bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated approach of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and clinical observations in evaluating the efficacy and safety of Bufei Huoxue capsules for pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: He Wenjun , Liu Chunli , Li Xuanyi , Zhong Bihua , Jiang Qian , Lai Ning , Xiong Yuanhui , Feng Weici , Chen Yilin , Zhou Dansha , Li Defu , Lu Wenju , Aman Jurjan , Bogaard Harm Jan , Wang Jian , Chen Yuqin
Published: July 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a persistent and progressive disorder characterized by airway or alveolar abnormalities, commonly leading to pulmonary hypertension (PH). This clinical observational study investigates the therapeutic mechanisms of Bufei Huoxue capsules (BHC) in treating PH in patients with COPD‐linked PH (COPD‐PH) using network pharmacology and molecular docking methods, and assesses the therapeutic efficacy and safety of BHCs. The active compounds and their target proteins in BHCs were sourced from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database, with additional target proteins derived from the GeneCards and OMIM databases. An active network was constructed using Cytoscape 3.7.1, and interaction networks were established. Intersecting targets underwent Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis using the Metascape database. Network pharmacology and molecular docking studies demonstrated favorable binding affinities of BHC active ingredients, such as quercetin, bavachalcone, and isobavachin, for key targets including PTGS1, ESR1, and PTGS2. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis highlighted the involvement of these targets in processes such as the positive regulation of locomotion, the transmembrane receptor protein tyrosine kinase signaling pathway, and peptidyl‐tyrosine phosphorylation. KEGG pathway analysis indicated their roles in pathways related to cancer, AGE‐RAGE signaling in diabetic complications, and prostate cancer. BHCs exhibit therapeutic effects on COPD‐PH through multi‐component, multi‐target, and multi‐pathway interactions. This clinical observational study confirms the efficacy and safety of BHCs in improving cardiac and pulmonary functions, enhancing exercise tolerance, and elevating the quality of life in patients with COPD‐PH.
The combined Shewhart–EWMA sign charts
Authors: Shanshool Mohammed Kadhim , Mahadik Shashibhushan B. , Godase Dadasaheb G. , Khoo Michael B. C.
Published: July 2024

The Shewhart control chart is a prominent tool for identifying the changes in process parameters that are of large magnitude, however, it has reduced ability to identify the process changes of small magnitudes. On the other hand, an exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) control chart is superior to the Shewhart chart in identifying process changes of small magnitudes but it is less proficient than the later chart in identifying changes of large magnitudes. This paper suggests nonparametric combined Shewhart‐EWMA (CSE) charts based on the sign statistic for the process location and process dispersion. The statistical performance measures of these charts are obtained using a Markov chain approach. The numerical comparisons revealed that the performance of a CSE chart lies within the range of the Shewhart sign and EWMA sign charts for identifying a process change of any magnitude. A real‐data example is provided to illustrate the mechanism of the chart.
Development of Microneedles for Antimicrobial Drug Delivery: A Comprehensive Review on Applications in Wound Infection Management
Authors: Haidari Hanif , Bright Richard , Yu Yunlong , Vasilev Krasimir , Kopecki Zlatko
Published: July 2024

Microneedles (MNs) have emerged as a promising transdermal antimicrobial delivery system, providing precise and localized drug delivery while complemented with noninvasiveness and patient compliance. Currently, the topical application of antimicrobials restricts the delivery of drugs to the critical areas of the wound bed, largely due to barriers posed by the necrotic tissue, scab formation, and bacterial biofilms, which severely diminish the bioavailability of the therapeutics. MNs have enabled efficient and targeted delivery to overcome many chronic wound challenges. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made to develop MNs with unique properties tailored for the delivery of vaccines, anticancer, and antimicrobials. As ongoing research continues to refine MN design, material properties, and drug formulations, the potential for revolutionizing antimicrobial drug delivery for efficacy, patient experience, and therapeutic outcomes remains at the forefront of scientific research. In this review, insights are provided into the latest progress, current developments, and the diverse applications of MNs for antimicrobial drug delivery. Herein, the translational potential of MNs is highlighted and a perspective on the current challenges associated with clinical translation is provided. Furthermore, this review aids in identifying research gaps while empowering and contributing to the future implementation of cutting‐edge delivery systems to effectively tackle antimicrobial resistance.
Design and Functionality of Trypsin‐Triggered, Expandable Bovine Serum Albumin‐Polyethylene Glycol Diacrylate Hydrogel Actuators
Authors: Liu Yuchen , Khoury Luai R.
Published: July 2024

