the pretrained convolutional neural network (CNN) InceptionV3 not only successfully categorizes IgGs from four different species but also predicts their binding affinity to Protein A: averaged over 36 binding pairs, the following are observed: 1) an overall accuracy of 81.4%, 2) the highest prediction accuracy for human IgG, the antibody with the highest binding affinity for Protein A, and 3) that the classification accuracy regarding the various IgG/Protein A ratios generally correlates with the binding strength of the protein–protein–complex as determined via circular dichroism spectroscopy. In addition, the CNN pretrained with IgG/Protein A stain images has been challenged with a new set of images using a different superantigen (SAg, Protein G). Despite the use of the unknown SAg, the CNN correctly classifies the images of human IgG and Protein G as indicated by a 94% accuracy over the various molar binding ratios. These findings are noteworthy because they demonstrate that appropriately pretrained CNNs can be used for the prediction of protein–protein interactions beyond the scope of the original training set. Aided by deep‐learning methods, simple stains of mixed protein solutions may serve as accurate predictors of the strength of protein–protein interactions with relevance to protein engineering, self‐aggregation, or protein stability in complex media.
Proving Functional Program Equivalence via Directed Lemma Synthesis
Authors: Sun Yican , Ji Ruyi , Fang Jian , Jiang Xuanlin , Chen Mingshuai , Xiong Yingfei
Published: September 2024

Proving equivalence between functional programs is a fundamental problem in program verification, which often amounts to reasoning about algebraic data types (ADTs) and compositions of structural recursions. Modern theorem provers provide structural induction for such reasoning, but a structural induction on the original theorem is often insufficient for many equivalence theorems. In such cases, one has to invent a set of lemmas, prove these lemmas by additional induction, and use these lemmas to prove the original theorem. There is, however, a lack of systematic understanding of what lemmas are needed for inductive proofs and how these lemmas can be synthesized automatically. This paper presents directed lemma synthesis, an effective approach to automating equivalence proofs by discovering critical lemmas using program synthesis techniques. We first identify two induction-friendly forms of propositions that give formal guarantees to the progress of the proof. We then propose two tactics that synthesize and apply lemmas, thereby transforming the proof goal into induction-friendly forms. Both tactics reduce lemma synthesis to a set of independent and typically small program synthesis problems that can be efficiently solved. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach: Compared to state-of-the-art equivalence checkers employing heuristic-based lemma enumeration, directed lemma synthesis saves 95.47% runtime on average and solves 38 more tasks over an extended version of the standard benchmark set.
Classification methods of pulmonary contusion based on chest CT and the association with in-hospital outcomes: a systematic review of literature
Authors: Van Diepen Max R. , Wijffels Mathieu M. E. , Verhofstad Michael H. J. , Van Lieshout Esther M. M.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Patients sustaining pulmonary contusion (PC) have a higher risk of complications and long-term respiratory difficulty. Computed tomography (CT) scans have a high sensitivity for PC. However, since PC develops over time, CT scans made directly post-trauma may underestimate the full extent of PC. This creates a need to better define in which PC-patients complications are more likely. The aim of this systematic review was to identify different classification systems of PC, and investigate the association between amount of PC and in-hospital outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Studies reporting a classification system for PC after blunt thoracic trauma based on a CT scan were included. Outcomes were classification method of PC and the relation between classification and pulmonary complications and in-hospital outcomes.

Results

Twenty studies were included. Total number of patients ranged from 49 to 148,140 patients. The most common classification system used was calculating the percentage of contused lung volume. Other classification methods were based on Blunt Pulmonary Contusion score-6 and -18, Abbreviated Injury Score and Thoracic Trauma Severity scores. Worse outcomes were generally associated with between > 18 to > 24% contusion volume.