Expandable shape‐morphing hydrogels that ensure prolonged site residence, have tailored mechanical integrity and tunability, are biocompatible to minimize side effects and can release drugs over an extended time remain challenging to achieve. Herein, a new class of enzyme‐triggered bovine serum albumin and polyethylene glycol diacrylate hybrid hydrogels is presented, contributing to advancements in controlled drug‐model release and actuation. These hydrogels combine the intrinsic properties of proteins with the resilience of synthetic polymers, offering a versatile application platform. Central to our research is the trypsin‐induced simultaneous functionality of controlled drug model release and dynamic shape changes under physiological trypsin concentrations (0.01% w/v). These hydrogels display tailored mechanical and physical properties and microstructure, which are crucial for biomedical devices, soft robotics, and tissue engineering applications. Additionally, the hydrogels effectively control the release of fluorescein isothiocyanate, a model drug, indicating their potential for highly targeted drug delivery, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. The study also highlights the significant effect of shape‐morphing on drug release rates under physiological trypsin concentrations. These findings suggest that enzyme‐responsive hybrid protein‐polymer hydrogel actuators with tailored mechanical and physical properties can enhance the precision of drug delivery in biomedical applications.
Effect of Residual Elements during the Hot‐Working Process of Steel Production: A Critical Review
Authors: Kapoor Ishwar , Davis Claire , Li Zushu
Published: July 2024

Demand for steel scrap as feedstock for steelmaking increases, allowing the production of steel with lower energy costs and reduced CO2 emissions. In general, steel scrap may contain high levels of undesirable residual elements, which may contribute to processing challenges such as surface hot‐shortness, bulk hot‐shortness, hot‐brittleness, and higher rolling loads during the hot‐working process of steel production. The effect of different residual elements during the hot‐deformation process is a broad topic and involves the understanding of both individual and combined behavior of residual elements for different thermal and mechanical conditions that arise. In this article, the behavior of various residual elements is critically reviewed, individually and synergistically at high temperatures during the hot‐working process (i.e., reheat furnace stage, descaling stage, and deformation stage) of steel production, with a focus on (surface) hot‐shortness, delayed recrystallization, and higher rolling loads caused by the residual elements. Herein, it is aimed to help the steel community to identify challenges and opportunities in efficiently utilizing steel scrap.
Effect of Transient Reoxidation on Inclusions in Rare‐Earth‐Treated Bearing Steel
Authors: Wang Weining , Yan Boting , Xia Wenzhi , Zhou Yun , Deng Aijun , Liao Zhiyou , Wang Haichuan , Gao Xiangpeng
Published: July 2024

The impact of transient reoxidation environments on the chemical morphology evolution of nonmetallic oxide inclusions in rare‐earth‐treated bearing steel is investigated using FactSage thermodynamic simulation calculations, vacuum induction furnace experiments, and high‐temperature laser confocal microscopy experiments. Thermodynamic calculations indicate a direct correlation between the initial rare‐earth content and the oxygen required to transform Ce2O2S to CeAlO3 during secondary oxidation. Furthermore, a higher initial rare‐earth content leads to a more extensive and complete conversion to CeAlO3. Vacuum induction furnace experiments reveal that the inclusions transform from Ce2O2S to CeAlO3 and Al2O3 and eventually into composite oxide clusters. This results in a significant increase in inclusions, with near‐spherical Ce2O2S inclusions transforming into aggregated CeAlO3, leading to an increase in the average inclusion size from 2.4 to 4.2 μm. Laser confocal scanning microscopy experiments show that CeAlO3 exhibits a higher tendency to aggregate than Ce2O2S inclusions, the primary factor contributing to the observed increase in the average inclusion size after secondary oxidation. The results of this study provide theoretical guidance for mitigating the adverse effects of rare‐earth secondary oxidation on bearing steels, particularly in terms of inclusion control.
Homogenization Treatment and Plastic Deformation Improve the Carbide Homogeneity of M42 High‐Speed Steel
Authors: Yuan Qiangqiang , Yin Haiqing , Qiao Zheqi , Zhang Cong , Wang Yongwei , Zhang Ruijie , Jiang Xue , Khan Dil Faraz , Li Dong , Liang Jingbin , Qu Xuanhui
Published: July 2024

The mechanical properties of high‐speed steel (HSS) are significantly influenced by the distribution of carbides formed during solidification. Despite extensive research, the nonuniform cooling in large ingots remains an area requiring further investigation. In this study, the microstructure inhomogeneity in M42 HSS with a diameter of 330 mm is examined. Models are developed to predict the dissolution of carbide networks during homogenization, achieving a 39% reduction in hardness variation (Δr) between the center and surface. Further improvements are attained through hot forging and rolling, leading to the fragmentation of the carbide network into a banded structure. Additionally, a detailed carbide tip dissolution model is established, providing a reliable basis for optimizing annealing processes. As a result, the carbide distribution converges significantly, with hardness variations reduced by 88% to only 0.3 hardness Rockwell C scale, showcasing substantial enhancement in material homogeneity.
High‐Strength Nonoriented Electrical Steel with Excellent Magnetic Properties Accomplished by Cu–Ni Multialloying
Authors: Chen Wensi , Cheng Zhaoyang , Wen Qiuyue , Wendler Marco , Volkova Olena , Liu Jing
Published: July 2024

Nonoriented electrical steel for new energy vehicles should have high strength and excellent magnetic properties simultaneously. However, it is challenging to optimize mechanical and magnetic properties simultaneously during nonoriented electrical steel processing. This article prepares nonoriented electrical steel with high strength and excellent magnetic properties by Cu–Ni alloying, and the evolution of properties of Cu–Ni‐alloyed nonoriented electrical steel during aging and underlining mechanisms is studied. The optimal strength is achieved when aging for 10 min with a yield strength of 773 MPa, where the magnetic induction intensity (B50) is 1.66 T, and the iron loss (P1.0/400) is 18.07 W Kg−1. The optimal strength is attributed to the Cu–Ni recombination, which induces a rapid precipitation of numerous small‐sized Cu‐rich phases within a short period. Besides, the main strengthening mechanisms of the small‐size Cu‐rich phases are modulus strengthening and ordered strengthening. Furthermore, the small‐size Cu‐rich phases with B2 and body‐centered cubic structure in the earlier aging period do not deteriorate the magnetic properties of the steel. Nevertheless, in the late aging period, due to the coarsening of the precipitated Cu‐rich phase with face‐centered cubic structure and the abnormal growth of some grains, the eddy current loss increases, leading to worsen magnetic properties.
A Novel Nonmetallic Inclusion in High‐Mn and High‐Al Steel Caused by the Interfacial Reaction Between Steel and Ladle Filler Sand
Authors: Li Shi‐Sen , Zang Xi‐Min , Zhang Jun‐Kai , Yang Jie , Kong Ling‐Zhong , Wang Guo‐cheng
Published: July 2024

The influence of chromium‐bearing filler sand on the transformation of inclusions in high‐Mn and high‐Al steel under various reaction times and Mn content levels is studied, and the mechanism of filler sand intrusion into the steel matrix is analyzed. It is demonstrated that an inclusion containing Cr2O3 is discovered. The evolution pathway of oxide inclusions is identified as Al2O3–MnO → Al2O3–MnO–SiO2 → Al2O3–MnO–SiO2–Cr2O3(Cr2O3 + MnO–SiO2) → Al2O3–MnO–Cr2O3–MgO·Al2O3. It is noteworthy that Cr2O3 inclusions tend to diffuse from the outside inward, but the internal content remains almost unchanged, which is due to the strong diffusion hindrance of SiO2. The formation of a liquid phase in the filler sand is a necessary condition for its infiltration into the steel matrix. The critical liquid‐phase content that results in the formation of Cr2O3 inclusions is 42%, which contains 5–8% of Cr2O3. The formation of pore channels provides favorable conditions for sand penetration, with the maximum penetration depth reaching up to 29 mm. Large sand inclusion particles reach millimeter scale in size and are distributed quite randomly. Chemical reactions at the steel/sand interface can lead to an increase in the total oxygen (T.O) content in the steel. The reaction time has little effect on the T.O content, while the Mn content in the steel has a significant impact, with an increase of up to 41 ppm. During the smelting stage, the filler sand can enter the molten steel, thereby affecting the quality of the product.
New two‐sample test utilizing interpoint distance discrepancy
Authors: Xu Dong
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we propose a novel two‐sample test for multivariate sample space. The test statistic calculates the mean of absolute difference of average interpoint distance. We utilize a permutation procedure to establish the critical value for the test. Through comprehensive simulation studies, we compare the performance of our proposed test with that of the K‐nearest neighbour test and the energy test. The results demonstrate that our proposed test exhibits advantages over the other two tests, particularly in high‐dimensional sample spaces. This superiority is further validated by its application to UCR time series datasets.
A high‐order numerical method for solving non‐periodic scattering problems in three‐dimensional bi‐periodic structures
Authors: Arens Tilo , Shafieeabyaneh Nasim , Zhang Ruming
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we focus on scattering of non‐periodic incident fields in three‐dimensional bi‐periodic structures, as they can not be solved by the classical methods used for the quasi‐periodic scattering problems. To solve such non‐periodic scattering problems, the Floquet–Bloch transform, which decomposes the unbounded problem into a family of periodic problems in a bounded unit cell, has been applied together with a numerical method by Lechleiter and Zhang (2017). However, its theoretical result indicates that the computational order is too low. Hence, our aim is to propose a high‐order numerical approach by using the Floquet–Bloch transform. To this end, the first crucial part is to analyze the regularity of the transformed solution with respect to the Floquet parameter. The second challenging part is to propose a high‐order tailor‐made quadrature method adapted to singularities of the transformed solution formed by a finite number of circular arcs. Afterwards, we obtain the error estimation of the proposed numerical approach. Eventually, the accuracy and efficiency of the mentioned approach are revealed by several numerical examples.
Low and medium voltage distribution network planning with distributed energy resources: a survey
Authors: Pham Tan Nhat , Shah Rakibuzzaman , Dao Minh N. , Sultanova Nargiz , Islam Syed
Published: July 2024

The penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as photovoltaic systems, energy storage systems, and electric vehicles is increasing in the distribution system. The distinct characteristics of these resources, e.g., volatility and intermittency, introduce complexity in operation and planning of the distribution system. This paper first summarized the physical characteristics and morphological evaluation of the current and future distribution networks. Then, the impact of these changes on system operation and planning is outlined. Next, the tools, methods, and techniques for energy forecasting, optimal planning, and distribution system state estimation are reviewed and discussed, along with the challenges. As the main contributions, this research systematically organized the published works and assessed the relevant milestones regarding distribution system planning with DERs and emerging technologies. Finally, the key research directions in this domain are outlined.