Discussion

The heterogeneity of currently available literature makes comparing classification methods challenging. The most common classification of PC was based on volumetric analysis. Calculating a percentage of PC as part of the total volume allows for the highest level of segmentation of lung parenchyma as compared to using BPC-6, BPC-18, or AIS. Contusion volume exceeding 18–24% was generally associated with worse outcomes.
Gerechtigkeit und soziale Determinanten der Gesundheit im Lebenslauf
Authors: Kolland Franz , Rohner Rebekka
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund

Der soziostrukturelle und soziokulturelle Wandel in den westlichen Gesellschaften stellt die Gesundheitseinrichtungen zunehmend vor Herausforderungen, die Gesundheit und Würde der Menschen gut zu berücksichtigen. Weitere und nachhaltige Fortschritte in der Gesundheitsversorgung sind zunehmend von soziokulturellen Bedingungen beeinflusst. Werden diese Bedingungen unzureichend berücksichtigt, sind die weiteren medizinischen Fortschritte gefährdet.

Ziel der Arbeit

Das Ziel dieser Arbeit liegt darin, die Bedeutung sozialer Bedingungen der Gesundheit im Lebenslauf herauszuarbeiten und damit eines der vier ethischen Prinzipien in der Medizin, nämlich die Gerechtigkeit, genauer auszuleuchten.

Material und Methoden

Bearbeitet wird die Fragestellung anhand sozialwissenschaftlicher Literatur, wobei die Literatur unter strukturtheoretischer Perspektive gesichtet wurde.

Ergebnisse

Fühlen sich Menschen in Hinsicht auf Alter, Geschlecht oder Migrationshintergrund diskriminiert, dann hat das nicht nur Auswirkungen auf das Selbstwertgefühl, sondern auch auf die Gesundheit bzw. Rekonvaleszenz nach Erkrankungen. Ungünstige wirtschaftliche Lebensverhältnisse wirken sich auf das Gesundheitsverhalten negativ aus. Diskriminierungserfahrungen im Gesundheitswesen können die Zufriedenheit mit Behandlungen verringern und dazu beitragen, dass Behandlungsvorschriften nicht eingehalten werden.

Schlussfolgerung

Beeinflusst werden können die angeführten soziokulturellen Effekte nicht nur über individuelle Verhaltensänderungen, sondern insbesondere auch über strukturelle bzw. institutionelle Wandlungsprozesse. Es braucht eine „Habitussensibilität“ sowohl im klinischen als auch im niedergelassenen Bereich, das heißt, die Verantwortung von Ärzt*innen im Gesundheitssystem liegt auch in der Beseitigung von Diskriminierung.
EASIX (endothelial activation and stress index) predicts mortality in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Finke Daniel , Hund Hauke , Frey Norbert , Luft Thomas , Lehmann Lorenz H.
Published: September 2024

Background

Coronary interventions reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with acute coronary syndrome. However, the risk of mortality for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) additionally depends on their systemic endothelial health status. The ‘Endothelial Activation and Stress Index’ (EASIX) predicts endothelial complications and survival in diverse clinical settings.

Objective

We hypothesized that EASIX may predict mortality in patients with CAD.

Methods

In 1283 patients undergoing coronary catheterization (CC) and having a diagnosis of CAD, EASIX was measured within 52 days (range − 1 year to − 14 days) before CC and correlated with overall survival. In an independent validation cohort of 1934 patients, EASIXval was measured within 174 days (+ 28 days to + 11 years) after CC.

Results

EASIX predicted the risk of mortality after CC (per log2: hazard ratio (HR) 1.29, 95% confidence interval: [1.18–1.41], p < 0.001) in multivariable Cox regression analyses adjusting for age, sex, a high-grade coronary stenosis ≥ 90%, left ventricular ejection fraction, arterial hypertension and diabetes. In the independent cohort, EASIX correlated with EASIXval with rho = 0.7. The long-term predictive value of EASIXval was confirmed (per log2: HR 1.53, [1.42–1.64], p < 0.001) and could be validated by integrated Brier score and concordance index. Pre-established cut-offs (0.88–2.32) associated with increased mortality (cut-off 0.88: HR training: 1.63; HR validation: 1.67, p < 0.0001 and cut-off 2.32: HR training: 3.57; HR validation: 4.65, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

We validated EASIX as a potential biomarker to predict death of CAD patients, irrespective of the timing either before or after catheterization.