Graphical abstract
Biological invasion with a porous medium type diffusion in a heterogeneous space
Authors: Park Hyunjoon , Kim Yong-Jung
Published: July 2024

The knowledge of traveling wave solutions is the main tool in the study of wave propagation. However, in a spatially heterogeneous environment, traveling wave solutions do not exist, and a different approach is needed. In this paper, we study the generation and the propagation of hyperbolic scale singular limits of a KPP-type reaction–diffusion equation when the carrying capacity is spatially heterogeneous and the diffusion is of a porous medium equation type. We show that the interface propagation speed varies according to the carrying capacity.
Misinterpretations about CT numbers, material decomposition, and elemental quantification
Authors: Salyapongse Aria M. , Szczykutowicz Timothy P.
Published: July 2024

Background

Quantitative CT imaging, particularly iodine and calcium quantification, is an important CT-based biomarker.

Purpose

This study quantifies sources of errors in quantitative CT imaging in both single-energy and spectral CT.

Materials and methods

This work examines the theoretical relationship between CT numbers, linear attenuation coefficient, and material quantification. We derive four understandings: (1) CT numbers are not proportional with element mass in vivo, (2) CT numbers are proportional with element mass only when contained in a voxel of pure water, (3) iodine-water material decomposition is never accurate in vivo, and (4) for error-free material decomposition a voxel must only consist of the basis decomposition vectors. Misinterpretation-based errors are calculated using the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) XCOM database for: tissue chemical compositions, clinical concentrations of hydroxyapatite (HAP), and iodine. Quantification errors are also demonstrated experimentally using phantoms.

Results

In single-energy CT, misinterpretation-induced errors for HAP density in adipose, muscle, lung, soft tissue, and blood ranged from 0–132%, i.e., a mass error of 0–749 mg/cm3. In spectral CT, errors with iodine in the same tissues resulted in a range of < 0.1–33% error, resulting in a mass error of < 0.1–1.2 mg/mL.

Conclusion

Our work demonstrates material quantification is fundamentally limited when measured in vivo due to measurement conditions differing from assumed and the errors are at or above detection limits for bone mineral density (BMD) and spectral iodine quantification. To define CT-derived biomarkers, the errors we demonstrate should either be avoided or built into uncertainty bounds.

Clinical relevance statement

Improving error bounds in quantitative CT biomarkers, specifically in iodine and BMD quantification, could lead to improvements in clinical care aspects based on quantitative CT.

Key Points

CT numbers are only proportional with element mass only when contained in a voxel of pure water, therefore iodine-water material decomposition is never accurate in vivo.

Misinterpretation-induced errors ranged from 0–132% for HAP density and < 0.1–33% in spectral CT with iodine.

For error-free material decomposition, a voxel must only consist of the basis decomposition vectors.
Simple diagnosis for layered structure using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Tajiri Daiki , Hioki Tatsuru , Kawamura Shozo , Matsubara Masami
Published: July 2024

In this study, we propose a structural health monitoring and diagnostic method for layered (multi-story) structures using a convolutional neural network (CNN). The proposed method is a primary diagnostic one, and its purpose is to allow quick identification of the location of an abnormality after detecting it. An abnormality is defined as a decrease in the stiffness characteristics (spring constant) of the outer wall of a multi-story structure when it deteriorates or is damaged. The proposed method has the following features. A modal circle is generated by multiplying the frequency response functions (FRFs) simulated by a mathematical model and the FRFs from the actual structure, in frequency space, and then a CNN learns the features of the abnormality from the modal circle and diagnoses it in the actual multi-story structure. We first verified the validity of the proposed method by considering a three-story structure as a numerical example. When the method was applied to three types of abnormal conditions, it was shown that the abnormal diagnosis could be performed correctly. Next, we constructed an experimental model of a three-story structure, and realized three types of abnormal conditions similar to those in the numerical model. We verified the applicability of the proposed method and showed that correct diagnosis of an abnormality was possible. Both the validity and applicability of the proposed method were thus confirmed.
Wie viel Polyester steckt in der Altkleidersammlung? Ergebnisse einer Voruntersuchung aus Wien
Authors: Lederer Jakob , Ipsmiller Wolfgang , Kählig Pablo , Bartl Andreas
Published: July 2024

Textilien, vor allem Bekleidungs- und Heimtextilien, sind eine der ältesten und wichtigsten Produktkategorien der Menscheinheitsgeschichte. Heute werden Textilien und vor allem Alttextilien auch im Zuge der Kreislaufwirtschaft diskutiert. Um kreislaufwirtschaftliche Lösungen für Alttextilien wie Wiederverwendung und auch die stoffliche Verwertung zu forcieren, ist es jedoch notwendig, die Zusammensetzung von Alttextilien zu kennen. In diesem Beitrag wird dies am Beispiel von Alttextilien aus der Altkleidersammlung in Wien untersucht. Der Fokus liegt dabei auf Bekleidungs- und Heimtextilien, und hier wiederum auf den wichtigsten Fasermaterialien für diese, nämlich Baumwolle und vor allem Polyester, da letzteres die globale Produktion dominiert. Für die Untersuchung wurden im Herbst 2021 ca. 220 kg Alttextilienproben aus vier Containern der Altkleidersammlung der Magistratsabteilung MA 48 der Stadt Wien entnommen und nach Produkt und Labelinformation zum Fasermaterial sortiert.

Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass der analysierte Inhalt der beprobten Altkleidersammelcontainer hauptsächlich aus Alttextilien bestand. Diese wiederum setzten sich zu etwa einem Drittel aus überwiegend baumwollhaltigen Materialien und zu rund einem Zehntel aus überwiegend polyesterhaltigen Materialien zusammen. Etwas weniger als ein Drittel der Textilien besaß kein Label, wodurch auch eine exakte Zuordnung nach Fasermaterial nicht möglich war. Der Rest waren sonstige Fasermaterialien sowie komplexe Textilien. Unter der Annahme, dass die Zusammensetzung der Textilien ohne Label jener mit Label entspricht, setzte sich die Ware in den untersuchten Altkleidersammelcontainern zu 40 % aus überwiegend baumwollhaltigen Materialien, zu 21 % aus komplexen Textilien, zu 16 % aus Schuhen und sonstigen Nicht-Textilien, zu 12 % aus überwiegend polyesterhaltigen Materialien und zu 11 % aus sonstigen Textilien zusammen. Das bedeutet, dass in der untersuchten Sammelware der Anteil an Polyester bedeutend geringer war als in der globalen Faserproduktion.

Ob ein ähnliches Ergebnis auch bei größer angelegten Textilsortierkampagnen erzielt werden kann, ist nicht nur Gegenstand aktueller Untersuchungen, sondern soll in Zukunft auch noch weiter forciert werden, um ein flächendeckendes Bild für möglichst viele Regionen in Österreich zeichnen zu können. Außerdem muss die Analyse mehr ins Detail gehen. Dann erst ist es möglich, das Potenzial an Alttextilien vor allem für das Recycling in Österreich darzustellen. Dies wiederum ist die Voraussetzung für die Planung von Sortieranlagen sowie die Entwicklung mechanischer und vor allem chemisch-physikalischer Verfahren zur Abtrennung von Störstoffen in grundsätzlich recyclingfähigen Textilien.
“I Think You Covered the Three Levels of Drugs and Consent”: Qualitatively Testing Different Operationalizations of an Alcohol and Other Drugs-Involved Sexual Violence
Authors: Gesser Nili , Katz Benjamin W. , Chiu Tiffany , Burmeister Ellei M. , Anderson RaeAnn E.
Published: July 2024

Substance-involved rape is increasing among college students, particularly women (Koss et al., 2022). Addressing rape requires first measuring it accurately in surveys to understand its true scope and nature. We used cognitive interviews with 40 young adults to qualitatively test the construct validity of an alcohol- and other drugs (AOD)-involved rape item in the Sexual Experiences Survey by asking participants to comment on different operationalizations of this construct. Our findings revealed that different phrasings elicited different interpretations of the items by participants. Specifically, the results indicated that (1) respondents viewed the different operationalizations as a sequence of events with varying severity; (2) some participants focused on the intentionality and responsibility of the perpetrator as opposed to opportunistic perpetration; and (3) study participants consistently chose one of the operationalizations as describing “being roofied” (being drugged without consent). Participants also contributed additional scenarios not described in the questionnaire and shared their interpretations of the items. The results underscore the importance of refining survey language to properly measure AOD-involved rape and allow us to understand how to tailor appropriate questions for best comprehension. The findings indicate the benefit in including several items about AOD-involved rape in questionnaires such as the Sexual Experiences Survey, with each item addressing different scenarios of victim intoxication. The results could also have important implications for sexual violence prevention programs, which should discuss consent, intentions, and responsibility specifically in the context of AOD consumption.
The Relationship Between Post-Traumatic Stress, Hopelessness and Resources Adequacy in Fire Disaster Survivors: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Kaya Kılıç Ayten , Uğur Sinem Burcu , Bademli Kerime
Published: July 2024

This study explores the psychosocial aftermath of the fire disaster by focusing on the levels of post-traumatic stress, hopelessness and perception of adequacy of resources of the affected population in the Manavgat district of Antalya province. The data of this study, which is a descriptive correlational research, were collected between 01 March-31 May 2022. The Information form, Impact of Events Scale, Beck Hopelessness Scale and Perception of Adequacy of Resource Scale were used as the data collection tools. A total of 245 individuals, predominantly farmers and with a low-income status, participated in the study. Field data revealed a high level post-traumatic stress (39.56 ± 15.71), moderate hopelessness (10.53 ± 6.83), and moderate perception of adequacy of resources (104.17 ± 32.15) among the participants. Another important finding of the study is; sociodemographic variables were significantly associated with the impact of events, hopelessness, and perception of adequacy of resources. Being female, low education and income level, being farmer, having heavily damaged house and living in a prefabricated house emerged as risk factors for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The results demonstrated a strong correlation between hopelessness, perception of adequacy of resources and post-traumatic stress. Hopelessness partially mediated the relationship between adequacy of resources and post-traumatic stress. The massive physical, economic and social losses caused by wildfire have led to persistent psychosocial problems among the affected population. The findings highlight the importance of assessing losses related to socioeconomic status and applying risk management accordingly. The data obtained in this study can shed light on the determination of risky groups after fire disaster, psychosocial interventions to be applied and the duration of interventions.
A data-driven approach to mapping multidimensional poverty at residential block level in Mexico
Authors: Zea-Ortiz Marivel , Vera Pablo , Salas Joaquín , Manduchi Roberto , Villaseñor Elio , Figueroa Alejandra , Suárez Ranyart R.
Published: July 2024