Graphical abstract
Allometric equations for biomass and carbon pool estimation in short rotation Pinus radiata stands of the Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: Pienaar Louis Otto , Calama Rafael , Olivar Jorge , Wellstein Camilla , Pretzsch Hans , du Toit Ben
Published: September 2024

The quantification of tree growth and carbon storage over time is an important task for sustainable forest management and carbon sequestration projects. For the South African short-rotation Pinus radiata (D. Don) forests, this knowledge is lacking. We developed allometric equations and compared the estimated weights to previously published biomass studies and we used Dirichlet Regression (DR) modelling to ensure additivity of the component proportions. The biomass components and their contribution to carbon storage depend strongly on forest structure and mean tree size but also on-site conditions and tree architecture. Our first two hypotheses were that the (1) best model for stemwood (SW), bark and total mass will include the combined variable DBH2H and (2) that the DR will yield statistically similar estimates for all components when compared to the best models. Our third hypothesis was that allometric equations developed for sites with high resource availability (e.g. wet, fertile sites) will yield biased estimates when extrapolated to sites with lower levels of resource availability (drier and/or infertile sites). The results indicated that DBH2H was the best variable to describe SW, bark and total mass and the DR yield similar estimates for all component proportions when compared to the best models. There were strong similarities in the SW and total mass of independent test sites in comparison to the SW and total mass of this study but greater variability in the bark, needle and branch mass. This can be associated to site and seasonal differences as well as variability in tree architecture brought about by different silvicultural operations on individual sites. Previously developed equations by other authors for sites with high resource availability overpredicted the SW and total mass of the models developed in this study. Our set of additive component equations performed well even when applied to sites of similar productivity over a climate gradient. The presented new equations bridge the gap in knowledge where allometric equations for short rotation Radiata pine stands are lacking.
Building meaningful collaboration in conservation genetics and genomics
Authors: Shaw Robyn E. , Brockett Brittany , Pierson Jennifer C. , Sarre Stephen D. , Doyle Paula , Cliff Hannah B. , Eldridge Mark D. B. , Miller Kimberly A. , Ottewell Kym , Parrott Marissa L. , Rossetto Maurizio , Sunnucks Paul , Banks Sam C. , Byrne Margaret , Campbell Bridget L. , Chong Caroline , Ens Emilie J. , Ferraro Paul A. , Grueber Catherine E. , Harrison Peter A. , Hogg Carolyn , Hutton Marlee , Roycroft Emily , Sowersby Will , Karajarri Rangers  , Kiwirrkurra Rangers  , Ngurrara Rangers  , Nyangumarta Rangers  , Ngururrpa Rangers  , Neaves Linda E.
Published: September 2024

Genetic diversity is the foundation of biodiversity, and preserving it is therefore fundamental to conservation practice. However, global conservation efforts face significant challenges integrating genetic and genomic approaches into applied management and policy. As collaborative partnerships are increasingly recognized as key components of successful conservation efforts, we explore their role and relevance in the Australian context, by engaging with key entities from across the conservation sector, including academia, botanic gardens, herbaria, seed banks, governmental/non-governmental organisations, private industry, museums, Traditional Owners, Indigenous rangers, and zoos and aquaria. By combining perspectives from these entities with comprehensive literature review, we identified five guiding principles for conservation genetic and genomic research and explored the different elements of, and approaches to, collaboration. Our reflections suggest that there is a substantial overlap in research interests across the Australian conservation sector, and our findings show that collaboration is increasing. We discuss approaches to building collaborative partnerships, the reciprocal benefits of collaborating, and some remaining challenges associated with data generation, data collection, and cross-cultural considerations. We emphasise the need for long-term national resourcing for sample and data storage and consistency in collecting, generating and reporting genetic data. While informed by the Australian experience, our goal is to support researchers and practitioners to foster meaningful collaborations that achieve measurable management outcomes in conservation genetics and genomics, both in Australia and globally.
Uncertainty and Fertility in Ukraine on the Eve of Russia’s Full-Scale Invasion: The Impact of Armed Conflict and Economic Crisis
Authors: Perelli-Harris Brienna , Gerber Theodore , Hilevych Yuliya
Published: September 2024

While uncertainty has been a key explanation for very low fertility throughout Europe, few studies have analysed how macro-level uncertainty trickles down to shape how people think about having children. Most research focuses on economic uncertainty, not political or social uncertainty. We address these gaps with qualitative data from Ukraine, which has experienced extreme political uncertainty and, for the past decade, armed conflict. Ukraine also had exceptionally low fertility, with an estimated total fertility rate of 1.17 in 2021. In July 2021, we conducted 16 online focus groups on topics related to childbearing with informants living in urban and rural areas in Eastern Ukraine, including areas of Donetsk province that were outside Ukrainian government control. Half the groups consisted of persons displaced by the 2014 Donbas war. The discussions revealed distinct patterns whereby experiences of displacement, the simmering armed conflict, and economic problems combined to produce and intensify uncertainties that discouraged couples from having more than one child. Some blamed the government or delved into conspiracy theories. Armed conflict generates its own forms of uncertainty that interact with persistent economic challenges, dampening fertility.
Exploring perceptions of public good(s), government, and global contributions in Japanese higher education: a phenomenographic approach
Authors: Huang Futao , Chen Lilan , Horiuchi Kiyomi
Published: September 2024

This study explores the multifaceted concept of “public good(s)” in the context of Japanese higher education. Through interviews with 11 stakeholders, including policymakers, representatives from academic associations, and institutional leaders from two national universities, the research reveals that “public good(s)” are perceived as societal benefits transcending individual interests, emphasizing inclusivity and open access. It underscores higher education and research’s diverse roles in fostering “public good(s)” by cultivating enlightened citizens, generating knowledge, and promoting collaboration. The study highlights the evolving government-higher education relationship in Japan, transitioning from traditional intervention to strategic planning and policy guidance while maintaining a delicate balance between financial support and institutional autonomy. Personal backgrounds and identities shape stakeholders’ interpretations and recommendations, contributing to the nuanced understanding of “public good(s)” in Japan’s higher education landscape. The research also draws comparisons with global trends, emphasizing Japan’s distinctive reliance on government funding, STEM focus, and commitment to global contributions rooted in cultural values. Ultimately, this study provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of government-higher education relationships and the concept of “public good(s)” in Japanese higher education.
Religiosity and Health Outcomes in a Cohort of Romanian Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19
Authors: Frent Stefan , Popovici Alexandru-Filip , Balan Adrian , Cerbu Bianca , Marincu Iosif , Mihaicuta Stefan , Bikov Andras
Published: September 2024

There is a growing body of evidence for the interrelation between health status and religious beliefs. Our aim was to evaluate the level of religiosity in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and to assess the link between religiosity and measurable health outcomes. This was an observational, single-center study which included patients with moderate-to-severe forms of COVID-19. A total of 112 patients were enrolled in the study, of whom 77 were highly religious (CRS-15 score ≥ 4) and 35 non-highly religious (CRS-15 score < 4). There was no difference in demographics or prevalence of comorbidities between the two groups. Furthermore, we found no difference between groups in radiological extension of lung lesions, length of hospital stays, or ICU need; however, in-hospital mortality rate was significantly lower in highly religious group (1% vs. 14%, p = 0.005). Serum ferritin level at admission was significantly lower (p = 0.03) and prevalence of post-COVID-19 pulmonary sequelae significantly higher in highly religious group (p = 0.02).
Geomorphological evidence inconvenient for the antecedent rivers of the Arun and Tista across the Himalayan range
Authors: Nakata Takashi , Kumahara Yasuhiro , Naik Sambit Prasanajit , Sakai Harutaka
Published: September 2024

The Arun and Tista Rivers, which flow across the Himalayas, are commonly known as antecedent valleys that overcame the rapid uplift of the Higher Himalayan ranges. To clarify whether the idea of antecedent rivers is acceptable, we investigated the geomorphology of the Himalayas between eastern Nepal and Bhutan Himalayas. The southern part of Tibetan Plateau, extending across the Himalayas as tectonically un-deformed glaciated terrain named as ‘Tibetan Corridor,’ does not suggest the regional uplift of the Higher Himalayas. The 8,000-m class mountains of Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga are isolated residual peaks on the glaciated terrain composed of mountain peaks of 4,000–6,000 m high. The Tibetan glaciers commonly beheaded by Himalayan glaciers along the great watershed of the Himalayas suggest the expansion of Himalayan river drainage by glaciation. For the narrow upstream regions of the Arun and Tista Rivers with less precipitation behind the range, it is hard to collect enough water for the power of down-cutting their channels against the uplifting Himalayas. The fission track ages of the Higher Himalayan Crystalline Nappe suggest that the Himalayas attained their present altitude by 11–10 Ma, and the Arun and Tista Rivers formed deep gorges across the Himalayas by headward erosion.
Temperature effect on the kinetic profile of Ziegler–Natta catalyst in propene polymerization
Authors: Kolomazník Vít , Cejpek Igor , Skoumal Miroslav
Published: September 2024