Accurate, inexpensive and granular human poverty assessments are critical for data-driven policy decision-making. This research proposes a novel approach to computing poverty scores utilizing multispectral satellite images and indices calculated from census reference values. We show how this approach can leverage standard and sparse survey-based multidimensional poverty assessments at the municipal level to develop a deep learning architecture to obtain poverty scores at the residential block level. This method has the distinctive feature that the obtained inference corresponds to Multidimensional Measurement of Poverty generated by CONEVAL, the Mexican agency responsible for measuring poverty. We provide a reliable alternative to survey-based approaches with an $$R^2$$

R
2

of $$0.802\pm 0.022$$

0.802
±
0.022

for the lack of housing quality and spaces dimension. A convolutional neural network trained on multispectral satellite images and the lack of housing quality and spaces dimension, which is regressed from census reference variables corresponding to lack of water, electricity, sewage, concrete floor, toilet and occupancy level obtains an $$R^2$$

R
2

of 0.753. These results represent a significant step forward in including machine learning techniques to provide reliable information at reduced costs and a higher spatiotemporal frequency than traditional person-to-person surveys.
Lived-through Experience, Multi-perspective Methodology, Contentious Polysemy: Challenges in the Study of Vulnerability
Authors: Nungesser Frithjof , Schirgi Antonia
Published: July 2024

The article concludes the special section on vulnerability. By reflecting on the arguments in and the convergences between the contributions to the preceding trialogue, it outlines three key challenges in vulnerability research. Across disciplinary, theoretical, and methodological boundaries, the contributions agree in their criticism of negative, individualistic, and/or essentialist conceptualizations of vulnerability; instead, they call for a non-dualist, pluralist, and participative approach to vulnerability that takes the lived-through experience of individuals as its starting point. Based on this decision, the challenges arise of (1) how to conceptualize and identify the structures of lived-through experiences of vulnerability and of (2) how the experiences of individuals and groups in different social positions can be collected, understood, and interpreted. The trialogue texts, we argue, provide important impulses for the development of a multi-perspective methodology, which permits to analyze vulnerability in a way that is theoretically, ethically, and methodologically appropriate. Finally, by taking lived-through experience as a starting point, the articles in this special section (3) contribute to a better understanding of the contentious polysemy of the term vulnerability. By analyzing the constitutive ambivalence and ambiguity of experiences of vulnerability as well as the difficulties of intersubjective communicability, the contributions help to understand why articulations of vulnerability are often vague and why vulnerability can be politically instrumentalized. In this way, the comprehensive understanding of vulnerability (e.g., as positive and negative, enabling and inhibiting), promoted in the trialogue, also becomes a means of moral and political criticism.
Knowing Me, Knowing You: Changes in Parental Representations Among Established Adults Going Through Progressive Identity Development
Authors: Larsson Hanna , Frisén Ann
Published: July 2024

Developing and revising one’s identity is a lifelong task, one that influences and is influenced by close relationships in the individual’s social context. For emerging adults, different approaches to identity formation have been associated with different ways of relating to their parents; however, little is known about how identity development and views on one’s parents interact beyond the emerging adult years. In the present study, we addressed this gap by examining changes in how established adults describe and relate to internal representations of their parents as they develop from identity foreclosure to identity achievement, an identity status transition that is considered progressive and has been related to shifts in parental representations in younger samples. From a longitudinal study using the Identity Status Interview (Marcia et al., Ego identity: A handbook for psychosocial research, Springer, 1993), we selected participants coded as foreclosed at age 29 and identity achieved at age 33 (N = 18). A case study approach was used to analyze individual changes in parental representations, and a thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes across cases. The findings show that progressive identity development in established adulthood may involve making more reflective comparisons between oneself and one’s parents, describing one’s parents more as whole persons, and relating to parental influence with greater independence and agency. The results highlight the continued importance of parents for adult identity development, and that progressive identity development in established adulthood may involve increased complexity in representations of both oneself and one’s parents.
Data-driven linear quadratic tracking based temperature control of a big area additive manufacturing system
Authors: Zavrakli Eleni , Parnell Andrew , Dickson Andrew , Dey Subhrakanti
Published: July 2024