Propene polymerization kinetic profiles with a diether-based Ziegler–Natta MgCl2-supported catalyst were investigated in a stainless-steel batch reactor. The initial 10 min period characterizes various temperature levels with a constant volume of liquid propene. The lowest temperature level corresponds to the usual prepolymerization temperature (10 °C), and the highest level corresponds to the usual main polymerization temperature (70 °C). The effects of the starting temperature levels were evaluated through polymerization kinetic patterns computed namely from the second polymerization period carried out at 70 °C for the next 90 min. Based on the heat transfer data, the kinetic profiles were fitted to suitable semi-empirical equations derived from fundamental kinetic approaches using the first and second orders of the catalyst active sites decay. Both approaches adequately describe the dependence of the initial activities and deceleration constants on the temperature during the initial period.
The microbial etiology and resistance patterns of cosmetic tourism-related infections in Ireland
Authors: Keane Andrew , Feeley Aoife A. , Chee Shu Ying , Sheil Fiachra , O’Gorman Joanne , O’Neill Eoghan , Cahill Kevin C.
Published: September 2024

Background

Cosmetic tourism is an increasingly common phenomenon, both in Ireland and internationally. Complications associated with procedures performed abroad may manifest after the patient has traveled back to their home country with patients often presenting to local health services. Such complications can be infectious in nature requiring either antimicrobial therapy and/or source control in the form of wound debridement or radiologically guided interventional procedures.

Methods

Patients who had presented to a regional plastic surgery unit between September 2021 and December 2022 with complications related to aesthetic procedures performed outside Ireland were identified in this retrospective-prospective design. Medical records were reviewed to ascertain what procedures were performed, where the procedure had taken place, the nature of complications, and microbial culture and sensitivity results.

Results

Thirty patients were identified during the study timeframe, predominantly female (n = 28) with a mean age of 40.27 years (SD 10.6). Abdominoplasty was the most common procedure (n = 17), and Turkey was the most frequently cited destination (70%). Wound dehiscence accounted for the majority of complications (n = 18). Wound cultures were obtained in 80% (n = 24) of patients and a causative organism was isolated in 85% (n = 34) of cultures. Eighteen species of bacteria were identified and antimicrobial sensitivities were obtained for 16 of these. Antimicrobial resistance to commonly prescribed empiric antibiotics was noted in several isolates.

Conclusion

Post-operative infections related to cosmetic tourism are a growing concern in plastic surgery. The bacterial etiology is varied, and antimicrobial resistance poses significant challenges, highlighting the need for early intervention and wound cultures to guide effective management.
Measurement invariance between subjects: what can we learn about subject-related differences in teaching quality?
Authors: Wemmer-Rogh Wida , Grob Urs , Charalambous Charalambos Y. , Praetorius Anna-Katharina
Published: September 2024

Recent publications emphasize the need to take greater account of differences in teaching quality between subjects. The empirical analysis of this topic requires a comparison of teaching quality in different subjects to distinguish generic aspects of teaching quality from subject-specific ones. In this paper, we compare teaching quality in mathematics and German lessons using observational data from primary schools in Switzerland (NMath = 319; NGerman = 237). Data were collected using an observation instrument reflecting the teaching dimensions of the MAIN-TEACH model, which was developed based on a synthesis of established observation frameworks. The dimensions of classroom management, motivational-emotional support, selection and implementation of content, cognitive activation, support for consolidation, assessment and feedback, and adaptation were tested for subject-related measurement invariance. With a two-fold measurement invariance approach, differences between the subjects were investigated at both a global and an indicator level. When applying alpha accumulation correction, no significant subject-related differences in factor loadings or intercepts were found. The factorial structure of our data was basically identical for the two subjects. The comparison of latent factor means revealed no mean differences between the subjects. We discuss the implications for both the MAIN-TEACH model and research into subject-related differences of teaching in general.
Comparative analysis between three theoretical approaches through empirical experiences at university level
Authors: Florensa Ignasi , Barbero Marta , Martínez-Planel Rafael
Published: September 2024