Designing efficient closed-loop control algorithms is a key issue in Additive Manufacturing (AM), as various aspects of the AM process require continuous monitoring and regulation, with temperature being a particularly significant factor. Here we study closed-loop control for the temperatures in the extruder of a Material Extrusion AM system, specifically a Big Area Additive Manufacturing (BAAM) system. Previous approaches for temperature control in AM either require the knowledge of exact model parameters, or involve discretisation of the state and action spaces to employ traditional data-driven control techniques. On the other hand, modern algorithms that can handle continuous state and action space problems require a large number of hyperparameter tuning to ensure good performance. In this work, we circumvent the above limitations by making use of a state space temperature model while focusing on both model-based and data-driven methods. We adopt the Linear Quadratic Tracking (LQT) framework and utilise the quadratic structure of the value function in the model-based analytical solution to produce a data-driven approximation formula for the optimal controller. We demonstrate these approaches using a simulator of the temperature evolution in the extruder of a BAAM system and perform an in-depth comparison of the performance of these methods. We find that we can learn an effective controller using solely simulated input–output process data. Our approach achieves parity in performance compared to model-based controllers and so lessens the need for estimating a large number of parameters of the often intricate and complicated process model. We believe this result is an important step towards achieving autonomous intelligent manufacturing.
Two New Polymorphs of Meso-Chlorinated BODIPY Dyes
Authors: Waddell Paul G. , Wallis Jennifer F. , Mattern Annabelle , Higham Lee J.
Published: July 2024

New polymorphs of (2-(chloro(pyrrol-2-ylidene)methyl)pyrrole)-difluoro-borane (1) and (2-(chloro(4-ethyl-3,5-dimethyl-2H-pyrrol-2-ylidene)methyl)pyrrole)-4-ethyl-3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrolato)-difluoro-borane (2) were identified using single crystal X-ray diffraction. The new polymorph of 1 crystallises in the triclinic, P-1 space group with an asymmetric unit comprising two crystallographically-independent molecules (Z′ = 2). The differences between this structure and that of the known polymorph of 1 are attributed to the formation of two distinct dimer motifs in each polymorph and the packing between these dimer units. The new polymorph structure of 2, exhibits a similar asymmetric unit to the known form, comprising 3 molecules (Zʹ = 3). The two structures differ in the orientation of the molecules within the trimeric asymmetric unit and the manner in which these trimers pack along the crystallographic [010] direction.

Graphical Abstract

The triclinic polymorph of 8-chloro BODIPY exhibits an asymmetric unit with two crystallographically-independent molecules.
On Dealing with Minima at the Border of a Simplicial Feasible Area in Simplicial Branch and Bound
Authors: G.-Tóth Boglárka , Hendrix Eligius M. T. , Casado Leocadio G. , Messine Frédéric
Published: July 2024

We consider a simplicial branch and bound Global Optimization algorithm, where the search region is a simplex. Apart from using longest edge bisection, a simplicial partition set can be reduced due to monotonicity of the objective function. If there is a direction in which the objective function is monotone over a simplex, depending on whether the facets that may contain the minimum are at the border of the search region, we can remove the simplex completely, or reduce it to some of its border facets. Our research question deals with finding monotone directions and labeling facets of a simplex as border after longest edge bisection and reduction due to monotonicity. Experimental results are shown over a set of global optimization problems where the feasible set is defined as a simplex, and a global minimum point is located at a face of the simplicial feasible area.
The Stability of Robustness for Conic Linear Programs with Uncertain Data
Authors: Goberna Miguel A. , Jeyakumar Vaithilingam , Li Guoyin
Published: July 2024

The robust counterpart of a given conic linear program with uncertain data in the constraints is defined as the robust conic linear program that arises from replacing the nominal feasible set by the robust feasible set of points that remain feasible for any possible perturbation of the data within an uncertainty set. Any minor changes in the size of the uncertainty set can result in significant changes, for instance, in the robust feasible set, robust optimal value and the robust optimal set. The concept of quantifying the extent of these deviations is referred to as the stability of robustness. This paper establishes conditions for the stability of robustness under which minor changes in the size of the uncertainty sets lead to only minor changes in the robust feasible set of a given linear program with cone constraints and ball uncertainty sets.
Structure and thermal properties of acrylic copolymer gels: effect of composition and cross-linking method
Authors: Sternik Dariusz , Szewczuk-Karpisz Katarzyna , Siryk Olena , Samchenko Yurii , Derylo-Marczewska Anna , Kernosenko Lyudmila , Pakhlov Eugen , Goncharuk Olena
Published: July 2024

Two approaches to the synthesis of hydrogels based on polyacrylamide (pAAm) with copolymers were compared in the paper—traditional chemical cross-linking and physical cross-linking with montmorillonite (MMT). The main aim of the work was to find an adequate replacement of the chemical toxic cross-linking agent MBAAm (N,N'-methylene-bis-acrylamide) by using non-toxic—natural clay MMT for synthesis of pAAm gels, which are planned to be used as soil conditioners. A series of hydrogels based on acrylic monomers (acrylamide (AAm), acrylonitrile (AN), acrylic acid (AA)) physically cross–linked by MMT and chemically cross-linked were synthesized. For the synthesized gels, the influence of the synthesis method on the formation of the structure and the mechanism of thermal destruction in the presence of air was analyzed using a set of physicochemical methods: FTIR, XRD, SEM, DSC and TG/DTG. According to FTIR and XRD data, pAAm-MMT and pAAm-AN-MMT samples formed an intercalated/exfoliated structure, whereas pAAm-AA-MMT had an intercalated structure. The endothermic reaction of decomposition of xerogels based on acrylic polymers with and without MMT was observed using DSC and derivative thermogravimetry analyses, coupled with measurement of FTIR spectra of volatile products of thermolysis. All studied composites were relatively thermoresistant, which had three distinct regions of phase transitions and their thermal decomposition occurred at a temperature range 310–465 °C.

Graphical Abstract
A Causal Analysis of Harm
Authors: Beckers Sander , Chockler Hana , Halpern Joseph Y.
Published: July 2024

As autonomous systems rapidly become ubiquitous, there is a growing need for a legal and regulatory framework that addresses when and how such a system harms someone. There have been several attempts within the philosophy literature to define harm, but none of them has proven capable of dealing with the many examples that have been presented, leading some to suggest that the notion of harm should be abandoned and “replaced by more well-behaved notions”. As harm is generally something that is caused, most of these definitions have involved causality at some level. Yet surprisingly, none of them makes use of causal models and the definitions of actual causality that they can express. In this paper, which is an expanded version of the conference paper Beckers et al. (Adv Neural Inform Process Syst 35:2365–2376, 2022), we formally define a qualitative notion of harm that uses causal models and is based on a well-known definition of actual causality. The key features of our definition are that it is based on contrastive causation and uses a default utility to which the utility of actual outcomes is compared. We show that our definition is able to handle the examples from the literature, and illustrate its importance for reasoning about situations involving autonomous systems.
Effectiveness in protecting rigid-block-like objects through horizontal and vertical seismic isolation
Authors: Ferretti Manuel , Di Egidio Angelo
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a double, horizontal and vertical base isolation, is considered for the protection of rigid-block-like objects against seismic excitation. The equations of motion, the uplift and impact conditions are obtained under the hypothesis that the block can undergo full-contact and rocking motions. It is assumed that the horizontal isolation device has a hysteretic behavior, described with the Bouc-Wen model, whereas the vertical isolation has a visco-elastic behavior, modeled through a Kelvin-Voight device. Three rigid-block-like objects, representing a caryatid, a server and hospital cabinets are considered. Moreover, as base excitation, three earthquake horizontal and vertical records are selected accounting for their spectral content and PGA. The results of the seismic analysis are arranged in rocking maps and a comparison among the systems with the horizontal and vertical isolation, with only the horizontal isolation, and with no isolation are performed to check the effectiveness of the proposed seismic protection. Results show that the coexistence of horizontal and vertical isolation in protection against seismic excitation is particularly effective under earthquakes with high vertical PGA and in objects with high slenderness and heaviness. Finally, an analysis that consists of exciting the system with horizontal and vertical one-sine, impulsive base accelerations is performed to build the overturning spectra. Also, in this case, the double, horizontal and vertical isolation has manifested better performances than the other analyzed systems.
Assessing Digital Leadership: Is the EU Losing Out to the US?
Authors: Stöllinger Roman , Guarascio Dario
Published: July 2024

Since Leontief’s (Leontief 1953) seminal work on the factor content of trade, the validity of the Heckscher-Ohlin-model has been judged not only on the basis of formal tests of the theory but also tested against prior expectation. In this vein, this paper uses the Heckscher-Ohlin-Vanek (HOV) approach to investigate whether supposed US leadership in the digital domain can be traced back to digital task endowments embodied in labour services. In a comparison between EU member states and the US, we find that the latter is more intensive in digital tasks than the EU and that this difference is explained by both an intensity-effect (US occupations being more digital-task intensive) and a structural component (relatively more digital-task intensive occupations). Viewed through the lens of the HOV theorem we find that the US is abundant in digital tasks relative to non-digital tasks, while the opposite is true for the EU. The standard tests for the predictive power of the HOV theorem are high and in line with the results for labour in previous literature.
Diagnosis of hypoprolactinemia
Authors: Urhan Emre , Karaca Zuleyha
Published: July 2024

Prolactin is a polypeptide hormone composed of 199 amino acids, synthesized by lactotroph cells. Its primary effects are on the mammary gland and gonadal axes, but it also influences different organs and systems, particularly metabolic functions. Current literature has mainly focused on the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of hyperprolactinemia. Due to the lack of a well-established effective treatment for hypoprolactinemia, it is not clinically emphasized. Therefore, data on its diagnosis is limited. Hypoprolactinemia has been associated with metabolic dysfunctions such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, fatty liver, dyslipidemia, fertility problems, sexual dysfunction, and increased cardiovascular disease. While often seen as a part of combined hormone deficiencies due to pituitary damage, isolated prolactin deficiency is rare. Hypoprolactinemia can serve as a marker for extensive pituitary gland damage and dysfunction.

Low or undetectable serum prolactin levels and the absence of a sufficient prolactin peak in the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation test are considered diagnostic for hypoprolactinemia. Gender appears to influence both basal prolactin levels and TRH stimulation test responses. Basal prolactin levels of, at least, 5 ng/mL for males and 7 ng/mL for females can be used as cut-off levels for normal prolactin reserve. Minimum peak prolactin responses of 18 ng/mL for males and 41 ng/mL for females to TRH stimulation can exclude hypoprolactinemia. However, larger population studies across different age groups and sexes are needed to better define normal basal prolactin levels and prolactin responses to the TRH stimulation test.