Research into mathematics education at university level includes a wide range of theoretical approaches. This poses considerable challenges to researchers in terms of understanding and harmonizing the compatibility and commensurability of those approaches. The research community has already problematised and studied these challenges using networking theories. The networking theories framework is taken as a starting point in this study to contrast different approaches and to broaden the comparison of different frameworks. In particular, three case studies framed in the Action, Process, Object, Schema Theory, in the Problem-Solving approach, and in the Anthropological Theory of the Didactic are analysed. The differences and possible similarities between the three with regard to the research questions addressed, their objects of study, their empirical bases, as well as their research ends are considered. The analysis offers an insight into the potential for collaboration and the networking of theories in the field of university mathematics education.
An Assessment of the Acceptability of Cervical Cancer Education Intervention Materials Among Healthcare Providers in Ghana
Authors: Bonnah Juliet , Williams Michelle S.
Published: September 2024

Cervical cancer is currently the second leading cause of cancer death among women in Ghana. Previous studies have identified lack of awareness, lack of perceived susceptibility, and stigmatizing beliefs as significant sociocultural barriers to cervical cancer screening among Ghanaian women. The purpose of this study was to assess the acceptability of evidence and theory-based, culturally relevant cervical cancer education intervention materials among Ghanaian healthcare providers. Central-location intercept questionnaires were completed by providers (n = 60) in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Providers reviewed a poster, an audio message, and a brief educational video. The variables assessed included the reaction to the materials, the ability of the materials to attract the attention of the intended audience, the ability of the materials to communicate the main point of the cancer education message, and the reaction to cultural characteristics of the materials. The mean age of the providers (n = 60) was 30.6 years, and the majority (70.8%) were females. Most of the providers had a positive general reaction to the poster, audio message, and video. The majority found the materials to be motivating. Most of the providers found the information in the materials to be attention-getting, interesting, useful, direct/to the point, and related to someone like them. Very few providers (5%) indicated that they were confused by the images or messages used in the materials. The culturally relevant cervical cancer education materials were acceptable to Ghanaian healthcare providers. These materials may be effective in shared decision-making for cervical cancer screening.
Moment Capacity of Bolted-Side Plate for the Eaves Joint of Nested Tapered Box Beam Portal Frame
Authors: Paul Bikram , Roy Krishanu , Fang Zhiyuan , Shahmohammadi Amir , Lim James B.P.
Published: September 2024

The joints of cold-formed steel (CFS) portal frames with box sections are primarily formed either through stiffened welded connections or by bolted end plates, which typically involve costly full penetration butt welds. In New Zealand, CFS portal frames with nested tapered box beam (NTBB) sections are popular, and the joints of these portal frames are also formed through a bolted end plate system. In literature, it was found that welds in these joints are prone to cracking in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) under bearing opening moments (tension). Therefore, this paper focuses on proposing an alternative connection system (bolted-side plate) for eaves joints without any weld, aiming to reduce the overall cost of construction and increase construction speed. The performance (strength and stiffness) of these joints is mainly dependent on the geometric details of the bolted-side plate, which is limited in Australia/New Zealand standards (AS/NZ 4600). Herein, a non-linear finite element (FE) model was developed for the NTBB portal frame and validated against the experimental test results from the literature. Firstly, the validated FE model was used to investigate the feasibility of using bolted-side plates for NTBB portal frames and found that the bolted-side plate can increase the ultimate capacity of NTBB portal frame by 9%. A parametric study was then conducted by considering different geometric details of the bolted-side plates under both closing (gravity) and opening (wind uplift) moments. Finally, unified design equations for the moment capacity of bolted-side plates were proposed based on the results of the parametric study, and their accuracy was assessed through reliability analysis.